Latest official figures released by the Pentagon reveal at least 116 American soldiers committed suicide in Iraq. But this does not include dozens under investigation, nor those back in the U.S. The military is taking a staggering toll in Iraq. It is becoming clear that military discipline is lacking and that the morale of the troops is falling rapidly. Frustration, anger, despair, and loneliness, combined with poor military leadership and discipline are sending the solidiers onto an emotional rollercoaster which too often leads to misconduct or suicide. It is a sad state of affairs. No less than 116 fighting Americans couldn't take it any more and suicide was, at least that's what they believe at the time, the only way out.
President Bush has placed his entire presidential legacy on Iraq and wants to known as a "wartime president." When the history books are written, it is doubtful that history will be kind towards President Bush. His legacy is headed into shambles much like Jimmy Carter's legacy. The cost to our nation is too high and the profits too low. In World War II, we paid a much higher price, but we reaped so many benefits from it, and as such can be justified as being "worth it." President Bush's war in Iraq is far different. In our corporate society we can easily compare Iraq to a profi/loss sheet. We are in the red. Americans have given so much to Iraq, and gotten so little back. Our sons and daughters, our fathers and brothers, and our families have paid dearly. Years later, we have nothing to show for it except dead soldiers, anger, and frustration. The Middle East is still a mess, Isam still wants to kill us, the Iraqis can't form a workable government, and we're no closer to "mission accomplished" as we were a few years back when President Bush announced "mission accomplished." We haven't progressed, and for a very high price. It's like paying for a Rolls Royce, but getting a busted-up, rusted-out Ford Pinto instead. To put in in simple, brutal terms, Presdient Bush's war in Iraq has been too expensive.
