America was founded on the concept of "Religious Freedoms" and not based upon any certain religion, and yet the founding fathers of this country were primarily from a Christian/Judeo background. Thus, the Christian/Judeo Law was the basis of our laws which also includes the concept of a "Just War."
War is defined as two sovereign nations in conflict with one another. This is why the Israel/Palestine conflict would not be considered a "War" but would be considered a "Civil War" based upon racial and/or religious prejudice because the conflict exists within the boundaries of one sovereign nation, Israel, and Palestine is not a sovereign nation, yet.
St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430 A.D.) and later elaborated upon by St. Thomas (unknown- 1274 A.D.) are the two individuals primarily credited with the concept of a "Just War." Their dilemma came about when Christian countries would wage war upon other Christian countries, but in today's world these doctrines should encompass all nations of the world regardless of their religious denomination. In short, the "Just War" is....
1. For defensive purposes only.
2. Never for personal gain.
3. ONLY as a last resort and ALL efforts to bring about peace are exhausted.
4. The innocent must be immune from harm.
5. War must be as quick and as swift as possible.
6. Attaining PEACE must be the primary goal.
There are many other "Rules of War" before and after these two great men, and yet, their writings are the primary principles governing all rules of war today among righteous nations. One does need to understand that "War," when engaged by an individual on the ground, really has no rules except to live.
After engaging the Japanese Imperial Marines on Tarawa in what is known as the "Bloodiest Battle of WWII," my uncle Eddie sent his little brother (my father) a letter, this was the very last and final letter he had written and he states....
January 24, 1944
"...don’t ever loose those qualities of love that you have. It is too bad that more haven’t got it. There might not of been a war if there was more love for fellow man in the world. Don’t ever get the idea war is fun, because it isn’t, it’s HELL. If anyone says different, they are crazy. Just send them on this side of the ocean and they will change there minds soon enough.
Eddie Wood
USMC
Born July 16, 1924
Died June 17, 1944
The Battle for Saipan
Before anyone in any office or at any desk elects war over peaceful alternatives, they MUST be reminded that they are sending many loved ones into Hell, and for some, this Hell will remain with them the rest of their days.
