Tuesday night the President vetoed Congress’ recently passed troop withdrawal bill.  This bill would have required that troop withdrawal begin on 1 October and be completed six months later.

I have a question regarding the duty of our men and women serving in the Armed Forces.  Just like our President and Congressmen, our troops are required to swear an oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution.  If the war in Iraq is unconstitutional, then are our troops breaking oath by willingly serving in Iraq?

I realize the constitutionality question must be answered first, but IF it is unconstitutional (and this is recognized by the soldier) is he breaking oath by NOT supporting and defending the Constitution?

The soldier’s oath of enlistment:

“I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.”

In swearing the oath, the soldier promises to defend the Constitution AND obey the orders of the President and officers over him according to regulations and the UCMJ.  But what if the President’s orders violate the Constitution?  Doesn’t duty require the soldier to stand with the Constitution?  After all, the President himself also swore an oath to uphold the Constitution.

I’m curious what your take is on this.

–
mattb

The Danger of Second Blessings

One of those times when you wish there was a doctor in the house.

–
mattb

All,

Please continue in prayer for my father.  He is now having complications from his brain surgery (swelling, fluid, pressure) and they are putting a shunt in to allow the fluid to drain.  My family and I are heading to Florida as we speak to visit with him.

Again, pray for his health and that he would be called back to his baptism.  I’m hoping to have the opportunity to speak with him on this very topic.

Thank you all,

–
mattb