These are 19-22 year olds with one hell of a lot of responsibility. "Blowing off steam" is not only normal, it's probably a good idea.
-Eric
I don't see how anyone can defend this sort of behavior by our armed forces. I find their behavior disgusting and think all those involved should be dishonorably discharged immediately.
I agree completely with you. If they were off duty at the time, I say just chew them out and a very short suspension are more than enough.
I agree. Young people, trained to be aggressive, rampant hormones, the ultimate in stress, both sexes in the same situation - what kind of "choirboy" behavior is expected?
Despite the high tech gear, the superior combat training, and a military culture of esprit de corp, these are people in an arena of death. Expecting them to not pursue their recreation in a fashion as aggressively as they pursue their enemy is as ignorant of human behavior as is possible. Young men "blowing off steam" in fraternal rowdiness has been historical for millennia - NOW we toss our daughters into the mix and we gape in horror at results such as these?
Get a grip. Reality bites, but this is definitely a case of Move-a-long.
Blowing off steam? Our military are ambassadors for our country! How easy would it be for the Arab media to explain to the people that the occupiers want to impose this lifestyle on them? Coca cola, hot dogs, whores and unchivalrous men. I used to live in a military town, and I am not of the opinion that they are of the same class my grandparents werew when they were young.
Thank goodness there were no Dan Rathers, Walter Kronkites or like-minded journalists back in 1775.
We'd still be subject to the British crown, if that were the case.