Peter Mulcahy: Manifest Destiny, surely that was in jest

To The Daily Sun,

I, as a retired U.S. Navy captain, wish to respectfully take exception with my friend and fellow officer, Richard Juve's screed on Manifest Destiny in his letter to the editor of Jan. 23.

He uses America’s past history of Colonialism as justification for taking over the sovereign territory of our allies, by force if necessary, to strengthen the security posture of our country. This is not only wrong but sets a terrible example for other counties who look to us for world leadership. He further goes on to say that if we took these bold actions China would never dare to make a move on Taiwan. It is my belief that just the opposite would happen and we would be drawn ever so perilously closer to World War lll.

I have no argument that having Canada as a 51st state, re-securing the Panama Canal and bringing Greenland directly into our fold are admirable goals, the use of force to accomplish these goals must be ruled out at all cost.

Democracy is best served through negotiation and diplomacy.

We don’t need any more wars.

Peter Mulcahy

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina