Top Marine general says Americans like troops, maybe not the war

[sabra]

http://www.wwaytv3.com/Global/story.asp?S=5746432

Top Marine general says Americans like troops, maybe not the war

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (AP) -- The nation's top Marine told troops today that they won't face the same criticism troops did during the Vietnam conflict because Americans have matured since then and like troops even if they disagree with political policy.

General James Conway told Marines at Camp Lejeune that some Americans aren't behind the US presence in Iraq but they support the troops wherever they are.

Conway became the 34th commandant this month.

Most Americans are upset at the daily loss of life, which averages two members of the military a day. But Conway said that's a fraction of the average 302 a day who died in World War Two.

[sarge43]

1. Ah sir, not smart to call someone's dead son or daughter

or father or mother a fraction. (Asshole)

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

2. Trouble is, the stuff that supposedly happened during Viet Nam

like spitting on returning troops, has been, by and large, judged to be a myth. My brother was in 'Nam for two tours of duty, and I remember welcoming him back both times, while at the same time demonstrating against the war. The second tour, he was disgusted with the military and the politicians and thought we should leave. And this was from a career officer!

[SlavesandBulldozers]

3. right. it's nothing compared to the losses of world war two.

let's see some other differences. . . in that war there was a purpose, a goal, allies, a justification, an entire hemisphere, a competent leadership structure, tax increases, energy conservation. . . gee it's nothing like WWII is it.

[dflprincess]

6. And, as of a few days ago, the Iraq was has lasted

longer that U.S. involvement in WWII.

[SlavesandBulldozers]

13. i saw that.

and the War on Terra? a full 2 years beyond that.

[erpowers]

12. Also

It is possible that one reason that less troops are dying in this war than in the others like WWII or Vietnam is medical advancements. A few days ago a poster at DU mentioned that they had read a study that claimed that if not for medical advancements about hundreds of thousands of troops would have died in Iraq.

[SlavesandBulldozers]

14. interesting as well.

plus. consider the geographic area and the parity of the armies comparatively. it's such a ridiculous and stupid statement it would have to come from a real chimp apologist.

[cassiepriam]

4. Maybe

Depends upon how many more videos surface like the one with the troops taunting the kids with water.

And more stories about US troops raping, murdering and torturing innocent children.
None of that can be blamed on Bush or US policy. And blaming it on PTSD is a cop out.

Our souls belong to each of us.
We are responsible for the right and wrong we do.
PTSD is not going to cut it on judgment day at the pearly gates.

[Arkansas Granny]

5. Unfortunately, there are some in the military who behave as you

have described. You also find these same people serving in law enforcement around the country. They are unsuited for the positions they hold. However, these individuals represent a small minority and should not be used as the yardstick to measure the military or law enforcement as a whole. Most enlist in these fields with the desire to protect, serve their country and to make things better for their communities. Those who commit atrocious acts should be held accountable, but the majority of those who serve do so honorably.

[Captain Hilts]

7. They say nearly a million military folks have cycled through Iraq.

So, those thugs with the water are not representative.

I hope someone figures out who they are.

[cassiepriam]

8. We do not know yet the extent of the US atrocities.

I hope your version of reality is true,
but only time will tell.

I grew up in the military and something seems very
wrong with what is happening. The troops do seem to
be out of control with little supervision.

I also suspect that like Viet Nam
the drug and alcohol use is rampant in Iraq
by US troops.

The truth will come out eventually and it
will be all of our shame to bear. But I wish
with all my heart that you are correct.

[LiberalFighter]

10. I don't find fault with the military or the troops in general

But I will find fault with any troop or group of troops acting improperly. I will find fault with any military individual that deems themselves better than civilians or even those within the military. I will find fault with any military individual that argues that they deserve support because they are fighting for our freedom.

[cassiepriam]

11. I agree with you.

But I will add that at this time we do
not know the extent of the improprieties
and how widespread the problems are.

The truth will come out, it most usually does.
Let us hope most troops merit our respect.

[ckramer]

9. This essentially tells me - Americans love socialism without realizing it

Military provides everything to its members - housing, healthcare, education, salary, pensions, entertainment, training, kids daycare - That's exactly what Americans wanted !!!!

Getting all these good benefits without going to war --- Hahaha, top Marine general, you are telling me the obvious - American people are dreaming socialism!!!


LOL