CNN

Absolute foaming at the mouth outrage.

Ray Kinserlow
Lubbock, Texas

The American public,the greedy,war profiteering corporations,the spineless politicians and Bush should be absolutely ashamed and mortified to be continuing this travesty. All these young men and women have been sacrificed for the profit of a few people and then when they come home,their funerals and service to their country is forgotten. Every man,women and child should write a letter to the families of the heroic dead and ask for their forgiveness for allowing Bush to kill their service member.

I'm a bit put off by the labeling of any number of deaths of U.S. troops a "milestone". It's just as much a tragedy at 4,000 as it was at 3,999 and as it will be at 4,001. Hopefully the war will end before we reach any more "milestones."

Most Americans are not affected by any milestone in troop losses. The Bush administration has been clever to censor photographs of the fatalities returning from Iraq.

Has anyone mentioned that to avenge the death of over 3,000 people on September 11, 2001, we have now sacrificed over 4,000 of our own troops, and tens of thousands of Iraqi civilians.

Jack I am sad that we have now lost more lives in this war than we did on 9/11. I as a small typical white woman never agreed with going to war. I don't see the winning the war in the picture for I see any war as a loss IMO.

Austin Texas
Obama 08

Very little because there is no draft. We have a high threshold of pain for the suffering of others. The 2 billion a week down the drain probably has more impact.

Hopefully it would affect the 100 million idiots who still idolize Bush and are too stupid to realize that their grand children will be paying for this misanthropic adventure in every possible way. The only possible hope for our country's prosperity in the future (far future that is) is that these nit wits are too stupid to reproduce. So far, they obviously seem unconcerned about our soldiers' personal sacrifices.

Jack, I was just down there on the weekend. It was amazing that very few of the people I interacted with seemed very concerned. I suppose those families involved it must be hell, but where I was it was business as usual.

No wonder the Bush Regime gets away with everything.

Jack, I would suggest that the 4,000 troops that died in Iraq affect the American populace in the same way as 9-11. Our soldiers are no less deserving than those individuals who were killed on 9-11 and deserve our recognition for their sacrafice.

Jack, The American public should wake up and realize that this war has the very same symptoms that we suffered through during Vietmam. It is endless and useless and is only serving to line the pockets of people who are making a profit from it. There will never be peace in any of the Middle East as long as greed, politics, and religion have a hand in it. It is a sorry, pitiful fact that the loss of even one young American soldier paying the ultimate sacrifice for these principles and the people who placed them there. Do we really need to reach 58,000 KIA before anybody realizes what's going on?

Jack,

they should be outraged but I suspect that many don't even know or care. seems like lately it "Iraq? were still in Iraq?" or "Brittany did WHAT?" or "did Paris get a new show?".

maybe IF there was a DRAFT like when I was a young man, people would be PAYING ATTENTION.

They need to fly the flag that the young men and women died for.God bless our Troops .

Jack;

They are so upset about it that they will likely elect McCain in November, the man who wants to stay in Iraq for 100 years, if necessary. Sorry to inject sarcasm into such a poignant point in time, but it's true. No wonder the Europeans think we are crazy.

If you are a combat veteran it means a little bit of you has died 4000 times.
Sorry, if you are not a combat vet you do not understand so do not try to tell us you do.
Mel
Colorado

We're outraged!! we've been outraged but no one in the white house or congress is listening to US Jack!

Jack, I have an idea!!

Maybe you could put this blog to much better use than just ways to smear and slam the Clintons???

Jack
All Americans have to be sickened by this, 4000 dead and God knows how many wounded both physically and mentally. I would hate to see a withdraw like Vietnam however this war cannot continue, we have lost too many valauble lives. Another place in time we should not have gone and will never recover from.

4000 IS ONLY A NUMBER JACK, BUT SINCE YOU POSED THE QUESTION I WILL GIVE YOU MY THOUGHTS. ONE WAS ONE TOO MANY FOR ME, AND 4000 IS THE MEMORY THAT MR. BUSH HAS TO CARRY WITH HIM TIL HIS DEMISE. YOU KNOW I DON'T REALLY THINK IT BOTHERS HIM, JUST LIKE KATRINA WHERE HE WAS TO BUSY TO DO THE JOB HE WAS ELECTED TO DO. BY THE WAY I HAD A NEPHEW THAT LIVES IN WACO WHO SAYS HE WAS SLEEPING OFF A DRUNK FROM THE NIGHT BEFORE.

I saw this on the Internet a while back but here is a good place to restate it.
If you can read this thank a teacher.
If you can read it in English, Thank a Veteran.
Melvin
La Junta,Co

To quote Dick Cheney..."SO"! The administration do not care as long as their sons and daughters aren't being killed. Iraq is a war we should have never fought, but Bush/Cheney ego will not admit. Both should be charged with treason. 4,000 men and women dead for no reason at all when we should have never been over there in the first place. I have question: where are those weapons of mass destruction? Five years and nothing. If an democratic president would have commited the same crime against America as Bush/Cheney the media would be all over this story. But, no...They focused on Rev. Wright.

This is a reality check!! The media gives this so little time that many americans weren't even aware we had reached the 3,000 mark and here we are at 4,000!!
BinLaden is still out there and we are not any safer today!
The surge is only working to mislead us,
the day we begin to withdraw troops then those remaining will face a high death toll once again. We lost focus and here we are fighting in Iraq's civil war and not out finding the people that hurt us on 9/11.

I think the media should read these 4000 names off at least once a month and show their pictures so that we may pay our respect to these families and honor our fallen heroes.
Oh I don't our government will like that becasue maybe americans will wake up and say enough!
Let cnn take the lead here and devote a 1/2 on prime time news once a month.

Hi Jack:

If one US Soldier was KIA the price fir that was was too high. 4,000 is not acceptable. If we were there for some good reason. The price of one KIA is too high. Our men were killed because our president lied about the reason we needed to be involved.

THAT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE !!

Ron K. San Diego

Jack
I am retired military.
My baby was KIA 11-11-67, veterans day, in Vietnam.
Absolutely destroyed my Mother and Father.
Your viewers are to be reminded that the death of these young men and women is FOREVER.
The Iraq fiasco has not been worth a single life.
G. Bush is absolutely the worst President this country has ever had.
Mr Bush would not make a pimple on a good presidents rear end, a real loser this guy is.

Sadly, the horrifying numbers of dead and injured American soldiers and dead and injured Iraqi civilians has had little impact on the American people as a whole. If you will recall, we were advised by our president to go shopping. The percentage of Americans feeling the true pain of this war is minute and amounts to family and friends. The rest of us were given tax breaks and have never been allowed to see the flag-covered boxes coming home from Iraq. The war has been "disappeared" by those who crow about supporting the troops. If they allowed us to see what really happens, millions would take to the streets to demand its end.

It should be one more piece of evidence to show that this war is not worth the sacrifice of life or treasure. Maybe the number will bring us to our senses and moral human nature.

That this war was not worth the effort. Iraq was never our war, it was Bush's personal war of vendetta against Saddam Hussian. It's time to end this stupid war and punish Bush and Cheney for their war crimes against the Iraqi people. I guess once we put a Democrat in the White House, we can finally close the chapter on the dark days of the Bush regime and the rule of the worst President in American history.

IT A TRAGDEY THAT OUR MAN AND WOMAN ARE OVER THERE DYING ENOUGH IS ENOUGH WE NEED A NEW HEAD OF STATE WITH A NEW VISON AND THE COMMON SENSE TO SAY ENOUGH IS ENOUGH LET'S BRING THEM HOME I HOPE WE GET THAT FOR 2009

I think there should be an image of a drop of blood on every dollar to remind us of the fact that so many of our conflicts are to guarantee our dependency on foreign oil. All the soldiers who have died in Iraq have been so tragically ended due to that dependency. America should be very very affected and reminded every time they take a dollar out of their pocket as that reminder.

This should be a convincing factor in America's decision to bring our troops home from Iraq before the number rises. In other words-cut our loses.

There's no affect Jack It only reinforces what we already know. Our current leadership is immensely flawed and has failed to deliver on nearly every basis that it is based on. Simply pathetic...

