From an Old Soldier Who Loves His Country

Dear Mr. Rockwell, I have just read your article “What were they thinking?” and have to say I heartily concur.

I am an old Sergeant, nearly 20 years in the military with a ten year break in service (I would not serve under Clinton). I came back in to the military despite my misgivings and doubts about President Bush and the Republican Party for the simple fact that I feel an obligation to those kids who are going over in harm’s way; somebody needs to take care of them and to care for their souls. They are fed so much baloney about what it is to be a man and a soldier, no wonder the Iraqi’s don’t like us.

The main point of my letter, though, is to inform you that I now work for SOCOM (Special Operations Command) as a Civil Military Government Specialist. I have just finished a training period run by JFKSWC (JFKennedy Special Warfare Center) regarding Civil Affairs. In light of what I have learned, I must say that you have certainly perceived the problem correctly. Unfortunately, it is the function of Civil Military Government or CA (Civil Affairs) to have dealt with these things long before the attack. In fact, the War College published a report which predicted exactly what you detail and more.

CA’s job however is merely to advise. In light of this, either the first batch of CA soldiers dropped the ball, or their suggestions and guidance were totally ignored. Knowing a bit about my fellow soldiers, I am inclined to believe the latter.

CA specialists do very detailed area analysis that make the CIA’s area studies look pale by comparison. We then sift through the details after reviewing the commanders Operational Plan and advise him on the impact of the Civilian population on his military objectives as well as his moral and legal obligations under the Geneva Convention. We include in this some very detailed suggestions on how to deal with the locals (things like not blowing up their power plants during the attack, not shooting at mosques, and guarding culturally significant monuments and relics, for example).

In short, either the CA plan was completely ignored or it was never even presented. Something is very wrong with this picture.

I am grateful for your telling the truth and read Lewrockwell.com quite frequently when I can get to a computer with Internet connection.

Sincerely, an old soldier who loves his country

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8:38 am on September 9, 2003