Another really good point. Consider all of the UN and other folks killed in the recent bombing. Or the Iraqi interpretor killed with an American soldier in an ambush.

In reality, though, it's no surprize that Pvt. Lynch was singled out -- for all of the reasons listed above.

Frankly, the bottom line is that there are many heros in any conflict, and someone (the government in this case, I think) needs a face to put in front of the public.

The fact that she got a book contract is not her fault. But she would be dumb not to take it.

Thanks for clarifying Leslie. :)

I didn't really understand why people were complaining about her. From the reports that I have read, Jessica Lynch is lucky to be alive and not permanently disabled. She puts a young, attractive, female face on a military. I can understand why the media and the politicians would be interested in putting her out front. I do think that some of the criticism is because she is a young, attractive female. I don't recall the same type of criticism about Scott O'Grady in 1995.

I think that she joined the military to ensure her financial and educational future. As DeltAlum wrote, "The fact that she got a book contract is not her fault. But she would be dumb not to take it." I couldn't agree more. She will and should benefit from her ordeal.

Also, a lot of kids from smallish towns in economically depressed areas of the country see the military as a way OUT--not necessarily to make more money or to get an education. Just a way out of their small, futureless town. I see this A LOT in the next town over. You either enlist, or you stay home.