Oddbean new post about login | logout I am well aware of those arguments. I was merely trying to point out that when we say that wars were fought for “nothing”, we discredit and dishonour the sacrifices that all servicemen and servicewomen have made. On this day, especially, we would best remember what these people have lost in the service of all of us.
What dishonors them more: Having sons and daughters die to accumulate resource wealth for political powers, and that under false political pretenses, or openly admitting they died for nothing so we can change it, even if it offends those whose world view is shaped by the theatrical sentimentality of Hollywood, and Pentagon propaganda? I’ll do them the service of choosing the second.
Once again, I’m not looking to argue with you. If you would prefer to believe that your security and prosperity is a result of the “good nature” and benevolence of your fellow man, so be it. If you think you could defend your property, and your family, and usher in a period of peace, simply by asking the thugs of the world to leave you alone, so be it. I will choose to honour those that have fallen to protect my way of life and the prosperity that my family enjoys.
These soldiers deserve to be honored They also deserve better than their military and their country has given them This story is fascinating for the implications and horrifying for the consequences on the soldiers lives and health (should be no paywall on this link) https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/05/us/us-army-marines-artillery-isis-pentagon.html?unlocked_article_code=1.9kw.19_1.eSXSJyMCph2M&smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare