Kevin, the fact that you or I were never and t this point likely will never be soldiers makes us "inexpert" but also able to discuss the stuff as friends without either of us coming away with harsh feelings....which is why I did it! I would hope that the level and style of training for a soldier is such that he can be in control while also being under extreme duress. And once again, the problem with this whole damn thing is way up the ladder....and I think the Iraqis have some culpability too.....not because they should not want the US out, but because the organizers/leaders of these things should realize where they are likely to go. If you mess with a coiled rattler, you're likely to get bit.

LARRY.....Got a question.....Pacifist means what exactly? I view things through a lens of "is it worth killing for." The fact that I can think of a few things that would lead me to do so keeps me from any serious pacifistic view. I can't commit past a certain point. Do the Quakers have "sects" shall we say that take a differing view or is the pacifist belief in non-violence an integral part of the life? Is it violence or violence against my fellow man? I wonder this because Norman Morrison was I think widely revered for his actions and yet I can think of very few things less violent. It's bothered me for a long time actually and I thought, what the hell, I'll ask someone who knows.

Spaw