Bells said:
Baron, there is a difference between a civilian and someone being part of the armed forces (eg army, air force, etc).
What? The uniform? What if they take it off and walk amongst the "civilians", do they then automatically become civilians? No, I don't know the difference between "soldiers" and civilians ...and we know that from experience!
Bells said:
So you think that a group of individuals ..... are justified in attacking a factory filled with civilians that manufactures some parts for weapons or tanks?
Sure ...if those weapons and tanks are used against them! Are you saying that soldiers should wait until the equipment is ready and on the battlefield before attacking??? If the enemy has no weapons, it's pretty damned difficult for them to fight.
In Germany during World War II, the allies bombed the German oil refineries and in several instances almost stopped Hitler's advancing tanks. The gas and diesel was vital to Hitler's war efforts, so...doesn't that make refiinery workers ALSO vital to Hitler's war efforts????? ....so were they civilians??
Bells said:
A protest is hardly the same as a bombing killing innocent people Baron and you know it.
Many, many protests have led directly to "terrorist" actions! ...or are you suggesting that we wait until the bombs have exploded before we make any move to do anything?
Bells said:
What about civilians who do not work for the armed forces. How about the familes of armed forces personnel.
In Vietnam, many of the families were actively supportiing/helping the soldeirs in their fighting. So just being a "civilian" is not quite enough for me to make that judgement.
Bells said:
Honestly Baron, I know you like to play the devil's advocate but surely you do know the difference between a civilian and a non-civilian..
Well, no, I don't understand. Could you provide a good working definition for the differences? I still think that the uniform is about the only difference ...ask any Vietnam vet or coalition troops in Iraq about it.
I'm still not sure about McViegh ....I usually don't make snap judgements and it's only been a short time since his act, so I'm reserving judgement!
Baron Max