I don't care much for 99% of this thread with its personal attacks and silly bickering but I have to respond to this original comment. First of all, I ride road, and love my c-dale (had to throw that in since this is a cycling forum after all). Second of all, I'm in my 9th year of active service in the U.S. Army. My service includes overseas tours and 13 months in Iraq as well. I am a mature, well-adjusted family man of reasonable intelligence. I am a graduate of USMA and am currently completing a graduate degree at a top-five school. I beg to differ with the comments about intelligence and professionalism. Every organization in the WORLD makes mistakes, and the U.S. military is no different. Military units of all nations are a microcosm of the society and culture they serve. As such, they are not perfect - but do not tell me that we are not professional on the whole. I people with whom I have served are among the most professional idividuals I have come across in my life. I have served in combat with fellow U.S. soldiers obviously, but also with Brits - and they too are very professional. I have also had the opportunity to conduct extensive training with military units from Italy, Germany, Hungary, and Poland. They have all been professional, dedicated, and mature soldiers and I have the utmost respect for all of them. I am sure that they all had immature people among their ranks as well, but ANY organization will, military or not. And do you honestly suggest that no intelligent man or woman SHOULD sign up for military service? Where do you think the nations of the free world would be today without capable military institutions? My comrades and I do not serve because we thrive on violent conflict. Trust me, I would much rather have spent my year in Iraq at home with my wife and daughters. We serve because we understand the importance of this type of service to our nation. Do not mistake that to think we all believe in every policy or decision that our civilian leaders make. I have my own opinions, but they are of little consequence. It is not my concern beyond my ability to vote. My concern is only to ensure that we are able to fulfill our missions effectively, timely, and as safely as possible. Debate over political decisions is healthy and necessary for our leaders to make the correct decisions, but history has proven that a distinction between military and civilian leadership must be maintained. We stand ready to execute our nation's will, but it is up to all of us through the political process to steer our nation(s) in the direction we want.
In short, do not sling mud at those who sacrifice to protect you - and do not call them lazy or dumb. Rise above the fray and put some thought into your publicly displayed statements. I am modest. I by no means think I have the most important role in the world - but I do work to make a difference. I have complete respect for those who choose not to serve as well - as every meaningful job in the world has a particular and important purpose.
I am not asking you to feel sorry for me. I chose this life. I, however, DO feel sorry for you. Enough of this, I'm going out to log some miles! Ride on!
