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We do need people from all schools of thought in the military. The whole Iraq misadventure should make us rethink the idea of the all-volunteer military. You say the all-volunteer army is the army of a democracy, but I don't really think it is. It's more of an army of convenience that commands far less of the civilians' attention than it should. An army of volunteers makes it too easy for the rest of us to sit on the sidelines and watch others sacrifice -- and send others to do the sacrificing without taking a hard look at whether it's really worth it. I seriously doubt we would be at war in Iraq today if there was still a draft in this country. If we need a military, and I believe we do, we need a draft. I appreciate your service and willingness to do your duty for your country, Captain. I only wish we civilians -- in effect, your country -- had done our duty and kept you and your fellow soldiers out of Iraq.
