Well said. I know that soldiers down range have back breaking concerns on their shoulders. Not only are they wrapped up with their added burden to fight for our freedom with their very lives, they too have worry about their economic survival which is compounded by thousands compared to the 'countrymen' who can worry in the comfort of their own homes surrounded by family, without having to look over their shoulder for a bomb or a sniper.

I tear up every time I read an article like this because I know the American Soldier does not get near the respect and honor due him.

Finally, finally, FINALLY a comment by a real soldier that reflects what I've been thinking since we sent our troops to Iraq. I have long believed in my heart that the people holding a rally and standing on street corners with signs saying, "Bring our troops home - we support our troops!" don't really support them. The troops all signed up to go, they weren't drafted, they went into the military of their own free will and I'm sure with very strong feelings of protecting our country and freedoms. All patriotic. Those signs and rallies stomp on a military person's belief system. It tells them we don't believe in what they signed up for or what they feel they will give their lives for. I stand behind them and I thank them for all they give and have given. While I wish they didn't have to go or be sent, the fact is they joined with the full intent to go so I support them in their efforts to do the job they believe in. THANK YOU all for your commitment and belief in keeping us free and strong.

We want you all to come home. We care, please, please don't think that we don't. Thank you for taking care of us for so long and sacrificing yourselves, your bodies and your minds. We need you at home now, we will write and call on our senate. We have an election coming up in November; we will make your voices heard. We think about you all the time and the horrific conditions you survive day after day while we sit in our air conditioned cubes watching. We think about your families and your children who you haven't seen you in such a long time. Most of all, we think about you...your selflessness, your altruism and bravery. We're here for you. Come home soon, love to all of you, thank you.

Miranda,

The people at the rallies and holding signs are doing a lot more politically than most people. What makes you think they aren't engaged with their representatives, voicing their concerns?

Lt. Babcock isn't asking people to mindlessly support the war. He's asking them to get engaged in the political process and bring some resolution to this issue.

BTW, I'm one of those sign holders and I believe sending our troops to engage in an endless war with no clear mission is NOT supporting the troops. The initial mission was to get OBL and Al Qaeda, but Donald Rumsfeld failed to give the troops THE SUPPORT THEY NEEDED at Tora Bora and instead diverted our troop strength to Iraq FOR NO REASON. Bush violated his promise not to engage in nation building and we have spent a trillion dollars and needlessly killed thousands of soldiers (and hundreds of thousands of Iraqis and Afghans).

Believe it or not, DISSENT CAN BE PATRIOTIC, if it is expressed within our political system. There are a number of persuasive arguments made by experts with a lot more experience than you or I that conclude that these wars have NOT made us safer.

Feel free to make a counter argument, but please do so on the merits and not some jingoistic RNC talking points.

I really don't know where to start, I am behind our troops, they should have the freedom to do what they are trained for. They know their job, let them do it. Too many restraints are put on them and I feel that the cost is American lives. I too have donated money, coffee, food, and hygiene items. I am a fan of Starbucks, any time a serviceman comes in their beverage is on me, and I am not the only one who has done that for them, and I make sure to ask how they are and that they have my respect and gratitude for the service they are doing. My flag flies at home everyday, and the troops are in my prayers each day. I want them home safe and sound, but if you send them to war send them to fight and to victory. I am a Viet Nam veteran, not hard combat, USAF, I was in Saigon for the 1968 Tet offensive and seen what our troops went through in that campaign. I believe in the saying that if you don't stand behind our troops, feel free to stand in front of them.

The Lt right, people back home never get it. Until you get politically involved, nothing is going to change. It doesn't matter what side of the issue you are on. Nothing changes unless we change and get involved.

I don't honestly support them.

I support only a very narrow definition of military action, and it certainly doesn't include preemptive war. Our clandestine history in Afghanistan is, I am absolutely certain, appalling. Regarding 911, our enemy, if you want to identify an entire country, was Saudi Arabia. Not Afghanistan, and certainly not Iraq. While we did not have the kind of military with the kind of training and the kind of tools appropriate for tracking down Bin Laden, Saudi Arabia could have done it with ease, and it was their responsibility to do so.

Certainly I want our soldiers to come home safely, and by safely I mean many things. I mean physically whole, of course, but also psychologically and spiritually whole. That doesn't happen when people kill other people, especially children, not to mention torture and rape them. What so many rabid patriots can't grasp is not so much the horror of war -- they seem to wallow in that -- but the fact that there is no such thing as "soldiers." Those are people murdering other people, and at 3 am, when they are all alone, it will be with them. Then the labels and the rhetoric are revealed as meaningless.

I want the power games and the b.s. and the blood-lust to stop. There is no excuse for war today, as we have all the tools necessary to isolate and incapacitate any country without murdering even one innocent civilian.

Anyone who condones war, anyone who participates in war, and certainly anyone who starts a war is, IMO, a caveman.

As a military wife, you AREN'T doing anything to support us. Do you know that my husband and I walk by those and get spit on? Called baby killers? And we've had people tell us that if he goes over there then he deserves to die? Really? These rallies are support? Never once have we had someone say "Thank You" for anything. It's stupid to think that you're "supporting the troops" when you show the entire world, including our enemies that you're willing to do that for something you've never experienced. You're so warped by the media agenda that you dont bother to sign your name on the dotted line, work through the ranks and get high enouogh to get a clear picture of what's happening. What makes you think you're entitled to knowing all the information and making the decision of whether it's right or wrong? Because MSNBC told you so? You get some feedback from someone whose life has actually been affected, and all you do is tell them that the way they said is wrong is actually right. Do us military types a favor and just stop.

My husbands first tour he got his kevlar stolen by an Iraqi. Do you think he got a new one? No. Why? Because the people protesting stopped the shipments of aid. I'm really glad you were a part of that so that my 21 year old soldier could be denied protection while protecting you. So if you're proud of that, then be proud of the harm you're causing. You're not supporting the troops.

If you wanted to support us, then do what this soldier has asked. Don't argue with it. Not one soldier wants to come home to war protestors. Not a single one. But there they are outside of the gate every time. No one wants war protesters at a friends funeral. But there they are, every time. Whether you like it or not, these people have given their lives for you. So that you can have the freedom to stand on a street corner, block traffic and spit on them because of what you think you "know".

If you want to support a soldier, go take care of the needs of their families. Mow a lawn, watch some kids, pick up a scrub brush, leave a note, make a phone call.

If you want to support a soldier, wave your flag with pride. Not on a street corner yelling hateful "bring the troops home now" statements. Whether you like it or not, the ones high up do believe in what they were doing.

