The attacks in Afghanistan are not placing our country in harm’s way. We have been in harm’s way for years (embassy bombings, the USS Cole, etc.) Finally, we have chosen to react. More attacks were inevitable whether we responded or not, but now the war has two sides.

There would be no peace of mind if we simply retreated to within. America has dabbled in isolationism and appeasement in the past and the results have been devastating (Hitler, 1930s; Stalin, 1940s).

From the current situation, parallels can be drawn to everything from Hitler’s conquest of Europe to Mafia protection rackets to the playground bully stealing lunch money.

I never let the bully take my lunch money because he had no right to it, and had I let him take my money, he would have only demanded more the next time.

I was afraid of the bully, and I’m afraid of what bin Laden will do next, but I am much more afraid of what might come if America does nothing.

Terrorism is the world’s problem, but today America is the target. We have everything to lose if terrorism endures, but we are the most capable nation of incapacitating the terrorist threat. We’re the biggest kid on the playground and all our friends will help us put the bully in his place.

I have no bloodlust, no desire to see any more innocent people die. I wish there was a peaceful solution, but that is not the nature of the enemy. They have chosen the means of their destruction.

Recent polls show more than 80% of Americans agree with actions carried forth by the government. Even the Daily editorial board admits that something must be done.

Some fights must be fought.

Scott T Sevcik

Senior

Aerospace engineering