America and its military - what does the future hold?

Tomgram: William Astore, You Have No Say About Your Military

(Also via Huffington Post - http://www.huffingtonpost.com/william-astore/the-pentagon-church-milit_b_504110.html)

"Let’s face it, all of this represents a long-term sea change in American consciousness. Sadly, the old idea of the citizen army is dead, and because of this, most of us lack any direct connection to the military (and seemingly could care less). In the name of safety, security, and solidarity, we’ve buttoned our lips. We worship, but don’t partake.

Centuries from now, historians will look back on American history and wonder how so many gave away so much to so few. It should be our right to have a say in what defines the “defense” of our country. That right has been surrendered to the few. Our future may depend on genuine input from the many. "

It seems as though over the last 50 years, few if any have truly heeded the warning from Eisenhower.

Any kind of resolution to a problem involves debate, which consists of discussion and even dissension.
A public debate is the lifeblood of any democracy.
Without them, democracy does not exist.


History will determine whether Americans will figure that out in time.