>On reflection, Walter, you make valid points and I apologize. The Netherlands is a valued ally and it's not their fault they are in the position they are in militarily.


wow... that takes courage... appology excepted.



>>>And as I recall, Walter, the Netherlands haven't been able to defend themselves in centuries. I'm pretty sure your country's track record on any sort of military service is not one to be emulated. All anyone has to do is threaten to bomb Rotterdam and the whole country surrenders. Not a model for America I think. Last I looked we weren't anyones doormat or toilet paper. If that's that you're proud of....hmmmm
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>>John,
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>>I don't recall this was topic of discussion. I could easily turn the argument arround. the US never had obligatory military service and was never overrun, so why would it need one.
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>>Due to its size its impossible to defend The Netherlands against an army of million or more enemies. Thats why The Netherlands is one of the founding fathers of NATO. Our military service now is centered arround external missions. And for its track record, thats a very cheap shot isn't it? We did not participate in WWI and we were simply overrun in WWII as we did expect to keep out of that as well. The Netherlands did not stand a chance against the germans as many of the europeans countries did not stand a chance. Since then we had external missions, with mixed success like your country did.
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>>BTW, The Netherlands is one of those countries that is in front line with the US when something needs to be done. So don't give me that crap please. FYI, our military was in New Orleans helping with inmediate help (e.g fresh water). Where was your army? More importantly what did your government do for New Orleans lately ???
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>>Our military is small, but very modern, perhaps even more professional than yours (as I have been frequently told by insiders). Its very well capable in doing missions, but if Germany decides to invade The Netherlands tomorrow, we probably have surrendered by the beginning of next week.
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>>So please keep your BS to yourself if you do not know what you're talking about.
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>>>The whole point of the service is not the service itself but the sense of community or nationhood it instills.
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>>>>>I agree with Tracy. Freedom is earned. With some exemptions, of course, 18 years old should have to perform 2 years of military or community or global duty.
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>>>>So the land of the free isn't for everyone? So whats the next requirement to earn freedom? No criminal record? Not being an immigrant? Must earn a living?
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>>>>BTW, we went te opposite way.. obligatory military service has been outphased about 15 years ago.
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>>>>>>>Ok. I'll start out with two of the things I would like to see change. It's no surprise to anyone who has read my posts that I personally believe that every single American should be required to serve 2 years in public service.
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>>>>>>Does this not conflict with the ideology of 'freedom' in the US. Isn't this too socialistic for the US?