Thursday - November 15, 2007

American Deserters in Canada

At what point did the meaning of the word, volunteer, become unclear? It seems a small number of American soldiers have fled to Canada, to avoid serving in Iraq. 

From their ages, these deserters probably didn't join the army before 2001, so they knew that the chances were high that they would be deployed in a combat zone.

They volunteered. They made a commitment their nation. They signed a contract. They accepted the college tuition benefits. Yet, when it was their turn to serve in Iraq, they ran to Canada.

Twenty-five years ago, the chances were good that a volunteer wouldn't see combat, but anyone who joined from the first Gulf War on who didn't expect to see combat made a poor bet.

Maybe it is best if we let Canada keep our citizens who renege on promises and obligations.

Two Americans who deserted the U.S. Army to protest against the war in Iraq lost their bid for refugee status in Canada on Thursday.

The Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear appeals from the two men, Jeremy Hinzman and Brandon Hughey, over decisions by immigration authorities -- backed in two subsequent court rulings -- that they were not refugees in need of protection. Read more....

Author: The Machiavellian
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