President Obama announced that the war in Iraq is over and troops will be "coming home for the holidays." This is good news! After all these years, the United States of America is removing its presence from Iraq. War is never a good thing; however, it may be necessary in regards to a nation's self preservation. However, the war in Iraq was no stranger to controversy and was not seen as an act of self preservation. Weapons of Mass destruction were never found. Saddam Hussein was removed from power, put on trial and executed which caused tension in the Middle East. Thousands of troops were killed and wounded. 805 billion dollars was spent on the war which some say could have been used in the States. Some even felt America was there for the oil. These are all valid reasons, but after September 11, 2001 we cannot blame the United States for becoming a bit paranoid with nations that harbor or can harbor terrorism.While this news is great, it is hard not to realize the reality behind this decision. President Obama is suffering all time lows in his poll numbers. He needs to make an impression on Americans if he wishes to get their vote again. It is also interesting to mention that CNN had a segment about Obama writing checks to poor families who wrote to him. He supposedly said, "Gosh, I gotta help these people." The timing is a bit suspicious. Obama did promise in 2008 that he would end the war, so a politician that actually keeps his word while rare is promising in the eyes of many. Add the story about him writing checks to the poor also adds a bit as well.
In any event, God bless America and I am sure the families are excited to know that their loved ones who are serving will be returning. Let us pray for peace and avoid war.