When I was in Kosovo a few years ago on a relief mission trip, the locals always expressed admiration to me for America's ability and willingness to protect itself. Keep in mind, these people had just seen tanks roll across their property and destroy their homes.They knew - beyond a doubt - that the first obligation of an elected government was to protect its' citizens.
This memory flashes back every time an idealist argues that strong military capabilities encourage war, and that a unilateral laying-down-of-arms would lead to world-wide peace. This theory would be dubbed "peace through weakness".
Unfortunately, this position has proved dangerous throughout history, as those in Kosovo knew very well. Teddy Roosevelt had it right when he declared, "Walk softly and carry a big stick".
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