The Colbert Report Season 7 Episode 26 Bing West

Bing West, a military historian and former Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, is the guest on this episode of The Colbert Report. As always, Stephen Colbert pulls no punches in his interview with West, delving into the history and current state of America's involvement in conflict abroad.

Colbert begins the interview by asking West about his career in the military and how it has informed his work as a historian. West explains that his time in Vietnam taught him the importance of understanding the culture and politics of the people he was fighting against, which has been a key theme in his work ever since.

The conversation then turns to the current state of America's military presence in Iraq and Afghanistan. West argues that the wars were poorly planned and executed, and that the United States has not effectively communicated its goals to the rest of the world. He also expresses concern that the military is being asked to do too much without the resources or support it needs to succeed.

Colbert pushes back, questioning whether it's really America's place to be involved in these conflicts at all. West counters that America has a responsibility to protect its own interests and those of its allies, but he acknowledges that there are limits to what can be achieved militarily.

Throughout the interview, Colbert and West engage in a spirited and thoughtful discussion of the complex issues surrounding America's role in the world. Both men are clearly passionate about the subject, and their conversation is at once enlightening and entertaining.

As always, the show also includes other segments and comedic bits. One particularly memorable moment comes when Colbert invites a group of military veterans onstage to sing a patriotic song with him, only to spring a surprise twist on them that leaves them all laughing and applauding.

Overall, this episode of The Colbert Report is a thought-provoking and engaging look at America's military presence in the world, with insights and perspectives from one of the foremost authorities on the subject. Whether you're a policy wonk or just a fan of Colbert's irreverent humor, this is an episode not to be missed.