If you want to support a soldier, send a package with the things that they need. Put some effort into it to give them the comforts of home.

If you want to support a soldier, don't act like a rally is doing anything positive. What they see is a group full of hate and disrespect. Not only for them, but for the ones that they've lost who died for what they believed in.

Nothing is ever going to be perfect, but don't hate on the ones that are trying to make it the best situation they can. So do us all a favor and just stop.

well said, armywife!

Amen Armywife!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you, your husband, and your families!!!!!!! Thank God there are people out there like y'all and the thousands of others who sacrifice for our freedom!!!!!!!

ArmyWife...WOW!!!! Well said, please tell your husband for me...THANK YOU!!! And yes I do support them, where I work, we send care packages to the soldier's, we have our employees bring in items that are listed that the troops need and would like to have from "home". We do this every year and also there are times when our "food" is brought to them too!

Along with the care packages we also send letters of encouragement! Just so you know, there are alot of people that do these things also, not just my employer. I cannot believe the mentality of people that they would actually spit on the very people that are preserving their right to do that.

UNBELIEVABLE!!! And whenever I see a soldier, I always tell them THANK YOU, and I pray everyday that these soldier's get whatever they need to get them through another day!

Thank you to those that actually support the troops. They need it more than you know.

jaymzz. You're welcome to move. You clearly don't deserve the freedom these men and women are providing. The nation would be better without you. I'm glad you think you know absolutely everything. But I can guarantee that you don't. It's time for you to move. No one is keeping you here, but I'm sure you enjoy the freedoms so you will continue to say something as offensive as "There's no difference between a U.S. Soldier in Iraq/Afghanistan and a Nazi Soldier if Hitler's Germany." I added the correct spelling and grammer, of course.

Jaymzz. Have you ever learned anything about the history of our country? Probably cut class or flunked. Your stupidity is quite evident and the Army Wife had to correct your spelling. Wish we still had a draft. I would like to see the Marine Corps whip you into shape. You would probably get out on a section 8. You are a disgrace!!

Wow--so-called "Army Wife--" your stories about being "spit on" and Kevlar helmets being held up really sounds like a complete crock. If you are wondering why our soldiers did not get the body armor and Kevlar helmets look to Rumsfeld and his corporate cronies at DOD, not mythical protesters.

This useless war is daily costing American lives to no good purpose. There is NO reason to be in Afghanistan, and Iraq was a fiasco that never should have been fought. A trillion dollars and nothing whatsoever to show for it except thousands of US and allied dead, tens of thousands wounded and suffering from PTSD, hundreds of thousands of Iraqi civilians in their graves, thousands of Iraqi kids born with severe birth defects and leukemia from spent uranium, and at least four million refugees. Not to mention hundreds of billions squandered on corrupt contractors without accountability when we have millions unemployed. Where are the tens of billions in cash that were handed out? Did our troops get a dime of it?

I have been in a number of demonstrations against the war, surrounded by vets from all the previous conflicts as well as the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan. I am a veteran who spent 6 years in the US Army and I have close relatives and friends serving now, as do the rest of the protesters who tried to stop these wars and are still trying to do so. We all support the troops because WERE the troops, or the troops are our blood. Stop your smears and open your ears, and stop making things up.

My son has done 2 year-long tours in Iraq. I guess I can honestly say that he's received nothing but praise and best wishes from the public. He's got a rather outgoing personality and when he gets off the plane, he's surrounded by well-wishers and I can't tell you how many times I've seen complete strangers come up to him and say thank you for your service. There have been 2 local newspaper articles written about him. I can't say what it's like in the rest of the country, but here in Minnesota, people have been supportive.

As far as going without the vest goes, I highly doubt that having one of his men without a vest would fly. The whole thing doesn't sound right. I'm pretty sure they wouldn't have sent him over without one. The protesters may have stopped a shipment, but that wouldn't have prevented anyone from having a vest over there.

That being said, i do agree with the article that many of us are supporting the troops in a very peculiar way. Wearing a red "support the troops" tshirt on friday doesn''t do much for them. Sending a care package does. Writing a bitchy entry on newsvine either for or against the war doesn't do much, but talking/writing your senator/representative does, especially if enough of us do it.

Actually, if you knew about the Army issuing system, you'd know that they receive their gear when they are still in the U.S. then they take it over and bring it back. Then it's checked in and any gear unaccounted for has to be paid for out of pocket. That's the way his unit has done it. I've never heard different, but we're not in every state and every branch, so maybe someone does it differently. This isn't a thing where you show up and they just give you things. So you didn't read what I said where I told you that it was stolen. They didn't send him without one. He had one. And when that happened in 2003, there were no extras "just laying around" like you'd assume. And I never said it was a helmet, so it shows how much you actually know. I think it's stupid, but I understand it. I'm sorry you automatically assume that you know exactly how things work and how things "can't happen", but they do. Protesters don't know what supplies they're stopping so to say that they would never stop a shipment of aid is wrong because they don’t know better. Nothing is broadcast saying "HEY! This shipment is equipment! If you stop it then a soldier is going to go without!" Hygiene products are hard to come by at times. Feminine hygiene is extremely hard to come by. There's a site (anysoldier.com) where soldiers can post the things that they need so that people here can fill the requests and send them over. You'll see a few that are asking for "luxury items" (TV, DVD's, things like that) but the majority are asking for the basics. I sent my husband toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors and snacks. It's all going to depend on where they're at and at what time. Every soldier's experience will be different.

I'm happy that your son has been supported. That's awesome. When they come home they should be supported by everyone around. My husband was, but we also found that outside of the base that support dwindled. But after his second 14-month tour things were rough. It was around the elections and it sucked. My husband won’t wear his uniform out in public anymore because of experiences he's had. I can tell you more, if you'd like.

When my husband was riding his motorcycle to work one day (in uniform, ACU's), a person went as far as to roll down their window, spit on him and call him a baby killer. I'm sorry for those that want to turn a blind eye to those situations, but that's what's happened in our lives. You can't tell me it's not real when I experience it. I hope people have different experiences. I hope soldiers feel supported. I can tell you of the 40 families I'm keeping tabs on while their husbands are gone, maybe 10 have neighbors who care enough to stop by and show their support in any way they can. Lots stay away. Not because they are trying to me rude or make a statement, but because they just don’t know what to say or do.

