One of our loyal readers tells me:

Last night my Marine son was ecstatic. It is so infuriating and disheartening to hear people casually dismiss the progress, effort and sacrifice made by our troops. Hopefully this will stiffen Americans’ resolve about finishing the job in Afghanistan.

His son returned home ten days ago.

Welcome back! Thank you!

He adds:

Last Friday my wife and I attended a memorial service for the 25 men of the 3rd Battalion/5th Marines who were killed in action in Afghanistan. The service was attended by the battalion and immediate family, and included wounded 3/5 Marines flown in from around the country. It was heart-breaking, but also uplifting to spend time with such men. Only the LA Times and San Diego Union-Tribune covered it. Gretal Kovach of the Union-Tribune was there and wrote a very fine account. She embedded with the 3/5 in Afghanistan and wrote a series of excellent articles on the challenges and accomplishments of their deployment. She deserves recognition for her work.