In Support of the Canadian Troops

I’m deviating from my normal, witty discourse that usually graces this blogspot to talk about an issue that is not only more serious, but important to me. The Canadian Troops in Afghanistan get a lot of flak for their involvement in the Afghan mission for peace, and the government’s consideration to remove the troops from the Middle East in 2011 has been met with a great amount of controversy. I’m going to avoid a lot of the political issues that surround the Canadian Army and their Afghanistan presence because, truthfully, I don’t know enough about it to really debate whether their involvement is right or wrong. I’m merely speaking from a personal level, taking into consideration that one of my friends is currently “over there”.

I couldn’t be more proud to say that my friend is part of the Canadian Army and is serving over in Afghanistan, but I’m also terrified that one of the times he goes will be the last time I ever see him. It’s a morbid thought, but it’s valid. I feel sick whenever I see the crowds gathering on the bridges over the Highway of Heroes to catch a glimpse of the cars carrying fallen soldiers, and I pray that, every time I hear about another young soldier’s death, it won’t be Buddy Bella (I’m not sure that he would love that nickname, but since he doesn’t read this blog, he doesn’t really have a say in what I call him). I can’t imagine what the families of those fallen soldiers must feel when they hear about the death of their loved one – I would be devastated, and Buddy Bella and I are certainly not as close as he and his family.

It breaks my heart to know that he sees things that no one should ever have to see, and that he has lost more friends in the war than most people lose in a lifetime. He’s changed since being over there, which is no doubt due to the experiences that he endures, and I hate that he has to live with horrible images forever in his mind.

While I can’t say that I completely agree with the Canadian Army’s involvement in Afghanistan, I am behind it because the soldiers need as much support as they can get for the dangerous work that they’re doing. It’s important that those soldiers don’t die in vain, and that they know that their country’s people are behind them and are proud of them as they go about their mission. I just want all the soldiers, Buddy Bella in particular, to have gone through what they have for a purpose.

Every soldier is a child, sibling, parent, spouse, relative, neighbour, or friend – appreciate that they are fighting for our country and for the peace of another, much more volatile country, and don’t let their involvement be in vain. Even if you don’t agree with the Canadian Army’s involvement in the Afghan mission, please support the Canadian Troops and, if you get the chance, thank them for the sacrifices that they make. Even give them a hug... Actually, on second thought, don't do that. They're trained to kill and any physical contact may make them go a little crazy (so I couldn't deviate completely from humour, it's just how I do).

Love,

Bella