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Record recruitment numbers

ERIN ANDERSSEN

From Saturday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 11:04 AM EDT 07/07/07

Despite casualties, 40 per cent more young men and women want to fight ...Read the full article

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  1. Canadian Patriot from United States writes: I wonder if these kids will still be having 'fun' when they have some limbs blown off or see their friends blown to bits before their eyes. Funny how little things change. It's the same story of every war. Kids die or are maimed for the sake of white haired politicians and corporatists. Apparently our education system is worse than I thought.
  2. brian bishop from Brantford, Canada writes: Canadian Patriot from United States

    No, it'll strengthen their determination & resolve when friends get injured or killed, just as it's always done!

    Obviously you read what you wanted to into the article.

    I read about patriotic individuals with a strong desire to help make a difference in the world. But since patriotism is seen by so many in this country as American & therefore evil, it's no wonder this country is so divided on every issue.

    If you want to blame someone, blame the regionalization our party system has caused this country, national unity on any issue is a rarity in Canada.

    United we stand, Divided we fall!

    They should put people like you in a room with all the families of fallen soldiers, I wonder what you'd have to say then?
  3. Jerry Smith from Winnipeg, Canada writes: We need to get the troops out of Afghanistan now. Afghans need to be left alone to govern themselves. If they choose to re-install the Taliban government, that is none of our business. If a new Afghan government chooses to re-impose strict Islamic law and begins stoning women, beheading infidels, and forbidding girls from attending school, then it is none of our business. There are cultural differences between our two countries and it would be wrong for us to impose our values on them. Using the military to solve problems is always bad. We should seek world peace. Why hasn’t the Canadian government invited Osama bin Ladin and the Taliban leadership to attend a healing ceremony where we could talk about the issues and negotiate a settlement in the spirit of love and brotherhood? Let’s not forget that Canada cherishes freedom of religion. If Islamic militants want to spread the word of their god by flying airplanes into buildings or building nuclear devices to detonate in American harbours, then we just need to learn some religious tolerance. We may not like having Jehovah’s Witnesses knocking on our doors; we may not like watching Christian fundamentalists preaching over the television airwaves; but we have learned to tolerate those expressions of religious freedom. What’s the difference?
  4. Let me tell You How It Is-THE EXPERT from Seattle, Washington, United States writes: Sorry Peace Freaks but kids don't die due to 'white-haired politicians and corporations'. Kids die due to religious zealot freaks and megalomaniac anti-social gangster losers who love power and control. These losers and freaks murder, kill and maim in order to control others.
    These new Canadian soldiers grew up in the late 1980's and 1990's and thankfully were not influenced by the Hippies who took over Ottawa in the 1960's. Those Hippies ruined generations of Canadians with their selfishness, self absorption and bloated sense of entitlement.
    Thankfully these new young Canadians have a sense of responsibility to their fellow Canadians and their nation.
  5. Brendan Caron from Vancouver, Canada writes: Get a grip expert... The mafia rules Canadian politics like they do in America. Blaming the hippies is like pretending that there is no Global Warming. It is nice to see thqt these kids know what to do because they feel and know what is right because it is right. Keep your Canada bashing stateside.
  6. Michael Sharp from The Salish Sea, Canada writes:

    From the article:
    'In the past year, the number seeking to enlist in the Canadian Forces has increased by 40 per cent.'

    4 million Afghans have returned to Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban. Google UNHCR Afghanistan.

    Canada's involvement in Afghanistan is righteous. It is just. It is against tyranny.

    40% in one year.

    Are you trying to tell me that Canadians don't believe in opposing tyranny?
  7. Peter Rembrandt from Canada writes: Better get pimple-face over there quick before he decides to go Columbine. Let's see how enthusiastic he'll be with only a couple hours of sleep every day.
  8. Anthony B from Sydney, NS, Canada writes: Give your head a shake, Ben. Real war is not a video game; when you're killed or maimed, you don't get to hit the reset button.
  9. Canadian Patriot from United States writes: Brian Bishop and Let me tell you how - Looks like you guys think war is 'fun' just like the kids. That's outstanding! This is exactly the perspective our world needs. People like you want an excuse to go to war, and any excuse will do. Besides, my point was that it's tragic, and always has been, that kids can be so easily suckered into going off to die on foreign soil. They think they're serving their country, but as I said, their serving powerful interests more concerned with appeasing their political and economic masters than any 'just cause'. And what does being put in a room with the family members of fallen soldiers have to do with anything? If I was put there, I'd do what any reasonable person would do. I'd thank them for their sacrifice and feel sorry for them that their children didn't know any better. How can you possibly glorify this 17 year-old's naivete? Classic conservativism right there. Sugar-coating the exploitation of youth who don't know any better as duty and honour and the rest of it. It's utterly shameful that our country targets and solicits its youngest members to go off and die for politicians and corporatists. How many MPs have kids in Afghanistan? I doubt very many as they're probably off getting their fabulous education and training for their pre-determined corporate careers. You wanna talk duty and honour? Have mandatory military service so that ALL Canadians share the responsibility. That is something I'd advocate. Afterall, I am a socialist right?
  10. Gerry Pankhurst from westport ontario, Canada writes: Canadian Patriot: What an inappropriate alias that is! If you had any guts you would name yourself. The fact you don't, says it all. It's people like you who play a key roll in the reason why the country you say you are living in finds it impossible to win a war. Apparently that is the reputation you want for Canada. Well it wont happen and cowardly non patriotic individuals like yourself and your fellow travellers can just wallow in your futile, yellow ideology.
  11. Mike Charles from Canada writes: Concur with Canadian Patriot.
  12. Clem Brown from Metcalfe, On., Canada writes: 'Canadian Patriot' sits in the U.S.A and advocates mandatory enlistment for Canadians. I'm betting neither he nor his kids would be coming home anytime soon if it were so. A typical lefty loser that expects others to do the heavy lifting while sitting back and taking cheap shots at those that do. Just like Iggy Munster he moved to the States to someday return as our savior, not likely.
  13. Anthony B from Sydney, NS, Canada writes: Canadian Patriot from United States:

