Light at the end of tunnel in Iraq

Robert Z. Nemeth has an insightful article at telegram.com about the light at the end of the Iraqi War tunnel.

During the Vietnam War, there was much talk about seeing “the light at the end of the tunnel.” It was an expression of hope that a resolution of the long and divisive struggle might be in sight. More often than not, it was just wishful thinking, and darkness continued to prevail. So caution is warranted as we conclude there may be a flickering light signaling the end of the tunnel in Iraq. Still, there are encouraging signs. The violence has subsided, including indiscriminate terrorist acts. The number of American casualties has declined. Stability may be returning, along with thousands of refugees who have fled Iraq in despair. American-trained Iraqi police and army troops have started to take control. Instead of the daily dose of mayhem, news reports portray children going to school, people shopping at markets and sitting in outdoor cafes.

He continues by explaining our role in the world.

America’s role in Iraq is based on a time-honored legacy to confront tyranny in defense of freedom, justice and democracy. That legacy compelled Americans to fight in both world wars and in Korea. It sustained U.S. resolve throughout the Cold War, until the Soviet Union fell apart. Fighting for liberty and democracy has been a heavy responsibility no other country or world organization could fulfill. The lack of public support for drastic measures to cripple the war effort in Iraq indicates that most Americans have accepted that responsibility.

He finishes with,

Could a successful outcome of the war in Iraq ultimately vindicate George W. Bush? Only history has the answer. While his enemies have portrayed the president as a liar, a moron and a cheat, he has steadfastly clung to the vision of bringing freedom, democracy and self-determination to oppressed people. “Freedom, by its nature, must be chosen and defended by citizens and sustained by the rule of law and the protection of minorities,” the president said during his second inaugural address. Critics say that vision is impractical and irrelevant. But, over the years, it has made the United States a leader among nations and a world a better place. If the flickering light we now begin to detect at the end of the tunnel in Iraq signals a new beginning for that beleaguered country, freedom and democracy can chalk up another victory.

Robert Z. Nemeth provides great insight into our struggle in Iraq by linking it with our role as a democratic leader in the world whose aim to free oppressed people, to give them the same freedoms our founding fathers wrote down for us over two hundred years ago.

He ends approriately with "freedom and democracy can chalk up another victory."