Give Marines’ actions more perspective

Although I do not condone the actions of the Marines toward the bodies of the Taliban fighters, neither do I condemn them. Unless you understand this region of the world and the actions of some of its people, you should reserve comment.

This area has been a battleground for centuries. Tribesmen rule everything in their domain and Sharia law prevails. Stoning deaths as well as decapitation and amputations are the punishment for crimes. This conflict has seen bodies of U.S. soldiers and Marines brutally treated, mutilated, burned and dragged through village streets.

Rudyard Kipling got it right: “When you're wounded and left on Afghanistan's plains, An' the women come out to cut up what remains, Jest roll to your rifle an blow out your brains, an go to your Gawd like a soldier.” When this is over, we should all reflect on why we were there in the first place - Osama bin Laden and Sept. 11, 2001. Be thankful we have brave men and women who will go in harm's way to protect us. Put the Marines' actions in perspective.

Gary L. Thompson

USMC (1961-65)

Cedar Rapids