    Right on! Kids think they are indestructible (most of us thought so that age) and that going to war and other high-risk activities is fun and won't have consequences for them. Too bad our rulers no longer lead their troops into combat, as they did in centuries past. If they did, they would choose their battles more carefully.
  14. Dave a Conservative from Ottawa, Canada writes: Hurrah for a new generation of truly 'patriotic' kids who not only want to make a difference, but are willing to do it even if it costs them personally.
  15. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: I would have been interested in the regional breakdown of where the most active recruitment is taking place. More statistics on the number of candidates per province/region.
  16. john chuckman from Canada writes: There is always an element in every society attracted by adventurism. Those who want some thrills, those who want to get away from a pedestrian life, those who want what they think will be a new start in life, and let's not forget the psychopaths that make some small percentage of any population. Canada really has not offered such young people an outlet before. In the United States, whose military is about twenty-five times the size of Canada's (compare population of less than ten times as large), there has always been this outlet. In fact, in the United States, the supply of such people has been exhausted, since recruitment there is experiencing great problems. They have effectively lowered the standards to get more bodies, so in future there will likely be more incidents of poor judgment in Iraq. With our unfortunate involvement in Afghanistan, there's new opportunity for those attracted to war. We should never make the mistake, however, of confusing love of country with love of violent adventure. I'm sure there are many joining with feelings about their country, but it's hard to credit this motive too strongly in a war so far away, in a country most Canadians had never heard of before, with a people who never threatened us, and in a war with no clear purpose. I know this is harsh, but it is sadly true.
  17. Satori Zen from Warriors' Land, Canada writes: Such is the potency of the myth of war! 'It can be formed only by denying the reality of war, by turning the lies, the manipulation, the inhumanness of war into the heroic ideal... The press was as eager to be of service to the state during the war as most eveyone else. Such docility on the part of the press made it easier to do what governments do in wartime, indeed what governments do much of the time, and that is lie.' (Chris Hedges, 'War Is a Force that Gives Us Meaning', p. 17, 23)
  18. Coco Motion from Canada writes: It is nice to see that even with a typical anti-war media throwing stones at our efforts in Afghanistan, that the next generation of Canadians do understand why it is important to help others. Like many other Canadians, I appreciate the dedication, efforts, and sacrifices they will make on our behalf.....simple put, Thanks to all of you.

    C.
  19. Michael Caravaggio from writes: I would never go to Afghanistan myself, I believe that we are in a just fight there, preventing the Taliban from seizing power again, but I am not willing to put my life on the line to defend the liberty of people I have never known. I am thankful that the world has people that are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice for others, these people are why I have the privilege not to have to fight for my liberty, and hopefully future generations of Afghans will enjoy this same privilege.
  20. bill k from toronto, Canada writes: 'Despite casualties, 40 per cent more young men and women this year want to fight'

    Do you people believe this to be true? It's a total lie and 100% propaganda. I would bet the opposite is true but they need people who maybe on the fence to read it and think' hey! i'm not that stupid after all maybe I should join'. The media all media is nothing more then a propaganda machine but it's funny how people read it and think that's what's really happening like it's some kind of fact. You talk to anyone on the street and 95% will say they are against the war. I think they are short their recruitment numbers and hope that these lies of record recruitments helps other sheeps run to slaughter.
  21. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: As I suspected, soldiers are a bunch of dunderheaded idiots. They are generally not very bright, and many of them would be in jail if it were not for the military.

    'Support our troops'? Pfffft! Get a life!
  22. Bill G from Calgary, Canada writes: Joe Reilly its slow thinkers like yourself that will be crying if you ever need a military to protect you be it from a disaster or war. You disgust me sir.
  23. Nick B. from Peterborough, Ontario, Canada writes: It isn't a lie, bill k. Head up to 4900 Yonge St to the Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre Toronto and see how overwhlemed they are with applications. It's the same at every recruiting centre - applications for the Regular Force and the Reserve are surging so much that they are trying to find a way to manage the process to get people through the system faster than it currently takes. As well, reservists are transferring into the Reg Force at what seems to be greater rates than usual. In fact, Reserve units seem to be scrambling to replace the soldiers they're sending up to the Regular Force. The real challenge lies in getting enough qualified people to conduct the training for all the new recruits coming into the system, that's the biggest point of stress at the moment - not finding people to join.
  24. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Bill G.: You too should get a life, or, at least, open your eyes and see that recruits to the military are young yahoos from low socioeconomic backgrounds, who do not -- how shall I put it -- value the life of the mind. They have limited prospects in life, and, if not for a 'glorious' military career, would be stuck in dead-end jobs most of their lives.

    Do they care to know the facts about why there are western troops in Afghanistan and Iraq? No. They swallow the propaganda that it's about 'bringing freedom' or 'liberating' these people. In fact, these idealistic notions so often justify killing and maiming. In this regard, the Canadian military types and the Taliban are driven by analogous, even if opposed, convictions.

    I say to young recruits: go to Afghanistan, go and be a 'hero', but in the end, you will realize that you are a schmuck, especially once your limbs get blown off.

    Take my word for it: Canada and the other NATO countries will be worn down and demoralized, and will leave Afghanistan in defeat, just like the British Empire and the Soviet Empire before them.
  25. Sam Wiseman from Ottawa, Canada writes: Catherine Wilkie would like to know a breakdown by region.

