Should New York Throw Iraqi War Veterans a Heroes Parade? (POLL)

While no one is saying that New Yorkers should not have celebrated the  with a  parade, there has been some resentment and anger reported over the lack of such a party for the returning Iraqi war veterans. Federal officials have said that a parade would be unseemly given the ongoing war in Afghanistan.

The last combat troops in Iraq pulled out almost two weeks ago. About 91,000 U.S. troops are fighting in Afghanistan and training Afghan forces. Many military members who fought in the Iraq War could end up being sent to Afghanistan, according to an Associated Press article published by Fox News.

Fox News reports:

With tens of thousands of U.S. troops still fighting a bloody war in Afghanistan, anything that looks like a big victory celebration could be seen as unseemly and premature, some say. 

"It's going to be a bit awkward to be celebrating too much, given how much there is going on and how much there will be going on in Afghanistan," said Don Mrozek, a military history professor at Kansas State University. 

Mayor Michael Bloomberg has said he is eager to honor the veterans, he does not want to do so without a “green light” from Washington. A Pentagon spokesman told the Associated Press that he has not received an official request from New York for a parade.

The White House has announced plans to hold a formal dinner to honor troops on Feb. 29, which the officials from the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America called "interesting" while they continue to push for a New York ticker tape parade, according to Stars and Stripes.

A local reader anonymously emailed Patch today regarding this issue, writing:

"I understand that people need something to feel good about during what are hard times for many, and this Welcome Home! parade is one of those feel-good celebrations that reach across all economic classes. We need to feel good. The Giants played well, and earned the praise they are enjoying.  

But a similar ticker tape parade was denied when the troops came back/are coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan by that same city.  In my mind's eye, denying a welcome home parade for those who have done their duty and may have sustained horrible injuries or died for their country for what they believe or to keep us all safe vs. a football game, for men and corporations, who are making millions doesn't seem right.”

This reader wonders if anyone shares his/her feelings. Take our poll or tell us your thoughts in the comments below.