This image is of Times Square on the night of May 8, 1945. The scene is amazingly fitting to current events. Many gathered at this same location Sunday night in response to the news that the United States military spiecal forces (SEALS in this case) in consort with the CIA killed the leader of Al-Qaida. Of course there are now warnings of retribution from that that terrorist organization, but that isn't the topic on which I wish to dwell.
Television programs still frequently offer reflections and documentaries on the war after 'the war to end all wars,' and I watch most of them. The plight of the oppressed and slaughtered Jews, Russians and other minority groups still astounds me. The thoughtless 'purification' through genocide by the Nazis still infuriates me. Yet I cannot wholly be pleased, excited or content with the defeat of Hitler's armies. It never seems appropriate to glory in the death of a human no matter the character of the being. How should one recognize the effects of the death or victory through war? First, what are the effects?
It is obvious that the conquering of the Nazis stopped further destruction of European civilization and the Jewish culture. In that victory there is need of celebration, maybe not the type that comes from Dirk Nowitzki hitting a game winning shot at the buzzer, but solely gathering the family around the radio broadcast of President Roosevelt might not have been so fulfilling. Many captive were liberated. Lives were spared through further fighting. Several men behind the war were taken to international court to answer for crimes. However, the radio scene might be better suited for the reverence of the millions killed by the Nazis and in fighting the Nazis. Even the lost lives of the Nazis is lamentable for many were unfortunately just soldiers fighting for Germany and not with evil designs. Furthermore, the celebrations must have been marred by the facts that those killed were still dead. The cities were still in ruins. Violent acts due to racism would continue to occur.
It isn't so obvious what was stopped or gained with the killing of Osama. The leadership still exists in Al-Qaida and will appoint a leader in the vacancy to carry out the plans bin Laden was still involved in preparing. The countries and agencies aligned to fight "the war on terror" have made little progress in battling during the decade since 9-11 let alone the years prior spent fighting terrorists and terrorism abroad. Although these threats remain, a 10 year, multi-billion dollar endeavor spanning two presidencies yielded one accomplished goal. The United States can continue to claim the best defenses, military operations and tactic leadership in the world. Those are things to celebrate along with some mental relief from the general fears of further terrorism. This would be reason for a societal need for celebration.
At last I return to the humble family listening to the somber broadcast. As their is no video or visible graphics with a radio program these people may not fully understand the costs of war. This they have in common with many of the celebrators in Times Square and elsewhere, both past and present. War and death may be right and bring about the end of atrocious acts but war and killing by themselves are rarely ever good.
America, [hug] yeah!
