Quote:
Originally Posted by Shark Bait
I don't consider that today is used as a means to glorify war. It is important to remember those who lost that which is most precious, their lives.
It is also understandable that today brings mixed feelings for many people. By simply talking about the past we are remembering and that has to be a good thing.
Lest we forget.
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You're right about mixed feelings. Clearly it was hard for Australia to avoid some wars (eg '39-'45) and it is possible to make a good argument that such wars were thrust upon Australia (we'll leave aside the initial admiration and support of the 'international community' for Hitler when he was beating up the communists and unionists). So I have great sympathy for those who felt they had to volunteer for that massacre.
What about later wars? I marched against the Iraq war. So, what to say about those who volunteered to go? One part of me is genuinely sorry for them and more so for their families. Another part says "fools". Unfortunately the state of the world means there is a real need for a defense force, so joining it is fair enough. However when it used for something wrong some people can't see that it's wrong and others just can't bring themselves to resist. All round it's just a very sad situation.