Remember the Soldiers, But Never Forget the Lies That Sent Them to Die

This article is a commentary on a hard-hitting piece by James Bovard published by Mises Wire titled “On Veterans Day, Remember the Lies That Filled Military Cemeteries.” Bovard’s essay doesn’t dishonor the military—it dishonors the politicians who hide behind it. In what follows, I’ll walk you through Bovard’s argument in my own words, using plain language and clear examples to explain why his piece is not only timely—but absolutely essential.

We’re living in an age when war has been normalized. Veterans Day speeches now feel like pre-scripted theater. But behind the flags and ceremonies lies a century-long pattern of political deception, betrayal, and the reckless abuse of American lives. If we truly want to honor veterans, we have to face the truth about why so many of them died—and how easily they were sent to their deaths.

This article is longer than usual, because the truth demands more than soundbites. I’ve broken it into sections to make it easier to digest, and I encourage every reader to treat this not as a history lesson—but as a warning.