posted on March 19, 2003 09:42:46 AM new
I think a small number of troops are in the service because they have a family tradition of service and desire to serve and some are in for purely selfish reasons like the educational grants. I have no problem with that. The down side is you give up almost all your rights as a free individual by becoming military. You can no longer direct your own health care or express your political opinions unimpaired. You may go in under one administration and find a completely different circumstance later in your career under another commander. There is huge uncertainty and you can't walk away.
You can't count on Congress not to change the terms of your retirement or benefits and screw you. If you are exposed to toxic agents or radiation or nerve agents it's not like private industry - you are screwed for any liability.
So putting your body on the line under the command of politicians who have never heard a shot fired in anger is a huge bet. Unless you have an idealistic ability to ignore the lack of concern Congress and your Commander in Chief have for your welfare you better need the career pretty badly because of being unable to make a go of it in civilian life due to poverty or other problems.
It is an escape from the hills or the ghetto.
But not without price.
So when I see these volunteerrs go of to combat I do have to feel - that's the bargin you struck and now the terms are due.
As for the pope - If the world leaders didn't keep seeking to have photo ops with him and seek audiences for the PR value then perhaps he would quit offering advice. As long as they go through the motions of respecting him why shouldn't he assume they will welcome his input? As long as the politicians think they has the ear of the people they will use the religious leaders just like they seek to be seen with stars and sports figures.
Not because of any deep appreciation of spiritual values. They'd pose with the devil himself if they thought he had a block of voters, and could help their imaige.
