The Nov. 29 editorial titled “When America gives her word . . .” aptly recognizes a dramatic, albeit unarticulated, change in U.S. foreign policy. The government is now willing to risk the lives of her best men and women in absence of a national purpose or interest.
Correctly, the editorial expresses doubt about the wisdom of the president’s commitment. However, if a man makes an unwise commitment, what does that say of those willing to follow through? Concern is expressed that “America cannot now go back on its (President Clinton’s) word or forfeit its leadership.” Can the Editorial Board honestly say that it is willing to stand at the side of a coffin and tell the mother or widow and children that their sacrifice was warranted to protect President Clinton from the embarrassment of an unwise commitment?
