By SCOTT BALDWIN
Indiana State Senator
U.S. Marine Corps veteran
My heart is heavy watching recent events unfold in Afghanistan. The loss of life, including 13 U.S. service members, is unconscionable. Having served as a Marine during Operation Desert Storm and returned to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom, I’m devastated to see the chaos and horror that’s reemerged after decades of progress.
In my years of service, I’ve witnessed friends – both American and Afghani – fall on Afghanistan soil. We all hoped we’d be a part of building a better future for this country, and certainly never imagined American military involvement ending this way.
To the fallen warriors and their families, I grieve with you. To the American service members and civilians still in harm’s way, my heart and mind are with you. The U.S. government’s desertion and abandonment of its citizens and friends will leave a permanent scar on both nations and demonstrates a mode of operation not in keeping with our strong history.
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The situation in Afghanistan is complicated. It has been for decades, and there are no easy solutions. But I’m truly heartbroken for the Afghans who I met and worked alongside, including those in the Afghan National Police, the Afghan National Army, the governance, and the locals. They simply desired a better life, and we wanted to help them achieve it.
I fear most for the innocent women and children of Afghanistan who have grown up with a blanket of security jerked from beneath them suddenly. Those of us who understand the Taliban’s interpretation of Sharia law know what that means for them. Women and girls will be barred from education and public life. Those who violate sharia law will be beaten or worse. The progress made in two decades will be erased. These things are happening right now as we rest safely in our homes.
During my service, I spent a great deal of time interacting with young Afghanis, both boys and girls. Despite the complex and harsh world around them, their needs were very basic. They were my solace and their innocence kept me sane. Looking at them, it all made sense and I understood our mission.
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I’ve had many restless nights consumed with worry for those we’ve left behind, the Americans of course, but also the Afghans who relied on us. At the very least, this administration must get every remaining American home safe, knowing our failures mean it’s already too late for some. It goes against every fiber of my being to know that America is leaving Americans behind. This is unacceptable.
Looking forward, I can only hope that some semblance of the progress made will be preserved; that, despite this fall, Afghanistan will someday see a future as so many imagined. This Marine believed it then, and I want even more to believe it now.
Excellent article from a Marine with first hand knowledge. President Biden, Defense Secretary Austin and Joint Chiefs Chairman Milley were more concerned with social engineering the military and climate change than they were with Afghanistan and the Taliban. We now see the outcome.