Question

The following excerpt comes from a magazine editorial written shortly after Operation Desert Storm ended successfully. As you read, think about the writer’s proud feelings and the reasons for them. Then, answer the following question as directed.

The President’s Finest Hour
By David Gergen
Journalists aren’t supposed to deliver valentines to men in power. Our role, it was said years ago, is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. But once in a while the rules are broken, and surely that moment has arrived for the 41st president of the United States.George Bush is turning the Persian Gulf crisis into a triumph of American leadership. From the day he first mobilized an unprecedented coalition of nations against Saddam Hussein last fall until his surprising statement last Friday throwing down an ultimatum for withdrawal, Bush has seized the initiative to create a more peaceful and just world. For years, other countries have wondered whether the United States could be a faithful friend or would always cut and run in an hour of trouble, as it did in Vietnam, Lebanon and elsewhere. For years, many have wondered whether Bush had enough inner steel to be unbending in crisis. he has now answered both questions, and the world is safer for it . . . .Had the United States and its allies not sent their young men and women into the breach, Hussein would now have his hand at the jugular of every nation that runs on oil. His Army would have savaged and pillaged thousands of additional innocents in Kuwait. .
. . . [P]raise is in order. The United States today enjoys greater respect around the world than at any time since an American stepped onto the moon. Its men and women in uniform serve with renewed pride. The prospects for peace and justice are rising again. And most of the credit belongs to one man.

According to this writer, why was President Bush’s reaction to the Persian Gulf crisis
important? Write a well-thought-out and well-organized statement, your editorial
comment about the magazine’s editorial excerpt. Make your response at least two
paragraphs in length. Use the next page for your response.

Answer 1

Answer & Explanation:

The writer of the excerpt believes that President Bush's reaction to the Persian Gulf crisis was important for several reasons. Firstly, by mobilizing an unprecedented coalition of nations against Saddam Hussein, President Bush demonstrated American leadership in rallying international support to confront a threat to global peace and security. This decisive action showcased the United States as a reliable and steadfast ally, in contrast to previous instances where it was perceived to have retreated in times of trouble.

Secondly, the writer asserts that President Bush's ultimatum for withdrawal and his commitment to seeing the mission through demonstrated his inner strength and resolve. This was crucial in dispelling doubts about his leadership and proving that he was capable of making tough decisions and standing firm in times of crisis. By taking a strong stance against Saddam Hussein, President Bush helped prevent the Iraqi leader from further endangering nations that rely on oil and potentially causing significant harm to innocent lives in Kuwait.

In summary, the writer applauds President Bush's reaction to the Persian Gulf crisis for mobilizing international support, showcasing American leadership, and demonstrating resolve in the face of a threat. They believe that his actions have contributed to a safer world, increased respect for the United States, and improved prospects for peace and justice.