Just like First Lt. Babcock said, the American public will never get it. I'll never get it. As an Army Wife I'm privy to more information than the general public, but I still can't say if it's right or wrong. I don't have the facts. I know what my husband has told me, I know what other soldiers have told me and I've been told the "real" story behind what the news reports. And let me tell you, sometimes the difference is shocking. But that's journalism. I hope and pray that we will never have to know the fear of war on our own home soil. I'm willing to support my husband and take care of our family as he goes to defend what he loves so much. This is volunteer. This is something that is so engrained in both of us, that we would never consider changing. But with volunteering comes a sacrifice of the freedom they're securing for everyone else. And that's ok. Some people might not agree with me, some people might say that this is worthless, but I can also say that another event like September 11, 2001 has not happened again on this soil. So when you feel like yelling out, thank a soldier for their sacrifice to secure your right to do so.

THANK YOU FOR SERVING!!!

And may God bless our troops who know deep with them that it's STILL all about America, God and Country...faith, family and freedom!

"May no soldier go unloved,
May no soldier walk alone,
May no soldier be forgotten,
Until they all come home."

Heroes waiting for Adoption: http://soldiersangels.org/

"If anybody is wondering: Where are the young idealists?

Where are the people willing to devote themselves to causes larger than themselves?

They are in uniform in Iraq [and Afghanistan], straddling the divide between insanity and order."

-- NY Times Columnist David Brooks

This was filmed in Iraq at a USO tour of a US Marine Base.

Play it and spread it to every single person you know...

<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MtdIO23MKM>

God Bless America

"While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,
Let us swear allegiance to a land that's free,
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,
As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer. "

God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home sweet home."

I have to disagree on a couple of things. First, I live in a military town with a major university also located here. An ALMOST liberal university. I have never heard of or seen any form of disrespect for our military. Until this thread, I had never heard of any instances during these two wars where a soldier was called a "baby killer" or spit upon. All the stories that were covered during the first 7 years of Afghanistan and the first 5 years of Iraq, and the last few years, have never shown any soldier or his family mentioning such instances. I'd like to see the proof.

I also disagree that we have supported our soldiers in the past. In fact, in some ways they receive more care now than during the first years after 9/11. Why do I say that? Because even though everyone was waving flags, putting magnetic yellow ribbons on their cars, and hanging "I Support the Troops" signs in their windows, the troops did not see any tangible benefit from this so-called support.

In 2005 my son joined the army. Like most young men and women, he wanted to go fight the terrorists. His first deployment to Iraq in 2006 was quite the eyeopener. He is a Blackhawk mechanic and when he returned to the states, he told me stories of not having enough parts to keep his helicopter in the air, of having to cannibalize other aircraft to find the parts his craft needed to stay ready for combat. In addition, my son spent many months working side-by-side with a civilian contractor. My son was a Pfc making around $20,000 p/year. The civilian doing the same job, while working fewer hours, made $140,000 p/yr. Sounds like we were supporting our troops. Yeah, right. No equipment to do his job correctly, while a civilian working fewer hours, under fewer restrictions than our military, is making 7 times as much as my son. Hmmm. Sounds like we were supporting our troops.

Now, my son is in Afghanistan. He has 3 Blackhawks he is responsible for. He has enough parts to keep all 3 in the air if needed. He has received a raise, his wife can receive education benefits, and his GI Bill finally meets the needs of veterans attending school. That's supporting the troops.

Wave your flags all you want. Wear all the yellow ribbons you want. Hang all the Support the Troops signs you want. Just realize that patriotism is more than what you display on the outside, it's what's in your heart and what you DO for our country and it's representatives that matters.

One last thing. Last weekend I mentioned to my employer that my son is leaving the military after almost 6 years with more than half of that time spent deployed. I said that he is taking his GI Bill and getting his Bachelor's degree. My boss's comment? "Oh, yeah, someone else wanting a freebie." Really? REALLY??? So now someone risking his life for our freedom is looked on as wanting a freebie for taking what he was promised he would receive? REALLY???

A bunch of falsehoods.This is a bad war they are not fighting for my freedom. They are not protecting me. They are making more terrorists than anything.

you fool! how dare you and I would love to have you come say that to any solider or their families face.....

you know what, we can write our congressman, senatere all we want to demand more military equipment & safe return of them back to USA. However, if there is NO Money there nothing we can do. AND it not upto us -people to decide what happens during wars. History had show that dont matter what people do, the MONEY controll s all the wars.

11B, I do not see his comments as whining. Maybe the benefits part was a little much but the rest was a valid point. Being a military leader does not prevent one from voicing constructive criticism of responsibility of citizenship. The last thing we need is a military that are blind followers, that is a trait of totalitarian militaries. Both of you take care of yourself and your soldiers. Get that mission done and get home....

11B, your offbase. We are in a two front war and the American public is not engaged. That is what this story is about. Yeah, Iraq was tough, I was there. But Afghanistan is worse.

11B, you missed the whole point of what the LT was saying. He just wants people to ACT instead of slapping a magnet or sticker on your car. He wants people to actually DO SOMETHING.Write a letter, stage a rally...VOTE.

I also served in Afghanistan in '05-'06. As an Air Force Officer we were sent to augment the Army as they are spread too thin. We were all proud and honored to help our brothers and sisters in arms but that doesn't change the fact that we were there due to some bad decisions made at the top (no, I won't go on a political rant).

You dishonor our calling when you talk down to a fellow soldier. Respect his right to voice his opinion and his service...as yours has been.

You sir, are an @$$. But there are many like you and 1st Lt. Babcock and all the other men and women protecting your freedom to be an @$$ deserve more than your worthless remarks.

individuals volunteer for th emilitary. Deployments overseas are achance it could happen but not something most peopls wish for. If many people get out as 11b3p suggested then where would our military force be? I did nto see this soldier as complaining but looking for more support from the proper sources to better their time there and even more so when they return. My husband served 2 tours in Iraq and it is hard while they are there but can be so much more difficult when they return home. So I say a thnak you as well to the troops and I will look for more ways to support the troops as well!! Without the military soldiers and their sacrifices this country would not be where it is today. Not saying it is perfect and ideal but could be worse. We are lucky to have the FREEDOMS to pseak our minds almost anywhere without fear of being killed or our families beinig killed. So it could be worse!!

