There is nothing noble about starting a war. Almost invariably, wars are launched so that many soldiers may fight and kill in order to win further power and wealth for a few who are seldom near the fray. But that is not what moves the individual soldier to fight and face the ultimate sacrifice.
Somewhere in amid mesh of motivating forces that inspire the young civilian lad or lass to sign on for the danger and misery that accompanies the infantry soldier’s uniform comes a call to character.
Alongside the drum beating and yearning for vague glories, the young person forges a principle that lifts him outside himself.
“These people of mine, and this cause are worth my total devotion. No matter what my previous plans, no matter what danger, this demands my utmost dedication – I give it freely – I serve with pride.”
If there lies any nobility in the tragedy of each war, it may be found in that individual soldier’s choice to serve that loftier mission as he sees it.
May we all take inspiration from those folks, who with heroic innocence answer this call to character and bravely devote themselves to that which they believe.
– Bart Jackson
