The defenders of American John Walker Lindh, the 20-year-old who forsook his country to fight for the anti-woman, pro-terrorism Taliban, are arguing that he is just a misled, confused young man. He is obviously suffering from mental illness, they say.

I don't buy it. To refer to this 20-year-old man as a "kid" and attempt to minimize what he has done is infuriating. The same liberals which say that this 20-year-old man is not responsible for his actions and mentally incapable of making a decision are the same ones who would defend a 13-year-old girl's right to an abortion without informing her parents.

For a little bit of contrast, I'd like to share a citation from WWII:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 20 February 1945. While creeping through a treacherous, twisting ravine which ran in close proximity to a fluid and uncertain frontline on D-plus-1 day, Pfc. Lucas and 3 other men were suddenly ambushed by a hostile patrol which savagely attacked with rifle fire and grenades. Quick to act when the lives of the small group were endangered by 2 grenades which landed directly in front of them, Pfc. Lucas unhesitatingly hurled himself over his comrades upon 1 grenade and pulled the other under him, absorbing the whole blasting forces of the explosions in his own body in order to shield his companions from the concussion and murderous flying fragments. By his inspiring action and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice, he not only protected his comrades from certain injury or possible death but also enabled them to rout the Japanese patrol and continue the advance. His exceptionally courageous initiative and loyalty reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Lucas and the U.S. Naval Service.

Pfc. Jacklyn Lucas had turned 17 just six days before diving on those two grenades. For his heroism he was awarded the Medal of Honor. He had joined the U.S. Marines in 1942, falsifying his age and fast-talking a Marine recruiter.

In 1946, Lucas re-enrolled in school, Reynolds High School, as a freshman.

To deny John Walker Lindh's culpability for his actions insults young men like Lucas who fought and nearly died for his country.

Take a look at a listing of Medal of Honor winners. Name after name with an asterisk next to it, denoting that the award was given posthumously. Citation after citation stating: "He gallantly gave his life for his country."

John Walker Lindh doesn't deserve our pity. He deserves our scorn. At the least he should spend the rest of his days in prison. Ideally, he should forfeit his life. He is a traitor.