    Others would like to see a breakdown by race. That would be interesting and have some meaning.
  26. Bob Macdonald from London, United Kingdom writes: Some people on here need to separate their own views on the validity of this conflict and the actual military personnel. To serve in the military is a great thing and relfects an important duty of the citizen to his/her country. The country in turn must show the duty of protecting the population, ie: not allowing islamic fascists to wage war on the west and infiltrate our institutions (as is being exposed in the UK) with the intention of killing us or setting up an islamic caliphate. There is no way to make war pretty, and it is people in the military who know this more than anyone else. They also know that sometimes you can't walk away from a fight, especially when that fight knocks down two buildings and threatens worse. By all means continue to debate the war, but don't slam the people who serve and instead ask yourself a hard question: apart from bitching, what I have I done today to make the world a better place and keep the Canadian people safe from harm?
  27. linn wei from Vancouver, Canada writes: If someone forgets that the current Western Left is defined by moral imbecility, this page of comments will be a sad reminder of the human quality of the so-called 'pacifists'. Men and women who enlist are willing to put their lives at risk, so those who call them 'dunderheaded idiots' can continue to take for granted the freedom to insult the soldiers so much better than them.

    Have a nice weekend everyone.
  28. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Bob Macdonald: I think the best way to keep Canada safe is through safe policing and internal security, and through close scrutiny toward those newcomers who are intent on causing harm to Canada and Canadians, not by killing Afghans. I don't mean to slam the military. Rather, I am simply making observations. Cynical observations, but they are salutary. I, for one, value freedom of thought and speech. Unfortunately, group-think seems to be taking over when we all chant 'supporting our troops', Don-Cherry-style.
  29. Bob Macdonald from London, United Kingdom writes: Yes, the western Left. The same turkeys who hounded every global meeting with their violent protests for a couple years, and then provided Osama and his crew with the material for all their speeches and communiques. I do recall some Canadians being integral to that build up of hate and chaos. Well, you made us all reap the whirl wind and all you can do is slime the soldiers who are having to fight to keep you safe and warm. Always remember: islamic fascists don't like the Left and will happily take you out if they ever gain power somewhere, just like they did in Iran.
  30. Bill G from Calgary, Canada writes: Joe Reilly you obviously have been reading too many fiction books and watching too many movies. Educate yourself about our military and their recruiting process before you embarrass yourself further.
  31. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: For the record: I am not a lefty. I am a centrist, who tilts either right or left, depending on the issue at hand.
  32. FOREMOST AUTHOURITY from Western, Canada writes: Bob Macdonald from London, United Kingdom :
    Good comments ! Very well put Sir .
  33. Diogenes the Cynic from Defiant Island, Greece writes: Millions scrambling to go to war does not mean the adventure is legitimate; does not mean those breaking their neck running so fast to enroll are right; says nothing about how the adventure will end. All those who so much like to compare (abusively!) the expecition to Afghanistan to the Great Wars need be reminded that there was no greater enthusiasm than that prevailing at the beginning of WWI. A whole generation had to be destroyed before the remaining enthusiasts realised the futility of it all. How many Canadians will have to die before Canadians come, at long last, to the same conclusion? For to that conclusion we shall come. Afghans are there to stay. We are there to leave.
  34. Boomer AB from Canada writes: Joe Reilly, you sound like Canada's answer to John Kerry. Having talked to people that I went to school with that chose to go into the military, they tell me people coming in are, by and large, highly intelligent and highly motivated. You are a typical lefty saying 'if you were smart like me you would think like me, so I have to educate you so you are'. With people like you around we should be thankfull that it was our parent's generation who stood up for freedom 'cause I don't think you and Taliban Jack have the spine.
  35. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Boomer from Aleberda: Taliban Jack? One thing I'm sure of is that there are no Talibans called 'Jack'.

    You're so witty, you.
  36. Bob Macdonald from London, United Kingdom writes: This is not like WWI or Vietnam. This is something totally different and I will tell you why. Like it or not, we live in a world that is economically connected and the connectivity is the bullwark of our prosperity and freedoms. We can pretend we can go home and throw some steaks on the BBQ and have a beer and it will all go away, but it won't. If we care about upholding international law and the right of all people on the planet to be safe and one day have freedom, then hiding in the 'burbs ain't going to do it. We should rightly argue and debate the tactics and short-term strategies (as we can see, much has gone wrong in Iraq). But I would rather live under an American-led security blanket, then live on my knees begging and pleading and 'compromising' with islamic fascists so they will let me live another day. And yes, that is what is at stake.
  37. chris jenkins from Free the West, BC, Canada writes: It must kill all you Lefties that the anti-Conservative, anti-Canadian Military media campaign from the G&M and the CBC has had no effect. These soldiers are protecting you while you continue to snipe at them with cheap shots. Where is your collective pride?
  38. Henriette Heroux from Nouvelle-France, Canada writes: Bob Macdonald from London, United Kingdom writes: 'If we care about upholding international law and the right of all people on the planet to be safe and one day have freedom, then hiding in the 'burbs ain't going to do it..................'............. If we care about upholding international law and the right of all people on the planet to be safe and one day have freedom, then........ we need never have gone into Afghanistan and Iraq in the first place! We only disgraced ourselves doing so.
  39. Bob Macdonald from London, United Kingdom writes: I agree Iraq's timing was a mistake. But Afghanistan? Can you imagine after 9/11 just not doing anything about it? What effect would that have had? All our police and surveillance would not have been good enough if we left them alone and they then moved on to topple Pakistan etc.
  40. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Bob Macdonald: You write 'But I would rather live under an American-led security blanket, then live on my knees begging and pleading and 'compromising' with islamic fascists so they will let me live another day. And yes, that is what is at stake.'

    I think you are paranoid. Throughout history, the West has faced numerous dangers and challenges much greater than 'Islamic fascists', but we have prevailed. What, exactly, is this business about us being destroyed by Islamic fascists? It will never happen, even if we had never sent our armies to Afghanistan and Iraq. In fact, the terror attacks in London and Madrid are likely the result of western presence in Iraq and Afghanistan.

