Quote:
Originally Posted by Chocaholic
Sincere condolences Eric. I have a 20 year old son who is in college studying to be an aerospace engineer. He's in Army ROTC and just loves it....to the point that he's talking about taking a commission. My wife and I are not encouraging him. Would rather see him switch to Air Force ROTC next year when he moves to Ga Tech. Flying drones from the comfort of an office building is much more palatable than potentially being "boots on the ground". I will ask him to read this thread. Your experience and description of the torment your cousin experienced may help influence another young man. Perhaps a small bit of "good" as a result of your cousin's story.
With deepest sympathy.
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I would talk to your son in person, and be happy doing so. I will talk to him by phone, via e-mail, whatever.
Realize this: I have never been there. I have never had anyone shoot at me with the intent to kill me, and I have never shot at anyone with the intent to kill them. Since I haven't been there, I don't know anything about it. I have only listened to those who have been there. I understand in a way that only those who haven't been there understand - combat arms is not a place for human beings. You might go there, but "you" won't come back. Someone else will. And that person might not be that great a person.
I loved my cousin before he went, and I loved him when he came back. And I understand he was proud of his service. I am proud of his decision to serve. But I will tell everyone that before they become a combat infantryman, please look into some other specialty first.