In his resignation letter, Secretary of Defense General Mattis called out the importance of Allies for US national security.\u00a0 I expect his eloquent statement will be long-quoted by those involved in foreign policy.\u00a0 But I bet it resonates even more with individuals who have\u00a0 served the US in almost any capacity overseas–military, intelligence, diplomats, Peace Corps, USAID, etc.\u00a0 It’s personal.<\/p>\n
I’ve worked with the French in Chad, Brits various places, Aussies in Iraq, etc.\u00a0 The value of having kindred spirits who can be called upon (or vice versa) when the unexpected happens is invaluable.\u00a0 Out in the field, you need friends.\u00a0 Whether its another embassy that can help or other views to inform decisions or reports.\u00a0 The US and allies who share overarching principles are invaluable.\u00a0 In a pinch they can save your life–and vice versa.<\/p>\n
Remember the role Canada played in helping some of our embassy staff escape from Iran during the revolution.\u00a0 They took a big risk.\u00a0 There are lots of other examples–some will never be public.\u00a0 Some probably never known at “policy levels” of either government.<\/p>\n
If you have served the US abroad–it’s blindingly obvious allies are vital.<\/p>\n
In Washington, perhaps other short term arguments may obscure fundamental points.\u00a0 Mattis reminds us that alliances of governments who share long-standing ideals and principles are the core to international security.\u00a0 Maybe we pay more in NATO, but don’t for a second think we don’t get a lot of benefit.\u00a0 Sure we should argue for greater contributions when others begin to take things for granted.\u00a0 But the benefit we get should be remembered.<\/p>\n
Lost in the news yesterday was an example. The US Justice Department indicted two Chinese individuals for theft of data by hacking.\u00a0 It would be meaningless but for the fact that several other countries stepped forward with similar steps.\u00a0 We have been attacked for over a decade by the Chinese is this way.\u00a0 We will need allies to effectively turn this around.<\/p>\n
Maybe something good will come of Mattis’ resignation if it serves to remind everyone of the elemental need to have as many on this planet who share our common ideals.\u00a0 For those who have served abroad, its also personal and obvious.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
In his resignation letter, Secretary of Defense General Mattis called out the importance of Allies for US national security.\u00a0 I expect his eloquent statement will be long-quoted by those involved in foreign policy.\u00a0 But I bet it resonates even more … Continue reading