Because they have put their lives on the line for their country and for people like you and me.

The Troops go where they are sent, they are not allowed to pick and choose. The Troops that fought in the Great War and all but gone now. They didn't question, just went to do their duty. We are free because of them. The Troops that fought in the Second world war, some were sent but most volunteered and we are free because of them. Politicians are the ones to blame if reasons for wars are wrong not the Troops.

For people like me and you, are you serious? Whilst you may have the odd serviceman/woman in this day and age that claims they willingly put their lives at risk for me and you, you can bet your last penny that the majority or service personell will tell you something other than they sign up to defend their country and people.

I was going to join the army before, and those thoughts certainley didn't cross my mind when I was comtemplating it, personel gain and adventure it was for me.

Now heroes like Old Henry that died over the weekend, they have my full respect.

I applauded them.

I don't agree with why they're in Iraq or Afghanistan but, at the end of the day, someone has to do their job and they deserve recognition for it. Its something that I would hate to do and I can only applaud them for doing that.

Good drums as well.

Whether or not they go into the services intending to do that, they still do it. Be grateful and don't take it for granted.

It's not about why they joined up, it's about the fact that once in the service they do put their lives on the line. Some join up for adventure, some for a career and education.
Some idiots can't stand in silence for a minute when asked before some games but most do. No one has to applaud if they don't want but the vast majority did and that's what counts.

Indeed and they get my respect for it.

TM...you know and I know that you only posted your initial comment so folk would ask you "why" - don't deny it!

You are entitled to your opinion, obviously. I think though that today demonstrated that it is very much a minority-held one.

Why don't you join the army then? That would be a good way of showing your support.

OK Fair enough. I've no problem with people being patriotic or anything like that, I've no problem with anybody applauding our service personell, It's not for me though, soldiers, sailors and aircrew today are not doing anything that benefits me so I'll hold off on the (IMO)unearned applause and praise.

You too, go and join the army why don't you?

We should have had the entire first battalion parade around.

Maybe trying to put down the terrorist vermin - or their masterminds - who would seek to deprive you and many others of their life or liberty?

They didn't make the decision to go it's down to the polititians or more importantly the money men that pull the strings on capital hill not the young men and women that go out there.

You are entitled to your opinion but I completely disagree with it.