Sadly, Americans have short memories and the 4,000 mark will soon be forgotten as they return to focusing on the economic crisis that is having a more direct impact on their lives. While the war grinds on, I'm afraid the general election will be consumed by economic issues (including immigration and NAFTA) and less on exactly how we are going to get out of the mess in Iraq. This isn't particularly good news for McCain, who seems to be preoccupied with Iraq and the Middle East right now in order to seem "Presidential." Come November, people are much more likely to vote with their wallets in mind.

Jack, 4,000 deaths would register a lot harder if Americans saw all of those coffins coming off of the transports. Start the regular draft again, instead of the backdoor draft they use now, and see if 4,000 deaths gets a little more attention.
Oak Lawn,IL

It is a sad milestone for any country to make but I look around and I see people going right on with their everyday lives and nothing has changed. The ones it really effects are the ones who have lost loved ones over this sensless war. It was a war not needed to occur.
Tina
Ft Worth

It is quite sad that our apathy exceeds our sympathy in this situation. We just don't care about Iraq as much anymore. We have become so focused on sex scandals, democratic infighting and our economic woes we have forgotten that every day we spend in Iraq kills another two American soldiers. At least two Americans and several times more Iraqis die each day while we worry about the affairs of our politicians and the state of our banks. The senior member the senate armed services committee and Republican presidential candidate John McCain regularly flubbed on the identities and roles of major players in the Middle East last week and few thought it newsworthy because the words of an old black preacher were much more interesting.

Jack,
Hopefully it will remind America of why McCain can not be President. If we had lost 4000 of our brothers and sisters in a meaningful war, if there is such a thing, that was about defending America we might find a strong feeling of pride dwelling within. But while I do feel some pride I find it hard not to realize the truth and it makes me feel ashamed. It's time to end this madness and bring the boys home.

Jack, 4000 deaths for something we should not have been involved in in the first place is nothing less than atrocious. However, having said that, to leave now would be a disgrace and mean those lives were lost for naught. I believe, much to my dismay, that we need to at least see some sort of government installed and functioning before we pull out, otherwise we have Viet Nam all over again. I also believe that we will have troops in Iraq for quite some time as in Korea, Japan, Germany, England, etc. I do not believe, as some want to profess, McCain meant we would be in a war and fighting for 100 years. Sorry, you asked, I gave you my thoughts.

Jack,

We need to end this thing, and stop all the blood shed on both sides.
I find it interesting how the experts say we can not pull out of Iraq because the results will be catastrophic but if we don’t get out, the economic results for our country, which should be our number one concern, will be catastrophic. People don’t seem to realize that according to Obama’s plan it would actually be about two and half years from now before we completely pull out and we are broke rate now, so how much time are we going to give Iraq to get their stuff together? This is not a matter of right and wrong or winning and losing but self preservation!!!

Not enough, I hope that this does not last as long as Vietnam and cost another 54000 to match that war's casualty number.

It should have far more impact than it will. The problem is the cable news channels are more concerned with scandal, rumor, and other garbage that has nothing to do with what the American people care about.

The cable news media has lowered itself to the level of televised tabloid magazines. The amount of coverage of "all this other junk", as Bill Clinton would say, has dwarfed any coverage of real issues the American people care about. You know, stuff like the Iraq War, the housing crisis and solutions to fix it, and jobs and the economy. But those stories don't earn the ratings that the scandals do, so they go largely unseen. You seem to be the only one to share this view on cable news, Jack.

Maybe that should be the topic of your next question.

Brian
Cincinnati

It should make us violently ill. The middle east will never become the movie and music loving American-style democracy our elected officials seem to think is possible. Iraqis will not step up to take responsibility for their own country – and why should they as long as we are there? We have failed miserably in developing and executing a plan to rebuild their infrastructure – and the surge won't fix that sorry state of affairs. The warring factions in the middle east will fight and kill each other until the end of time and we should let them. We should not let them kill our brave sons and daughters.
By the way, I am a Republican who is retired from the US Army.

It should mean alot. Bush has essentially doubled the American death toll on 9/11 by using it (along with imaginary WMD's) to frighten us into invading Iraq. Whom is more evil: a terrorist who kills thousands in the name of his beliefs, (however twisted) or a president who kills tens-of-thousands in the name of false justice? Yes, it's official- Bush has killled more Americans than Osama bin Laden.

i'm a vietnam vet and when the death toll went over 40,000 while i was there it was devastating to all. all of a sudden we realize that 40,000 or 4,000 makes no difference. the affect is the same. an outrageous waste of humanity because an idiot in the whitehouse doesn't get it. all we are doing is prolonging the inevitible and there is no victory in occupied lands. it's a shame that even one soldier should be sacrificed for the stupidity of an obstinate so called leader.

Hopefully it will bring the war back to the forefront of the publics short attention span. Hopefully after they deliver this tragic news all the networks will immediately replay Mr. cheney's "SO WHAT' response when he was questioned about the public's opposition to the war! Hopefully, while we're all listening they could also mention how much money this is costing us each month and how many thousands and thousands and thousands or Iraqis have died because of what our government has done. We all deserve now to be told, why did we go in there and what do we win if we win and why are all these patriots dead.

Let's see... If we assume that every person knows 50 other people, then 4,000 * 50 = 200,000. That means that one out of every 12 or 13 people has been affected by these deaths.
To sum it up, I will quote Edwin Starr:
"War – What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!"

I think the President, Vice-President, Secretaries of State and Defense, along with all of Congress should have to spend 180 days in Iraq or Afghanistan serving alongside our troops. They have time to spend campaigning for a new job on our dime, and taking vacations when important issues are at stake (what if our troops wanted to take a "recess"...). And, they are certainly not doing much here.

Jack it's apparent that the Clinton camp think they should be able to hit below the belt but Obama can't or it makes him look bad....if I had used that type of anology with my Mom when I was little? I wouldn't have been sitting down for a week.
Nothing but Clinton spin we have all heard for the last 16 years. Enough is enough.

Hey Mel, study history the first European language spoken in this Turtle Island was Spanish and Portuguese. There are many Spanish speaking solders on our military that are giving their lives for us. Get a clue and wake up.

Jack this milestone should make people focus a lot more on what is going on over there and less about the democrats trying destroy each other ,it is on tv all day , every day. Who said what and to who and how they said it and why they said and then it is discussed by a panel, several panels. Everyone knows Rev. Wrights name, bet they can't tell you anything about our young people losing their lives over there. Have we accomplished what we wanted to, I think not!

We should remember the 2004 Presidential campaign. At that time we were horrified that we had just reached 1,000 killed in Iraq. Yes, there was outrage, but we still re-elected Bush. I hope that the American people have realized that mistake and will make sure that the number does not stretch to 5,000 and beyond. This war will still be a big part of the 2008 election, and the American voters will not be fooled again.

Most Americans will remember the 4,000 dead as the US's failure of diplomacy. As a former Vietnam medic, anyone who has ever looked into the glazed eyes of a soldier dying on the battlefield will think hard before starting a war. They are so easy to start, but very difficult to end. The administration twist the truth to journalists and soon believe these misinformations when they see them in print. In the end it will not determine who is "right", but only who is "left."

How about helping those people in Vermont in clearing more land so they can continue by placing a flag for each american death. As CNN reported this morning, they are running out of space. Despite what the democrats promise P.S. if Cheney promises to help out, i'll bring a chainsaw. Dave

Gardner, Mass.

It should mobilize us to charge George W. Bush with 4,000 counts of manslaughter.

Unfortunately I don't know how many US citizens even care otherwise they would take to the streets as they did during the Vietnam War. The sacrifice of 4,000 soldiers and billions of dollars that could have solved many of our problems back home is inexcusable however the apparent apathy of our citizens and elected officials is even more unexcusable. The deceased soldiers and their families did their duty too bad Congress and the Bush Administration did not

Matt in Rockford

...Jack, the sad part is we won the war against Saddam a long time ago. Even the French were smart enough to get out of the Colonies after they helped us overthrow the British. They let us form our own Gov. We had OUR OWN inevitable civil war. Staying in Iraq just postpones the inevitable civil war...anyone who voted for W bush who doesn't feel like an idiot now ...is one

The American people should remember that the Biased News Media is reporting..In 5 years we have had 4,000 troups killed in a War at the same time period we have had over 80,000 murdered in the USA, Why doesn't the News Media report the US news????

