Yale Daily News

Updated: Monday, October 13, 2008 at 1:48pm

McCain and the defense of the American Empire

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Progressive Futures
Published Thursday, February 7, 2008
There’s a growing sense among many Democrats, regardless of whom they voted for Tuesday, that John McCain will be incredibly tough to beat in the general election. Admittedly, some shrug him off, pointing to the country’s overwhelming opposition to Bush and the war in Iraq as definite signs pointing to the impossibility of a Republican victory. Others see McCain as having shot himself in the foot with his alarmingly pro-war position on Iraq.
#1 By richard montgomery (Unregistered User) 5:37pm on February 7, 2008

For years (since returning from Vietnam in 1969) I have been puzzled by the utter, total absence of "Heroes" from that war. Ask the average American to name a "hero" (other than those who became politicians) and you'll likely get a blank stare in return. Which, I suppose, is why I am mystified by the fairly recent phenomenon, the POW "hero."

I realize that my feelings on this subject are not shared by many but, I cannot help but feel that most folks don't give the subject the slightest consideration .

How else could an entire country believe that John Mc Cain is (as Rudi Gulliani proclaimed) a "Great American Hero." I don't get it. When did being captured and locked up (no longer fighting) become "Heroic"?

Perhaps I'm mistaken but, I don't believe I've ever heard of POW "heroes" of WWI, WWII or the war in Korea. Can anyone enlighten me?

I have absolutely no doubt, whatever, of the horrible treatment suffered by the POW's held in North Vietnam. However, I think it's safe to say that POW's of WWI, WWII and , certainly, Korea suffered as much. But, I don't remember anyone claiming to be a hero...much less being PROCLAIMED a hero because they survived.

The more I've thought about this issue, the more I've come to believe that there is something VERY dishonest going on here.

No one in their right mind believes that torture doesn't work. Certainly there are other, far more sophisticated techniques, that are more effective...given TIME.

But, the absurd notion that torture doesn't work is completely undermined by the FACT that virtually every US POW held in Vietnam gave in to torture and made anti-war statements. I include the "Great American Hero" from Arizona, John Mc Cain, in that group.

Not only is John Mc Cain a blatant liar, he betrayed the military brotherhood

with his despicable performance while serving on the Committee for POW/MIA's. He was the prime motivating force behind the decision to classify all POW debriefing documents (specifically his own). He is No hero, that's for sure.

I have been a Republican all my life but, I will certainly vote for Hillary Clinton or Obama before I'll EVER vote for a low life scum bag like John Mc Cain.

Richard Montgomery

Palm Bay, FL 32908

#2 By Alan MacDonald (Unregistered User) 4:53pm on February 8, 2008

Hugh, your's is a very insightful and in my opinion an accurate assessment of McCain's positioning ---- of essentially being 'Pro-Empire', in all respects foreign and domestic.

However, it is beyond disgraceful that the entire Democratic (alternative, oppostion party) choices have absolutely nothing to say about this hidden global corporatist Empire behind the facade of 'Vichy America'.

The word Empire is not even whispered.

No talk.

No education of the American people of the Empire in which they are now caught.

No acknowledgment that all the important (but diverse) issues and problems that confront America and Americans spring from one central evil pit: Empire.

The absence of an informed, engaged and active popular, non-violent 'movement' against Empire is a national disgrace.

#3 By yawn (Unregistered User) 11:09am on February 9, 2008

more "America last" BS...

/ignores column

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