    To put things in perspective: the Nazis were a much greater threat to our western civilization than Islamic fanatics have ever been, or ever will be. In fact, the latter are quite puny. They have not killed tens of millions of Europeans, like European countries themselves have succeeded in doing to one another over the last century.

    And so, we will be okay, little Bobby. Don't be afraid, sleep tight, and go to mommy if you get nightmares.
  41. Paul Thompson from Canada writes: Jenkins, where are your brains? The Taliban are interested in Afghanistan, period. Al-Queda may be a threat, but sending soldiers over there does nothing to stop them. Why don't you leave your precious west for a bit and go over and fight them yourself if you are so tough.
  42. Henriette Heroux from Nouvelle-France, Canada writes: Bob Macdonald, what is that obsession over 'doing nothing'? This idea that unless you unleash a war you are bound to 'doing nothing' is insane. Similarly, the 'idea' that anybody who opposes the 'war' is Pro-Taliban is sick. We're talking about life and death on all sides here. Assuming we are human beings, we need to get a bit more serious about those matters. Unless, of course, we just don't care simply because it is other peoples' lives (not ours!) that is at stake.
  43. Al Suba from Trenton, Canada writes: Smart kid, that Ben Halloran. It's probably a lot safer to join the PPCLI for duty in Kandahar than to put youself at risk among the
    Pan Ams on the Queensway or the 401.
  44. Bill G from Calgary, Canada writes: Paul Thompson, if the Taliban are interested in Afghanistan only, why did they allow terrorist training camps and Bin Laden to operate in their country? Why are they attracting terrorists from as far away as Chechnya to fight with them? Why are they importing Al-Qaeda methods from Iraq? They are part of the world wide Islamic terrorist network, that's why. Go ahead, withdraw all foreign troops. The terrorist camps will be back faster than an anthill and it won't be long before someone attacks a western nation again. Their ideology demands it!
  45. Hugh Malafry from Victoria, Canada writes: Young people tend to think themselves indestructible. Nor have they learned how to temper ideals with understanding how they are so callously manipulated by those who have none. That said, the outcome of war is to awaken youth, and when they really do wake up its not to patriotism and the old lies that are used to line the pockets of the ruthless.
  46. Lou Laroche from Canada writes: While that child is popping zits in a mirror, Afghans have been using AK-47s and explosives since early childhood. Boot camp is nothing like war. Shame on a society that sends its children off to fight for nothing more than bragging rights and kickbacks. If you do go to Afghanistan, you WILL NOT come back the same. You do not come back a hero. You do not do anything fun. You will however need years of mental, and maybe physical rehabilitation. Your inter-personal relationships go out the window, and you may find yourself posting comments in a redundant, hypocritical newspaper.
  47. Dan L from Alberta, Canada writes: Joe Reilly thinks Bob Macdonald is paranoid:

    'It will never happen, even if we had never sent our armies to Afghanistan and Iraq. In fact, the terror attacks in London and Madrid are likely the result of western presence in Iraq and Afghanistan.'

    Wake up Reilly, at worst our presence in these countries simply provided an excuse to move up attacks that were going to occur eventually

    'To put things in perspective: the Nazis were a much greater threat to our western civilization than Islamic fanatics have ever been, or ever will be. In fact, the latter are quite puny. They have not killed tens of millions of Europeans, like European countries themselves have succeeded in doing to one another over the last century.'

    Joe, how about putting things into REALISTIC perspective now. The Nazi threat was quite overt and readily identifiable, was exercised through the mechanism of conventional, even if on a massive scale, inter nation war. Once the war was won the threat posed by that malevolent ideology was effectively stopped.

    Contrast that with what's occurring today, a malevolent religious extremism not constrained to one single nation state manifesting itself not only in Iraq and Afghanistan, but rather anywhere Muslim communities exist, including western nations. Extremists who make no bones about seeking the destruction of the countries they live in, reshaped to their twisted version of Islam against the wishes of not only their non-Muslim neighbors, but even fellow Muslims who don't share their extremist view (and whom they have no qualms about slaughtering for being insufficiently devout!)

    If any reason existed for nightmares it's from the complacent attitudes like yours Joe.
  48. Rob Myatt from Toronto, Canada writes: Seventeen year old kids who think getting yelled at in boot camp is fun and think they're pretty good at paintball should not be allowed in the forces and to read about them in the globe is embarassing. Bad enough the organization is taking advantage of thier juvinile desire for action but these kids have no idea what they are fighting for at all. How many of them know anything about where they are going and who they are shooting at? Don't get me wrong, I think there is evil out there and something should be done about it, but giving a rifle to a trigger happy kid who can do 100 pushups doesnt seem like the best way to change the world we live in.
  49. Freddie Fender from Canada writes: A number of posters have made uninformed and ignorant comments about the type of recruits who join the Canadian Forces. Posted comments suggesting that most recruits are 'white trash' or would be otherwise in jail reflect the ignorance of these posters.

    As an Aboriginal Canadian who has served in the CF for over 30 years, I take extreme exception to these remarks.

    Members of the CF come from across the country and represent the 'best and brightest' that this nation has to offer. I am proud to serve alongside them.
  50. Diogenes the Cynic from Defiant Island, Greece writes: Freddie Fender from Canada writes: Mr. Fender, with much respect for you as an Aboriginal Canadian, and a citizen who served in the CF for over 30 years... 'white trash'.... ' the 'best and brightest' that this nation has to offer'... anybody you know, somewhere, in between, where the majority of us all stand, including in the CF?
  51. Freddie Fender from Canada writes: Diogenes the Cynic from Defiant Island, Greece:

    The comment about 'white trash' is not mine. It originated with the poster shown below. In my view, such derogatory expressions should not be allowed on the G&M site, but it appears that the G&M thinks otherwise - The editor has been alerted to this comment.

    Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Sam Wiseman: Most recruits are what we fondly know as 'white trash'.
    Posted 07/07/07 at 11:04 AM EDT

    If you met some of today's CF members, you would see that they are indeed very upstanding, professional and dedicated Canadian soldiers.
  52. Lou Laroche from Canada writes: Freddie Fender, I respectfully disagree. The majority I worked with were idiots who had something to prove...just like the kid in this story. All the talent is running their own business.
  53. Maria F. from Canada writes: Joe Reilly: Do you think that we are so naive, you to try downplay the thread of the Islamists? I know why. You JOE check under your bed tonight and see, maybe some pig or dog sleeping there.
  54. Freddie Fender from Canada writes: Lou Laroche from Canada: '...The majority I worked with....'

    'Worked with' - past tense - when did you serve? I would suggest that the quality of recruits has improved in recent years.

    As a product of contemporary Canadian society, the young 17 old obviously has no real appreciation of what he may be getting himself into. Others may be more aware of the military life through the experiences of relatives. Wars are messy - not at all like paintball games or the ability to do 100 pushups. This individual will undergo some growing up in the next year or so before he is qualified as a QL3 infantryman. He will either transform from being a boy to a man, or he just won't make it.
  55. Bill G from Calgary, Canada writes: Freddie, correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that after basic training (assuming they aren't weeded out during that process), a recruit is offered a chance to resign with honour before going onto battle school? The Forces are very adept at retaining the best and the brightest.
  56. fOREMOST AUTHORITY from western, Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada : While you sit there on your fat behind contemplating your navel it must really bother you that there are people out there with conviction and integrity who actually will stand for something they believe in and do something about it. Your statement 'In fact, the terror attacks in London and Madrid are likely the result of western presence in Iraq and Afghanistan'. Can you please explain the World Trade Center (1995). How about the bombing in the nineties of Philippine Airlines, Ethiopian Air ( they had no presence in Iraq or Afghanistan that I know of). Then there were terror attacks in Kenya, bombing of schools in Thailand and the Philippines. This is pre-Afghanistan and these countries were not involved. You make it sound like the European countries are the only ones capable of mass murder and genocide. How about Japan in the Second World War, mass killings, starvation, slavery, medical experiments, chemical warfare and experiments on the military and civilian population alike. Feel free to Google the rape of Nanking. How about Cambodia and the Pol Pot killing fields? And there is chairman Mao and an estimated 30-40 million deaths there. Let's not forget about Turkey and the Armenians. While your biggest concern this week might be 'where's the next party', believe it or not there are people out there who will hate you even if you did nothing to them . These people have no scruples or morals about enslaving others and executing anyone who disagrees with them. While you sit there on your pampered butt, there are dedicated individuals out there working around the clock and committed to protecting us, so that as you put it “Don't be afraid, sleep tight, and go to mommy if you get nightmares.”
  57. fOREMOST AUTHORITY from western, Canada writes: Trying again, I don't know why the paragraphs weren't spaced . --- Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada : While you sit there on your fat behind contemplating your navel it must really bother you that there are people out there with conviction and integrity who actually will stand for something they believe in and do something about it. --- Your statement 'In fact, the terror attacks in London and Madrid are likely the result of western presence in Iraq and Afghanistan'. Can you please explain the World Trade Center (1995). How about the bombing in the nineties of Philippine Airlines, Ethiopian Air ( they had no presence in Iraq or Afghanistan that I know of). Then there were terror attacks in Kenya, bombing of schools in Thailand and the Philippines. This is pre-Afghanistan and these countries were not involved. -------- ----- - You make it sound like the European countries are the only ones capable of mass murder and genocide. How about Japan in the Second World War, mass killings, starvation, slavery, medical experiments, chemical warfare and experiments on the military and civilian population alike. Feel free to Google the rape of Nanking. How about Cambodia and the Pol Pot killing fields? And there is chairman Mao and an estimated 30-40 million deaths there. Let's not forget about Turkey and the Armenians. - --- While your biggest concern this week might be 'where's the next party', believe it or not there are people out there who will hate you even if you did nothing to them . These people have no scruples or morals about enslaving others and executing anyone who disagrees with them. - --- --- While you sit there on your pampered butt, there are dedicated individuals out there working around the clock and committed to protecting us, so that as you put it “Don't be afraid, sleep tight, and go to mommy if you get nightmares.”
  58. Kathleen Degelder from AberdeenUSA, Canada writes: Vayus con Deus.

    Negare: Project Five.
  59. WRITE- ON from Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Sam Wiseman: Most recruits are what we fondly know as 'white trash'.
    Posted 07/07/07 at 11:04 AM EDT

    >>>>

    I must agree with the prevalent consensus here, that is: You are an idiot .
  60. FOREMOST AUTHORITY from Western, Canada writes: Kathleen Degelder: You do not disappoint . Where can I get whatever you're on ?
  61. Sam Wiseman from Ottawa, Canada writes: Joe Riley from Montreal you seem very angry and bitter I do not think that will return your friends to power.

    I hope you feel as empowered when you meet one of our brave soldiers on the street or one of their supporters maybe a parent.

