LEADERSHIP FAILURE


At the time, way back in 2001, I said this was a bad idea and it would not end well. I expected a short invasion and then a defeat much like Britain and Russia had experienced. Clearly, I underestimated the stupidity of Federal Government. 

George Bush started this mess but the blame is shared by others. Obama could have stopped this and didn't. Trump said he would, but like everything else, he never found the time. Both US political parties supported ongoing funding and deployment of forces. In the end, it was all for nothing. Voters accepted the War because we were sold on "False Patriotism".

If you don't support our troops you are unAmerican or a traitor. The Pentagon spent over $125 million dollars supporting false patriotism at sporting events over the 20 year period. This does not include the cost of military aircraft and flight crews for ceremonial fly overs. Americans were sold the military and the war just like they are sold Budweiser. In the end, neither were very good.

Money spent on the War in Afghanistan could have paid for free healthcare or college for every kid in America. If there is a lesson in all this waste it is this: America needs to get our priorities straight. We should be spending tax money at home.


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