You should be very proud of your son. And he is absolutely right on the weaponry. In fact, shortly before I retired, the Air Force was in the process of developing a revamped M-14 and M-16 in order to adjust to those problems faced in the desert. I don't know where that stands though. And as far as M-9's go, I only saw a person use it once, and that was a medic in Kirkuk. I thank you and your son for your sacrifices.
I'm not the author, but yes, he should be proud of his son.
Great Piece...... Keep em coming