The department my son runs for Ford did the analysis that concluded that if either GM or Chrysler went under, the suppliers that they'd suck down with them would cause Ford to shut down as well. Ford has husbanded it's money pretty wisely and could survive market conditions as now exist for another year or so without any government help. They have a lineup of attractive, fuel efficient and hybrid vehicles ready to hit the market in late 2009 and 2010, a better lineup of product than any of their competitors they believe.

But are my wife and I worried about our son and grandsons? Certainly. If any of the auto companies fail our son would certainly be out of work. Could he get another job? With his experience, performance and advanced degrees, almost certainly. Would it take awhile? Probably. Would he have to move from suburban Detroit? Almost certainly. Would the experience have an effect on our very smart grandsons, all of whom are attending private schools? Certainly. Can my wife and I help? No. Would it be a very tough couple of years for a young family. Absolutely.

So as much as I hate to say it, the chances are that the UAW in particular will cause the U.S. auto companies to cease to exist. Will that event cost all of us a lot of money and prolong and deepen an already serious worldwide recession? I believe that it will. But as much as it will hurt me and my family, I still don't think it's the role of our government to continue to fund companies or an industry, however important it might be, if the stakeholders in the industry don't take the necessary steps to make themselves competitive--even at great personal sacrifice.