I supported the war in Afganistan after 9/11. If I had known it would be used as a dress rehearsal for the bid Daddy Warbucks production in Iraq, I would not have done so. When Bush and Cheney were hyping the war in Iraq that January and our entry was imminent, I was in Washington with 300,000 other people protesting the war. The papers and TV lowballed us by reporting that there were 30,000 protesters (I got the 300,00 figure from the D.C. park police). The media was very anxious to get another war going. It is big business for them too. There were protests all over the country that received similar treatment. So saying that no one cares is not accurate. Unlike the Vietnam protests any significant citizen action contrary to the wishes of the monied elite is hidden by the media at the orders of their corporate masters. MSNBC is no exception. They just make money from a different demographic. Lately I wonder if I'm supporting war and chaos by consuming this media. Perhaps the Masters of War are not just those who make the big bombs.

we end up doing your job for you because the queens of battle just go into a village, destroy it and leave. We are the kings of battle because we can do two jobs just as good as one< and at the same time.

11B3P your comment was rude and uncalled for. Yes these men and women volunteered for these jobs to defend our country and our citizens. They deserve the highest praise and greatest benefits for putting their lives on the line for people like you who do not appreciate what they do for us. I could not imagine surviving in the conditions they are living in at this moment and have lived in for months and even years. You should be ashemed of yourself. Too many Americans are only out for themselves and what they can do for themselves these days and you sound like one of them. So he complained about the conditions he is dealing with which are conditions none of us should ever have to deal with. Don't we all complain about our jobs from time to time? Have a heart!

This Officer is not complaining. All of us volunteered. We all believe in our Constitution and the defense of it. Signs on the corner make me cry every time I see them. They are not suporting the troops, they are armchair quarterbacking our patriotism. If you have an opinion, contact your senators. All opinions must be expressed or our Constutution becomes powerless. Don't question my patriotism or my morals until you have stood the watch in 120 degree heat wearing 65 pounds of safety equipment and praying for the water truck to come for your monthly shower while munching on MRE's.

Stand Down there Sunshine.... If you actually did serve in the front lines you would have a clue as to what 1st LT. Babcock is saying. You Sir are an idiot poser. I know Babcock personally, and his wife. They are my family. Babcock was in Iraq previously, then came home, retrained and sent back to the worst part of our second mistake. This article is dead on, people in America have no clue what it is to support us as soldiers. Our country was quick to call us 'hero' after 9/11. yet have quickly forgotten what we do. Yes, he volunteered, and you know what? He will always volunteer for war. He is a sheepdog. He will always be there to protect the sheep (American people) from the wolf. He will fight, he will die for an uneducated, ignorant fool like yourself. And he will do so with honor.

The author asked a specific question, 'Does the American public get it?' And the answer is NO. They don't. Now a lot of people mean well, donate, volunteer to help wounded soldiers. Some write letters, some mail care packages, and some stand on street corners and hold signs. Guess what, that doesn't change the war. What Chris is asking is simple, vote. Change things. Why is it that a sniveling POS like you can sit back and make a lot of money in a cubicle while a soldier has to be on welfare in order to make ends meet? why is it, that when he dies, serving his country, the family gets a small check and a flag? why is it that his health care doesn't actually take care of all of his needs or his family. Why is it that he gets a fine if his wife doesn't mow the lawn to exactly the right height while he is deployed? Or his pay gets screwed up while overseas and his car gets repo'ed? where is the protection for those that protect us?

Those are the questions that need to be answered, these are the people that we, as Americans, should be fighting to protect. Most folks would never dream of holding a gun, let alone shooting another person. they do it to protect us from the wolf. They die for us, yet we let them die alone, and their familes starve, or go homeless. So sir, what are you going to do about it? How are you going to help? I know, i know..... Life is different when you are in the rear, with the gear. McDonalds every night is nice huh? while Chris, and his men are out there without hot meals and taking fire day after day.

Tell you what, why don't you grab your gear, and join him. That way when you open your mouth you are educated. See what it's like, hell, take a bullet for one of his men, and let them come home to their family. See what it's like to live scared every minute of every day for your entire tour. hell, why don't you do something honorable there 11B, why don't you go die for your country and to protect anothers life. Why don't you do that instead of sitting behind a key board throwing insults at real men, you fricken pansy.

You are a jerk. If you really cared about the troops you would not be so quick to denigrate them. A typical libtard is what you are. Go away, leave the country, we would certainly be better off without you here.

LT Babcock's direct and honest comments prompted me to send letters to my senators. Did anyone else?

I had hoped that the campaign promises of getting our military out of Iraq and Afghanistan would come to fruition by now. Is this just another example of political double talk to secure an election? We, meaning Americans, have troops in foreign countries perishing daily, yet the most controversial issues addressed by the Media, the House and the Senate are regarding worthwhile, yet mundane issues.

Please, bring this very important issue back into the limelight it deserves. Our troops no longer believe the "We Support You" line. They know for a fact that the average American just does not understand why they are there. In fact, most of the troops do not know why they are there either. This is a war on a mindset, not a tangible enemy. It is war we cannot win by the means presented.

Oh, and I support my soldier ... but no one supports me. In fact, even though I live in a military town, I have faced derision and slander from the very people my husband seeks to protect. Appalling? Yes. However, I think the reason is that most people believe the media, which creates an emotional response within them, and do not know how to effect change. LT Babcock was very specific - write your senators, representatives, send a letter to the editor of every paper you can, but do something. Spitting on me and spouses like me will not get anything done.

@ elaine connelly

Uncalled for,

11B is the MOS designation for Infantry. The poster using this designation, might have served in OIF but I question that. Because if he did, he would have known better.

Using the term libtard is not helpful in this forum as this should not be about partisan bickering. It is about Men and Women in harms way who deserve the respect and full support of this Nation. There are service members who have conservative, liberal, and middle of the road views, but they are all patriots.

As for 11B...he should remember that every soldier is trained as an infantryman first. Field Artillery, Armor, Aviation, Quartermaster, Ordnance, Signal Corps, Military Intelligence, Medical Service Corps, Finance, Transportation Corps, Air Defense Artillery....all are issued rifles, all bleed, all have chosen to serve.

Ahh, the bleeding heart liberals come out in droves, I love it. Soldiers berate, belittle and poke fun at other soldiers, it is a right we earned through hardship and if you don't like it look the other way as you are obviously not one of us. Point of the comment was that leaders should never complain to their subordinates and when they do in a public forum such as this it does nothing more than to cloud a soldier's judgement. He was whining about pay and who knows maybe it was just the way the reporter wrote the story that made it sound whiny. If you are going to be in the military you really can't give a damn what the civilians think as opinions are always going to vary. All you can do is appreciate the kindness some give and ignore the insults, be thin skinned and you'll be fine. And yes I served in the Army for 14 years and my tag was my MOS designator and I was in Diyala Province during the beginning of the war. There have been measures taken to train soldiers in basic these to prepare them for war and maybe I am out of touch with my comment but there is definitely a large difference in the training and mentality of an infantryman as compared to other MOS's from my experience. Problem today is these current "kids" have no idea how good they have it compared to past wars and need to think about there forefathers hardships before they complain that no one cares, or I don't have internet or my meal is an MRE. I salute my forefathers and fighting brothers and sisters for the sacrifices they have made and will make, just don't dishonor our country by complaining to the news, tell it to your commander. I will now take comments....

