REV says "Amen brother!"

As the alleged U.S. campaign for democracy in Iraq turns into a raging civil war, and as the Afghan War enters its sixth year, it seems timely to dredge up one of my old stories. "REV" is set in Afghanistan in the not-too-distant future. When I started it, late in 1990, the year in which the story is set (2042) was a lot farther away. Its writing was prompted by the saber-rattling preceeding the First Gulf War, which looks so tame and unsophisticated compared to what we saw in the lead-up to the Iraq invasion in March 2003.

"REV" imagines the Third New Crusades, with U.S. Forces charging toward Kandahar, fighting insurgent mujas along the way. I had no real sense at the time about how the First New Crusades were launched -- and why. But I do now.

Consider this the launch of a five-part series, with a new segment available every two weeks. So, look for the second part of "REV" on or about Nov. 1, 2006.

Go here for Part I of "REV."