There is no end to my discontent with the military, but I have to say in defense of all the troops that have served, serving now and thinking of serving - especially those who have paid the ultimate price - that I salute you. Be you a kid who just wants to blow things up or a person with a family history of proud service, you still offer up of your lives for a cause not your own.
Sure, it could be said that you're doing it for money, and that we're nothing but mercenaries, but I still say fuck that...When we sign on for any job, how many of us do so with the knowledge that our primary goal IS combat? Soldiers are a rare breed, and even though I have absolutely no love for many of those with whom I served, I still offer you my respect and admiration. 'Tis not a great life, and that you stick with it, is to be commended.
I know that on memorial day I should be centering my thoughts on those who HAVE paid the great price, but I can't help but think about all my veteran brothers and sisters. There are times when I feel guilty for not having shed a little blood, but I guess it wasn't in the cards. How fortunate I suppose.
Just a short lil' shout out. See a soldier or a veteran or a veteran's grave today: Shake a hand, say thank you, or say a prayer over their grave. Or just have a brief moment of silence. Even if you think the service is bullshit.
One final thought: If you haven't served, please don't open your mouth and express distaste for disgruntled and angry soldiers. Sort of a "don't knock it 'til you've tried it" philosophy applies here folks.
Sure, it could be said that you're doing it for money, and that we're nothing but mercenaries, but I still say fuck that...When we sign on for any job, how many of us do so with the knowledge that our primary goal IS combat? Soldiers are a rare breed, and even though I have absolutely no love for many of those with whom I served, I still offer you my respect and admiration. 'Tis not a great life, and that you stick with it, is to be commended.
I know that on memorial day I should be centering my thoughts on those who HAVE paid the great price, but I can't help but think about all my veteran brothers and sisters. There are times when I feel guilty for not having shed a little blood, but I guess it wasn't in the cards. How fortunate I suppose.
Just a short lil' shout out. See a soldier or a veteran or a veteran's grave today: Shake a hand, say thank you, or say a prayer over their grave. Or just have a brief moment of silence. Even if you think the service is bullshit.
One final thought: If you haven't served, please don't open your mouth and express distaste for disgruntled and angry soldiers. Sort of a "don't knock it 'til you've tried it" philosophy applies here folks.