I didn’t see the LT suggesting a better standard of living for just a subsection of the combat arms, did you?

I think he meant for all military personnel. And all branches while we’re at it.

On another note: Here’s an idea – How about this one - a citizen hasn't earned the right to vote, until they've EARNED the right to vote, through either military or civilian service. That'd wake some folks up!

Or how about - once you’ve served a year in a combat unit, in combat, you NEVER have to pay income taxes again! I like that one too.

@x11B2

In Starship Troopers, they had the premise of earning citizenship through service, and I too think that would be a good idea.

could result in a more responsible political/government system

I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command I will never surrender those under my command while they still have the means to resist.

Sere double O - you are a tool to throw dispersions over the internet and are exactly doing and saying to others what you yourself are. Once again the idiots rule the roost. It is a shame that soldiers who are early on in there careers make a pittance but they are told not to spend outside their means so they should not be on welfare unless they are indeed spending outside of their means. Guess your not going to post your gross income hear as you most likely work in an office and make more than the average Joe. As far a getting a check and a flag, well gee, it would be great to give every fallen soldiers family a billion dollars but that is just not feasible jack@ss and getting the US flag is an honor so shut up. The other point in that paragraph are indeed terrible and can't be addressed by some civilian voting but through the chain of command so there you are just soap boxing. And sere I guess you really haven't been over there since hot meals are served 4 times a day on large bases and on outposts they get one a day, sounds like the army to me tough guy. I think you have also watched a little to many movies as to the amount of fear these guys are experiencing, there not scared just tired of it. You should be ashamed to speak for soldiers as being scared for their lives every minute of every day, what kind of crap comment is that? Oh, that must be your reaction, I get it know. And a final comment as to people eating McDonalds, guess you haven't been deployed lately as they just removed all the Pizza Huts, Burger Kings, etc... this year so their are very few troops that have missed out on American fast food. Whose the idiot poser now? Waiting for a fricken pansy rebuttal from your keyboard.

11B, back in the 70s I started out as a Cavalry Scout in the 101st and later switched to an armored division where I became a military policeman. There wasn't a lot of difference really. You need to lighten up, you aren't representing our service well.

Hey Elaine Connelly, since you are ihnorant, I will educate you. The majority of ReTHUGlincans want us to pull out of both wars quickly and completely.

You need to either:

1. Get your testosterone levels checked, or
2. Enlist.

Chris, I was medically retired from the 101st in 2008. Just wanted to show my 101st pride. I have respect for every MOS and branch. It's fun to pick on the Air Force, Marines, Navy....make jokes about the infantry. When it comes down to it, it's a combination of all the MOS's and branches that make us a great military. I'm sure most people in the Army (and other branches) have worked outside of their MOS while deployed....I know I did. With that being said, I was Aviation and didn't have the extensive training that infantry get. Infantry are definitely the best MOS for infantry work, because they're trained for it. Other MOS's make a good feeler though in an army without enough infantry (or MP's) to cover all of their duties. Much respect to all that serve.

I agree with most of what you say but he does have a point. The war directly impacts maybe 250,000 Americans and the rest of us have the option of ignoring it totally. If we want to support the troops, there are things we can do. There is an increased suicide rate among the enlisted, there are issues with health care, and if the pay and benefits were increased maybe more people would join the military and some of these folks who have seen their tours doubled and tripled in length with no say in the matter would be able to go home to their families.

You can write to your Congressional representatives and let them know what you think about the wars and our continued involvement, that's true, but how that helps the troops I am not sure.

There are other ways that are more practical - organizations like the Afghanistan Care Package Project, anysoldier.com that allows you to selectively send support, and you can also go to troopssupport.com for a list of military support Web sites.

Do you know that if a soldier wants a helmet that is actually effective against shrapnel, for example, he has to pay for an upgrade in quality? The son of a friend of mine who spent almost two years in the desert (longer than he signed up for), is all worried that he will have to pay for the sleeping bag he was issued because he can't get the smell out of it. A friend of his is nearly suicidal because he has been kept overseas for almost three years (again, longer than he signed up for), his wife is ready to divorce him and his son who is now a teenager is acting out to the point of getting arrested.

These are the kinds of things our soldiers have to deal with. They need our support in many ways and a call to Congress about whether you want troops to stay or not is not going to cut it.

You are right about the gear, Justathought. My son served in Iraq (he saw a lot of combat and did many missions) and when he did get back home, he was not only responsible for things that happened to gear while in heavy combat, but when all his gear was turned in before he got out, they lost the papers that showed what he turned in. He had to pay hundreds of dollars, and I could not believe it. He even had to pay for things he HAD turned in for something not his fault. Now he deals with getting back into civilian life and THANK GOD for the VA, they have been wonderful taking care of medical (and other) issues. Now he has contractors dangling $400,000 contracts in front of his face and I just say, WTF? They pay our military minimum wage, but these contractors get mega contracts to pay salaries worth hundreds of thousands more? Talk about corporate socialism. It really burns me that we can't take care of the soldiers who see more in war than the rest of us do in a lifetime. And stickers on cars or empty words do nothing except make you feel better.

Most people don't have a clue what these guys go through, and my heart goes out to every one of them. It is not over when they get back from war.

Even if I'm "sitting back and doing nothing", my taxes are still supporting the troops, as will probably our children's and our children's children.

Nobody but Bush wanted to go to Iraq. That was a huge waste of money and lives, and as predicted, Iran is rushing to fill the power void.

I do support the war in Afghanistan. I have written to congressmen and representatives voicing my support for stepping it up even more. We should have leveled the entire country on September 12, 2001.

and, like others, I gotta say- no one got drafted. Anyone who is over there fighting chose to be.

Good luck and get home safe.

doyourhomework,America needs to do HIS homework.

