PATRIOTISM ON THE CHEAP: AN ARMY TIMES.COM EDITORIAL

[GAsux]

It's been a while since I've posted so I'm a little rusty.

Anyway, while this was posted as an editorial, it of course can't officially speak for the Army folks. However, my own personal feeling is that this is the sentiment of many, not just in the Army, but DoD wide. I live in a Navy/Marine town and work closely with Army folks as well. Having at least some exposure to people from all four branches, I think the issues being raised here are issues that many within the DoD feel.

It marks a drastic shift in military politics which has always been heavily conservative Republican dominated. I'm not sure it necessarily indicates that military folks are ready to jump ship and head for the Democrats. But it sure seems like many aren't too happy with Dubya and military folks are dying to be courted by someone who appears to give a shit.

I think you'll find that most people in the military don't mind making the sacrifices they make with two stipulations. First, that the cause is valid. No one wants to die for nothing. Even if it's an idealistic cause, military folks like to believe that they are fighting for something that matters. Second, no one in the military expects to get rich, but they certainly expect to live like decent human beings. All they ask in return for their willingness to leave their loved ones, endure hardships, and risk their lives is to have some economic stability and comfort for their families.

The current administration seems more and more to be slapping the faces of the very people they are so constantly heaping praise upon.