I am reminded of,"No man is an island, no man stands alone,every man's death diminishes me because i am a part of mankind" Not one American life or limb should be lost in a war to to help people who refuse to help themselves. In the 21st century, these Islamic barbarians are mutillating their young women at puberty, training their young men to become suicide bombers and beheading their enemies . At 1:30 this Pm,in your report from Baghdad your moderator did a poor job. One student questioned whatthe Americans have done for the Iraqis.The response should have been,"We have toppled your dictator.What have you done for yourselves?"An Arab man supported Hillary because she 's against war. He wasn't apprised that she voted for the war. Cnn's bias is showing

It is so very sad and distressing to all Americans. We love,
respect and support our American Heroes but they should
never have been put in this situation in Iraq. This war is
one of the worst decisions ever made by a president. And,
our fighting men and our country are paying the price for
it.
When Cheney was being interviewed he was told the majority
of the American people did not support this war. His comment
was, "So".
It is this attitiude that has caused so much damage to the
United States of America.

We should be asking Condi Rice when the Al-Maliki government is going to take over the country. It's over 4 years since they were elected and have received billions of American dollars, killed thousandsa of our troops and wounded tens of thousands but have done bsolutely nothing to establish political stability. I forgot, they do take vacations and mopst of their oil is being sold on the black market.The only way the military can leave is to give Iraq a date and make it clear after that point they are on their own, Period! They will have to plan on dealing with all those Al-quaidas that Bush says will be showing up after we leave, so the sooner the better.

One of the major lessons of the VietNam war was to never go to war without mobilizing the whole nation.
Yet, we have allowed greedy draft evaders to start another war that only involves a small fragment of our society. Our men and women in uniform die for someone else's oil profits while the majority of the nation watches reality television but ignores the reality of combat deaths in Iraq and Afghanistan. I'm proud of my comrades in arms and ashamed of most of my fellow citizens.

I graduated High School the year Bush invaded Iraq. A healthy percentage of other graduates went into the armed forces afterwards - not out of an excessive, nationalist pride; but because they needed the finances. I have neither seen nor heard from a single one of those military-bound friends since graduation.

Jack,
Personally it makes me feel very small.
As an American with a President who refuses to hear our voices, objections, and desire to save out troops it is a constant reminder to me that not only must we protect our country from those who would harm us, but oftentimes from our own government as well.

Jack, the United States has a unique opportunity, to rectify and learn, from bad political decisions made shortly, after the 1968 TET Offensive. As in Viet Nam, we've won war in Iraq, on the ground but are loosing support, for the war, at home. Wake up America. We're fighting a damn war. The 58,000 names on, "The Wall" along with, the 4,000 American's killed, in the "Global War On Terrorism" demand that their ultimate sacrafice, not be made in vain. We cannot and must not cut and run again.

It should remind us that we cannot fight our way out of this one. The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq war are rooted in political and financial realities that have not been addressed. Every bullet and bomb directed at US soldiers and Iraqi soldiers has been touched by the financial interests of Iraqi and foreign elites. They should be our focus, then we can leave Iraq to the Iraqis.

The people of America and the world don't want to be affected...they choose to ignore the lives our soldiers are giving every day because we are all counting the days for Bush to get out of office so we can end this mistake our soldiers have been forced to endure by his choice. My heart breaks every time I hear of one more life given or one more injury sustained for this lunacy. The important part to your question is how will the media be affected? So far, you all seem to want to ignore it, too. Maybe it is latent guilt for not posing more questions all those years ago for fear you may be branded unpatriotic. Maybe that is why so many others want to ignore it as well. It seems now, the only true patriots left are the soldiers left forgotten and fighting UNTIL we reach another milestone like 4000 dead. Shame on us all.

Jack:
Only with slightly more anger than the day Bush decided that Iraq was to be invaded. Sorry, but the reason this travesty occurred in the first place, is that the American people are ill-informed, and the blame should be placed squarely on the mass media.

When will the real story be told? If this were the case, there would be demonstrations in the streets – EVERY DAY. The media has done a stellar job in quashing the truth.

I wonder if you'll *moderate* this one to death as well...

For starters are we sure it's 4,000. I suspect if they tell us 4,000, it is really about a thousand more. And what 20,000 injured, maimed for life because of this ugly war and the lies told by the Bush Administration. The American people should demand and not let up for a second that our soldiers come home immediately. I am past caring about what is going to happen when our troops come home. I want to see American mothers and fathers back home with their children. I want to see American uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters back home with their family. And we need to make sure that once they are home, they are taken care of because we all know that they have somehow been changed by what they have seen and what they have been made to endure.

Any thinking and caring citizen of our country should be absolutely outraged and some of us are. However in the words of our "esteemed" vice-president they volunteered and President Bush suffers the most. Maybe thats why he dances for the camera and talks about putting up his feet in Crawford next year. Most of us aren't touched by the horror of it all so it really doesn't seem real to us, but its"s real for the military and their families and friends and my heart goes out to them all, all 4000+ of them.

I don't know about you Jack, But It affects me by making me angry that we are fighting an unnecessary war. It makes me sad that these Young men and women are dying. Not for Freedom, Not for Justice, not for truth and goodness, but for the Political Agenda of a President. But most of all, It makes me proud to know that these Fine young Americans are doing the job they are asked to do, to protect themselves and their fellow soldiers at whatever the cost.

They may be there for the wrong reasons politically, but they are there for each other and that's what's most important.

Mike, From Staten Island, New York

I am brokenhearted. I can't even begin to express enough gratitude for the men and women serving our country. America we have got to make this right and bring our troops home. And not in 100 years.

It SHOULD effect us by having the people ourselves storm the halls of Congress to protest it and end it every day until the troops are home.

That's how it SHOULD effect us.

Unfortunately, because the armed services are now all volunteers – this is used as an excuse to have politicians play God with their lives.

I personally think we need part of the military to always be draftees – because only by impacting directly those that stand on the sidelines will those on the sidelines require truth from the politicians. If the troops are doing too many tours and the army needs folks – why won't the army request a draft? Why do they impose this suffering on them? Because it would end the war – that's why.

It makes the resolve to get out even stronger.

Four thousand is four thousand to many. One would be too many. This heavy price being paid by our young men and women in uniform should not be tolerated. The Iraqs have shown they cannot or will not take control of their country by setting aside their religous differences. So why should our people die for them and why should so many thousands and thousands be maimed? That is why I cannot understand Senator McCain defense of the indefensible. Let the Middle East countries take over this debacle.

Mary – Santee CA

Jack, U.S. troop deaths in Iraq affect the American people?
It won't, as long as they roll in the coffins in the middle of the night and ban TV coverage – - what effect ??!!

People should be in tears! Bush and Cheney should be on television with a heart felt message reaching out to the families of the men and women who have given their lives.

We should honor the families of these loyal soldiers and offer them the support that they need.

Of course, I am expecting too much of Bush. But I know that the American people will gather up these mourning families and let them know that we love and support them.

Every day, at the beginning of every newscast, the number of dead and injured soldiers and the length of time this war has been going on , should be mentioned. Also, someone should get pictures of the flag-draped coffins and make sure those photos are released to the public some way. People need to have it hammered into their heads as a constant reminder, they don't even know or want to know, what's going on, and that's sad.

Obviously not much because Bush and Cheney have not been impeached.

I am astounded that Bush has not been impeached and imprisoned as a war criminal. His lies and moronic invasion of a country that was absolutely no threat to us has cost the lives of 4000 young American men and women and the mutilation of nearly 30000 more. The cost to the Iraqi people cannot even be estimated. We should be flying all flags at half mast until the senseless slaughter this president has caused is finished. I am ashamed of him and the way this country has conducted itself for the last five years.

Jack, would you mind asking Sen McCain that question ?

Jack,

What it should mean is that every single self-respecting American 18 years or older votes to remove the Repulicans from power (John McCain is Bush-lite and will change nothing if elected) What it probably will mean is next to nothing. I have complete faith in the American people–they will enter the voting booth next fall caring more about which candidate is more likely to support gay marriage, or something equally as ridiculous–as opposed to voting on the real issues, thousands of Americans (and Iraqis) dying in a sensless war.

