By Michelle Moore
IOWA CITY — The use of military drones by the United States is on the rise, killing and causing psychological damage to innocent civilians and creating negative perceptions of the United States, said Veterans for Peace (VFP) National President Leah Bolger. Bolger, who served 20 years in the U.S. Navy before retiring with a commander rank, spoke to an audience of more than 50 individuals Jan. 23 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Iowa City. The event was sponsored by VFP Chapter 161 of Iowa City. University of Iowa senior Dan Tallon, a member of the local chapter and a former National Guard infantryman in Afghanistan, co-presented.
Remote Weapon
A drone — also called an unmanned aerial vehicle — is a remote-controlled aircraft first used during the Vietnam conflict. Drones range in size and flying endurance from a model airplane type that can be controlled from the ground to ones that have a 66-foot wingspan and fly autonomously unseen for more than 20 hours, according to Voices for Creative Nonviolence. Drones are used domestically and in foreign countries. All have surveillance capabilities, but advanced drones carry missiles, noted Tallon. Drones are commonly used by companies, researchers, border security and military.
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