Americans wanted to go to war in Afghanistan:

"

In October 2002 the US Congress passed a "Joint Resolution to Authorize the Use of United States Armed Forces Against Iraq". The resolution authorized the President to "use any means necessary" against Iraq, Americans polled in January 2003 widely favored further diplomacy over an invasion. Later that year, however, Americans began to agree with Bush's plan. The US government engaged in an elaborate domestic public relations campaign to market the war to its citizens. Americans overwhelmingly believed Hussein did have weapons of mass destruction: 85% said so, even though the inspectors had not uncovered those weapons. Of those who thought Iraq had weapons sequestered somewhere, about half responded that said weapons would not be found in combat. By February 2003, 74% of Americans supported taking military action to remove Hussein from power.^[24]"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003_invasion_of_Iraq

Don't blame Bush for giving you want you wanted, America.

I don't think that it's fair to ask everyone if you really support our troops... What about the families that have already gone through their share of sacrifice/support? As a daughter whose father has served 4 tours to Afghanistan, I believe that by mailing packages and letters (not only to Dad but his fellow soldiers as well) helps out more NOW then talking with a representative or senator. Talking to a senator won't get them out or improve benefits right now. With politics and the economy, everything takes time. Why not support the troops in a more personal way right now with letters, packages, etc. when it can really have the most impact?

I adopted a soldier from anysoldier.com when I had my own business. The thank you letters I received when I mailed packages were so heart-felt. I am a peace-nik at heart but the people serving need to know we love and appreciate them.

Please pick a war 1083:

Iraq___________

Afganistan________

So should we keep engaged in a war based on lies, because we're there?

Lt. Babcock is correct in his statement. It is just a shame that the politico's don't really respond to all of our feelings, for the obvious political reasons. THEY don't want to be called unpatriotic in the mass media folly sure to follow such a statement.

Talking is used to hide one's inability to act Lt. Babcock. God speed sir.

Nobody but Bush? What about the majority of Congress that voted for the invasion? Don't let them off the hook so easily, even if it was due to bad intel they all voted for it.

"There is no doubt that ... Saddam Hussein has reinvigorated his weapons programs. Reports indicate that biological, chemical and nuclear programs continue apace and may be back to pre-Gulf War status. In addition, Saddam continues to redefine delivery systems and is doubtless using the cover of a licit missile program to develop longer-range missiles that will threaten the United States and our allies."
Letter to President Bush, Signed by:
-- Sen. Bob Graham (D, FL), and others, Dec 5, 2001

"We begin with the common belief that Saddam Hussein is a tyrant and a threat to the peace and stability of the region. He has ignored the mandate of the United Nations and is building weapons of mass destruction and th! e means of delivering them."
-- Sen. Carl Levin (D, MI), Sept. 19, 2002

"We know that he has stored secret supplies of biological and chemical weapons throughout his country."
-- Al Gore, Sept. 23, 2002

"Iraq's search for weapons of mass destruction has proven impossible to deter and we should assume that it will continue for as long as Saddam is in power."
-- Al Gore, Sept. 23, 2002

"We have known for many years that Saddam Hussein is seeking and developing weapons of mass destruction."
-- Sen. Ted Kennedy (D, MA), Sept. 27, 2002

"The last UN weapons inspectors left Iraq in October of 1998. We are confident that Saddam Hussein retains some stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons, and that he has since embarked on a crash course to build up his chemical and biological warfare capabilities. Intelligence reports indicate that he is seeking nuclear weapons..."
-- Sen. Robert Byrd (D, WV), Oct. 3, 2002

"I will be voting to give the President of the United States the authority to use force -- if necessary -- to disarm Saddam Hussein because I believe that a deadly arsenal of weapons of mass destruction in his hands is a real and grave threat to our security."
-- Sen. John F. Kerry (D, MA), Oct. 9, 2002

"There is unmistakable evidence that Saddam Hussein is working aggressively to develop nuclear weapons and will likely have nuclear weapons within the next five years ... We also should remember we have always underestimated the progress Saddam has made in development of weapons of mass destruction."
-- Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D, WV), Oct 10, 2002

"He has systematically violated, over the course of the past 11 years, every significant UN resolution that has demanded that he disarm and destroy his chemical and biological weapons, and any nuclear capacity. This he has refused to do"
-- Rep. Henry Waxman (D, CA), Oct. 10, 2002

"In the four years since the inspectors left, intelligence reports show that Saddam Hussein has worked to rebuild his chemical and biological weapons stock, his missile delivery capability, and his nuclear program. He has also given aid, comfort, and sanctuary to terrorists, including al Qaeda members ... It is clear, however, that if left unchecked, Saddam Hussein will continue to increase his capacity to wage biological and chemical warfare, and will keep trying to develop nuclear weapons."
-- Sen. Hillary Clinton (D, NY), Oct 10, 2002

"We are in possession of what I think to be compelling evidence that Saddam Hussein has, and has had for a number of years, a developing capacity for the production and storage of weapons of mass destruction."
-- Sen. Bob Graham (D, FL), Dec. 8, 2002

"Without question, we need to disarm Saddam Hussein. He is a brutal, murderous dictator, leading an oppressive regime ... He presents a particularly grievous threat because he is so consistently prone to miscalculation ... And now he is miscalculating America's response to his continued deceit and his consistent grasp for weapons of mass destruction ... So the threat of Saddam Hussein with weapons of mass destruction is real..."
-- Sen. John F. Kerry (D, MA), Jan. 23. 2003

Yeah, it was just the GOP and Bush.

Everyone blames Bush It not one persons war, It's Americas war. Out of a population of 308 mil only1.8 million serve thats all branches and reserve/guard combined. people on the left may have regrets about Iraq But we won. and Clinton was planning to go in as well Read HR 4655.

To support us mean the nation get behind us in some form or another. The LT was correct, we do get to read the post you all put on these forums. Complain all you want or cheer all you want we are here for you we fight for the men we serve with and a better future without the threat of another morning in September or something even worse. Also it's not just who sacrifice while you type in an A/C office or home but it's our families who step up as well. It our kids who havve to learn not to be afraid of the new guy in the house upon our return.

KAWM,

And what was the basis for those people making these statements? BULL@!$%# INTELLIGENCE CREATED BY THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION and offered to Congress and the UN as "reliable."

