You remember that "Forsake the Troops" guy??

[personman]

heh, don't get me started on those things. I think they are pretty silly. I like the idea of people who have loved ones in the active service having them on their person and all, but I really don't like the direction that these things have turned, where people who have them on their cars think that having it makes them more "patriotic" than the next fellow.

When I get a car I'm going to cover it with those things. Just to show how patriotic this american is!

Anyways God Bless America <img src="http://www.ricoracing.netfirms.com/Smilies/patriot.gif" alt="" border="0"> <br>
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<img src="http://www.ricoracing.netfirms.com/Smilies/flagwave.gif" alt="" border="0"></td>

[SCpoloRicker]

When I get a car I'm going to cover it with those things. Just to show how patriotic this american is!

Anyways God Bless America <img src="http://www.ricoracing.netfirms.com/Smilies/patriot.gif" alt="" border="0"> <br>
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<img src="http://www.ricoracing.netfirms.com/Smilies/flagwave.gif" alt="" border="0"></td>

Good for you. After all, its literally the least you could do.

[SCpoloRicker]

Well, I certainly came across as a jerk.

So, here's some easy things you can do beyond buying a magnet.

First, and probably best, IMO:anysoldier.com

Its a resource for donating stuff to troops overseas, based on the idea of sending items to people you don't know.

I sent over around 20-30 paperbacks. Other really appreciated items include: batteries (9V, AA, and AAA), pr0n (or Maxim-esque stuff), and booze (put clear stuff in water bottles).

Another organization I have done some stuff with is Unmet Needs . Its an org ran by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, aimed mainly at helping called up Reservists and National Guard maintain their financial responsibilities. While this isn't as large of a need some other orgs are working towards, its still very important.

As a side note, at a recent promo/charity event for Unmet Needs I was at, I got to meet R. Lee Emery, who advanced to the rank of Staff Sgt in the Corps before retiring for a career in film (Full Metal Jacket, anyone). Post-retirement, he has been promoted to Gunnery Sergeant for his actions helping the Corps and the VFW.

So, no. I don't hate America. I hate minimum effort, knee-jerk patriotism, with no real action behind it. Hopefully this will keep Army from beating the life out of me next time I see him.

Respect the troops. But, question why there are being placed in harms way.

/nice guy off