    You see Joe, Canadians do not fear clowns like you but you had better fear Canadians. Try my theory out see how it goes, I am very wise and old.
  62. Lou Laroche from Canada writes: Freddie Fender, I served very recently. Enough said.
  63. Old blue from Canada writes: Should be front page news.
    Notwithstanding the media's attempt to blacken every aspect of the war on terror a record number are enlisting.
    Might this mean that a group of reporters/journalists/editors jobs are on the line given that they've obviously failed their objective while doing their own interpretation of the free speech thingy.
  64. Sandy Ferguson from Invermere, B.C., Canada writes: I would like to say that I thought that this article was a well written piece exploring why in a time of war, a growing number of young Canadians are willing to face the risk of death and injury to serve in Afghanistan, and how war itself can be a powerful recruiting tool. However, the question I would ask, if war itself is the motivation, why do we not see a similar increase in recruiting for the U.S. military for their war in Iraq, instead of the reality of a major decline in their recruiting? I believe that this increase in recruiting is not a result of young Canadians wanting to go simply go out and fight someone, but instead they want to serve in a just cause and be part of a mission to bring peace to a troubled land. Hence the difference with the US war in Iraq, which is a colonial expedition as part of a vain attempt to prop up the American empire. It's more difficult to recruit people to die to protect Haliburton's profit margins.
  65. John Smith from Canada writes: In Canada, we all enjoy a right to free expression, and for this we should all be grateful. However, just because one enjoys this right, does not mean they must express each and every thought that comes into their mind to the world. I suggest that in a civilized society, freedom of expression comes with a personal duty to excerise that right in a responsible manner. Joe Rielly writes that 'soldiers are a bunch of dunderheaded idiots. They are generally not very bright, and many of them would be in jail if it were not for the military', and that they are generally 'white-trash'. I weep, absolutely weep, for any soldier serving or who has served in Afganistan, reading that type of garbage. Joe, debate the merits of the mission, for you are free to do so. But for God's sake man, if you truly believe that soldiers are 'dunderheads', 'idiots' and 'white trash' (and if you do then I weep for you as well), keep it to yourself. It's simply disgusting that anyone living in this country, whether they agree with the war or not, would personally denigrate a group of brave young men and women fighting, and dying, so that a long-oppressed foreign populace can enjoy the same basic liberties you so embarassingly abuse.
  66. Dennis Petruk from Canada writes: Bob Macdonald:

    Well said.
  67. younous younous from Peterborough, Canada writes: These kids are bored and just want to shoot somebody.
    The Afghan people make good target.
    It is the M16 and uniform stupid!!!
  68. bob saunders from Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Bill G.: You too should get a life, or, at least, open your eyes and see that recruits to the military are young yahoos from low socioeconomic backgrounds, who do not -- how shall I put it -- value the life of the mind. They have limited prospects in life, and, if not for a 'glorious' military career, would be stuck in dead-end jobs most of their lives.------------------------------------------ Well after 29 years in the Airforce I can't speak for the army but I know the average military member has at least Grade 12, most have college degrees or University. Most also continue to attend classes when they can after they join. Recruits come from all socioeconomic backgrounds. You obviously don't have a clue; either about the military or its members. And as far as limited prospects; having a military background is an asset. My brother is a headhunter for a number of multinational companies, and tells me that people with a military background are highly desireable employees. So, Mr Reilly, what dead-end job do you have? Probably living off the government in one form or another.
  69. bob saunders from Canada writes: Normally recruiting numbers go up when the economy is bad. Unemployment numbers are relatively good, so what's the reasons people are joining. Perhaps because it is getting more difficult to get anything but a entry-level job in places like Ontario and Quebec without having a University degree and the high cost of getting that degree. When I joined 29 years ago, the economy was bad in BC, where I was living. Going back to school was very expensive and it was impossible to get anything other than service jobs. Perhaps the cycle is repeating.
  70. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Bob Saunders and Sam Wiseman: I am a university professor. I teach what I write on these fora, although I am more diplomatic in the classroom. What do I teach? That Canadian soldiers serving in Afghanistan are no heroes at all, but rather the dregs of society who are made to believe that they are heroes so that they can take the job that nobody really wants. You see, glorifying violence works well with impressionable and undereducated members of society with dim minds and dimmer prospects.

    So far as I can tell by my student evaluations and my high course enrollments, students buy my message. And it is a message I have repeated at various universities in this country: Simon Fraser, Univ of Alberta, and Concordia University, where I am currently teaching.

    So, as to your suggestion that I try out your 'theory', Mr. Wiseman, I am. And I am pleased with the reaction.
  71. Craig Cooper from Toronto, writes: There are cowards in this world who hide behind psuedonyms and then there are the decent ones who volunteer for the armed forces.
  72. John Doe from Ottawa, Canada writes: The people that are representing Canada in the military, whether in Afghanistan or elsewhere deserve more respect than to be cast as imbecilic, idiotic etc. Each life lost is tragic. Every limb lost is a horrible penalty to that person.

    In light of our most recent losses, it is shameful to read the comments in this thread. I do not know any of those young men personally though I dare say that it takes more than a desire to be hero, or more than a misunderstanding of our mortality that would prompt them to face this kind of danger and ultimately pay such a high price.

    To the families of these soldiers my heartfelt condolences. They did not die in vain, if only for the lesson that they teach us in how to live as strong, proud members of a free nation.
  73. True North from The Free West, Canada writes: Joe Reilly: I hope that no one falls for your inflammatory comments and posts some kind of hate-filled tirade.

    My heart is saddened knowing that our nation and its freedoms were defended from Lundy's Lane through to the present day by our Armed Forces, just to purchase you the opportunity spew your filth.

    No surprise it's at Concordia - where the 'K' stands for 'Quality'. Next stop - CDI College Distance Education with Sally Struthers!
  74. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: True North: What about Simon Fraser and U of Alberta? Want to slag those institutions as well?