The Democrats made a HUGE mistake in believing Rumsfeld and Cheney, but you're nuts if you think the Bush administration didn't twist the intelligence beyond recognition in making their case for an invasion. It's been proven again and again.

bdop4,

"One way or the other, we are determined to deny Iraq the capacity to develop weapons of mass destruction and the missiles to deliver them. That is our bottom line." --President Bill Clinton, Feb. 4, 1998

"If Saddam rejects peace and we have to use force, our purpose is clear. We want to seriously diminish the threat posed by Iraq's weapons of mass destruction program." --President Bill Clinton, Feb. 17, 1998

"Iraq is a long way from [here], but what happens there matters a great deal here. For the risks that the leaders of a rogue state will use nuclear, chemical or biological weapons against us or our allies is the greatest security threat we face." --Madeline Albright, Feb 18, 1998

"He will use those weapons of mass destruction again, as he has ten times since 1983." --Sandy Berger, Clinton National Security Adviser, Feb, 18, 1998

"[W]e urge you, after consulting with Congress, and consistent with the U.S. Constitution and laws, to take necessary actions (including, if appropriate, air and missile strikes on suspect Iraqi sites) to respond effectively to the threat posed by Iraq's refusal to end its weapons of mass destruction programs." Letter to President Clinton, signed by: -- Democratic Senators Carl Levin, Tom Daschle, John Kerry, and others, Oct. 9, 1998

"Saddam Hussein has been engaged in the development of weapons of mass destruction technology which is a threat to countries in the region and he has made a mockery of the weapons inspection process." -Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D, CA), Dec. 16, 1998

"Hussein has ... chosen to spend his money on building weapons of mass destruction and palaces for his cronies." -- Madeline Albright, Clinton Secretary of State, Nov. 10, 1999

Did Bush make them make these comments also BEFORE he entered office? Fine, you accuse Bush of playing politics with this war, so be it, but dont insult everyones intelligence when you try to make out as though the Democrats are innocent of doing the very same damn thing!

bdop4,

CONCERN OVER RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN IRAQ
(Senate - October 09, 1998)

Please explain to me how exactly it is that Iraq was no longer a threat when the war drums were being beater hard and fast in 1998, the same year that inspectors were kicked out of Iraq by Hussein (Sadaam not Obama)?

Please do us all a favor, drop the "It was Bush's fault!" argument when it comes to Iraq. The road was paved when he took office, 9/11 simply sent him down that path and Iraq was one of the stops along the way. If there was faulty intelligence it was not all gathered on his watch, it had been accumulating over the past eight years also, and being ratified by Clinton's minions.

Either support the troops and get behind them or be honest with them and be an adult and take a stand against the war, one or the other. But please, dont think that persons like yourself are not so transparent to the service members returning that it is people like you that are filling the enemies coffers with propaganda to keep their troops moral up, all the time diminishing ours.

NAV,

The way I see it is when our soldiers come home we will honor them by not acting like a bunch of jerks like we did at the end of the Vietnam War. Americans do understand that the soldiers have it extremly tough, maybe we don't get all of it because we aren't there. We certainly want our GI's safe and to come home alive and healthy. It doesn't matter whether you support the wars or not, we all should be supporting our soldiers. I for one do send letters to our politicians and I will fly the American Flag until all our soldiers are out of harms way. (Which will probably be for the rest of my life).

Knuckledraggin Angry White Male,

You, sir, are a credit to this country. If more people would take the time to research as well as you have, pages like this wouldn't need to exist. Well done!

You don't have a clue how many american's support the troop's so don't set there and get all warm and fuzzy and act like you really care . I would be willling to bet if you were asked to serve your country you would chage your citizenship so fast you would still be spinning .

Anyone who would curse at a soldier in public or call him/her names has far more serious problems than not supporting the troops. Such as they are an ignorant jerk.

I never saw the point of plastering one's car with yellow "Support Our Troops" stickers. Are they directing everyone around them in traffic to support our troops? And how do they want us to support our troops? The stickers should at least tell us that.

Just being facetious. Some of these folks probably are actually doing something, but I suspect most just buy the stickers because everyone else is.

I don't understand why people are bagging on people with bumper stickers. Am I going to help the Colts win a Superbowl by displaying their sticker on my car? No, but at least you'll know who I'm rooting for. I have an Army sticker and 101st sticker. They pretty much serve the same purpose as my Colts sticker. People know who I'm rooting for. I don't have a support our troops sticker. I figure the majority of people will guess where I stand by seeing my Army and 101st stickers. It is nice to see those support our troops stickers though. The same people that complain about them would also complain about people not caring if they all disappeared. No, I'm not going to write anyone. I don't know the things that our government knows. Our government also knows that I don't know anything so, instead of doing what I tell them to do, they're going to do what they think is going to be best for our government. The same reason we didn't do anything about Rwanda, there was no benefit for us and the majority of America and the rest of the super powers did not want to risk lives or spend money to stop a genocide that they had nothing to gain from by intervening. People, keep waving your flags and wearing your stickers....it makes us feel like people care. I support our troops and I support taking every measure possible to keep them safe while they do what they've been ordered to do until government decides to pull out. Continue to support benefits for troops.....including Vietnam Vets, who got the shaft.

Couldn't disagree with you more. Iraq was a war of choice- Afghanistan is a war of necessity. yeah, let's just ignore the threat of the Taliban and Al-Quaida, see where that gets us.

Vietnam wasn't harboring people who were actively trying to destroy the USA. You really can't compare the two.

I do agree with you that we need to look at how we act around the world, we need to regain our respect worldwide- big changes need to be made, but lying down and being a doormat is not going to solve anything.

I think if you check, Byrd called the war in Iraq a war of choice. Not the same thing. Try to keep the debate factual.

Maybe you don't realize it but being one of the richest countries int he world will make you a target regardless of your actions. Who gives a crap what the Ivory Coast is doing, they're too poor to matter tot he rest of the world. It is simple human nature to envy those better off than you. The USA is criticised by many for doing good since it hinders their ability to opppress their fellow man.

"Bring back the draft, without a student deferment, and the war will end. Why? Because then the people will demand a reason for the sacrifices they are being required to make, and frankly, there is no acceptable reason."

This may be the only comment on this entire page that I agree with 100%. My USAR 19 y/o son returned home from Afghanistan on July 2, 2010, with an ulcer, and aged at least ten years. He told me he's just thankful to be back home, alive.

LT. Babcock, THANK YOU. To every man and woman in our military, THANK YOU. To every military family who supports their soldiers, THANK YOU. To every other person out there who supports our troops, THANK YOU. There is no sacrifice higher than that which a soldier or their family make to defend the freedom that most of the population of this country take for granted on a daily basis, but yet still feel the need to b*tch about.

And to my "friends" who disappeared after my son deployed: We are no longer friends because you didn't act like one. You didn't call. You didn't visit. You didn't invite me to your endless bbq's and parties, or even bother to ask how my son or I were doing if I happened to run into you, before you quickly marched the other way. You didn't care, even in a phony way.

