Yes Mick - It is still difficult. Part of me wants to scream nut the other part of me is so very tired of the war. Nearly 40 years and it is like yesterday. I get teary eyed just reading some of the posts above. Too much for one lifetime I think at times.

When Ms. Fonda apologized on TV several years ago, or in my opinion/interpretation of what she said I forgave her. She made the comment that she was young and dumb and did not understand the impact she was having on the Veterans who served. I figured if she could say that I could move on.

As far as the Jewish community forgiving Hitler I believe it is essential for that to occur. Seems to me that in some instances the Israelis are putting their young people in harms way in the same manner that German troops were during WW-II. I refuse to blame those who go and fight for the things that occur - having been in those situations myself I understand that the line is very thin and time very short for making many of the decisions that last for lifetimes.

mg - Although I rarely direct a post to someone - Forgive me this once. I was in Viet Nam when the first woman was killed. Just North of Da Nang this USO girl was travelling with a contingent of Marines, her body guards, when they were ambushed. She and three Marines were killed. I knew, and know, Nurses that served over there, female journalists, and many others who served in many different capacities. I also have a partner, Janet, and know that it does not require service to make a strong person. Knowing what my partner has survived to become the gentle beautiful person she is - well enough said. We all have the strength - to recognize it is the difficult part I think.

I've ramble enough here - this thread has taken a much gentler twist and I appreciate that. So the call to "Think peace" has occurred to my way of thinking.

Semper Fi Mick -

Steve