James R McKenna (@JamesM)

For some, it’s a case of déjà vu all over again. The images of the collapse of Afghanistan, overnight, will haunt many of us for some time to come. As President Trump has said, we cannot want their success more than they want their success. The lack of success on the part of our ally in its collapse to the enemy in no way diminishes the valor, honor, and fidelity demonstrated by our soldiers. For many of our veterans who served in Afghanistan the outcome may have been seen as inevitable, as is the opening of wounds surrounding the loss of friends and loved ones. Anger, loss, and a sense of helplessness are natural and normal reactions to what we have seen play out on our television screens. Some of our number may question whether their sacrifice was worth it, you may question that you squandered the precious currency of youth for no purpose. I do not see it that way, nor does your Nation. If you find yourself in trouble, or despair, reach out. Find a battle buddy, call someone. Do not walk this path alone.