I think this country is screwed up.We have another politician charged with lying about sex, but absolutely no charges against the man responsible for the 4000 deaths and 30,000 injured.When you have this clown at a function saying

Jack,
It won't, as long as they roll the coffins in the middle of the night and ban TV coverage – - what effect ??!!

There was a big deal in the media when the 1,000 milestone was reached. Now it's 5 years and 4,000. It's hardly a singular event, it's a gradual decline of morale, money and sense of righteousness.

Averaging 800 deaths a year is nothing when compared to some of the wars we have been in, but this is an unnecessary war. We have lost 4,000 persons who could be at home with their families. 4,000 persons who could be helping to bring peace to Darfur. 4,000 persons who could be earning degrees and innovating new ideas. I chose not to use troops because they are people not objects. I could give you 4,000 reasons why they should not have died in vain.

First of all, I've always thought of milestones as successes which this is NOT. 1 death of our troops was too many in this senseless war; 4,000 is incomprehensible. Our hearts break for the troops, their families and friends and it's time to end this war and bring our troops home.

Jack

I'm afraid very little outrage as we seem to be accustomed to hearing
about the war in Iraq, usually on the back pages of the newspaper
after the gossip and sports scores.
I received an Easter email from my niece serving in Bagdad, in a
Combat Support Hospital, and wanted to know if we hear anything of
the killings and injuries going on. They get CNN over there and not
much is ever reported on what is happening.
George W. Bush's legacy will not be the number "43" but the
number 4000 for HIS private war casualties.

Jerry
Roselle, Illinois

I am a 63 yr. old white female patriotic American and to me this election is not about male or female or black or white. It is about a senseless war that has killed 4,000 of our country's men and women. Only one candidate has always been against this war and that's why I am proudly voting for Senator Barak Obama.

Jack, 2819 people were killed on 9/11when a group of terrorists from Saudi Arabia, led by a terrorist in Afghanistan, attacked our country. George Bush responded by invading a non-threatening country that had nothing to do with the attack. Four thousand American deaths in Iraq have only served to desensitize Americans about the very real cost of simplistic and violent responses to complex international political, cultural and economic challenges.

They should impeach that lying Bush for 4,000 unnecessary deaths, 30,000 unnecessary and life changing injuries, and tens of thousands of Americcan and Iraqi lives changed forever by a corrupt Administration.

Hillary, McCain and others voted to support Bush's call for this war. I have no fight with our military as they go where ever they are told. I have problems with Hillary who is unable to take responsibilty for her action to vote for war (costing 4000 American lives) and McCain who wants to keep it going for 100 years. "Give me a break!"

Just face it Hillary you blew it!

I am an Iraq War Veteran and to hear John McCain speak about us in Iraq for 100 years is insane. THIS IS NOT GERMANY OR KOREA. They are not fighting us there.. Iraq is totally different. They will fight us as long as we occupy them.

You really wana honor the 4000 troops killed??? bring the troops home ALIVE!. No more death and destruction..The mission is already accomplished.. saddam's dead, and no wmd found.

This retarded surge strategy is only make the Iraqis more lazy and putty more American soldiers at risk.

p.s. I am a combat infantryman in the Army, ive been in battle. I know what I am talking about. John McCain disgusts me!

Jack I am outraged at this countries sense of morality.Today another politician charged essentially for an affair,.4000 of our soldiers dead and 30,000 wounded and no charges, very peculiar.

Every one of our troops deaths are tragic, and we all share a bit of the blame for following Bush into war. We (most of us) willingly allowed this to happen. That being said, it is important to keep in mind that 4000 deaths is less than the total of some one day death tolls in WW2. In the annals of war 4000 dead is a small and very one sided cost, the death tolls for the Iraq people is in the 10s of thousands at least. I do not wish to down play the tragedy for the families of these brave men and women, for them that one death is too many.

jack
this is truly a sad day for all of America and just dont ask Channey on this day,When he said so the other day Americans should have protested the White House.

Unfortunately you won't be able to make changes to the failed policies of the Bush administration until January 2009. No way will this president make any changes. Bush has played politics, through lying and deception, with your relatives and friends for over 5 years now. You will notice none of the Bush or Cheney family members are in military service of our once great country. The voting booth in November is the only place we will be able to make the needed changes. Remember McCain has the same policies as Bush.

We are weaker with the loss of our skilled brothers in arms. Even if they returned tomorrow, they will be suffering for many years to come because of this misadventure. Republics are not empires and all empires fall, so let us once again become a Republic and save the future of America.

It depends. If your a Democrat you hurt deeply for the loss of 4000 American service men and women for no reason. If you're a Republican, you really don't give a rip and are continuing to sip on Bush's kool-aid of stupidity. If your an independent you hook yourself to a Republican's hip and whisper into his ear when he says Shias are training Sunnis.

It should affect the people by realizing that this number should have never been reached. I have a friend over there, I've known him since preschool. He'd married and has a kid on the way, he needs to be home with his kid, not over fighting some war that we shouldn't even be in. This is a number that should have just never, NEVER been reached.

I really don't see it having any effect. The American people have already made their decisions on this war. They have either placed total unblinking confidence in President Bush's war or are completely disgusted with this endless mess. The death of another 50 or 1,000 or even 5,000 American soldiers is not going to change many minds at this time. We have destroyed a country, killed hundreds of thousands, and brought misery to millions; those who are still in favor of this war, will never change their minds.

How,exactly, does America support the troops?

I'm sure we'll be doing this all again when we reach the 5000 mark in a couple of months. WAR IS NOT THE ANSWER!

This unwarranted war has already had a terrible impact on America and on the Iraqi people. It is just sad 4000 lives lost and for what!

Jack, If Americans were really affected by the needless deaths of 4,000 U.S. troops in Iraq, We would demand that at least Donald Rumsfied be charged with the responsiblity for it.

We need to show the world, As John McCain would say "We get it" and seriously haul his rear into court. Make a Big To-do about it and find him guilty. Americans can solve a lot of problems with that one act.

Sadly, We are not, we can be compared to the average German in WWII. We are silent partners in the worst crime in our history. Not only have thousands died, 4,000 Brave Soldiers have lost their lives for a lie.

Is it me or, Are Iraqis Political Leaders wearing much nicer suits now, and money is missing?

Also, why are U.S. cable co. blocking English Al-jazeer T.V.?
Are they affraid we may learn something?
Cinti, Ohio

Affected? They put yellow ribbon magnets on their SUV's don't they? They spout platitudes concerning service people don't they? Americans continue to burn fuel like crazy, don't they? They put flags on the coffins of the returning dead, don't they? What do you want, Jack? Americans have real estate problems to deal with these days. Get your priorities straight.

America is minimally effected by the deaths of American troops. If it were more than minimal, there would be a much higher incidence of protest. Few of us have a relationhip with any of the soldiers who have been wounded, demoralized, traumatized, parlalyzed and killed. We go on with our daily lives choosing to be aware of the soldier's and their familie's sacrifices or to ignore them. The soldiers and their families will continue to make their sacrifices until Americans decide they have a say about the war and the sacrifeces of a few. They will elect a leader who will end this illegally declared war and address the appreciation of our troops and their needs after war.

Jack,

Hopefully Americans will unite and hold Bush, Chenney and the rest of the war criminals responsible for a war we should never have started. My heart goes out to those soldiers lost, injured and the ones still fighting AND that doesn't make me unpatriotic.

Lori from Battle Creek, MI

In the War, Vietnam, that I served in almost every American Family had a Family member or knew somebody that was serving either as a Volunteer or Draftee. In the iraq War only those that Voluteered to Serve their Nation are dying. We need to reinstate the Draft so that all Americans are given the chance to Serve, and die if necessary, to Serve America. If not, most Americans will only know what the media tells them about War rather than the Truith.

Ken Moulton
Moultonboro, NH 03254

We should mark this horrific reality vowing to never let this happen again. As we enjoy the media's fixation on everything tabloid, McCain has implied not once, but 4 times, that the Shia controlled Iran is in cahoots with Sunni dominated al Qaeda just as Bush and his surrogates kept implying Sadaam ties to al Qaeda. We can honor the lives lost in Iraq by stopping the Neo Cons from taking us in to Iran.

Americans should be outraged and calling for the impeachment of the idiot criminal president who caused this debacle. However, most people probably aren't aware, because they are too busy worrying about surviving a tanking economy.

