While this is truly a tragic event, I’d like to take this opportunity to dispel a rather common myth that is propagated in patriotic circles all over the United States.

First, of course, a disclaimer; I agree that soldiers, sailors, and airmen should be thanked for their service. Ben Moreno, a Desert Dog, is former military.

What I’m seeking, however, is a somewhat more reasonable approach to those in the military.

They are, after all, humans like all of us, and shouldn’t be deified to the level that they often are, especially in the ’socially conservative’ circles.

In the words of George Carlin, “Stop that!”