Quote:
Originally Posted by RK77
I don't think that a lot of them see it that way Deez. Some just wanted to be of service to this nation, period. They neither contemplated nor cared about the politics of the issues involved.
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My colorful rhetoric is my opinion, and not what I believe the service people believe.
I was referring to a period of time...in the 80's/90's, when joining the service was a viable option for many youth in this country. Do your time, come out with benefits, and a free education.
Many of my older friends were/are in the guard, or the reserves. All of those I mentioned here were indeed interested in serving their country. Whether or not they did it for the benefits at the other end of the tunnel, is an individual issue.
I feel for those who opted for this path, just before 9/11. How many guard/reservists who aren't properly trained for active duty got swept up in this murderous ploy in Iraq? Some of these families were torn apart, and their lives ruined because we launched into a campaign that was grossly misplanned. We're talking about men/women with good paying jobs, a mortgage and a family, that are now getting paid pennies to fight overseas.
Yes, they wanted to serve their country, but what they signed up for was nothing like what they are involved in now. I know they took that chance when they signed up, but we all have to trust our commander in chief to use good judgement before endangering the lives of the citzens of this country.
This current situation is unprecedented, if I am not mistaken. These soldiers could never have predicted this would happen when they signed up for duty as a "weekend warrior".
Consequently, I truly feel for this group. I would not, however, contribute to their being trapped in Iraq, by sending a donation. If we can't afford to fight this war, let's end it.