Ed, from Durango, Colorado

We should all be impeaching Bush and Cheney. The total lives lost will only rise and they will be making lots of money from their memoirs in later years – like they don't have enough already! This country is that much poorer and sadder due to the loss of our young men and there will never be enough glory given for their valiant efforts in trying to obey their so called "commander-in-chief and cohort". God help us!!!!

I already left a comment but I guess it was censored by CNN.Here it is again: "Nobody cares,especially CNN,except the suffering families of the dead and maimed soldiers.But lets all find a way to blame the Clintons for this too so Obama can get the nomination.That's all that matters these days'.

It's sad to say, but I haven't heard one individual speak about the casualties in months. Unless you are closely related to this war, family, friends or loved ones that are there, the American people as a whole have not had to give up anything for this war like in previous wars, we don't see it on t.v. anymore like we did ( I can't remember the last time that they ran a list of the dead or photos of them) and so other than the trillions of dollars that the war is costing this country, people won't talk about it until it affects them personally. They'll continue to be safe in their homes, driving their suv's, camping, boating, hunting etc. and enjoying life.

It should effect every free living "American" as a tregedy. If only the "Military Geniuses", Rumsfeld,Wolfowitz,Pearlman ,and Cheney etc., would have listened to the REAL GENERAL'S, that actually have been in real combat situations, we would be exiting Iraq probably this very year! Instead we give them (Military Geniuses) all the highest military honors known to "Hero's" ( Those that have given their lives)only ,and pause to reflect only on our leader's ego's, oh, what a pitty ,the sacrifice these young adults faced in harms way with questionable/treasonable leadership!!!

Jack,
America is affected according to who you are. Obviously the conservatives, who don't mind sacrificing the lives of other to make a quick buck, are not affected at all really. I on the other hand, as a retired Air Force Master Sergeant, am greatly affected! You can probably understand how I consider each and every pair of boots on the ground their my brother and/or sister!

Jack,

It would have a bigger effect if it were spread across the written and tv media every single day, along with pictures of the returning injured, the rehab, the war zones, the flag draped coffins, and the devastated families. Remember Life magazine during the Vietnam era. I was just a kid at the time but still remember the anger when seeing those pictures each week. We live in an "out of sight, out of mind" world. Show it all, darn it.

Every American who voted to re-elect Bush and continue to drink the TalkRadio Right kool-aid, SHOULD realize the blood of those brave soldiers are on their hands also.

The media SHOULD also continue to highlight EACH soldier's death instead of waiting for the 5000th..............

Sadly it's not the deaths of our troops or Iraqi civilians that people feel, but the death of our economy. All 3 are casualties of Bush's war.

I am sick and saddened by every loss, but wrapping my mind around four t-h-o-u-s-a-n-d is infuriating. My neighbor, it appears, is less concerned. This weekend the moron bought a shiny new Hummer.

It never should have happened. McCain or Gore should have been president in 2000. But history is what it is, even though the spinners try to change it. It's a great tragedy for our nation that this administration has been so unwise and made so many bad choices. It's a great tragedy in particular for the families of the 4,000.

Half of the voters polled to support McCain are against the war. This is why Obama will be our next President. As far as everything else, he is experiencing the exact same attacks that cam at Bill Clinton when he first ran for the office of President.

It the War! Its not the Economy its the War but we will take the economy too. Half of the voters polled to support McCain are against the war. This is why Obama will be our next President. As far as everything else, he is experiencing the exact same attacks that cam at Bill Clinton when he first ran for the office of President.

Jack,
The number of dead Americans doesn't mean anything to most Americans because we haven't met any of them and we are not paying anything out of our pockets for the war. Oh, those who watch the Lehrer Report are a little uncomfortable seeing all those strong, happy faces of all the youngsters from Boise, ID and Minot, ND who are recently dead, but you know, it's dinner time and really–remember 9-11. We're sure there's some connection–right?

American should be ready to start a revolution,but we have become so casual about death that unless the insurgents kill 1,000 + at one time we won't even blink.

The same way we were affected by the deaths of 50,000 in Viet Nam or 400,000 during World War II. People die in wars and that is just a fact. One death is too many, but as a nation, if we are "afraid" to send our soldiers into battle for fear that some of them may be killed, then Freedom as we know it, will come to an end in this world.

Since more than half last week didn't even come close to knowing the ACTUAL death numbers, the answer is
"not as much as they should"

It also is totally lost on people that the # of wounded and maimed is up in the TENS of THOUSANDS, but most people don't have a clue about that either

Americans especially those like the liberal lunatics in Berkeley who voted to throw the US Marine Recruiting Station out of town should thank God that brave men and women volunteer to serve so their cowardly types don't have to!!

God Bless all US Soldiers and their families..

There should be a moment of silence daily to remind all the people of our nation of our losses. All the news organizations should do this instead of reporting on the stupid hollywood stories.

Then the public should demand a Constitutional Amendment that requires all children of Federally elected officials, all federal appointees and the Governors of all states have their children in the military and in harms way with no exceptions if and when any troops are sent into a war zone. This is the only way that they will understand the fear and pain of all those that have lost children, husbands, wives in these conflicts.

They should also be required to serve for the duration of these conflicts in combat positions along with all others.

Jack, as long as we let the GOP tell us it's about 9/11 and the continuing threat, we're going to have our people die. The Sunni and Shia have a choice of whether or not to kill each other, and we've given their leaders the breathing room to make that choice. They haven't. It's time for Pelosi and Reid to cut funding and put our resources, human, material and financial into situations here at home where people at least want to make progress. But then that's why progress and congress are the twain that shall never meet.

Americans no longer have the stomach for war. In Iraq, we've only lost 4,000 over six years. In World War II, there were 50,000 killed in a training accident.

Only 4,000 of our troops dead? My, My. sure it's sand when even one is killed, but how about the 58,000+ of my fellow veterens that were lost in Viet Nam? "We" didn't even have the support or admiration for our efforts then. And we were "draftees' not volunteers as our armed froces are now. "We" had no choice!

Our hearts are broken. If they were fighting Osama it would be easier to understand. I respect every young person who serves in our military and believe that as a nation we need to do much better by them.

George Bush should be charged with 4,000 counts of murder.

We should stay and finish the job. If Colin Powell and George H.W. Bush had finished the job the first time we would not have had to return this time. Unfortunately this Commander In Chief and Secretary of Defense Rumsfield were incompetent.

Iraq has oil and they should reimburse us for our losses no matter how long it takes.

I blame George Bush, Cheney, and Rumsfeld for this travesty. You've got Dumber, Dumb, and Dumbest. I think I'm actually being a little too nice, because I think we have a lot of lies and deception among the three. This was a needless war based on greed and personal vendetta. This is a very sad, sad, thing for our country.

My real though is Dick Chainey saying so what , And Gerorge Bush wrapping him self in the flag to get elected, two of the biggest draft dodger in the United States sending them on this mission. This makes me so mad. May God bless these young men and women souls they gave their all for Iraq and Iraq does not even want freedom.

I agree with Bob from Traverse City Michigan, Cheney's "SO WHAT" response, tells it all..

It should effect us by voting for the Democrats in November 2008 like the majority of us did in 2006. It's the only way. We need a cathartical solution here Jack.

Bruce (Las Vegas)

I hope that the casualties in Iraq are not used for political gain, either by the Democrats saying we should leave or the Republicans saying progress is happening. I lost three friends and a cousin during my two tours in Iraq. No matter the views of any American on the war, those that serve should be honored. The numbers do not matter to those in true politics really, only a good soundbite. Or so it seems lately. I hope that everyone, no matter where they stand or where they live, just honor those that have sacrificed (for "good or bad") for their country.

Jack, you ask this question third. Perhaps if the media had been more involved from the start, our soldiers would be home. Let's see, what was more important today than 4000 lives lost? Oh yeah, bashing Hillary. What priorities you have Jack!

Americans should be sad because we have lost 4000 of our finest young citizens who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. Then they should feel remorse for electing men and women unworthy to serve as leaders of the nation those heroes died for.

They should feel anger at a President who sent our fallen soldiers on his fool's errand. They should feel disgust towards a Congress that has failed to intervene to stop the military activity they authorized five years ago.

