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Originally posted by RACooper
I have to agree... the whole empty statement that many make "I support the troops" is hollow and hypocritical in many cases - amongst supporters of the War in Iraq and the protestors.
While the issue of "supporting the troops" isn't even close in terms of scope or message up here, it does still happen. Most of those who "support the troops" by purchasing a ribbon or some other trinket aren't really supporting the troops, but rather stroking their own ego by making a hollow (and often useless) gesture.
If people really wanted to support the troops there are a number of ways or approaches to take - all more constructive than buying some marketing tool and spouting the same tired refrain.
1- You can directly send your support via care packages, or moral support through letters (or even email or MSN - ah the wonders of technology). The help you give an indivual trooper through this physical and emotional connection is worth a hundred times the cost of sending it... so if any of you have friends serving overseas, drop them a line and talk to them - they need you to be a friend now more than ever.
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Check. I send items to one soldier in particular, and several through the DAR's support of a cruise ship. We purchase phone cards, toiletry items, and treats which can survive the desert heat.
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2- You can get involved politically and work to ensure that soldier's benefits and interests are protected, and advanced. If you think that the troops aren't paid enough; or they aren't getting the medical treatment you think they deserve; or they aren't getting the logistical and material support they need - get involved and let the politicians know.
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Check. Every man in my immediate family is a veteran (for the past 6 generations); I'm on first name basis with my Senators & Congressmen.
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3- You can support or help the troops when they get home - volunteer to help at a veteran's clinic or hospital... or even just send a care package. You could even simply just be there a friend, someone who will listen and let the soldier talk to someone who will care or understand.
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Check. We have parties at the Veteran's Hospital, and my family personally supports the American Legion. Sometimes just listening to someone is a big day for a veteran!
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Personally I can say that I support the troops, and I support the War on Terror, but I don't support the War in Iraq (like most Canadians). I have friends (and family) serving in Afghanistan, and I have friends in Iraq, and I support them in the best way that I can - by being a friend
Now obviously I can't personally get involved in the 2nd option I listed when it comes to the US - but I have made an effort to be there as a friend for both those going over and those coming back.
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