    The fact remains that there are some of us who are ready and willing to look at disheartening truths, and those of us who beat our chests. I count myself (and my students in three reputable Canadian universities) as classed among the former.
  75. Kris Lund from P DOT, Canada writes: 'We're at war. But we're on the side of the angels' This is pherhaps the scariest piece of this article for two reasons. The first reason being people actually belevie that we as Canadians are ultimatley infalliable while suggesting a Good vs evil perspective of the Afghan conflict. This perspective is dangerous as it may perpetuate a superiority complex over other people who are no better or worse then ourselves as it is all a matter of perspectivie of who the 'Angel' really is. The second reason this quote scares me involve the religous undertones that seem prevalent. Are young canadian troops viewing themselves as bringers of justice in the sense of a Devine messanger with C7 rifle? If this is the case we may have forsaken a secular military for a more religously based one. This notion scares the £$%^ out of me.
  76. Maria F. from Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal,: You see. You are the perfect example that Islamist doesn't have to get a job teachink our children.......IF, big IF you are realy a teacher. You are angree becouse our soldiers are in your Holly Land. But our land is a Holly to, soo get a life, and next time, come here with your real name, don't hide behind Western name. This is the way we live here in West. Shape it or shiped. You are free to go , .... And for 'whute trush' you are the Islamic trush. Don't you ever call my son ' that name again! JOE = Islamic activist from brigade 'cultural Jihad'divigion 'Muslim brotherhood'.
  77. John Smith from Canada writes: I think it has become apparent Joe Rielly is a bit of a fraudster here people. If he is who he says he is, he's a sad man full of delusion and hate (probably picked on as a child by the stronger kids) and certainly not someone I would want teaching my children (not that I would permit them to attend Concordia) or those of anyone else. If he's making it all up, he's a sad man with nothing else to do on a Saturday afternoon but create internet posts under a fictious identity. Either way, he is among the worst this country has to offer, in stark contrast to the servicemen and women he enjoys insulting so, who represent the very best among us.
  78. All You Need Is Love from Canada writes: 'It's a war against the spirit 24 hours a day. You can feel it in the air.' The forces of fear,greed and war are always very powerful. Ancient ideas sold by instant marketing and driven by high tech shot through with violent images all day every day. Making war was never easier. Making peace is always harder than making war. if any people have the courage, the spiritual generosity and the willingness to sacrifice for a noble cause far greater than commerciality it is Canadians. Make love not war.
  79. Rob Myatt from Toronto, Canada writes: I'm on Joe Reilly's team.
    I agree with you Joe.
  80. Maria F. from Canada writes: Rob Myatt from Toronto, Canada writes: I'm on Joe Reilly's team.
    I agree with you Joe. >>>>>>>> Afcourse, you are from the same mosque, or the sleeper cell. You are easy to be spat, do you know why? ( empty heads) Becouse some of Canadian's may be against the war, but 'NEVER' will call our sons and dauthers 'white trush'. This is the mistake you Islamists trush making, hiding behind 'i'm against the war' and western names to call names on our kids. Full of hate.......
  81. Aumharan G from Canada writes: Canadian Patriot from United States writes: ... It's utterly shameful that our country targets and solicits its youngest members to go off and die for politicians and corporatists. How many MPs have kids in Afghanistan? I doubt very many as they're probably off getting their fabulous education and training for their pre-determined corporate careers.

    I couldn't agree more Mr. Patriot. I really wonder if Convervative MP's were asked to enlist their kids in the force how many would suddenly take a new perspective on the war.
  82. Maria F. from Canada writes: Canadian Patriot from United States =dr Abdul
  83. Maria F. from Canada writes: .' My passport is not for rent. My country is not a parking lot and neither is it a port of convenience. It is my adopted home and I am not willing to let it decay at the hands of parasites.
    Muslim organizations in Canada must do more than simply pay lip service to cliche-ridden patriotism while preaching against the values and foundations of this great country.

    It is only recently that the Canadian government has started talking of 'Canadian identity.' However, while not a penny is spent to instill pride in Canadian values, hundreds of millions are being spent to undermine these values in the name of multiculturalism.

    Unless this trend is reversed, Islamists will succeed in instilling doubt in the minds of young Muslim professionals toward western values and institutions. If a neurologist can be brainwashed, who next -- a nuclear physicist?

    Tarek Fatah is founder of the Muslim Canadian Congress and author of Chasing a Mirage: The Islamic state or a state of Islam, to be published by John Wiley & Sons in 2008.
  84. bob saunders from Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Bob Saunders and Sam Wiseman: I am a university professor. What do I teach? That Canadian soldiers serving in Afghanistan are no heroes at all, but rather the dregs of society who are made to believe that they are heroes so that they can take the job that nobody really wants. You see, glorifying violence works well with impressionable and undereducated members of society with dim minds and dimmer prospects. -------------------------------- So you are one of the idiots that has been instrumental in warping young impressional minds. You are proof that education doesn't make you intelligent. You Sir, are an educated idiot. I have no problem with you teaching that Canadian soldiers are not heros, after all they are just doing the job they are paid to do. I have no problem with you preaching again war and violence. I suggest to you that the Dregs of society are teaching at some of our universities. Garbage in ,Garbage out. Almost all of our islamic terrorists were well educated, The red army faction...etc were European university students from well to do families, so were Carlos and Che. The list goes on. I'm sure the majority of these impressional, intelligent minds from an advantaged socioeconomic background were easily converted by left leaning university professors carrying out their warped agenda. As you can see glorifying vilolence works well with the spoiled rich children with every economic advantage and educational opportunity. Your argument and theories are without a great deal of foundation. The most intelligent people are often the most violent and cruel. Intelligence does not give you compassion nor insight.
  85. Satori Zen from Warriors' Land, Canada writes: Kris Lund from P DOT, Canada writes: 'We're at war. But we're on the side of the angels' This is pherhaps the scariest piece of this article... I do agree with you. So does Chris Hedges ('War Is a Force that Gives Us Meaning, p. 9, 21), for the record: ''Once we sign on for war's crusade, ONCE WE SEE OURSELVES ON THE SIDE OF THE ANGELS (my emphasis), once we embrace a theological or ideological belief system that defines itself as the embodiment of goodness and light, it is only a matter of how we will carry out murder.... Most of those who are thrust into combat soon find it impossible to maintain the mythic perception of war... for war is exposed for what it is -- organized murder.'
  86. Maria F. from Canada writes: bob saunders from Canada : They are radical Islamists, hiding behind Western names. Theur 'END' is comming. Enough!
  87. A Canuck from Ottawa, Canada writes: Good post Maria - this story shows our youth have just discovered a new found pride, one awaken by a leader showing who we are and what we stand for...
  88. Maria F. from Canada writes: A Canuck from Ottawa, Canada : God bless our Canada and our kids. I wish them the best. This article is about our kids, and i will not be polliticly corect to some islamists rumbling and hate. After all, nobody invite them here.
  89. Jim Terrets from Vancouver, writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: ':Bob Saunders and Sam Wiseman: I am a university professor. I teach what I write on these fora, although I am more diplomatic in the classroom. What do I teach? That Canadian soldiers serving in Afghanistan are no heroes at all, but rather the dregs of society who are made to believe that they are heroes so that they can take the job that nobody really wants. You see, glorifying violence works well with impressionable and undereducated members of society with dim minds and dimmer prospects.'

