As American troops and equipment begin to make their way across the world to fight what President Bush has called “the first war of the 21st century,” some University of Memphis students believe a call to arms is the right and necessary choice.
“I think in order for justice to be done, our military needs to do something,” said sophomore Nikki Wiley.
No military action taken against whatever terrorist group or groups may be responsible for the Sept. 11 attack. However, President Bush spoke strong words Tuesday before a joint session of Congress.
“The Taliban must act and act immediately,” Bush said. “They will hand over the terrorists, of they will share in their fate.”
The popular consensus on The U of M campus seems to indicate that a military campaign against terrorism is supported.
“I think we should go over there and get revenge for what the terrorists did,” said junior physical education major Chris Sansone.
Sansone’s cousin was working in the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77, with 64 passengers and crew aboard, slammed into the nation’s largest office building, killing nearly 200 people.
“I want to go,” said junior criminal justice major Juan Rodrigues. Rodrigues just completed his four-year active duty stint with the United States Marine Corps. After serving active duty, Marines are placed on inactive reserve for four years. Rodrigues said he called his inactive reserve officer and notified him of his willingness to take part in any military action.
According to Bush, military action could come.
“And tonight, a few miles from the damaged Pentagon, I have a message for our military: Be ready,” he said in his speech. “I have called the armed forced to alert and there is a reason. The hour is coming when America will act, and you will make us proud.
“This is not, however, just America’s fight. And what is at stake is not just America’s freedom,” he continued. “This is the world’s fight. This is civilization’s fight. This is the fight of all who believe in progress and pluralism, tolerance and freedom.”
That sentiment was echoed on campus.
“We are always helping other people and other countries,” said freshman communication major Honorio Escalante. “This time someone attacked us, so I’m all for it, as long as it is planned right and everything gets taken care of.”
