[AQGeiger]

I agree with what you're saying. However, I would appreciate it if you didn't refer to our soldiers as "kids." As I don't know your age, I realize that someone in their twenties or thirties may seem like a kid to you. But my husband isn't a kid. He's a grown man who made a willful decision to serve his country. And I can honestly tell you that he's not frightened. I don't mean to flame you. It's just that descriptions like the one you made, although well-intentioned and innocent, help perpetuate the fallacious notion that our servicemen and women are misled children, instead of being the professionals that they are.

[lindor]

Well put, AQGeiger. And please let your husband know how much we appreciate what he is doing for us all. May God keep him and all our service men and woman safe.

[Cornpone]

I accept you sentiments and sensitivity. Maybe times have changed a lot but I doubt it. In spite of the fact that 20, 30 or 40 somethings are kids to me, when I was on active duty almost everyone that served with me was under 21. Over 90 percent. I'm not talking about the professionals like me dear. I'm talking about the young kids like the one that made the serious mistake I witnessed tonight that placed their comrades at risk. Perhaps if they were under your husbands command it wouldn't have happened. God bless those who protect the innocent.

[LisaMalia]

But my husband isn't a kid. He's a grown man who made a willful decision to serve his country.

Very well said. Please pass along my thanks to your hubby from me for his service to our great country.

My prayers for his safe return home to you. My big brother served during the Vietnam era, so although I can't compare my experience to what you are dealing with, I do understand.

You are a very strong woman, and are handling your situation with grace and dignity. God bless you and yours.

[mystery-ak]

I had to smile when I read your post...My hubby is a 1sg for an Army Aviation Co(Chinooks)...he spent 15mos in Iraq...he always refers to all his troops(young and old, and some were older than him) as *his kids*....meaning only that he feels reponsible for every one of them...1sg's are always referred to as the *father of the company*....hence, the term kids.....no insult intended at all..