Tuesday, July 07, 2009

marines using mules and donkeys in afghanistan

My friend and fellow blogger Kyle (visit his wonderful blog Metaphor) just posted the following in a comment on the War Horse post:


The Marines are using mules and donkeys to haul weapons and stuff in Afghanistan. There was a story in today's LA Times about them training here in California. Call me a pacifist, but I think it's time we humans fought our battles - or learned how not to - without involving other species.


I so agree, Kyle, and I am horrified. Who does one complain to about THIS?

8 comments:

Grey Horse Matters said...

Lets hope no injuries come to the animals being conscripted to serve. Sounds like Annie is being stubborn, and I wonder if that is her way of telling them she doesn't want to go.

Unfortunately, there is no one who would listen if there was a complaint department.

billie said...

I was a bit put off by the comments about the donkeys - and the foul-smelling manure. What the heck are they feeding them, MREs?

Horse and donkey manure doesn't smell foul unless something's wrong.

I can't imagine taking animals into a war zone. I'm already sort of freaked out about the canine and equine police units. The 4-H club at the barn where my children learned to ride did a fundraiser to buy bullet-proof vests for the police dogs!

Anonymous said...

YOUVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME! what about our boys over there fighting for our country and freedom!! All you guys can worry about are the donkeys! You should be ashamed of yourselves. I'd like to see you walk miles in 120 degrees with 100lbs and your back with very little water then lets talk about the freakin donkeys!!!!!!!

billie said...

I have the utmost respect and concern for the men (and boys) fighting in A'stan and other countries. However, they did make that choice knowing the possible consequences of their decision to serve.

Animals don't have that choice. There are other ways to carry packs and equipment, and I feel we should be using them.

As for me walking 120 miles bearing 100 lbs., you're right, I could not do it. That doesn't mean I would use an animal to do it for me.

And, fyi, I'd have much more respect for you and your comment if you signed your name rather than posting anonymously.

Anonymous said...

Hey billie,

I have an award for you on my blog. :)

cheers,
Wendy

billie said...

Wow - thank you! I'll by by to check it out!

Anonymous said...

dammitt billie!
:) I've had this scheduled for publication for a while. How did you scoop me?
I"m leaving it in the queue, but I here acknowledge that you beat me to it.
Phooey.

billie said...

I'm surprised more people aren't writing about it!