David, incredibly well said and beautifully written!!! It is exactly what I was trying to get across, and you bring up extremely valid points....the men could not simply leave....that was desertion.....and there are numerous examples of such executions for this offense.
I do not wish to add more to this subject, though I am sure that many of us could add first hand or personal experience to illustrate the dire effects of war on the humanity of individuals, but I would prefer to let this thread rest as what it was intended to be....a Christmas story under terrible circumstances........not a debate. I honestly had hoped for positive notes and sharing of other stories that would further illustrate Christmas spirit.
The discussion has served its purpose conversely in some manner however, in clearly illustrating the extreme polarity that often exists among mankind.
Thanks guys!
Jim
|