Sometimes, There is No Other Way…

“How do you resolve war?”

You don’t.

To clarify:

If you mean “how does a Nation end a war,” then you are looking for an answer about terminal conflict diplomacy. One country, upon the realization that their political goals for a war are being whittled away through attrition of an eroding public opinion, begins to actively pursue alternative courses of action. I could be specific and say “losing country,” but we are all too familiar with Pyrrhic victories – winning the way to defeat.

Alternatively, if you are asking how do we – as societies – resolve the notion of armed conflict as a wasteful and destructive act… well, we can’t… and probably never will figure that one out.

I am a veteran, parent, and perpetual student of history. I am also a grumpy realist. As a veteran, I have participated in a conflict with origins and motivations I have never really approved of or entirely supported (Iraq). However, I willingly went because of my love for those with whom I had served and due to skills I possessed which I felt may ensure the safe return of those folks and the patients we supported.

As a parent, I cringe at the idea that my son and/or daughter may one day follow a similar path into harm’s way. I cannot, in good faith, dissuade them from doing so… nor would I; only a solid education in the reality of conflict will balance the myth of glorious and idealistic service which has seduced many youth throughout history.

As a student of history, I fully understand that war between nations is as inevitable as it is deplorable. Idealism and pacifism are dangerously naive positions to hold in the face of an armed adversary. At the same time, determination and aggression, when unchecked, are equally volatile and hampers effective diplomacy.

Lastly, as a grumpy realist, I know that my own observations are the literary equivalent to “pissing in the wind.” I have touched on these topics before:

Worst Consequences of Combat

The Biggest Tragedy of World War One

One Vet’s Views on War

Passion and Realities…

…And more.

I write about conflict. I try to provide relevancy to stories which have become largely forgotten. I illustrate examples of unconventional leadership in challenging situations.

I love military history; to a certain extent, I also hate war.

To resolve war as the last resort of failed policy, one must understand war in its entirety: the loss of life, the financial burdens, the social repercussions, and the reverberating effects of both victory and defeat as well asthe benefits gained in healthcare, technology, logistics, and the understanding of conflict itself. You can love the idea of peace, but war provides a medium for rapid change and extreme challenge… and we thrive better with the latter than the former.