I am attempting to join the ARMY.

[VictorCharlie]

First, Miles, I don't see how SALT III is relevant at all.

Second, VictorCharlie, although the military doesn't make foreign policy--they implement it, I think it is very naive answer to disregard what the US military foreign policy has done in the past before joining. Just because you don't make the policy, if you sign up for something that clearly has hundreds of years history---you should at least be aware of that.

In an obviously extreme example: if I worked at an abortion clinic and mopped the floors---I don't make the policy there I just implement it---clearly I am at least in some way being complacent about the situation.

Maybe I wasn't clear earlier, but I essentially agree with your post. Yes, if you join to a certain extent you are at the very least giving a modicum of endorsement. But how far back and deep does that go? I joined in 2004, so am I complicit in the Vietnam War and everything that went with it? If No Contest joins in 2011 is he endorsing the Iraq War? Not really sure there is a cut and dry answer. Some people just want to serve in the military, I don't think this equates to a lock step endorsement of every military action prior to, during and after their service.

[boozeboxer]

First, Miles, I don't see how SALT III is relevant at all.

Second, VictorCharlie, although the military doesn't make foreign policy--they implement it, I think it is very naive answer to disregard what the US military foreign policy has done in the past before joining. Just because you don't make the policy, if you sign up for something that clearly has hundreds of years history---you should at least be aware of that.

In an obviously extreme example: if I worked at an abortion clinic and mopped the floors---I don't make the policy there I just implement it---clearly I am at least in some way being complacent about the situation.

Maybe I wasn't clear earlier, but I essentially agree with your post. Yes, if you join to a certain extent you are at the very least giving a modicum of endorsement. But how far back and deep does that go? I joined in 2004, so am I complicit in the Vietnam War and everything that went with it? If No Contest joins in 2011 is he endorsing the Iraq War? Not really sure there is a cut and dry answer. Some people just want to serve in the military, I don't think this equates to a lock step endorsement of every military action prior to, during and after their service.

I actually think we are pretty close on this one. You guys have a good weekend!

[Andre]

Yep lets wraps this up.

[Andre]