The Daily Detour

Tribute to our wounded warriors

Someone sent me this YouTube video of the performance at the 2009 ACM by country singer, Trace Adkins and the West Point glee club. I was blessed to see this performance when it was originally broadcasted and posted on it then about one of the many reasons why I love country music (e.g. We'd be hard-pressed to see such a genuine tribute at the typical Hollywood affair). It's certainly worth watching again. And more significantly, it's a good reminder for all of us about the ongoing sacrifices being made by our military men and women. Thank you again to those who serve... 

Obama's eulogy at West Point

Last night at our United States Military Academy at West Point, President Obama delivered his much-anticipated speech outlining his strategy in Afghanistan. As you may or may not know, General Stanley McChrystal, the commander of U.S. military forces in that war, came to Obama over three months ago requesting that additional troops be sent to help in a move similar to the surge which proved successful in Iraq. Obama's speech was his answer--an answer that has many disappointed on both sides of the aisle. For many of the young soldiers sitting in the audience, it was seen as a eulogy suggesting that the real chance for victory in Afghanistan is dead.

Given that Obama has agreed to send 30,000 troops to Afghanistan, Gen. McChrystal has renewed his vow to take the fight to the Taliban. And because we have such noble men and women in harm's way (with more to come over the next 18 months), we should wholeheartedly support their efforts.

The challenge for someone in Obama's position (that is, someone with a far left base, combined with a country that is middle-right) is how to please everyone. As any leader knows the difficult decisions forged in the crucible of real-life make this desire all but impossible. And yet, Obama is giving it his best effort--trying to please the right by providing a quasi-surge in Afghanistan, while appealing to the left by offering an actual pull-out date of July 2011 (though it will be interesting to see how this date is adjusted as the realities of war--and the 2012 presidential election--affected the President). His is not in an enviable position by any means, but that is the nature of the job as Commander-in-Chief.

It does cause one to wonder, does Obama really want us to win? On the plus side, he did finally agree to send more troops (though not as many as McChrystal said he needed). So, there is the perceived desire to win, or at least, pass the job off to the Afghanis. On the negative side, by setting a pullout date, has he not telegraphed the gameplan? For the Taliban, what's to keep them from simply holding out until the Americans have left and then taking over again, just as they had before we arrived? Nothing of real consequence. (Yes, the Afghan military does have a significant role to play in their own protection, but they will never provide the necessary counter-measure to tyranny that the U.S. military power embodies.)

And so, it raises some significant questions: Are we in it to win it, or not? Why pull out in 18 months? Why not longer? Or sooner? And more significantly, if we are going to pull out, then why send 30,000 of America's best men and women to potentially suffer and die in battle if we are not there to win in the end?

Where war is concerned, I would echo President Reagan's terse response to the question about his strategy in the Cold War: "We win. They lose." In my heart, I truly wish war was not necessary, but the presence of evil in the world necessitates a response--even a response of war at times. And until we achieve that utopia that all of our liberal friends dream of, meeting violence with violence is sometimes necessary (as I've alluded to before). To go in half-heartedly suggests that it is better to have not gone in at all. Our brave men and women (and those we are trying to free and protect) desire so much more than that. The question is whether or not Obama's new strategy will give it to them.

UPDATE: Today, Defense Secretary Robert Gates correctly pointed out that failure in Afghanistan will have severe consequences for the United States.

Thank you to our veterans

Utmost respect for those among us who have served in harm's way is a continuing theme here at TDD. This morning, I had the privilege of joining my Mom and Dad at Kingsway Christian School for the Veteran's Day celebration that the children put on. It was a very touching tribute to the 40+ veterans in attendance, from WWII to Iraq and Afghanistan. It was so encouraging to see the children developing the necessary respect for America and the military men and women who has served it so faithfully. (Thank you, Mom and Dad, for your service in Vietnam.)

As I reflect back on the significance of this Veteran's Day, I can only wish that we treated every day as Veteran's day. We have so much to be thankful for, so much that we take for granted. So, thank you to all of you who have sacrifically served all of us.

The post by Jules Crittenden which I linked to back in March of 2007 is worth reading again. Thus, I close with a portion of that TDD post:

...I thank the Lord Almighty for the substitutionary sacrifices of those of you who willingly stand in harm's way on our behalf (and to your families who bear that unseen burden). It is because of you that we enjoy the freedoms we have, even the freedom shared by that forgettable sub-set of our culture who protest your efforts to afford us those freedoms. And I echo the comments of Jules Crittenden who wrote of those who serve, "John Eade and all others, living or dead, where do we get such men? Why do we deserve them?" Why indeed. To those of you who stand courageously against the forces of evil in our world, thank you. We are not worthy of you.

Truth and Islam in light of Ft. Hood

Last week, I talked about the need to examine the tragedy at Ft. Hood in light of the truth, which is proving increasingly difficult in our politically-correct culture. We ignore the true motivation behind the shootings at our peril.

It seems others are drawing similar conclusions. Over at Politics Daily, Jeffrey Weiss writes a very fair-minded assessment of this situation in light of other killings in the name of Islam. Part of his analysis correctly acknowledges that most Muslims could be considering peace-loving people. But as he points out,

And yet, there is that small fraction of Muslims who take another, horrible meaning from their sacred texts and act upon it. Consider that if only one-tenth of one percent of Muslims in the world hold to that violent ideology, that's a million people.

Weiss makes an interesting comparison with the other shooting that happened in Orlando a day after the Ft. Hood massacre.

The other terrible shooting in America last week happened in Orlando. From the details now available, a man named Jason Rodriguez killed one person and wounded five others. In the aftermath of that event, I can find no stories asking Hispanics about any sense of responsibility they might share. Nor, given the statistical probability about the religious beliefs of American Hispanics, have Catholics been asked for a reaction...

And when he started shooting, I can find no account that says he shouted anything about La Raza or Jesus.

But in Fort Hood, the shooter himself introduced his religion into the narrative. That's the difference. And it's a difference that matters.

My point exactly! We can't ignore the difference any more than we can treat cancer like a common cold. If we're dealing with a common cold, then fine. But if the reality is much more serious than a common cold, what good comes from ignoring it? 

Tragedy at Ft. Hood

The news broke across the nation earlier today that an Army psychiatrist, Major Nidal Malik Hasan opened fire at Ft. Hood, allegedly killing 12 soldiers and wounding an additional 31 people. The investigation is ongoing as people are trying to comprehend exactly what happened and the motive behind the attack. It is the worst mass shooting on a military base in U.S. history.

These kinds of attacks--be it tragedies like Columbine or Virginia Tech--are always horrific. But especially where our military personnel are concerned. It is difficult enough knowing that such noble men and women are voluntarily putting themselves in harm's way. When that harm is perpetrated on a military base, a place of safety and security, the tragedy is that much more inconceivable. And for the families who already live in a state of concern for the safety of their loved ones overseas, to have such violence brought home is almost too much to bear.

For those of us not directly involved in this situation, at the very least let us keep this entire situation (and all of those affected by it) in our prayers. It will be difficult to try to understand the "why's" behind this senseless tragedy. We may never find sufficient answers to the many questions that we have. But I cannot imagine trying to deal with this kind of situation without being able to reach out beyond ourselves to God. There is at least some comfort in knowing that as the final Judge to who we are all held accountable, he will bring ultimate justice in the end. And beyond that, He is able to provide the victims and their families the "peace which transcends all understanding" (Phil. 4:7).

A memorial day to remember

As I'm clawing my way back to the blog after a record-setting hiatus (which is not necessary the kind of record I want to achieve now or in the future. Again, my apologies to those of you who have been faithfully checking in each day), I must first bring our attention to the significance of this Memorial Day.

This is the day we dutifully recognize those brave men and women throughout our history who have paid the ultimate price on our behalf. Though we may acknowledge those sacrifices from time to time, I wonder if we are ever able to fully appreciate just exactly what it is we are commemorating? To even be able to sit here in Panera Bread (continuing to poach their free Wi-Fi, by the way :) and have the freedom to eat in peace, pray and read my Bible if I want to, and write freely about whatever may suit my fancy, is because of people like the older gentleman sitting across the aisle, sporting a 1st Infantry Division hat commemorating his years of service. How many of our citizens, unrecognized among us and unseeking of any such recognition, have responded to their country's call to arms when the need arises? And how many more who responded never returned home? Their names and lives may be lost to us now, but their sacrifices are not forgotten.

This is why I have begun to be more intentional about expressing my own thanks to our military personnel whenever I see them. As many of you may know, I've been doing some traveling lately to Oregon and other places. And as opportunities presented themselves, I have made it a point to thank our men and women in uniform for their service. Their reactions are mixed. Most simply have responded in kind, while occasionally some react with surprise that someone would take the time to offer a word of thanks--not only because it is a rarity, but also because they see their service as nothing special, nothing beyond merely doing their duty for this great country of ours. As I have said so many times before, I am continually reflective (and appreciative) of the fact that these brave men and women stand in harm's way so that I don't have to. They are separated from loved ones--missing birthdays, anniversaries, and other family occasions--so that I can live with my family in the safety and security that their vigilance provides.

On a related note, today is also memorable because it was 7 years ago that my beloved wife, Jean, and I were married in Sioux City, IA. As with any anniversary or birthday celebration, it is virtually unbelievable to think that the time has passed so quickly. The optimism and excitement on that day about the adventure that lay before us has evolved into our embracing an adventure that even we couldn't imagine then. So, here we are--7 years and 4 kids later :)--still adjusting to the new "normal" that has come to be the greatest experience of my life. Our love for eachother continues to evolve and deepen, and I can say unequivocally that I am a much better man and father because of the wonderful woman that God brought into my life so many years ago. (I love you, honey!) 

And I cannot help but recognize that our ability to be married and live the life of our choosing over these last 7 wonderful years is in large part because of the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform. I am never thankful enough for all of the blessings that have been bestowed upon me by so many people, both known and unknown. Happy Memorial Day to one and all!

Gotta love the Navy

The following email found its way to me through one of our readers, and I figured I'd pass it along in appreciation of all that our Navy (and other military personnel) is doing to keep us safe.

"U.S. Navy releases Al Qaeda terrorist!"

"The U.S. Navy today announced that it has released a senior Al Qaeda terrorist after questioning extensively for 27 days while being held prisoner aboard a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. In a humanitarian gesture, the terrorist was given $50.00 U.S. and a white 1962 Ford Fairlane automobile upon being released from custody. The attached photo shows the terrorist on his way home just after being released by the Navy."

In the midst of all of the challenges we're facing today, it's always good to keep a sense of humor. Here's a shout-out to the Navy (and whoever put that email together) for moment of mirth today. Gotta love the Navy's "Catch and Release" program. :)

Why I love country music

I just finished watching the Academy of Country Music awards and was reminded again of why I love the country music community. Just one example: during the evening show, there was an introduction made by wounded Marine Corps serviceman (who had lost both of his legs in combat). He made reference to the Wounded Warrior Project, one of the efforts being supported by the Academy. And then country music superstar Trace Adkins sang a signature song honoring our military men and women.

Between these genuine expressions of patriotism and the heartfelt acknowledgements of God and country, the contrasts between the country music community and the usual celebrity-filled awards shows coming out of Hollywood couldn't be more pronounced. It's refreshing to see so many good folks who haven't lost their common sense or love of country.

I am, after all, a country boy at heart. Maybe that's why I wore my kickers to church this mornin'. :)

UPDATE: I hadn't remembered what USMC Lt. Andrew Kincaid said to conclude his introduction until I ran across it again. It bears repeating: "It's not about the war; it's about the warrior."

Best birthday present ever!

No, this birthday present did not come in celebration of The Daily Detour's 2nd birthday. It was a birthday present for 6-year old Gabriel Hurles. While celebrating his birthday at school last Wednesday, he didn't noticed the large gift-wrapped box sitting there for him until someone brought it to his attention. He began opening the present and discovered an unbelievable surprise. "It's my dad," he exclaimed! (His father, U.S. Army Specialist Casey Hurles, just returned from Iraq last Tuesday and decided to surprise his son at school.)

That heart-warming story is a good reminder of how often we here at home take for granted the privilege we have to share birthdays and other holidays with our loved ones. And it is thanks to the sacrifices of so many who don't enjoy that same privilege. May we who sit safely within the confines of the security that our military provides us never forget those who provide it. It could be any one of us coming home from the battlefront to surprise our child on their birthday.

Hero on the Hudson

I'm sure by now you've heard the many reports about Thursday's crash landing of US Airways flight 1549 into the Hudson River in New York. There were 155 people on board when the plane plunged into the frigid waters and all of them were saved in what is being called "Miracle on the Hudson".

In a culture that is increasing resistant to the supernatural idea of "miracles" one cannot help but take notice when these kinds of phenomenal events occur. It's nice to see that they haven't gone completely out of vogue. :) But among other things, it is the man behind this averted tragedy that deserves special attention and genuine praise for his quick thinking and courageous actions in the midst of what was a potentially catastrophic event. By all acounts, the pilot, Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger III, is a genuine hero.

Those who know Mr. Sullenberger are not surprised by the demeanor and actions of this former Air Force fighter pilot. They've known all along what the rest of the country has just come to learn. In fact, the only communications from the cockpit as the plane went down was a calm command to the passengers to "Brace for impact". And even after all the passengers had been safely evacuated from the plane, he walked the aisle twice to ensure that every person had gotten out. These are the actions of a true hero.

In this age of celebrity and sports idolatry, we often attribute hero status to a multi-millionaire athlete who can put a small rubber ball into an iron hoop, or a Hollywood icon who is famous as much for being famous as for any personal courage and prowess.

On occasion, however, we witness true heroism as did on Thursday. Who can forget the courageous firemen who were laboring up the flights of stairs into the maw of the World Trade Center while everyone else was scurrying down to safety? Or the Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell, and his Navy Seal colleagues who sacrificed and survived (or in the case of his comrades, paid the ultimate price) against overwhelming odds? And certainly one cannot forget each of the men and women in our military who stand watch against the forces of evil in our world so that the rest of us can sit safely at our computers and blog about such stalwarts? As much as we enjoy sports or movies, it is these people, Sully Sullenberger among them, who are the real heroes. And particularly in today's climate with seemingly wave after wave of bad news, this one man's role in the "miracle on the Hudson" brings a glimmer of hope in the midst of the storm clouds on the horizon.

The world needs more people like Sulley Sullenberger, and yet, in so many ways, the world is full of such heroes. Not that we're all called to crash land a jetliner onto the Hudson River. But with the many challenges we're confronted with constantly, we are surrounded by everyday heroes. And what's more, we are called to be such heroes--to persevere against seemingly-insurmountable odds and to make the kind of self-sacrifices necessary to better the world around us. Are you a hero today?

UPDATE: Here is an interview with some of the survivors. More survivor stories. Also, here's some security video footage of the plane actually hitting the water and the aftermath.