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On Richard Perle, Lobbyist, Businessman And, Perhaps Not Coincidentally, Chairman of the Defense Policy Board

The plans to start this war were laid Within the Sissy Hawk Brigade-- A band of Vietnam evaders All puffed up now as tough crusaders.

Calvin Trillin

March 27, 2003

The plans to start this war were laid Within the Sissy Hawk Brigade– A band of Vietnam evaders All puffed up now as tough crusaders. Yes, now, as then, they love inciting A war that others will be fighting.

In recent weeks, there’s been much talk Of Richard Perle, a sissy hawk. There’ve been some articles about Just whether Perle has used his clout, While fighting evil hell for leather, To profit. (Hawks have nests to feather.)

A pity that some lads who fought In Vietnam were later brought Back home again in body bags Adorned with battle stars and flags: They missed the fruits that dedication Can bring to those who serve their nation.

Calvin TrillinCalvin Trillin is The Nation’s “deadline poet.”


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