I had the privilege of serving in the United States Air Force from 1971-2013. I served as an enlisted medic, Squadron Commander, Mobility officer, instructor and finally as a Chaplain around the world in time of peace and in combat areas.

Since our shameful withdrawal from Afghanistan, I am once again being asked the same question I have been asked for every war and hostile activity we were in except for Granada: “Are the depths of the men and women killed in Vietnam, Marine Barracks in Beirut, Libya bombing, Khobar Towers, USS Cole, Desert Storm, Iraq or Afghanistan now meaningless?”

Were the...