A sad attack

I'm glad my little disclaimer over there on the rights says that, even though I could be wrong sometimes, I do offer my unsubstantiated thoughts.  This is one of those times.

We are all saddened by the deaths of four Americans in Libya the other day and also saddened by the unrest and attacks on U.S. embassies in other Mid East countries as well, most notable Egypt.  What did surprise me at the lack of security the U.S. has provided to protect our people there.  That is a disgrace. 

This nation should not have been taken by surprise by the attacks.  Centuries have passed since the first such determination to rule themselves.  The earliest I remember reading about were the Crusades when the Saxons in England failed.  It does settle down periodically, but that anti-anything not Muslim rises again and again.

It's also not surprising that, coincidentally or planned, this year's outburst coincided with the Sept. 11 attack on New York and Washington 11 years ago.  What is surprising is our government having its proverbial head in the sand thinking it wouldn't happen.

The reaction of our presidential candidates was about as expected.  Government spokespersons seemed to be apologizing.  They all, of course, speak only with the O.K. of the President.  President Obama told us on that first day that the Ambassador in Libya was killed by terrorists and that the Libyan government forces tried to save the Ambassador and even got him to a hospital.  Later video clips, however, seemed to show him being dragged through the streets.

President Obama said he will work diligently with the Libyan officials to bring the perpetrators to justice.  (Updated Fri. AM) Libyan officials have announced they have made arrests and their investigation is continuing.  Also, reports that the U.S. was warned days ago of the impending attacks and apparently did nothing have been leaking out.  I have not confirmed these allegations.  Nor have I confirmed another allegation that Pres. Obama skips most security advisory meetings at the White House.  And another item being circulated this morning is what security there was consisted of personel without live ammunition.  (End of update)

Republican nominee Mitt Romney was critical of the handling of the affair and said the U.S. simply wasn't prepared for the attacks.  If he is elected, he indicated, Americans serving abroad will be protected.

None of us want another war, but like the response to the bombing of the U.S. Navy warship Cole several years ago, the response this time seems tepid.

We'll pray for the Americans and patiently wait for more information.

In the meantime, I hope you have a great weekend.

Dave