At airports, shouldn’t those who speak Arabic or are identified by trained inspectors by clothing, actions, appearance or information as Muslims receive special attention? Most will undoubtedly be innocent and understandably affronted and inconvenienced. Nevertheless, it is the rational measure to take when we are at war.
Protecting the nation does not mean silence in the face of criminality on the part of U.S. military forces or improper government action. It means exercising restraint, responsibility, good faith and respect for other people. It means not seeking political gain at the expense of the nation’s security in wartime.
Knowing what to do can be likened to Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart’s statement in a pornography case. Said he, “I know it when I see it.” We should not say “My country right or wrong,” as Commander Stephen Decatur did, but we should preserve our country’s values while not jeopardizing its very existence.