[Flashpoint]

I think the thread title is over the top. It implies some great noble cause and a heroic death for the betterment of all Canadians.

The motives for the war in Afghanistan are not clear cut. Some would say it is as a result of 9/11. Some would say it is part of a global fight on terror. Others would say it was an attempt to secure oil pipelines. Some would say it is meaningless. How is it that she died for our freedom? Are the Taliban going to attack Canada? Or is it the "Western Way of Life" that is being defended?

There aren't any clear answers, so lets put the war itself aside for the moment.

Is this woman a hero?

Why?

Was she a hero while she was alive? Or only after she died? Why did it take her death for her to achieve "hero" status? Isn't this disturbingly familar to the whole "martered in a holy war" BS?

She was there because she was ordered to be there. She did her job (no doubt with courage and to the best of her ability). Unfortunately the worst thing possible happened. It is a horrible thing. That said, it isn't unexpected. It is war zone. People get killed.

Why is there so much focus on Captain Goddard? Is it because she is a woman? What about all the other troops killed thus far in Afghanistan? Can you name them? Pick out their picture?

There is potential here for great discussion. Leave the name calling at home guys.