Do you agree or disagree with this phrase about those who serve in the Millitary?

[Kosh]

Having spent a lot of time around active duty soldiers and veterans, I have to say no. Let me give you a rundown on the "heroes" I know. At least three of them signed up to escape being fathers, but got caught up and had child support taken out of their checks anyway. Two definitely hit their wives. A few probably hit their wives. I suspect most were unfaithful and married primarily for the extra money. At least one was put in jail for assault. One retired Marine I know is the biggest racist I've ever met. Comparatively few of them ever did anything that would qualify them as selfless enough to even be considered a hero. Mind you, some of them were present for things that would explain some of their behavior, but others were dicks well before they deployed. Oh, and let's not forget the convicted child rapist.

Now, before anyone gets pissy, remember that I was asked whether I agreed that "all" soldiers are heroes. I know a great many who were/are respectable men and women, heroes or not. I regularly donate to veterans causes locally. I'm respectful when it's due. I've just been around soldiers enough to know that they haven't all signed up to heed the calling of some inner light. They're humans who took a job.

I can't agree with you enough.  We've become a nation of soldier worshippers.  My guess is that this started during the gulf war when everything was televised?  People sat around the TV and got jazzed up when they should have become contemplative.

There is something to be said for doing the right things for the right reason.  Signing up for the military in a time of national crisis knowing full well that your going to be put in harms way is IMO an example of that.  Joining the military as something to do, or because your trying to escape your parents basement does not make you a hero.  Joining the military in hopes that you can shoot someone legally does not make you a hero.  IMO even those who join with the best intentions need to actually do something...  you know..  heroic