The number of American deaths in Iraq is approaching 4000. I do not know what possesses a young man to voluntarily serve in the armed forces, knowing full well he might never see his family again. These men have my total admiration.

For you see, I'm an A#1 coward. Oh, I registered for the selective service when I was 18 (1961), but only because I had to. Back then college students had to take ROTC (rotcee). I hated every second of it--the required classes, marching, shooting guns, and wearing a military uniform. It wasn't so much of me being a pacifist. If a Russia invaded the US, I think I'd help defend my country. But in our entire history, we've never been invaded. My cowardice has never been challenged.

It was blind luck that I chose my profession wisely. Being a science teacher helped keep me out of the service and Vietnam. That's the excuse I give. But now you know "the rest of the story".
By the way, I've never asked my son (now 25) if he ever registered for the draft. I plead ignorance. I certainly never wanted him to become a war casualty. Another cowardice stripe thank you very much.