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Regardless of anyone's beliefs about the military experience or our country's involvement in this war, as Craig's father, I am extremely proud of him and my son Gary for their courage, service to country, and sense of duty and responsibility ;to somehow make a difference in the world. Craig's book has opened many people's eyes to the reality of war and what it means to be a soldier and an American. The fact that he is working to help Obama understand the pitfalls of the war effort in order to improve the situation shows Craig's perserverance and determination to correct some of the wrongs that he saw in Afghanistan. I love my sons deeply and prayed for their safe return.You do not put your life on the line for your ego.

Thoughtful? Not a moment's consideration to the very real horrors of the civilians caught up in these conflicts nor to the twisted foreign policy goals and policies of both the Bush and Obama administrations. That listener's very good questions soared right over the Rhodes Scholar's head. To guys like this, it's all just a thrilling game that makes them feel special, and they are too morally weak to begin to contemplate its impact on other human beings. A Rhodes scholarship does not make for wisdom, and it sickens me that we would boost this guy's ego any more than has already been done.

Good interview.

REALITY CHECK

Brian, the figure of 1 million civilian casualties is very, very dubious.

Why wasn't this number challenged?

I feel I should clarify my above comment: I have no doubt that Craig Mullaney is an honorable and admirable man, and I thank him for his service to our country, but I am dismayed when I hear things on the media that seem to imply that this type of decency can only be achieved through a military education and to glamorize combat experience.

Listening to the interview i am amazed at the fact that there is not even a moment of self reflection in this guy's head such as: why am i fighting in this war? Who is the enemy? what is the history of this country and america's involvement in it? Am i just a mindless robot that kills innocent civilians for no apparent reason or benefit?
It seems that the rhodes scholarship has gone to a complete and utter waste.

Thank you for having this guest. Can you ask Craig how difficult it is fighting a war like Iraq which seems to be based on something other than the reason we went in?

My son was diagnosed with Aspergers in his youth, never was mainstreamed in school, did not manage to stay in a community college, and has enlisted in a branch of the military branch based on high test scores. He leaves in June 2009 at the age of 22. I think he'll be able to take orders but am not sure he'll be able to make it through boot camp for physical reasons. What should I tell him, hope for him, what would you tell him? If he can make it, it will be, I believe a great career for him.

I like what Craig Mullaney is saying, but I would like to point out that many, many people face their own unforgiving minutes, and not all of them have the benefit of an elite military education.