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Jewish World Review May 28, 2003 / 26 Nisan, 5763
Lewis A. Fein
The other contemporary
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Purchasing this book -- linked in 3rd paragraph -- helps fund JWR |
Nothing symbolizes the above advice better than the Stinger missile, one of the most effective weapons used against the Soviet Hind helicopter. More than almost any other piece of military hardware, greater than the raw dollars delivered through Pakistan or the machinery secretly developed by Israel, the Stinger is the weapon that reconfigured the Afghanistan war. For nothing changes the rules of warfare more quickly than preparation, resolution and lethal technology.
Yet, Charlie Wilson is more than heroism's stereotype; he is also Israel's greatest friend. The former congressman's district, a rural stretch of East Texas, contains few Jews. But Wilson's compassion for the beleaguered Jewish state an emotional attachment furthered by military aid and financial assistance is genuine. There is no craven political purpose behind Wilson's support, no outside pressure within it. The man is the real deal ideologically kosher, if one prefers.
Wilson's story additionally contains an insider's account of the CIA, arms negotiations and foreign intrigue. The book outlines the CIA's institutional lethargy, its transformation from early bravado to constant bureaucracy. In fact, the spy agency's successes seem to depend more on the unconventional (and never officially sanctioned) efforts of a daring few than the plodding of the conformist many. Include a cast of fearless operatives and courageous warriors, and the defeat of the Soviet enemy is clear: superior weaponry and infinite resilience will crush the Russian bear.
Charlie Wilson is a great patriot and a loyal American. His heroism finally has an audience because his legacy has a theme freedom! The defeat of Soviet tyranny is real and permanent. To remember Wilson's actions is to memorialize liberty's struggle. Let each new generation renew this great cause.
JWR contributor Lewis A. Fein is a writer and Internet entrepreneur in Los Angeles.Comment by clicking here.