Having served in the U.S. Army, I understand the great opportunities presented by military service as well as the way military service redefines, hones and polishes a person's character. Democratic Representative John Murtha, a 37-year veteran of the Marine Corps, should understand these observations as well. After all, he served during a period of war. He led men in battle. And war is the ultimate crucible for shaping a man.

In an interview last Friday, rep. Murtha, however, said he would not serve in the military today. Murtha, a proponent of the insane idea of pulling troops out of Iraq immediately, went so far as to say that he would encourage the enlistment-age youth of America not to join the military either.

"And I think you're saying the average guy out there who's considering recruitment is justified in saying 'I don't want to serve'," the interviewer continued.

"Exactly right," said Murtha.

Rep. Murtha is quickly flying up the list of those members of the Liberal Left who sicken me. As a 37-yr veteran of the Marine Corps, Murtha should be able to put aside the current mission of our military and acknowledge the personal development aspects of military service at the very least. Beyond shaping one's character, the military also provides first class professional training. In fact, the list of personal and societal benefits that come from military service is almost as long as Santa's checklist.

It pains me that a distinguished veteran such as Murtha would chuck the lessons of a life of service out the window for the sake of sound-bite politics. Shame on you, Mr. Murtha.

(HT: Drudge)