The United States has a moral and strategic obligation to help the Liberian people end their hellish, 14-year civil war. But first, President Charles Taylor must leave office. A United Nations tribunal has accused Taylor of crimes against humanity during this bloody civil war.

Taylor came to power himself by overthrowing a brutal regime in 1989, but since then fighting between Taylor's government and rebel forces have decimated Liberia's infrastructure, and more than 150,000 people have been killed. American help does not mean sending in the sweeping armies we have seen in Iraq. It is likely to involve nominal forces that will help ensure order while the country heals.

Taylor's departure would do much to drain away the violence that is infecting the country. The rebels have agreed to stop fighting once he is gone. Right now, 2,500 U.S. Marines are positioned off the coast of the country. President Bush has correctly ordered them not to land until Taylor is gone to avoid putting U.S. forces between warring factions. Nigeria has offered Taylor political asylum. He has promised to leave office on Monday. U.S. diplomatic pressure can help speed his exit.

Some have suggested American engagement in Liberia could turn into another "Blackhawk Down" incident from 1994 Somalia, but the difference is that the history of Liberia and the United States are closely intertwined. Liberia, from the design of its flag and the names of its major cities, (Monrovia and Buchanan) is patterned after things American. It was founded 180 years ago by the American Colonization Society, a group that repatriated freed American slaves to Africa.

During World Wars I and II and the Cold War, Liberia was used as a key strategic base for United States forces. Its extensive rubber plantations are critical in the support of the U.S. automobile industry.

This week, there have been signs of hope. Nigeria sent 200 troops as peacekeeping force, a development welcomed by the White House. More Nigerian troops are scheduled to arrive this week.

The Liberian people have been ravaged enough. Once Taylor is removed, the United States can take a lead role in helping it recover.