I agree with Kljr that anyone who went into the military for the hopes of a high five when they get back is ridiculous, and I never intended that. I will agree that living your life solely for yourself IS ordinary, and that military service IS extraordinary. But, I feel that this statement leaves out quite a bit. It's also a bit black and white. It makes me think "if you aren't military, you are ordinary."

There isn't a heirarchy of life whose pinnacle can only be attained through military service. Living your life selflessly can be achieved through many different venues. Policemen, Firemen, Rescue personel, medical service, etc.

And you know what? I know PLENTY of non-patriotic people who have joined the military. Not all enlisted are so honorable as those who have spoken up in this thread. I REALLY don't mean to offend anyone by this statement, but for some percentage it's true. I'm sure during this economic downturn there are plenty of people who are joining the military just to pay the bills. There's nothing wrong with that, but I can't say that it's the most honorable reason compared to those who serve to serve.

Despite what their reason for joining may be, I don't think that the military has ever deserved the negative reception that they often get. Whether it be in Vietnam, Korea, Iraq, or anywhere. It makes me sad. Seeing the state of some of the military hospitals, the number of homeless vets, those suffering from PTSD. We spend so much on the military, but so little on taking care of our guys after they come home.

I read a few weeks ago where soldiers are being sent bills after they get out of the military. One guy lost his helmet as he was running during combat, so the army sent him a bill for the helmet. What kind of crap is that? Total BS.


About the magnets; I don't agree with the statement "God bless OUR troops"..... God bless ALL troops is more like it. They are just doing what they are supposed to do. It's those who are in positions of power who cause the wars that should be done away with.

The troops on the "other" side have sons and daughters, wives and fathers, etc. just like our guys do. God bless the US troops, the Iraqi troops, the Spanish, German, Russian and so on.


A question for you though: There are plenty of retired marines around my town who have the magnets on their cars. How do you respond to that? Is it okay for them to have the magnets but not for soccer moms?

I know that the magnets do jack crap for the individual soldier. but a second question: What's wrong with displaying them?