Sen. Henry A. Jackson, D-Wash. echoes what many are saying when he perceives a new mood inthe country – that Americans want to restore U. S. strength and influence as a trusted free nations leader. A member of the Senate Armed Forces Committee. Jackson spoke at the commissioning of the nuclearpowered attack submarine Bremerton at Groton, Conn. “Tbere is a new understanding at the top that we are in a continuing longterm military-political competition with the Soviets, and that we are not maintaining a competitive position,” the senator said. What are the urgent tasks needed to rebuild our position and stature? Americans will be interested in Jackson’s recommendations ; First: Restore over-all military strength. “As I see it, a sturdy strategic equivalance with the Soviet Union is the indispensable foundation for an effective American foreign policy to meet our responsibilities and safeguard our interests around the world.” Second: Bolster deterrence and promote stability in Southwest Asia. Jackson sees the Persian Gulf area as a “great strategic prize for geopolitical reasons” even if it didnt contain vast oil resources. “But, of course. it does contain oil on which we and our allies depend.” Third: “We must do our part to forge an enduring. constructive relationship with the Peoples Republic of China, and this we have only begun to do.” The key is China’s strategic role in tying down. on its northern border. roughly 25 percent of the Soviet defense burden. “For our part. if we keep America strong and resolute. we will be perceived by Chinese leaders as a credible counterweight to the Soviet Union – now Chinas main adversary.” Jackson also: – Applauded Reagan Administration emphasis on asking Atlantic allies and Japan to join in providing more for the common defense. – Urged effective utilization of the West’s assets, particularly military economic roles of Israel, Egypt, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. – Said America should maintain a “credible presence” in the area “with appropriate facilities.” The senator’s statements deal with realities with which the public should be conversant. Perhaps, in keeping with the goal of building U. S. strength and respect. an immediate need is updating and developing an effective and coherent over-all strategy. This should be done in cooperation with our key friends and allies. Unity plus wise, steady diplomacy must be a priority step to accomplishing the goals of sound defense and continued peace and security.