To the editor:
There has been a lot written lately about Catholics participating in the Iraq War. I know some of the authors, in particular Fr. Jim Murphy whom I both love and admire.
Nonetheless I wish to go on record as believing that our soldiers in Iraq are nobly preventing the slaughter of innocents, a slaughter I am convinced would follow an imprudent early withdrawal.
Further, they are opening up for an ancient people the opportunity to live as our Creator designed us to live, and that is in freedom. The dignity of the Iraqi people is enhanced by their service.
Father Murphy writes that a Catholic should not participate, and I write that a Catholic should participate. To every Catholic soldier presently serving in Iraq or preparing to serve there I extend my sincere encouragement and appreciation. You are carrying on the fine Catholic tradition of willingly sacrificing for others, and you do it knowing that some of you will make the ultimate sacrifice.
Do I have any right to define THE Catholic position re: soldiering in Iraq? No I do not, nor do any of the other writers to date. This is merely my personal opinion, with which everyone and anyone is free to disagree.
Ron Faust, Cross Plains
Chaplain, Sons of the American Legion, Detachment of Wisconsin Member, US Army Freedom Team