NATIONAL GUARD PROVIDES HELP WHILE TRAINING

When it comes to military training, the example set by more than 200 National Guard members from Southeast Missouri is a good one. Members of the 1140th Combat Engineer Battalion recently spent two weeks in Panama to help build schools, health clinics, roads and water wells.

This is all part of a six-month project called Task Force Mule. The title is apt, because the Missouri mule has been associated with that area from about 80 years. These sturdy farm animals, destined to become the state's official animal if legislators approve, were sent to the Panama Canal after it was completed to pulls ships in and out of the canal's lock system.

The National Guard members who are helping with the construction projects are getting valuable training while at the same time leaving a legacy in the Central American country that is beneficial and positive. There is a long-term residual benefit from this exercise, which keeps the U.S. military ready to fight deadly wars in a period of peace.

Some critics argue that these efforts could better be made at home where schools, health facilities and roads are a never-ending expense, particularly in rural areas. But it is illegal for the U.S. military to compete with private enterprise in this country. And that's the way it should be.

There is a feeling of satisfaction that comes from doing a job well, but it is always good to hear a few words of thanks. The people of the remote mountain area southwest of Panama City have much to be thankful for as a result of the peacetime military training exercise.