Hero worship vs. humility

"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm."
Psalm 20: 7-8

Depsite the frequent comparisons of today's headlines with the Vietnam era (sometimes warranted, sometimes not), there is certainly one glaring difference: the esteem with which mainstream America regards its Armed Forces. In the 1960s, those in uniform often were caught personally in the crossfire of vehement political conflict. Unique in the American experience, veterans of that era dealt with the baggage every warrior acquires in battle, combined with knowlege the effort was ultimately in vain--then returned home to scorn and contempt from many of their countrymen. If nothing else, the country seems to have learned that villifying the troops in general is not a constructive outlet even for legitimate policy disagreements.

As is true in so many facets of life, however, it's possible to overlearn this lesson. The elite painted the military as public enemy #1 for over a decade after 1968. Now, the military is often held above reproach, even when it's deserved. Pointing out the failures of individuals or specific policies can bring a backlash charge of insufficient patriotism. "Support for the troops" is defined by the average citizen as displaying flags, yellow ribbons and other "team affinity gear," and saying "thanks" to anyone you see in uniform. In truth, it closely resembles cheering for your favorite Super Bowl contender.

Having heard the mantra for years theirs is the "best trained, best equipped force on the planet," a significant portion of Americans assume "their team" can take all challengers. While the mantra has some factual validity, it's dangerous for any nation to become too enamored with military prowess. As the saying goes, "when all you have is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail." An Order of Battle provides a simplistic yardstick of national strength, so Americans rarely pay much attention to political or economic elements of power. This leads to hubris at home and draws hatred from abroad. Instead of speaking softly while carrying the proverbial big stick, we tend to wield the billy club like a bull in a china shop.

There's evidence this trend is reaching its natural limits and undergoing reconsideration. Perhaps in the process, the country can find the proper balance between respecting those who serve sacrificially, and placing them on a pedestal that can only highlight the "hero's" feet of clay.