Lest We Forget

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networkn

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#89009 24-Aug-2011 22:15

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5501392/SAS-soldier-Corporal-Doug-Grant-returns

I grew up in a family with a long history of military service, and unfortunately I never appreciated the sacrifice made, until recently.

Interestingly what really slammed it home for me was shooting at one of those gun ranges in Vegas where you can rent any gun. I had a few 9mm rifles both Semi and Fully Automatic. I was pretty full of bravado beforehand, and pretty subdued upon my exit. Every single shot made me jump out of my skin, and I couldn't imagine doing it in a live combat situation, let alone with someone or a lot of someones shooting back at me. I was also gobsmacked by a series (Fictional and dramatized admittedly) called "over there", something worth watching if you get a chance.

When I think of the Sacrifice this soldier and his family have made, and having a young child myself, I wish I had a chance to say more to my Grandfather about how much I admired and respected him.

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#511527 24-Aug-2011 22:23

networkn: http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5501392/SAS-soldier-Corporal-Doug-Grant-returns

I grew up in a family with a long history of military service, and unfortunately I never appreciated the sacrifice made, until recently.

Interestingly what really slammed it home for me was shooting at one of those gun ranges in Vegas where you can rent any gun. I had a few 9mm rifles both Semi and Fully Automatic. I was pretty full of bravado beforehand, and pretty subdued upon my exit. Every single shot made me jump out of my skin, and I couldn't imagine doing it in a live combat situation, let alone with someone or a lot of someones shooting back at me. I was also gobsmacked by a series (Fictional and dramatized admittedly) called "over there", something worth watching if you get a chance.

When I think of the Sacrifice this soldier and his family have made, and having a young child myself, I wish I had a chance to say more to my Grandfather about how much I admired and respected him.

In my 50-odd years I've watched thousands and thousands go home in boxes.

I tend to reserve my emotional energy for the people - of whatever party or ideology - who send them places in order to curry favour and perhaps win a free trade agreement.

My main concern for people who risk being placed in such situations is.....why? They should know very well they can't trust politicians to not waste their lives.

_____________________________________________________________________

I've been on Geekzone over 16 years..... Time flies....

networkn

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#511528 24-Aug-2011 22:32

Linux: This topic wasn't started to air personal opinion on war or antiwar, regardless of the circumstances, this soldier lost his life, his wife, a husband, and his kids, a father. The validity of the reason for his presence there shouldn't be up for debate.

No sacrifice is greater, than the man who gives his life to save another.