I have known people who received honorable discharges for medical reasons. You’ll find no argument from me there, nor with your other statements.
In general, I am uneasy with politicians making decisions involving armed conflict when they themselves have never been in the military. That is why I wrote what I did.
As to Barak Obama, I believe he doesn’t care a bit about the lives of folks in the military.
Before fellow FReepers get the idea we’re starting a mutual admiration society, there is much to be said for a military background for future political service. It helps to develop team skills, leadership skills and the ability to follow orders. In other words, learning one’s place in a structured setting.
Maybe it’s the recent string of failures and ineptitude of military men aiming for higher office that has colored my opinion vis a vis a military prerequisite. We no longer live in the time of MacArthurs, Pattons, Lees and Washingtons; generals of action not generals of politics.
Barack Obama? I don’t believe he cares about anything beyond his own skin.
Good talking to you.
j