At the extreme risk of actually returning to the original topic:
1. I'm all in favor of the SAS "whacking" whoever they think needs to be whacked. They generally choose wisely and execute well.
2. I'm all in favor of the Israelis whacking/bombing/taking out whatever/whomever they feel threatens the existence of their country. They, too, have a track record of "choosing wisely...executing well".
3. I like Ghurkas with big knives, too...glad they're on our side in most things.
4. I like landmines, FAE, ROCKEYE, APAM and CBUs...all have their place in saving American and allied lives. As for the rest? Fuck 'em..I don't know 'em.
5. I like the concept of actually training our SONAR guys with active emissions. The dolphins and whales? Fuck 'em...I don't know 'em.
6. I think I like flamethrowers, too. Good for clearing out caves in Mount Suribachi and the Tora Bora or for dealing with alien lifeforms. I got three words for the Mobile Infantry in Starship Troopers: "Accept no substitute."
"Allies with balls" are kind of like pickup trucks...sometimes its actually better to have a good neighbor who owns a pickup truck. If you can follow that logic.
I'm just sayin'...but ++ on the very nice threadjack. Glad I got this all out of my system before the weekend, because I sure as shit DON'T BLOG ON SHABBAS!!!