Bob McCarty Writes

Eric Dowling

When I learned of the passing of Eric “Digger” Dowling, another hero from the “Greatest Generation,” I couldn’t help but think about how his efforts may have been received by anti-war and environmental-extremist liberals had they taken place today.

In case you’re not familiar with his story, Dowling was a British man whose efforts as a prisoner of war in World War II Germany inspired the 1963 film, The Great Escape. He passed away July 21, one day shy of his 93rd birthday, according to this Associated Press report today.

In The Great Escape, which I’ve viewed countless times, Allied prisoners forged documents, made maps and dug three tunnels through which prisoners attempted to escape on several occasions. Had they done the same thing in this day and age, they would probably face courts-martial proceedings (think Haditha Marines) — or worse yet, trial by a War Crimes Tribunal. for committing fraud, producing counterfeit documents and violating terms of some global environmental law that requires individuals to seek permits, conduct surveys and prepare environmental impact statements prior to digging.

Just a thought. For more about the Greatest Generation, read My Father’s War Stories from World War II.