Do You Believe General David Petraeus?

A democracy is unwieldy to say the least. It's about choices. We have a choice. Do we support General Petraeus or do we make a decision that the attempt to establish a democracy in the center of the middle- east is too hard? Do we abandon the millions of Iraqi's that sported purple fingers as they walked to voting centers in defiance of the threats to kill them if they voted? Do we condemn tens of thousands of Iraqi's to death if the terrorists seize control of Iraq? Do we set the stage for our soldiers to have to return to the middle-east in the future or do we let our soldiers know that we support them completely in the current war?

I, along with thousands of Americans listened intently to every minute of the testimony provided by General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker. These individuals have dedicated their lives and their honor to America and I for one believe their assessments. They provided honest appraisals of where we are and where we might go if success is achieved in Iraq. They clearly said "success is not guaranteed," but America can chose to fail if we begin a precipitous withdrawal. I believe we should support the General and our soldiers he leads. His efforts to this point have been successful and I believe he will secure additional success.

I believe Al Qaeda rushed to Iraq in an attempt to ferment a budding counter insurgency and revels in the possibility of humiliating America and securing a base of operations to continue their terrorist activities throughout the world. I hate the fact that many young Americans are being killed and maimed in the effort to secure democracy and freedom in Iraq. I will remain forever grateful for their service. I am reminded of those that have sacrificed in the past for America. In our bloody Civil War over 191,000 were killed to insure the survival of our nation as we know it.

Citizens like you and me will not make the final decision, but we can encourage our present leaders and in 2008 we will elect 435 Representatives, 34 Senators and a new President. For now, I am calling my Senators and Representative to state my unequivocal support for General Petraeus as he attempts to lead our soldiers to victory in Iraq. You can call your elected officials at 1-877-222-800. An operator will direct your call to your elected representative.

There will be a demonstration in Washington, D. C. on Saturday (September 15) when thousands will gather to to provide a visual statement for the General and our soldiers to see. The terrorists will see it too. What message would you like to convey to the terrorists and our soldiers? Hope to see you there.