From The Campaign Trail

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I am pleased that Prime Minister Howard made time to visit the memorial to those who took part in the Battle of Long Tan. In August 1966 eighteen Australian soldiers died. So too did many Vietnamese. On the flight home I hope Howard takes some time to reflect on whether he, his Liberal Party and his government have learnt anything from the horrors of Vietnam. It would seem not! The parallels with Iraq are just too compelling. A myopic attachment to following the US, a tragic misreading of culture and history and of course the familiar litany of lies. It is one thing to remember - it is a far better thing to prevent. By the way I have just finished Thomas Ricks' book FIASCO: The American Military Adventure in Iraq. If you ever had any doubts about the lead up and execution of the Iraq adventure then Ricks will put them to bed.