[Bruce Campbells Chin]

At some point in my military past in the Army, we were taught that an acceptable generic term for any member of the military was soldier.

Well, I wouldn't doubt that the army teaches that because "soldier" is the specific term for a member of the army. It's self-serving for the army to do that.

But I've never known a Marine, sailor, or airman who considered themselves a "soldier".

[xzins]

I agree that any marine, sailor, or airman would shake their heads, and they probably should, but I remember it clear as a bell. I think it was even a question on an E-5 promotion board.