Torture
To the editor:
An interesting concept is torture. The very word elicits visions of the rack and whip. However, although these methods are torture, and most times bring the desired results, today we are more sophisticated.
The use of “wall standing” would hardly reach the level of true torture, it is employed as one method used. The subject would be required to stand facing a wall that is about 4 feet in front of them. They are required to stand with their arms raised just touching the wall. This technique is designed to produce fatigue. Periods of dietary manipulation and sleep deprivation are used as well.
But nothing today raises a red flag as “waterboarding.” And what is this despised method used by our despicable operatives? How does it work? Is it effective? If so, how often and was it ever used to train our own troops at one time?
Let’s turn a page and see. The subject is secured to a board and his head is placed lower than the feet. A cloth is placed over the face, covering the nose and eyes. Water is then poured on the cloth from a distance of 12 inches or more. Breathing is restricted and because of the body being placed as it is, the carbon dioxide levels are increased. The suspect perceives that he is drowning. He begins to experience incipient panic. Rarely does the procedure need more than a handful of seconds to achieve the desired result. The suspect complies. The length of time rarely reaches the range of 20 40 seconds.
There are reports that this method of obtaining information releases the suspect from guilt in divulging information. It is believed that Allah forgives those who are tested to their limits and so no shame is attached to this action.
Some of our troops were trained in the past with this very procedure. What was learned is that this is a most effective technique to employ.
When the water stops being poured, and the subject sits up or stands, he realizes that he is not physically harmed. No cuts, no bruises, and no bleeding.
So, torture is a matter of perception by the individual. Each of us has our own point of submission. To a hardened terrorist the concept of torture becomes academic in what he considers harsh treatment. To a young child loud discipline would be similarly defined.
To better place this subject in perspective, who would consider condemning this procedure if it would have saved the lives in the twin towers of 9/11? How many subsequent attacks have been foiled by its use? The attacks which were foiled will most likely never be known but I am confident many were prevented. Has water taken on a new meaning?
Many argue that this country is better than that in using such methods, but remember, the Constitution is not a suicide pact! What rules limit the terrorists?
Joseph Kibitlewski, PhD
Cape Coral