    Joe, your comment is ignorant and offensive and has no basis in fact. The only thing your comment does is reveal your own dim mind and even dimmer character. If you really are a university professor then I feel sorry for your students, and for their parents, who pay good money for a university education only to be subjected to your drivel.
  90. Maria F. from Canada writes: Ussualy i'm reading only, and not posting, but they crossing the line, and now i will publicly declare to the Goverment , that me Maria , mother and proud Canadian, that i will not tolerate anymore multiculture beyond some festivals and restorants. FIRST and only ONE CANADA. If somebody doesn't liked, they are free to live, and if somebody preaching hate and terrorism they will be deported and cancel the sitizenship.
  91. Mikey from the GWN ___ from Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal,

    I'd be curious to know how many members of today's Canadain Forces you actually know? Not just met in the mall one day, actually know!

    If as I suspect, based upon your comments, that number is ZERO. Then I have serious concerns about the ethical standards of the institutions you claim to teach at since it appears they allow you teach impressional minds about subjects you know absolutely nothing about!!

    CHeers

    Mikey
  92. MARK S from Calgary, Canada writes: John Smith from Canada,

    Two remarkable posts to Joe Reilly the fraud, who is the 'White Trash' on this site
  93. Al Suba from Trenton, Canada writes: Let me amend my previous coment to read 'Smart kid, that Ben Halloran. It's probably a lot safer to join the PPCLI for duty in Kandahar than to put yourself at risk among the
    Grand Ams on the Queensway or the 401. Sorry 'bout that, I musta been having a senior's moment.
  94. FOREMOST AUTHORITY from Western, Canada writes: (Professor) Joe Reilly from Montreal: I can't find you on any Canadian or U.S. faculty list . Should I be searching the Middle East or other Muslim areas ?
  95. FOREMOST AUTHORITY from Western, Canada writes: BRAVO Maria F !
  96. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Joe Reilly is not my real name, bozos.
  97. brian bishop from Brantford, Canada writes: I hope some of our posters realize that every post on sites like the G&M are tracked by CSIS & very likely other agencies such as CSE's SIGINT. Your IP address is an address right to you, so hiding behind fake names will do you no good.

    Any postings of political nature are subject to monitoring, but of course you lefties or centrists for that matter wouldn't believe something like this could happen in Canada. Even if for some strange reason CSIS or another Canadian agency isn't monitoring these posts, rest assured the American's & Britt's will be.
  98. FOREMOST AUTHORITY from Western, Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Joe Reilly is not my real name, bozos.
    ---------------
    So what is it, Abdul, Mohammed ?
  99. Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: FOREMOST AUTHORITY: You are a bigot and a racist.
  100. Freddie Fender from Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: 'Bob Saunders and Sam Wiseman: I am a university professor.'

    Mr Reilly, based on the many ignorant comments that you have posted today, I really doubt that you are indeed a 'university professor' as you allege.

    BTW, as an Aboriginal Canadian in the Canadian Forces with over 30 years service currently completing a PhD, I don't fall into your categories of 'white trash,' jail dodger or dunderhead.

    My sincere condolences to your students.
  101. Antonio Corrado from Toronto, Canada writes: Who is this Joe Reilly? Why is he so dismissive? It's one thing to criticize the mission, but wholly another thing to demean the soldiers. So, they often tend to be from lower socioeconomic status. More than anything, that makes them the salt of the earth and bedrock Canadians, who should be respected, and not placed in harm's way unnecessarily.
  102. Freddie Fender from Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: 'FOREMOST AUTHORITY: You are a bigot and a racist.'

    Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada writes: Sam Wiseman: Most recruits are what we fondly know as 'white trash'.
    Posted 07/07/07 at 11:04 AM EDT

    Reilly - I guess you should know all about bigotry and racism from your own comments.
  103. FOREMOST AUTHORITY from Western, Canada writes: Joe Reilly from Montreal, Canada :Can't take a little tongue and cheek ? That's right , anyone who disagrees with you is a racist .
    Oh well, attitudes can change but stupidity is pretty well permanent .
  104. Antonio Corrado from Toronto, Canada writes: On a different note, I do not mean to tale Joe Reilly's side, but to FOREMOST AUTHORITY: why is it that you must insult someone by asking him if he is an Arab, only because you disagree with his argument? Attack the argument, and the man making the bad argument will fall. Why, FOREMOST AUTHORITY, are you casting Arabs/Muslims as our enemies? They are not, only some of the extremists are!
    • Posted 07/07/07 at 6:24 PM EDT |