Robert Brennan writes that recent global events have brought new fears as military conflicts escalate. In a piece published on Mar. 23, Brennan describes watching missile strikes and drone attacks from the safety of home, while noting that these are not just distant events but real dangers with personal consequences.
The article highlights how military action abroad affects American Catholic families, especially those with loved ones serving in the armed forces. Brennan discusses his own family’s history with military service, including relatives who served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent conflicts. He shares personal stories about his brothers and son who have been involved in various branches of the U.S. military.
Brennan also touches on the moral questions that arise during times of war, mentioning how “Just War Theory” often becomes a topic of conversation among Catholics when U.S. military action is involved. He notes that while such theories can seem abstract, they become much more real when family members are directly affected by conflict.
Reflecting on changes over time, Brennan recalls registering for the draft as a young man only to find it was no longer required by then. He points out that while technology has changed warfare—introducing drones and missiles—the human cost remains significant.
Brennan concludes by reminding readers that even if most people do not think daily about those at risk in conflict zones, many families like his feel these impacts personally: “Just like my family is thinking about the two young men that mean so much to their families back home, in reality, everyone has a dog in the fight.”
