Back in my teens and early 20s I was fanatically anti military...

I'm a grown up now.

My views are tempered by reality, maturity and pragmatism

I can now reconcile my lifelong pacifism and humanism, with a respect for military personnel;
and accptance that in times of dire crisis, and only as a last resort, military action is a viable option.

I still opt out of buying and wearing a poppy, but no longer childishly disdain those who do.

In a different existence, if I had not been born with flat feet, allergies, and bad eyesight,
who knows, I'd might even consider joining up;
as I find aspects of a modern army lifestyle of self discipline, honour,and physical fitness training
near in accord with my own personal values....???