Defense and National Security
![Army tank and soldiers Army tank and soldiers](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20121017035258im_/http://pearce.house.gov/sites/pearce.house.gov/files/styles/section_front_boilerplate/public/defense.jpg)
We must maintain a strong military that continues to be second to none, and support the brave men and women who risk their lives for our freedoms.
The United States’ armed forces have been the guardian of freedom throughout the world for decades. The rise of radical Islam in recent years has brought a new threat to America. We must maintain a strong military that continues to be second to none.
However, Americans have suffered the consequences of war for nearly ten years. The decision to commit American lives to another war is one that should be handled with caution. Once we have placed American lives on the line, and once we have made the decision to take foreign lives, we have crossed a line that we cannot easily step back across. The challenges and sacrifices made by our men and women in the armed forces, as well as their children and spouses, are not to be taken lightly. Military engagement is always a decision with severe long-term consequences. In making that decision, we must be prepared to commit fully, or not at all.