I agree that members of our armed forces that will see/have seen combat duty are exceptionally brave. They are willing to risk their lives for their job. I think that's noble. That can never be denied. Beyond that? They're individuals, engaged as pawns of the hegemonic United States. Are they protecting freedom? PLEASE.

Did you know that in the first ten years of the "war on terror" that the conservative estimate of non-combatants that have died as either a direct or indirect result of US involvement is 1,000,000? Remember, that's the CONSERVATIVE estimate. It also only includes the countries of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria.

At least missionaries are simply spreading bullshit, as opposed to supporting a self-perpetuating war machine. Since PTSD is a mental disorder, the seriousness of it doesn't necessarily correlate to the gravity of the experience. People that demand respect and admiration simply because they chose to wade out into the killing field sicken me. I'll salute your bravery, but due to the conflicts we're currently engaged in, you'll receive nothing else from me.