By John W. Lillpop
General David Petraeus is a man of extraordinarily -high moral principles, integrity, and patriotism. His voice is one of honesty, reason and wisdom, commodities strikingly missing among political elitists in Washington, D.C. these days.
When David Petraeus speaks, he deserves to be listened to. His priority is to protect the lives and health of young American men and women serving in harm’s way. As far as we know, General Petraeus bears no hidden agenda which may, or may not, be in the best interests of American troops and the American people.
Notwithstanding his outstanding character and other commendable attributes, it appears as though the General is mistaken when it comes to advising against the “Koran Burning” ceremony planned by Rev. Terry Jones of Florida on September 11.
With all due respect, General Petraeus, if American citizens give up free speech rights in order to pacify terrorists, is that not a huge victory for the terrorists?
Would not such a victory be a powerful recruiting tool for Al-Quaeda and others who could claim that they own the power to shut down debate in America?
What other public expressions should be squelched so as not to offend the terrorists?
Should sentiments supporting Jews and Israel be squashed?
Dare we not express our outrage concerning the barbaric and inhumane practice of public stoning in Iran?
Again, ceding free speech rights would usurp liberty, freedom, and the American spirit in our blessed homeland.
Finally, American lives lost in Iraq and Afghanistan to date will have been for naught if the terrorists are permitted to shut down free speech in America.
In the interest of freedom: Burn, Baby, Burn!
