He Is Our Son by Gail Stone

I don't understand the negativity related to this young man - well, except for the fact that bringing him home was a decision made in lieu of consultation with Congress. Even with that consideration, it seems to me that the naysayers should dig deeply within themselves and find a little compassion, and a little appreciation. This young man joined the military. He has served in the longest war in the history of the United States - a war started under questionable circumstances. So what if during his time in Afghanistan he began to question the morality of that war? So what if he indeed did voluntarily abandon his post? So what if he suffered a complete emotional and psychological breakdown and behaved in a manner not fitting to a soldier? I'm not saying he did so. I'm just saying what if he did? Going to war was an act of patriotism. He was not drafted. That fact, in and of itself, beckons our responsibility to not leave him there in the hands of the enemy. We should bring him home, even if he is not in an emotional state that results in the existence of a desire to come. I feel very sad for his parents, and for the community in which he grew up. They have been bullied into canceling plans to welcome him. I put myself in his mother’s skin, and cannot imagine the turmoil she must be feeling. He is her son. He is our son.