Newsflash to America: The world doesn't revolve around the mall, or which celebrity is screwing who, or what the latest remade movie or top ten hit is this week, or where Lebron is overpaid to play a game.

America, it is time to face reality. You are able to do EVERYTHING you do, because of our soldiers, and soldiers before them, and before them.

Deja Vu my friend I read that exact thing in 1967.

Let's not forget about the money made by Haliburton. No problem though, the GOP will continue to garner the votes of those blindly led. If people did ANY amount of independent research (rather than just being spoon fed by Fox) they would see the driving forces behind the GOP.

I wish I was rich enough to consider voting for a Republican. :)

making a profit off of vets... nice

As I said in an earlier post, Cheney's Haliburton makes tons of cash by raping the taxpayer and slaughtering his sons and daughters.

ddaryl - Who is making a profit off of Veterans? The Warrior Song is free to listen to and free to download for a Veteran?

Recycling rhetoric from the 60's I see. The military industrial complex is a shell of what it was just 20 years ago, after we took our "peace dividend" and reduced the size of our military significantly. Yet, you believe that these remnants of the past are powerful enough to shape our foreign policy by pressing for war to get rich?? Still endulging LSD?

I agree that there should be an expectation of fighting, but at a time and place of our choosing using the combined arms that we have invested in. An artillery platoon alone, guarding a transport lane being used by our enemy is a result of COIN, an over used and in my opinion half-baked idea that failed in Viet Nam and is destined to fail here.

It's not rhetoric from the 60's; it's a fact seen all around us today. The fact you think I must be doing LSD (which I've never done) because I have this opinion shows you are a jerkoff. Too many of our best and brightest are dying, and trillions are being spent on a war that's impossible to win, unless we want to totally occupy these countries forever, and donate the lives of our troops for it. There's no good reason to be in Afghanistan or Iraq-- that couldn't be more obvious. It's never going to change there-- again, LOOK AT THE HISTORY OF THE MIDDLE EAST. And do I think we press for war so the elite can become more rich? ABSOLUTELY. There's proof of that everywhere you look, but you are the type of person that doesn't want to know the truth. Sorry for you about that; reality is a tough pill to swallow when it comes to seeing what your government is really about.

That's EXACTLY what I'm talking about Chet. The war machine keeps rolling and the fat cats get more and more rich with every minute that passes... rich off the blood of our dying troops. It makes me sick.

You can pin any reason you want on being in Iraq but the reasons for not being in North Korea go much much deeper. Kim Jong Il is insane. He doesn't care about anyone or anything but his own misguided agenda. If he goes down then he will stop at nothing to take down as many others with him as possible regardless of who they are. And as for Saudi, don't be an idiot and actually spend some time getting to know the country. I have been stationed with their military and have thoroughly enjoyed it. Their people are not in nearly as rough a shape as in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, or Yemen. So before you get on your relatively uneducated high horse and jump on the complainers bandwagon, try getting all sides to the story.

No Mac The reason were not invading North Korea is simple, they dont have anything we want. And speaking of being simple your defense of Saudi Arabia is idiotic. So you had a nice time there, I'm happy for you! This is a country that will not permit women to own property, drive a car or be out alone without a male family member. In other words they are nothing but procreating property. In case you have trouble reading I'll repeat they are one of the most repressive MONARCHIES in the world. Not a bit of democracy. Oh yeah dont forget the public beheadings every Thurs afternoon. And since you just kind of blow past Iraq maybe even someone as dense as you might realize the only reason we invaded was to steal there oil !! Cheney as much as admitted it!! The sad thing is Mac you seem to know more about Saudi than you do about your own country. Talk about uneducated. You need to spend more time in school and less time in your foxhole.

Maybe you should take a look at some of the comments posted by Knuckle Draggin Angry White Male. You clearly have no real experience with issues of this magnitude. Try leaving your comfortable house and going out into the world to make a difference instead of typing out your misguided anger on the web. (which by the way is a right afforded to you by the sacrifices of men and women like myself and those in my unit, you don't have to thank us)

You dont give me that right you defend that right and for that I truly thank you and your fellow members of the armed forces. But many times I have left home to travel around and see the world and meet the people who inhabit this world. At University I majored in British Studies and believe me up until the end of WWI the history of Great Britain WAS the history of the world! And further the history of the middle east! Of course you dont really know zip about my life or education and that's just fine with me. So yeah I thank God that you have defended my right to tell you what a moron you are!! Thanks Mac!

I support our troops and want them to come home as soon as possible, Our country is spending 7 billion a year on the war in Afghanistan and giving another 1 billion to Pakistan who give the money to al Qaeda to continue the war against our soldiers. This war is just for the capitalist few to make more money off the death of our soldiers.

what you forget is we did a detour in Iraq which screwed e verything up including this entire country...

If Bush would have stayed focus we wouldn't even be having this discussion right now....

I also never underestimate the greed of this country and of those who are really in control. They would sacrafice Ameircans without even blinking an eye to get what they wanted.... ASre we all positive our own country didn't turn its back on these 9/11 attacks for the sake of justifying the long occupation we are now witnessing... ???

Well said.

But what exactly do you do to support them? Do you help out their families while they are deployed? Do you help keep their morale up by sending care packages. I mean what exactly do you do that is meaningful that supports them? Because honestly stating bring em home is not support its just a slogan.

There isn't any oil in Afghanistan.

ddaryl, Good for you. I also sent a long letter to the President last month with a PBS DVD to watch. We need to write to Congress and demand action. Rocky Mountain PBS aired a Frontline Documentary on "The Wounded Platoon" based at Fort Carson in Colorado. The investigative report was supburb. The findings were shocking and deplorable. Please watch: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/woundedplatoon/ I am a co-founder of Veterans' Resource for Justice. We formed in support of the decorated warrior, Jose Barco. Judge Larry Schwartz threw the book at Jose and sentenced him to an outrageous 52 years in prison. Judge Schwartz is a member of the Fourth Judicial Court in Colorado Springs. As a result of the dismal record on civil rights they are known as the "FILTHY FOURTH" We are www.veteransresourceforjustice.org.

"And to Shrub, if it wasn't for wars and the MEN and WOMEN fighting them, you would never have had the freedom or right to give your dumbass opinion." < now there is a dumbass opinion for ya

Total nonsense. The last war the US was in that was worth fighting and American freedom was potentially at stake was WWII... and that ended 65 years ago.

Umm, war vet here. Earned my dumbass opinion, did you?

freedom-no, profit-yes.