In defence of the military
CMAJ 1998;158:1133
Now a freelance article in the official publication of the Canadian medical profession has joined the chorus of criticism of Canada's Armed Forces. Michael Oreilly, in his article "MD at centre of Somalia controversy finds peace in Northern Ontario" (CMAJ 1998;158[2]:244-5 [full text / en bref]), states, "As [Dr. Barry] Armstrong sees it, the disease of incompetence that led to the Somalia débâcle is winning out: 'It is a running sore in the body of the Canadian Forces that won't heal.' "
Some would question whether peacekeeping should be the primary role for the Canadian Forces. In retrospect, it was a serious mistake to select a frontline assault force, the Canadian Airborne Regiment, for service in an area where the mission was poorly defined. The shooting and torture of Somalis is inexcusable, and it is to Armstrong's credit that he brought this issue to public attention.
However, I think it is inappropriate to attach the label "incompetent" to the entire Armed Forces. When it comes to the business of warfare, our Armed Forces are as good as anyone else's.
Robert Shepherd, MD
Gatineau, Que.
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