Most of all, American voters must resolve to pay attention and do their duty, just like our soldiers do theirs every day.

I'm ashamed of a President of our US starting a war on a country who had not attacked us. He and He ALONE is responsible for the deaths of all these young people. I hope he can sleep at night! I pray for their families and I pray for the withdraw of our troops from Iraq. Bell-ID

Obama had been on the high ground for a very long time, but when you have an opponent who likes mud wrestling, at some point, you have to get a little dirt on your shoes.

Obama still retains the high ground when compared to the unscrupulous tactics of Lady? Clinton.

We are all very supportive of our men and women risking their lives for their Country. With that said, American people should be outraged at the excuse that Clinton gave for supporting the war and not even lifting a finger to read the briefing to know what is was about..but then again if you were to ask her she will play the "Why am I the victim" card.....

Veronica from California USMC Spouse

4,000 troop deaths should make this election the most important in recent history, and people should flock to the ballots for change. We can support our troops, and just like they fight for our well being, we should fight for theirs, by bringing them home. Vote smart this November.

As a former Air Force Reservist, it seems that our service people have become expendable. 4000 !!! I became sick to my stomach when I heard the first service member had been killed. We need to bring our troops home, NOW !!!!!

This a war that average ciitzens have not been asked to sacrifice as in previous wars.. No rationing of sugar, gas, nylon stockings, etc. The public has not witnessed caskets that come into Dove AFB everyday. I have attended a soldiers fuuneral at Arlington Cementary, and the family knows the real hardship of numbers 1 thru 3996 killed. Now we try to catch every up to 4000 and counting. The media should of covered this with more compassion.

The world know all about Hillary, no secrets there. Obama on the other hand kept his minister a big secret. How many others are there. In answer to your question, its Hillary who has taken the moral high ground

How should the milestone of 4,000 U.S. troop deaths in Iraq affect the American people? The same as when that many died in WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, etc. IT'S A WAR – NOT A GAME WHERE YOU KEEP SCORE.

Gainesville, Georgia

I hope a lot more than it effects the people primarily responsible. Bush thinks war is romantic. Cheney says,"so" to Martha Raddatz's attempt at waking him up with the news flash that America doesn't want their war. Did you get the feeling that because we have a voluntary military that Cheney feels he can squander their live?

I expect America thinks the whole thing is disgusting.

Jack

George Bush and Dick Cheney should get down on their knees
and thank the Lord they haven't been impeached yet over these
4000 deaths.

Jerry
Roselle, Illinois

Sen. Barack Obama and his campaign are taking the high road over Sen. Hillary Clinton. Obama has consistently stayed focus to his message. Hillary has changed her message multiple times adjusting trying to win voters while demonstrating her frustration. Obama rose to occasion to deal with racism while Hillary avoided denouncing her supporters. Obama tried to stay the course to keep the campaign clean; however, he tried to respond to Hillary's negative comments and still keep the backlash clean. Obama over Clinton.

I think that what needs to happen is to just have a primary electinon in June nation wide and forget all of this political hoop la and stop making promises they know that they can not and will not keep. It's just a bunch of deceit and lies. So no one is being moral or taking a high moral road. Why not just go to a phone book and pick a name out randomly and make them president. We would probably be just as well off. Just don't get another Bush.

Right now, unfortunately, the war in Iraq has taken a backseat to issues such as the economy. Yes the economy is an important issue, but few people have made the connection between the bad economy and the war. Given that other issues have taken priority over the war, the unfortunate loss of all these soldiers doesn't seem to be thought of as often as it should be. Given the fact that these deaths aren't nearly as well publicized as they have been in other wars like Vietnam, this horrific loss of life isn't really thought of all that often.

Jack,

It is very upsetting! What makes me even more sick is VP Cheney's response to our opinions of the war..."SO!" 4000 of our bravest have died, americans are upset about the war and all we get from the current administration is...."SO!"

Remember Cheney's response on 60 Minutes to the interviewer who stated 2/3 of the American people are against the war? He said, "So?" This administration has sent our kids to fight and die in an open ended war that will end much like Vietnam. No victory and at the cost of thousands of courageous and loyal troops. The count will keep rising. Americans need to be bold and stand against this. Yes, the economy is important but so are American lives. It's still a government of the people and for the people – contrary to what the Bush administration may purport.

Outraged enough to vote for a Democrat, no matter who that person will be. It should also make us furious enough to demand how many we are losing in Afghanistan.

Why doesn't the media report on this war as much as it reports on Iraq?

Jack,
Hopefully it will reignite interest in this war. In the last week the mahdi (sic) army has made it clear their patience is at an end.This has triggered the up-tick in killings. I feel we have many bad days ahead. But when our Vice president thinks a good answer to americans feeling is , and I quote "so" what do you expect our feelings to provide except exerps on your show.

john

worcester ma

The deaths of any of our troops should effect all Americans! They died protecting our country! This is why i am voting for Hillary Clinton! She cares! She has a plan to get our troops out of this civil war our great troops are in today! She will get us out Iraq safely and stop this continued loss of life and treasure! We all should take a moment and say a prayer for or lost brothers and sisters! God bless them!

When I was in ROTC we were told that if a tank runs over a German farmer's apple tree, we have to pay for the tree and all the apples that the tree would have produced by that tree? There is not enough attention paid to the loss of these 4,000 men and women, but what about the thousands of men and women that will not be born because their parent, grand parent, or great grand parent was needlessly killed in Iraq fighting a war that could have been avoided if we had not been lied to by Bush and Cheney? Our losses extend beyond their 4,000 graves.

I know about the 4k dead. But why not tell the whole truth, Add in the 20k to 30k severly wounded or injured troops every night so the american people know the whole truth. Oh thats wright, the Bush administration doesn't want the US people to know the whole truth, just like the truth about Iraqs WMD's

It has me weeping for our youth and our country. People arond the world look at George Bush and think I am him, much like we look at Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and think we see the people of Iran. Well I am not George Bush and resent that others may think that I am like him. As, American's we need to take back our country and show our true face to the world! We can do this by voting for a Democrat in the November election.

I AM Not George Bush and I am NOT John Mc Cain

Colleen Brooks
Registered Independent
Charlotte, NC

Impeach Bush and Cheney for their incompetence that created this catastrophic loss of life and the thousands of soldiers who are maimed for life, both physically and mentally!!! They couldn't wait to get into Iraq from their first day in office. They rattles swords at Iraq for months and then lied (there is no other way to state it) to invade Iraq for whatever reason they have failed to tell the American public about.

Bush stood on the stage in a debate with Al Gore in 2000 and swore to the American people that he would never place on an American soldier on foreign soil without a date certain for their removal. He has broken that solemn oath he made many times over. I guess Cheney was out there somewhere with his fingers crossed behind his back!

Impeach!!! Impeach!!! Impeach!!!,

Jim
Prosperity
SC

This death toll should bring Americans to their feet in protest of staying in a war that has no end. It's time! Time for the Iraqi's to take over and build their own future. The people who support the continuation of this war don't have a clue about what we are doing there now. It's time! Time for the United States to look at how this war is destroying our country. We have 4000 dead, but we have thousands that are wounded. I keep telling everyone that these GI's legs, arms, and eyes will not grow back. It makes me sick to think of them going through life maimed. Think about your arms, your legs, your eyes. Is this war worth one more soldier getting blown up? I say NO.

I for one say a prayer for our HEROS every day . one death was one to many. i just can't imagine what the families are going through.when barack hussein obama's pastor wright was GOD D american .I know our HEROS heart was broken.I know mine was. I just can't understand how barack hussein obama could listen to this devil talking man for 20 years and compire him to a typical white woman. it just shows you how anger can distroy the mind. ...i'm just a typicalwhite woman thats voting for CLINTON 08...come on women stand up for yourself and CLINTON........thelma....ky.

Maybe it should spur the media to investigate and report the reasons that we are in Iraq in the first place. It was a war of choice, but whose choice, and for what purpose? The administration is acting like this is a success story, so how about it? Is there a mainstream journalist out there who is willing to challenge the stock answers coming from the right? If the people who called for war are the same ones who are gaining financially from it, then we have a serious problem. If the media refuse to report it, then we have another problem. Is CNN content with being part of the problem?

