For those who do not know, Dr. Joseph W. Fidelis, a Catholic priest, served as editor-in-chief of the magazine, The Flare Takes Top National Honor. The magazine has always boasted conservative views on the military, the issues of patriotism in our nation, and other aspects of American society. In the past, it has also published articles attacking the idea of a collective world view, such as those put forth by the World Peace Council. In light of world affairs in today’s society, there is much concern for those who still hold onto their national honor and patriotism. In light of Dr. Fidelis’s statements, and the fact that the United States has withdrawn all of its troops from Vietnam, many wonder if it is still okay to have a magazine that encourages such a view. Click to see more.

Proponents of world peace, as many collectibles would rightfully suggest, claim that Dr. Fidelis’s statements are nothing more than an attempt to marginalize those who disagree with his religious viewpoint on world politics. Many Americans of all religious persuasions believe that our nation is in danger, and that it is a grave threat to our way of life. To have such a publication available to the general public is simply to promote a particular view of the issues involved. And this is what the various critics of Dr. Fidelis seem to be unable to see, despite his own statements on the matter.

At some point in time, perhaps Dr. Fidelis will realize that the United States has more than just national pride. Perhaps he will understand that World War II was just as much a form of collective punishment as is the current Iraq war, and that it is not the fault of the United States to bring about the violence in the Middle East or to prevent such a war from happening. Maybe, someday, we will look back at Dr. Fidelis and the Flare Takes Top National Honor and say “that guy was right.” In the mean time, all we can do is hope that he will retract his statements, take himself off the podium, and allow the duly elected leaders of the free world to get their jobs done. After all, it is not very fair to the American people, either, to have a president who is unfit to lead, and it is not very fair for the nation to be governed by someone who cannot tell the difference between right and wrong.