"Swingman" wrote in
:

"Nate Perkins" wrote in message

I think it is the fools and dunderheads that got us into this mess to
begin with.

It's hard to disagree with you, but the point is moot ... we're in it
up to our eyeballs. The task now is to deal a blow to our avowed
enemies while we extricate ourselves, or walk off and stick our heads
in the sand, ignoring global reality in the 21st century.

There are alternatives besides "staying the course" and "sticking our heads
in the sand." It is not a sign of weakness to learn from our mistakes, it
is a sign of resiliency and strength. I also believe that now the mistake
of going to war has been made, we must succeed ... and adjustment of our
approach is much needed. It is not unpatriotic for that to be pointed out.

Besides, the rights of free speech and free press are
fundamental to a democracy (at least until some dunderhead decides
otherwise).

There is also a point when "free" speech provides aid to the enemy.
Couple that fact with today's press, that can be bought by either
side, and you end up in a dangerous haze that forces the path taken to
be based passion and politics, instead of reason.

Nonsense. American ideals are the only thing worth fighting for.
Sometimes fighting while upholding those ideals is harder, but in the long
run worth it. When you start censoring free press and free speech in the
name of supporting the war, then you are already operating in a dangerous
haze based on passion and politics.