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In the past few days there has been much talk of proposing a time table for troop withdrawals from Iraq. Those that are proposing such action are calling it redeployment vs. withdrawal. The result of such action results in a reduction of troop quantities in Iraq. That amounts to a withdrawal. The definition of withdrawal as identified on www.dictionary.com is a retreat of a military force in the face of enemy attack or after a defeat. The definition of redeployment is a transfer from one theater of operations to another. Both result in the same outcome, a reduction or withdrawal of forces.

I feel that whatever it is called the reduction of forces in Iraq amounts to giving our enemies in Iraq the impression that they have won. The definition of withdrawal above identifies it is a retreat in the face of enemy attack or defeat. We as a country should never retreat, withdraw or redeploy our troops from areas where we have a need to succeed. The effect of removing our troops from Iraq, especially on a set time table is wrong. Some might say that we did this with Vietnam. While I am not going to go into this experience, the consequences of making the same decision in Iraq would have, I believe, a devastating impact in the region. The world today is not like it was in the Vietnam era.
I feel that Congress and anyone who votes or may vote for this resolution is doing a disservice to our military. Reduction in the amount of troops available for our military leaders in Iraq amounts to tying their hands. It prevents our leaders from allocating resources that may be needed to help secure their safety and/or accomplish the mission assigned. As a voter I would strongly consider not reelecting any representative or senator regardless of party affiliation that would vote for such resolution. Our troops deserve to have the support of the American People and especially the Congress. Having a resolution to reduce the amount of troops in Iraq generates the impression that Congress is not supporting the mission in Iraq for it to succeed. Failure should not be an option. Our military leaders should not have their hands tied by reducing the forces. The fewer the forces in place for our military leaders causes a reduction in their capability to protect those that remain as the withdrawal takes place.
President Bush has made the statement that he would veto any action to establish a time table for reduction of troops in Iraq. I agree with him. Setting a time table for troop reduction should be based on conditions which must be met not political actions by Congress. Our military leaders must have the resources they say they need. Congress should not make arbitrary decisions that may endanger the lives of the troops.
Congress, in my opinion, by proposing such legislation is undermining our military forces in Iraq. Again it sends the message to our enemies that we are getting out of the conflict. Our enemies want us out. It gives our enemies, in my opinion, the impression that they have won and that we do not have the stamina to stay and finish the job. If we do not fight in places like Iraq our enemies will bring the fight to our shores as they did on 9/11.

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