A.W. (Peter) Machen to John P. (Jack) Machen

May 10, 1970

Vietnam

 

Dear Jack,

Today I got your letter.  As always, I thought very carefully on what you had to say concerning the "escalation” of the war.  I understand your point if you don't dispute it but, maybe you'd like to hear my opinion which is more generally accepted on "this side of the barbed wire" so to speak.

First of all, this move into Cambodia is not an escalation of war.  It is simply a major operation to wipe out the Communist strongholds in Cambodia.  By the end of June it will be over.  This will not influence the troop pullouts from South Vietnam.  I'm convinced that with out this move into Cambodia, the NVA would have launched a strong offensive into South Vietnam, jeopardizing the security of US armed forces and the South Vietnamese army causing a drastic cut in the pullouts.

On the same token, I feel it's high time we got the hell out of Southeast Asia within the next year.  Our presence over here will not accomplish a damn thing.  We've done all we can.  One might call this a protracted war where to Communists will take one step backwards as we advance.  Likewise as we pull away, the enemy will carry out their aggression.  Time is on their side.  They have all the time of the world.  They will patiently wait us out.  Our only move now is to train the forces of South Vietnam and Vietnamize the war.  But, as long as we are here, we have no choice but to defend our security which will in the long run insure that we’re out of here it could time.

Let me ask you something.  I really want to know cause it really disturbs me.  Why-why do students protest against violence with violence?  They seem insane with anger.  Sure, if it's something you strongly believe in, fine.  But Christ!  They are only making things worse for themselves.  Those two friends of yours.  They are fucking themselves up.  Big move.  Who are they trying to impress?  It’s their lives.  If they want a federal record with the FBI, OK, maybe it's their bag.  I see your concern for your friends, but there's not much I can say for them.  Just that they better think before they act and be ready to accept the consequences.  Frankly, if they go through with it, I don't think any one of them is much of a man!

Glad you got my card.  I picked up $5.00 today!  I take it you're home now.

I apologize for my unjust attack on you talking.  I should have known better.

I showed your letter to some other Marines.  Comments range from I'd like to meet your brother to you or a Cool Head!

Be cool!

Brother Pete