The recent death of three DEA Special Agents in Afghanistan is a tragic reminder that the war on narcotics and terrorism cannot be separated in that part of the world. I doubt many heroin dealers and addicts in the U.S. make the connection between the two. I suspect they really do not care. But it must never be forgotten that they are threatening our national security when they participate in this activity.

It has been established beyond a doubt that the Taliban and Al Qaeda have financed their terrorist activities with proceeds from the heroin trade. Without this source of funding, their agenda would be greatly curtailed.

As we mourn the loss of these lives, let us not forget that we are fighting, as a nation, for our national security, both on the streets of America and Afghanistan. Separating the two does no justice to this loss.