yes I agree, not sure what the purpose of this post is, but to **** off americans and make us think twice about our canadian "allies". If that'* the point of it, well it'* working!

My Nephew was there, and my best friend'* son, who followed my footsteps and his Father'* into the military, is on his way. My Nephew was very proud of his service there, and felt strongly that the vast majority of Iraqi'* are very relieved we finally stepped in to help them. He would have extended his tour if it hadn't been for a job offer he simply couldn't refuse. Every man in his unit believed they were there for the right reason, and had the majority of the Iraqi people behind them.

I also have at least a dozen friends still in the Marines that I served with. All are senior NCO'* and Officers now. Every man of them believes the same.

There may be a few US Military that disagree with what we're doing there, and don't want to be there, but it'* well known in the States, even in the liberal media here, that those people are in the minority.

Again Will, you are absolutely correct. I agree whole heartedly with what you put.

Let me add that my Nephew was WIA during combat in the opening days, and still feels the same regardless. He has his purple heart.

New rule: Bill has to spell out military acronyms so I don't feel like an idiot.

Wounded In Action is WIA
Missing in action is MIA
Killed in action is KIA
Stipidity in action is SIA

SIA right here..... heh

Matt,

I need to clarify something. In no way am I intending any disrespect towards you at all. In fact, this is one of the best debates we've ever had here. We all form our own opinions based on the information we absorb from any one of hundreds of sources for each topic.

It'* obvious there'* a huge disparity between the information the Canadian and US media broadcast, and that very topic has been discussed here before.

I personally feel the most important conclusion made so far in this topic is the UN'* responsibilities and failures, and how that dictated other Nation'* actions. The liberal US media isn't giving much press time to the UN failures and their illegal actions with regards to Iraq.

The UN has faded to the point where they 'talk softly and carry a tiny stick'. They're afraid to make a stand for human freedom, and they're afraid to back up their poor decisions or admit when they're wrong.

Lost my train of thought. Let'* keep this topic going.

Its Sunday and I had the time to read over this whole thread, bout 30 min. Its been an interesting read and I've enjoyed the many opions and out takes shared, all while keeping it civil too

My own thoughts are that the world is run by the G8 in which both Canada and America are members. Of course a large part of our defence is relied upon by our relationship with the States, its always been that way. Our defence budget is small but big enough for the part we need to play, our direction has been free national health care and so far its working out well for us although theres room for improvement.
Canadians and Americans may have different approaches to world problems but both share a common goal of world peace while improving its standard of living.

My old unit is over there now. I was in the 3rd Infantry Division for two years, then 1 1/2 in the 4th. Both are over there now. My heart goes out to my old comrades in arms...

ROCK OF THE MARNE !!!!