The 4000th only differs from the 1st by the magnitude of the number. I originally supported the war because of the Bush lies. Somehow, our system is flawed because I cannot influence this government's leaders to stop the slaughter. Why can't we at least start with an impeachment of Bush–no, that won't work because we would then have a Cheney for presidnet.

I believe Cheney and Bush should HONOR our Troops Death, by picking up a weapon and joining them on the Front Line. And help fight a WAR they started with lies and Cheneys "So What " Comment, is and will NEVER be forgiven. I hope our NEXT President tries Bush and his cronies for War Crimes.

Every American should hang their heads in SHAME!!!!! The people of this country should never have allowed the BUSH-BUNCH to allow all these young folks to be killed and affected for the rest of their lives for a WAR-SONG that did not have to be sung!! We hire these politicians to do a job for us, and when they are doing us in, we should be sending them packing !!! This country is disgraced by being in IRAG !

We are a weaker Nation. We continually sacrifice our BEST. How can that not hurt our country. My heart goes out to the military families. Their loved ones have served us with the utmost of honor, if only our elected officials could follow their example.

As a veteraan from the VietNam era I can say that the death of our troops can never be declined . However for the man that sent them into a war that never should have been started to say he will do all he can do to assure their accoades endure. He will forever be remembered as the president that sold America and its men so he and Cheney could along with their croonies get wealthy beyond dreams.

This makes me angry, sad, ashamed and powerless.
I feel that we should have done something to prevent this war- we all saw so much on the internet before this war to know that there was no legitimate reason for going into Iraq, even if our own media, for the most part was not reporting this. We all know,if we are being honest, that every day we remain in Iraq, we are adding to the death toll of innocent civilians in Iraq. We all know that we are sending our military to an unjust, immoral war and allowing our soldiers to die for some economic, political agenda.
I feel powerless because I have no idea how one can actually affect policy. In November I hope that we can make a clear sweep in the government and stop this war and hopefully prevent further unjust wars. But how can we make up for the unspeakable horrors that we have inflicted in this war- how many more people will die before this is over?

Americans should honor and always remember the fallen American heros. They died for the President's vision. Someday we will know for certain if the vision had substance or was purely mirage. In the mean time, Americans should honor and always remember the fallen American heros.

Well according to our "heartless" VP, "they volunterred and as to 4000 deaths, SO". The death toll means everyrthing to their families and nothing to their government. There only backdrops used on the campaign trail and in speeches. You volunteer to serve your country when it's been attacked and that's why we never should have been invading Iraq and kept our focus on Afghanistan. Instead looks like Bush Cheney etal wanted to make sure they could still go fishing on the sultans yachts, so they made a deal to secure Iraq and Irans oil fields for their well connected Saudi and oil company friends. So wonder how that's worked out for them, quit well I would say from the Exxon profits being posted, and of course we cannot forget Halliburton and their fake sub companies, I mean twelve of our soldiers were electrocuted in Iraq in the showers because of faulty wiring put in by KBR. I guess in money terms that's about a billion dollars a soldier in profit, right Dick?

Obviously not very much Jack, otherwise Bush, Cheney & the rest of that gang would have already been sent to the gallows.

Jack ,I've been a "Medic" in the US military for 30+ years. I can only speak for myself but I was the only military guy I know that said Iraq was a mistake from the beginning. I still remember "Nam"...like it was yesterday. You civilians only see the wounded after they've been cleaned up! We need adult leadership more than ever! I'm not crazy about any of our so called canidates... but I trust Senators McCain and Clinton to get us out of this mess more than Mr. Obama. With him I suspect we'll get out without a plan... and have to go back in... and start from scratch. What's 4000 more kids...He'll give another speech. I dont trust the guy ...It saddens me that it is all to clear that you do. Typical civilian stuff.

We should be very angry and I wish more of us were. Instead, some Americans seem to turn their anger towards people who don't wear flag lapel pins that are made in China.

I believe there are people in this country that really believe that this war is just and that we are winning? What is winning? Is having a president who says he would love the chance to fight in Afghanistan because it is so romantic but is also the same person that hid behind his father's coat-tails when he did have the chance to go to war really the person you should be listening to?

Now there's a bumper sticker. Bush/Cheney 4000!

This nation should be ashamed that they let the bush/cheney fearmongering scare them into electing a pair of incompetent, self-serving idealogues in 2004. And the cost?If a man nearly bankrupts his company 3 times, do you hand him your checkbook? And a man too busy too serve shouldn't be deciding the fate of our children.

I, for one, saw it coming the first time.

As a Viet Nam vet I was opposed to the war before it started. Even a pinhead like me had more brains than the majority of Americans and politicians. I figured we lost a war where maybe 1/2 the people liked the USA , how can we win a war where nobody likes the USA. Oh yes, the ones who are stealing us blind say they do. I have a daughter who said she is voting for Mccain, little does she know her 8 year son has a chance to die in Iraq under Mccains policies. We need a hard head and soft heart people, not a soft head and a hard heart.

Americans need to keep in mind that 4,000 deaths is only the tip of the iceberg. Don't forget the billions of taxdollars we're paying and the tens of thousands of injured troops coming back without limbs. This war needs to end, we need a new foreign policy of non-intervention, we need to mind our own business, worry about defense instead of offense, and get the economy fixed. Unfortunately, the top 3 candidates have no plans to do any of this, reguardless of what empty promises they may make to us.

Surprisingly, 32% Americans still support WAR. I hope they know what WAR is. It is eating Bread soaked in Blood of 4000 soldiers and a million Iraqis.

Sure, 4000 is a tragic number and no one wants to see it grow, but it is for our safety and freedom that our troops die. Most of the troops in the Middle East, according to data taken, want to finish this war and end terrorism as quickly and effectively as possible. Everyone want's to condemn the war and not show support, well, guess what, it's not helping. It's time to show that we care, and Americans should know that our freedom comes with a price, and it always will.

The same as it did when we learned the first died.

Jack,
First we should praise the men and women who fought in this war and pray for those we lost in this war. For those men and women in uniform, I am proud each of you!
Thank you
Kevin,
Texas
my nephew is serving his 1st tour of duty in Iraq. I pray for him everyday and think about him every second.

With profound sadness and outrage...

It's the 4000th reason that we shouldn't be in Iraq. That President Bush piously says he thinks daily of those who have fallen is a kind of hypocrisy that turns my stomach.

we should all stand up and be counted as being against this immoral war and back Hillary in her efforts to bring our troops home!

in 2 words

VOTE DEMOCRAT...

SAMSON
COLUMBUS OHIO

4000 is too many. 1 is too many. I am saddened by any number of deaths in the name of oil - and don't forget all the other deaths, from contractors to those soldiers of the rest of the world to all the 80,000 -200, 000 Iraqis that were bystanders...

George "Dubya" Bush. Like a rock, only dumber.

I think it should make EVERY american, democrat, republican, white, black, or hispanic very sick to thier stomachs. I cant believe we are still there and I look forward to bringing our troops home. This is more ppl than we lost on 9/11, everyone should be just as distraught in hearing this number like we were on that horrible day

How can we be anything but grateful for the men and women who are willing to step in harms way and give it all for you and I? Each is a hero and the loss of a hero certainly diminishes us all.

The death of 4,000 U.S. troops should remind us that freedom should not be taken for granted and has to be earned. It costs leadership, sacrifice, and honor.

The answer to your question, "If they have the same mentality as George Bush, they won't mind." After all, warmongerers are warmongerers!!!!!!!

It should affect us by knowing that this President is more worried about his pride and not about admitting that these deaths are his fault. President Bush owes the American people an apology. But I wouldn't hold my breath.

Thanks to the Clintons the size of our services was reduced and underfunded. Now after this president starts a war that should not have been . Now we ask about the troops lost. I wish we could bring the rest back and send the Clinton's and Bush's

Jack, What did they die for? Freedom or Corporate America.

Jack

They should be outraged! The people are outraged but that does not seem to matter to Bush and Cheney. When Cheney was asked about 2/3 of people being against this war, what was his response? SO?

I am thinking that Cheney in private circles will also respond SO? to 4000 troops dying for a war he pushed for.

Can we say criminal? I sure can and their names are Bush and Cheney!

No more so than the thousands who die in the U.S. due to homicide each and every year. Check the numbers they are astronomical.

