The personal meets the political for lawmakers with sons in Iraq

Posted on Sun, Mar. 13, 2005
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INSIDE WASHINGTON: The personal meets the political for lawmakers with sons in Iraq
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LAURIE KELLMAN
Associated Press
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WASHINGTON - (snip)

For about half a dozen members of Congress who have had kids serving in Iraq, the war is far more than a matter of public policy. They debate it and often defend it - with eyes on public opinion, like almost any elected official. But they also live the war through those most dear to them.

(snip)

Rep. Todd Akin, R-Mo., whose son, Perry, is a Marine combat engineer in Iraq, said what might be happening to the 23-year-old is a constant concern. "Every time you hear that another Marine got killed, it makes you wonder, is that my kid this time?" the congressman said.

(snip)

These lawmakers are not the first leaders to grapple with the personal stakes of war. After his presidency, Teddy Roosevelt had four sons in action in World War I - two were wounded and his youngest, Quentin, was killed.

"To feel that one has inspired a boy to conduct that has resulted in his death has a pretty serious side for a father," Roosevelt said. But "brave and fearless men must die when a great cause calls."

At least four Republicans and one Democrat in Congress have had children serving in Iraq.