Concerning the front-page story Dec. 9, “Troops grill defense chief,” I say “Bravo,” it’s about time.

These young men and women are risking their lives everyday – for what? For the blunders of the Bush administration.

It’s time to face the facts. Bush had a personal vendetta toward Saddam. It had nothing to do with Iraq’s weapons or oil. It seems that Saddam almost killed President Bush’s daddy.

Until the American public sees for itself that this is the only reason Bush declared “war” on Iraq, our young military personnel will keep on dying or be brutally damaged.

Ask yourself, are we in Iraq to protect America or are we satisfying President Bush’s personal hatred toward Saddam.

Rolande I. Caron, South Paris