The Problem with Veteran's Day
Nov 12, 2006

I enjoy Veteran's Day and believe it is proper for the country to honor those who have given us the greatest country this planet has ever seen. But why is part of the country saluting the other part that served? Where were they?

I fully understand our volunteer forces and the quote at Mudville sums it up perfectly.


"Good people sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf."


I have been cool with that idea most of my life, but there are too many now sitting safely at home, taking no risks, bearing no hardships, serving nothing but their own self-interest. These enlightened folks have every right to opine about foreign policy and it is stunning to see the huge numbers of lefties now fully-qualified to critique the actions, tactics, strategies and policies of our government and military. But why should they not enjoy the feeling of ownership and accomplishment that comes from actually earning those rights.

I propose a National Service Draft for all Americans between the ages of 18 and 21. To make this palatable to the left let's have two options, the military or the Peace Corps. Kids this age are essentially useless to the country and spend their time chasing the opposite, or not, sex and trying to get someone to buy them beer. They have no clue who they are or what they want to do and we expect them to make decisions that affect the rest of their lives. They have no clue about the world they live in and how freakin' lucky they are to live in America. What better way to mature and gain some perspective on yourself, our country and the world than serving a higher cause than your own entertainment. Those with exceptional abilities could track into pre-med or similar programs, but all would contain the same element of public service.

This would eliminate a major divide on our country today between those who have a personal stake in it and those who are possuming a ride on their backs. I don't know about everyone else, but I have always felt a little superior for having done this and even though I don't countenance chickenhawkery, I do look sideways at those willing to make decisions affecting all of our security having made no sacrifice themselves. Our current system perpetuates this separation and that is unhelpful.

So let's change that. The world is highly unlikely to turn into paradise any time soon and we will have need of both military and humanitarian efforts. It is time for all Americans to take responsibility for the safety, security and prosperity they enjoy. None of us have the right to expect another to pull their weight and we all gain if we have helped create that freedom. I appreciate that the all-volunteer force is tremendous and that adding draftees will make for difficulties. I know the military can adapt and the plus to society from having a populace personally invested in our country far outweighs any problems.

So lets bulk up both the 82nd Airborne and the 1st Patchouli Peace Platoon and actually pull together.

Regardless of whether you served or not, donate to Valour-IT and help those who served and were wounded get laptop computers to ease their recovery and quality of life.

http://www.military.com/blog/blackfive