The idea that these wars are necessary to protect us from the Bad Guys is BS. Most wars are economically motivated. Besides, the US defense budget is absolutely ridiculous compared to what the whole world spends. Additionally, veteran benefit programs (and there are lots of them) are very well funded, trust me-I work in one. Most of my clients are ‘veterans’ in the loosest definition: no combat, didn’t finish their contract, largely not Honorably Discharged. Recent rule change means a ‘veteran’ qualifies for services as long as they completed one day of training-yep even if they were kicked out on day two.

People simply do not understand how true Gen. Sherman's statement is ("War is hell." ) -- even for the winners.