Troop Strength in Iraq

Re the Dec. 2 article “U.S. to Increase Troops in Iraq Before Election”:

Instead of President Bush extending tours of duty in Iraq -- a backdoor draft -- he should consider abolishing the age limit of our volunteer Army.

This bold move would reduce extended tours for many younger troops while older ones aid in serving our country. Soldiers like my daughter who already served in Iraq deserve more time at home.

In addition, Bush would also discover that there are several of us Vietnam veterans who still have enough strength to win a war.

Art Gomez

San Gabriel

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Max Boot’s Dec. 2 column, “What We Won in Fallouja,” made some excellent points. Wellington’s famous quote regarding the futility and sadness of war fit in well with the obstacles the Army and Marines face in Iraq.

Wellington always severely mourned his losses after his famous battles. As it stands now, the battle for Fallouja is no Waterloo but it still is a significant victory. Unfortunately, there may never be a decisive victory in this war, nor one in the war on terror.

In the aftermath of Fallouja, let us hope and pray that the losses our military has suffered are now kept to a minimum and that the Iraqis can soon defend themselves.

Many years after Waterloo, Wellington explained to his peers his real concern for casualties and also their political ramifications.

“Now for me the loss of every man told. I could not risk so much; I knew that if I ever lost 500 men without the clearest necessity, I should be brought upon my knees to the bar of the House of Commons.”

It makes you wonder if our own military commanders (and their political counterparts in Washington) have the same level of anxiety for our men and women in Iraq.

Charles Reilly

Manhattan Beach

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Boot is one of those who can’t see the forest for the trees.

When one looks at the bigger picture of Iraq, it is the entire concept of forcing a government down people’s throats without asking their permission that is deeply flawed.

Violence only begets violence. It does not matter how benevolent one’s intentions are.

Mark Van Leeuwen

Newhall