Friday night's targeted bombardment of Syrian chemical weapons facilities delivered a strong message that the U.S. is no longer afraid to lead militarily when necessary. But, The Trump Administration must follow through with its promise to decrease our military presence and involvement in the region.

Candidate Trump denounced the endless U.S. engagement in the Middle East and vowed to bring an end to failed nation-building policies of the past that have proven costly both in terms of lives and treasure. It's time to deliver.

The Wall Street Journal reports that following Friday's bombing raid Trump stated, "We have asked our partners to take greater responsibility for securing their home region, including contributing larger amounts of money." Trump has called on friendly Arab nations to form an Arab coalition to replace U.S. forces in Syria. The report says Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the U.A.E. have been asked to provide more financial assistance especially in northern Syria where ISIS forces have largely been eradicated.

Whether or not you believe Friday's bombardment of Syria was justified, it is clear that the Trump Administration is working to fulfill its pledge to scale down the American presence in the region and should be encouraged to continue to do so. American allies in the region must step up and fill the void created by the withdrawal of U.S. forces. It is, after all, their backyard to protect from Iranian and other evil influences.

We simply cannot ask another generation of American men and women to sacrifice their lives and limbs for another Middle Eastern civil war. Enough is enough. It's time to come home.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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