The End of an Era

As the remaining US combat troops leave Iraq, I am bombarded by thoughts and emotions. Thoughts I never imagined would be relevant in 2010 and emotions I never thought would be this poignant after nearly eight years of war in Iraq.

This monumentally historical and profoundly symbolic night is one for reflection, not one for political gamesmanship. Unfortunately, in this political climate it seems like every big decision made by this country's leadership is used as political fodder for those who advocate said policy and conversely used as ammunition for those who oppose it. Nothing has exemplified this trend more then the authorization of force in Iraq and the subsequent seven and half years of combat that followed.

This country has primarily operated under the auspices of a two party system. The two parties differ fundamentally with regards to social, economic and foreign policies respectively. However, over the last 7 years this country has been split farther and wider than it has been in recent history. What is best for our country has sadly dropped prioritarily and been usurped by political wrangling and positioning for elections ever upcoming. The moderate center has slowly been depleted while the progressive left and conservative right have become stronger. A striking example and unfortunate victim of this trend has been a struggling economy. The economic stagnanation has turned into a political hot potato for which both sides of the isle use to lay blame rather than come up with tangible real world solutions that transcend political aspirations.

What happened to the middle ground? What happened to the brave politicians who dare to admonish those whose policies pose a threat to the successful evolution and transformation of our country regardless of party membership? What happened to the bold lawmakers who aren't too shy to hail those who have provided a tangible contribution to strengthening our country irrespective of political affiliation?

Perhaps tonight, the very last combat troops shedding their weapons while they cross the border into Kuwait, will act as a new beginning in American politics. A begining where dialogue and discourse replace bickering and dissension.

Watching the very last US combat vehicles exiting Iraqi soil, I am overcome with emotion that I never thought I'd summon. I can't help but think of the 4,415 US troops who have died and the nearly 30,000 who have been injured. These heroes selflessly volunteered to serve our country to ensure our safety and freedom. I can't help but think of the families of these casualties. I can't help but think of the heroes who will be coming home and reuniting with their loved ones. I cant help but think of the countless American reporters , like David Bloom, who lost their lives embedded with the troops trying to bring the war to the forefront of our collective consciousness.

Whether you agreed with the invasion of Iraq or not, these soldiers served with honor and distinction. They deserve to be in our thoughts, in our prayers and will hopefully serve as an inspiration, providing a turning point to the intense partisanship stunting the progress of this great nation.