As a country we are second to none at putting ourselves down.
We would do well to adopt America's sense of national pride and patriotism (as well as their equipment).
Despite all the pressures put on them over the years the British Armed Forces remain highly motivated, disciplined and professional.
I must say that I agree strongly with your sentiments Robert, I have had a close family member in the Army and I was most impressed with the sheer professional and motivation shown during both his training and his time in the forces and yes, he did see active sevice in Northern Ireland and was invalided out of the Army.
In WW1 the expression "lions led by donkeys" was used to describe the leadership of the British Generals (donkeys) of their troops (lions) who were sent to their deaths by incompetent leaders.
What has changed now is that it is the political leaders who are the "donkeys" and have let our brave boys, and the nation, down by not equipping them properly for the war they are being asked to fight. As I've said before it is quite scandalous and really unacceptable.
I don't think anyone would claim that the "NHS was the envy of the world" but do remember that there are very few other health care systems that are free at the point of use.
With the NHS I fear that many people will not realise it's true value until it's been destroyed beyond recognition.
Again I've had personal experience of the NHS having had a chronic health problem some years ago and consequently, I have had a long and continuing exposure to the NHS. I cannot praise the individuals in it enough and I just wish that all of us could show the same engagement to our own work that the vast majority in the NHS show. Most of the health professionals in my personal experience have a vocation and should be applauded for the work they do on our behalf.
Marion recently has had a nasty accident and again her own experience of the NHS accords with mine. I know which type of hospital I would want to go into if I had something seriously wrong with me.
Lastly, before finishing what must sound like a rant, but is really just something heartfelt, let me say that I really found Yuri's post very apposite. If that is not a cry for an end to all war (I know we won't change the base side of human nature) I don't know what is. I think on that note I had better head off to bed.
