Bergdahl is victim

I would like to thank John McCain and the other politicians for showing us in grand detail the true costs of war. War is not the determination of a winner of ideas, because ultimately the losers are people and individual lives.

Sgt. Bergdahl is a victim multiple times. He was a victim when he was doing his duty in the war and possibly having doubts about his purpose there. He was a victim when he was captured for five years. He is a victim now when the politicians persecute him and the press exploits him.

War is not positive; it is damaging. It is far more damaging psychologically than physically. We all have seen or know people who have been damaged by war. Sgt. Bergdahl’s parents had to suffer for five years and now again when he is in the process of coming home. The six men that gave their lives trying to find Sgt. Bergdahl are victims along with their families.

There are many people connected to this situation who need and deserve support and compassion. Did we learn nothing from the Vietnam War? For politicians from either side to use this issue for their political gain speaks to the carelessness of politicians’ character and lack of judgment. There is a time for intelligent discussion about the moral issues underlying this event. That discussion only comes after we offer compassion and allow healing to the victims of war.

To stand on the backs of soldiers for political gain is at the very least obscene, if not outright cruel. Bring them home soon. Support them all. Give them time and appropriate resources to heal. Lastly thank them for their sacrifice.

Brian Crandell, Kalispell