Making a difference

To the editor: While our troops are fighting the Global War on Terror (GWOT) to protect freedom and provide a better way of life for others, many media outlets are waging a battle to rally public and political support against the war. Let me be crystal clear: war veterans know that armed conflict should be the last resort to accomplish a worthy cause. Preserving freedom and fighting terrorism is such a cause. Stories about the progress on the war front, about the troops’ accomplishments and about why troops volunteer for service should receive equal time in the media’s war coverage. Our troops continue to support the mission. I recently spoke with a National Guard general who said his troops see the difference they are making in Iraq; many want to go back. His troops want to do the job right and finish the mission. Re-enlistments among Army troops in Iraq remain high and many recruitment goals are being met. One Marine Gunner said, “I have never been in a position where I thought I was having a bigger impact.” The signs of progress in the war include less violence in Iraq with more local security forces in position, Iraq’s improving economy, new schools and hospitals, Iraq’s free press, new rights for Afghani women and growing small businesses. Over three-quarters of Al Qaeda’s known leaders and terrorist associates have been detained or killed. U.S. death toll in Iraq for October was the lowest in nearly two years. Recently, retired Air Force Pilot Scott O’Grady, who was shot down in 1995 enforcing NATO’s No Fly Zone in Bosnia and survived six days before being rescued, addressed state lawmakers and veterans groups. His friends in the GWOT believe in their mission and they see the positive effect of their efforts. Apparently none of the local media thought his visit was worth covering. I am proud of and thankful for everyone who serves in the military. More Americans would know about how troops’ service has strengthened the cause of freedom and hit terror networks hard if the media took a more balanced approach to reporting the GWOT. John B. Getz Jr. Vietnam Veteran and State VFW Commander