The American people should be truly disgusted at the fact that so many young men and women have lost their lives for nothing more than oil.

4,000 is merely a number and the American people should look at the individuals who gave their lives for a greater cause rather than some statistic.

Stephen
Ypsilanti, MI

Jack,
The presidency and vice presidency were nothing more than a bussiness proposition to Bush and Cheney. They could not care less abthe lives giveen to further their cause of world domination.

4000 young men and women have died for a lie and to cover up a lie the extent of which we may never know. The only way to mark this is to bring their colleagues home. Nothing else will suffice.

Last year, President Bush told us to go shopping. This year we cannot afford the gas to go shopping.
I was in Vietnam and my son was in Iraq in 2003. We both survived. Unfortunately 4,000 did not survive this misadventure.
Sad, Sad, Sad.

The 4000th death should be treated as the 1st death; that a life ended for all the wrong reason.

Well, let's see I heard one of Bush's mouthpieces the other day rationalize these 4,000 human beings by comparing the # of deaths to those the U.S. lost in WWII. Ok, remind me again on exactly what would be similar to WWII and our offensive move into Iraq. What an insult to listen to! Further, would the mouthpiece be attempting to compare Bush to FDR? What I want to know is why we have become so entirely passive in the country. Do we have post-traumatic stress disorder from 9-11-01? If so, where are our meds? There must be an anti-Bush pill.

Hello Mr. Cafferty,

First I would like to congratulate on hitting the hard facts when it comes to the demise of our government. I think it's a shame the way we American people have been bled to death by our own elected officials. Secondly, being a veteran of the Air Force I would like to shed some light on this 5 year shock and awe. When in fact we have been at war in the Middle East since the 1990s. "OPERATION DESERT STORM"!!! You do the math that's almost 20 years of bloodshed?

Jack 4000 dead and counting . 30,000 wounded and counting. All for the GLORY of the three stooges. George W, Dick C and Carl R. We can forget about all the billions and Iraq's. I am so proud of my president and his unholy crew.

I was watching CNN last night when the 'milestone' was reached. I was stunned at my reaction, for it was more intense than it would be. I was sad, tearfully sad in fact. What are we thinking when we send our young people into such a morass? Did I not get the memo that made it 'ok' for the U.S., a defensive nation (as in Dept of DEFENSE), to invade a country militarily, without invitation?

I still wonder why that change didn't receive more attention at the time the decision was made.

I think America's heart is wounded by this war, I wish we had never got involved in this. I applaud the dedicated men and women who have risked their lives by fighting in this war, even though I feel it is wrong. The next President will have their hands full in bringing our troops home and I hope it is quick. God Bless America !

The 4,000th American death in Iraq should serve as a reminder that this occupation is the American people's fault. If this is a government for/by the people, this was our will. If this is not the case, then we let it become this way.

Let's be honest. The average American is only affected in the abstract by the Iraq War. Perhaps if we raised taxes to finance the war and instituted a full draft to reconstitue the military, then there would be a line-of-sight connection between the war and "the American People". How likely is the straight talkin' John McCain to support that?

The thought of passing 4000 american lives lost, not to mentention the Iraqies and others really saddens me. I see no end in sight. After all It's the economy, stupid.

Gary

It is with great sadness that we have lost 4,000 men and women in the military in a war that should have never been, with no clear sight of knowing when our men and women will be able to come home. Although our country takes great in our troops, the same cannot be said taking party in this war which I am still questioning while we are there instead of others places where our enemies are known to be and in greater numbers.

Annie,
Ft. Lauderdale

Jack, the first thought is demand impeachment of that SOB we call The President! Congress should listen more to the voice of their constituents and force the executive branch back into balance, or what's the purpose of this Nation. I heard two hours ago that one of my friends was part of IED casualties, but at least he is alive - for now. American's should be outraged because our government has proven that our Constitution is a FAILURE! The voice of the people is deafening on our elected officials – they politic and solders die. I am ashamed to be an American – that is how I view the 4000 mark.

Jack,
I don't believe 4000 should be any different then 1. 1 was enough 5 years ago and the fact that it has gotten to 4000 is horrifying. I was as mad about the first death of a U.S. Soldier as I am about 4000. Every life was special and irreplaceable. Lets hope we can get out of this quagmire before anymore are forced to pay the ultimate price.

Whatever the original intent was for going into IRAQ the situation has come to this. The United States can either run the country or conduct the IRAQ war. Bottom line is that no matter how much money is printed if we remain in IRAQ our country is going to go bankrupt. It's our decision, do we want to continue to fund the war or do we want our country to go bankrupt.

Devastated! Angry! How long will Americans tolerate the cost of this war in terms of families left w/o sons, fathers, husbands; even more men returning severely mentally & physically wounded; an economy in shambles, our infrastructure falling apart; and the terrible price being paid by millions of innocent Iraquis? Bush and his cronies got us into this, it is going to take more than a Democratic President to get us out gracefully, but at least that's a start. God help us! We sure need a miracle.

the lost of any ONE of our brave soldiers is a bad thing
I hold each and every one of their lives dear, as a former US Army soldier .
However
I also keep the numbers in perspective Unlike jack does
in the last 5 years in afghanistan AND iraq , fighting entrenched terrorists we have lost about 1/10th the number of US lives that we lose EVERY year on our nations roadways( 40000 lost per year on our roads , look it up ).

we have lost too many but nowhere near the vietnam numbers and as I said nowhere near the losses on our roadways

Our troops are THE best in the world Bar NONE.

how do the deaths of our troops effect us?
it saddens us that they have died , It should ( and does in my case ) make me proud oftheir sacrifice and service and the knowledge thatthere still are some who will fight and strive for the U.S.A.

God bless them each and every one

It is a sad reminder of the ineffectiveness of violence in resolving problems in this world. We should "celebrate" by resolving to return our brave troops from a "war" we can never win.

Hey Jack,
President Bush states that he spends moments everyday thinking about the lives lost in the war. Actions speak louder than words, I think the American people are tired of the traditional "Push-n-Shove" politics where a politician says one thing and does another for votes or approval. Furthermore, I also think we need to elect someone with some shred of intelligence instead of a "Trigger Happy Brut". All of us need to keep this in mind when it comes to voting.

4000 dead----this is sad --but if this war continues it will be a small number in comparision to how many more will also die-and for what??? We're in the wrong country -Bin Laden is not there--------time to make every soldiers death count for something -------get Bin Laden --not more war profiteering for many here

It's time for Americans to decide whether or not this is a war they really want to fight. If it is, then the draft should be reinstated so that all American families feel connected to the war and feel the worry and pain which only a few families now feel. If this is not a war which we think is worth fighting, then it's time to leave Iraq. We can't continue this middle ground of sending the same stop-lossed soldiers back to fight over and over again......

Jack/ The sad truth and reality is that this war and it"s death toll only effect the relatives and friends of the deceased here in America .

To the rest of the population this war is an abstraction.,unlike World War 2 where the entire country was involved in the war effort. A service draft would get people involved immediately and more importantly personally, and there would be no war, as simple as that .

In contrast the civilain death toll effects all the Iraquis. how is it that that does not count??

Vice President Cheney said in response to a statement from a reporter who said that "the American people are against the war. His response was /soooo?
Cheney tried to justify it by saying that a government cannot make decisions at the whim of its populace, insinuating that he and Big daddy Bush know what is best for the rest of us, theya re supposed to represent the will of the people not there own personal ambitions and egos/ Mission accomplished/ I do not think so.

I could go on a and on but I am wring you from Starbucks and my double mocca latte is getting luke warm.

Jack ,Now we have 4000 reasons why we should not have wasted hundreds of billions in Iraq crippling our economy in the process and destroying a stable country while turning a blind eye to the suffering of the Palestinian people under Israeli occupation further rubbing salt in the wounds of the oppressed peoples of the middle east

As a veteran of Korea and Vietnam we (the wife and myself) feel the entire country of Iraq is not worth the death or injury of one of our men or women.

Dear Mr Cafferty, the death of my breatheren reach deep into my soul. But to lack Patiotism would reach deeper.

John McCain has said that the surge has been a great sucess. I have to assume he is talking about reduced American casualties as there have been no other gains. That being the case, you would think bringing the troops home should make him estatic, as the casualty rate would then be zero. Lets do that John.