I apologize for my previous post on soldiers

[skjpm]

I am hugely upset by all deaths associated with this war. I am very frustrated that those who seem to have the most on the line would vote for Bush. I can't imagine that. Of course, I will still work to stop the war and the killing. And I know enough about people that age to know that they don't always act in their best interests. It is up to us adults to give them good leaders, and if wars, just wars and winnable wars. I wish the Democrats could make inroads into the military by showing them that our desire for peace benefits them because we will only use them if necessary, and as a last resort. I can't grasp them wanting some other kind of leadership, and I don't know how to respond.

[lukasahero]

1. I was wondering where you went

I was gathering some info for you and by the time I got back the post was gone. Just FYI, the blue states have taken the biggest hits on war casualities - with CA at 129 being the big winner. TX follows second at 99 but then PA, NY, IL, MI are next in line. Both FL and OH would also be in that list of next in line but I just don't know if I can honestly say they "voted" for shrub...

ETA - got the data here: http://icasualties.org/oif/ByState.aspx

[skjpm]

2. I wish that the Democrats could bring them in

We need to show them that our values are in line with their values. Our leadership would solve problems in ways that are less likely to put them in harm's way--I can't understand why the majority of the military seem not to want that. How can we persuade them?

[davepc]

3. Suppress the leftover elements of the 60's peace movement

who they CLEARLY remember SPITTING on them.

Its a CULTURAL memory in the military, and it hasn't gone away.

Also, understand that to an extent the military likes being used. I know, how can any 18 year old like getting shot at and dying, but they train hard and often to hone a set of skills, and quite frankly they like being able to practice their craft.

This disgusts you, im sorry, but its the truth. Its a really hard dichotomy to explain, but it exists.

You'll tell me im crazy, you'll tell me it cant be true, you'll tell me nobody would want to be where they are doing what they're doing, and to a point your right, but to a point you're not. They dont vote the way they do on accident.

Telling them we're going to keep them out of harms way isn't really the answer. Its PROVIDING for them. Housing, health care, security, equipment, VA benefits.