Turkish Allies
Once again Turkey has shown its friendship for the United States by committing Turkish troops in the fight against the Taliban (Nov. 2). It has opened its airspace to Allied planes since the Gulf War and allowed us the use of its airfields to monitor the no-fly zone over Iraq. It is the only Muslim country giving more than lip service to the anti-terrorist coalition. Those who fought in Korea know well the Turkish soldiers’ ability in combat. Yes, they also fought with us in Korea.
A Turkish colonel, with whom I served, summed it up with the humorous remark: “We are America’s best friend in Southeastern Europe and Asia. Why do you only think about us on your Thanksgiving holiday?”
Col. Rudolph Maglin
U.S. Army (Ret.)
San Juan Capistrano
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