Quote Originally Posted by KiltedCodeWarrior
Graham, I find myself in the uncomfortable position of having to disagree with both the "High Protector of the Forum" and also someone whose views I have come to respect as they, mostly, mirror my own. However, in this case I have to disagree. You claim to not want to have your "freedoms, beliefs, or conscience compromised or dictated by other men". I can understand and symathize with that, but IMHO without Ackwell and all the others that have dedicated themselves to military service, or have died in the past defending our freedoms, we would have our freedoms, beliefs, etc. much more compromised, and possibly eliminated. I know, or believe based on your postings, that you are a pacifist and I would love for the world to be a place that every issue could be resolved peacefully, but we are not there yet, and I am not sure we ever will ever get there. Too many people with too many views that they feel are the "only" correct ones and have to convert the world, violently if necessary.

Sorry for the long, possibly controversial post. Mods, feel free to delete if this has crossed over the line.
First of all, you don't need to feel uncomfortable disagreeing with me, you are as entitled to your view as anyone. I don't claim to be right, except as far as I am concerned. My view, in this matter, is right for me, but not necessarily others.

I was waiting for someone to pick up on the "defending our freedoms" line, I left myself open there.
I don't wish to disrespect those who have died believing that, nor is the topic appropriate here.
I will just say that as a Christian, I take a pacifist view as far as corporate military action is concerned (ie, I would defend my own family, but question the motives of governments in warfare) 'nuff said, maybe too much.

My point was, as James has now said, if you want to play the game, you have to play by the rules.
Kilts are the very symbol of freedom and individuality, as has been outlined here countless times.

Neither of these qualities seem to have a place in the military, for reasons James has pointed out.