Updated from the original blog entry
The Anti-Candidate's Position on NATIONAL DEFENSE
National defense is the paramount responsibility of the government, the key thing that people cannot do for themselves.
Contrary to the best intentions of diplomats and the most pleasant dreams of optimists, the world remains a dangerous place. So we agree with Sun Tzu -- Master Sun -- that, as it says in the opening words of The Art of War, "War is a matter of vital importance to the State; the province of life or death; the road to survival or ruin. It is mandatory that it be thoroughly studied." (Griffith translation)
That being said, this passage from Heinlein's Starship Troopers deserves close attention:
Anyone who clings to the the historically untrue--and thoroughly immoral--doctrine that 'violence never settles anything' I would advise to conjure up the ghosts of Napoleon Bonaparte and of the Duke of Wellington and let them debate it. The ghost of Hitler could referee, and the jury might well be the Dodo, the Great Auk, and the Passenger Pigeon. Violence, naked force, has settled more issues in history than has any other factor, and the contrary opinion is wishful thinking at its worst. Breeds that forget this basic truth have always paid for it with their lives and freedoms.
Like all people of good will, we prefer peace to the sword. But we sleep better at night knowing that dedicated men and women bear the sword on our behalf. We were proud to serve alongside you, in our own peculiar way, and we pray frequently for your strength and security.