Rumsfeld: Was misunderstood and will be sorely missed

For those who can only bring themselves to believe the BBC guff about the US Secretary of Defense (to spell it the American way!) I can say only one thing: Just take a look at what this great believer of freedom and democracy said after the 7/7 bombings.

"Reports from London are already telling of calm passengers, compassionate strangers, and courageous rescuers. And that too is familiar -- the grace and humanity that contrasts vividly with the hatred and violence of terrorists. The London attacks have a special resonance for the American people -- for America has no stronger or closer ally in the world than Great Britain. We are bound together by a common heritage, a common language, and a deeply shared commitment to freedom. As President Bush indicated earlier this morning, the United States will stand with the British people with unflinching resolve...But if these terrorists thought they could intimidate the people of a great nation, they picked the wrong people and the wrong nation. For generations, tyrants, fascists, and terrorists have sought to carry out their violent designs upon the British people only to founder upon its unrelenting shores. Before long, I suspect that those responsible for these acts will encounter British steel. Their kind of steel has an uncommon strength. It does not bend or break. The British have learned from history that this kind of evil must be confronted. It cannot be appeased. Our two countries understand well that once a people give in to terrorists demands, whatever they are, their demands will grow. The British people are determined and resolute. And I know the people of the United States are proud to stand at their side"

I don't know about you but this brings a conservative tear to my eye and has the hairs on the back of my neck standing on end.

Britain and the world owes Rummy a lot more than they will bring themselves to admit.