To the editor:

In order to take full advantage of the freedoms that we deem worthy of defense, we must learn to ask questions, such as the following, concerning the value of force in world affairs.

1. What was the original reasoning for the use of force?

2. What was the objective?

3. Did the official story change after the action?

4. What was the effect of the action? Did the original goal meet the end goal?

5. Did the action work on a tactical level?

6. Was any information left out, such as historical context or differing assessments? Was deception involved on the government’s part?

7. Whose interest did the action serve? Were there parties other than those stated who gained from it?

8. If mistakes were made, or deception was involved, was anyone held accountable?

9. What effect did the action have on the enemy nation? Were there heavy civilian casualties? Did their punishment fit the “crime”?

10. Is the world better off because of the action?

11. Is the action in keeping with the nation’s values?

12. Was the action considered legal and acceptable by the international community?

13. Is the action defensible enough to recall on later occasions as a good example of a nation’s use of force?

Before we decide to use force next time, maybe the public will take some advice from this former Marine sergeant and apply questions like these to our past in order to understand the possibilities for the future.

Chris White,

Lawrence