13th April 2003, 4:19 PM
Of course, it's hardly possible to compare the military history of a 300-million-man nation born in the baptism of fire that is a revolution to a more-or-less-willing alliance of peoples that counts a tenth of that population. Neither English nor French Canadians have ever been extremely warlike, either. Yet it remains true that Canada has always given a good show in each of its conflicts, to the measure of its ability.
That Midway remark can be taken either way, I think. If the Americans lose at Midway, do the Japanese necessarily invade the mainland? Is America doomed? Doubtful. However, if US Army had managed to bypass de Salaberry's ambush in the war of 1812, Canada's future could very well have been in jeopardy. Everything is relative.
And do remember that while the United States were fighting the Teikoku Kaigun in the Pacific, Canada was nearly single-handedly feeding Great Britain's war effort. And also getting slaughtered on the beaches of France thanks to incompetent leadership. Let's not get into that. *cough* At any rate, the first part certainly counts... a less glamour job, but someone's got to do it.
All in all, it would be blatant nationalism to claim Canada has a more decorated military history than the U.S., but it's still no reason to forget it. As for the present, which is a thousand times more important than past glories, I believe there has been quite a bit of laisser-aller in the Canadian military. Our country is currently unable to efficiently participate in the joint defense of North America, and this will likely keep on going until a new government is elected. The Liberals have ignored the Armed Forces ever since their rise to power, which is among many things a factor that is disgruntling voters around the country. I myself am leaning towards voting for the Canadian Alliance which is the furthest right party we have in Canada. Ironically, if you look at them from an international perspective they are still left of centre.
At any rate, I digress, that's that. I don't think our countries need unhealthy competition and bragging right now, but rather mutual respect and cooperation on the global level.
*steps down from podium*
That Midway remark can be taken either way, I think. If the Americans lose at Midway, do the Japanese necessarily invade the mainland? Is America doomed? Doubtful. However, if US Army had managed to bypass de Salaberry's ambush in the war of 1812, Canada's future could very well have been in jeopardy. Everything is relative.
And do remember that while the United States were fighting the Teikoku Kaigun in the Pacific, Canada was nearly single-handedly feeding Great Britain's war effort. And also getting slaughtered on the beaches of France thanks to incompetent leadership. Let's not get into that. *cough* At any rate, the first part certainly counts... a less glamour job, but someone's got to do it.
All in all, it would be blatant nationalism to claim Canada has a more decorated military history than the U.S., but it's still no reason to forget it. As for the present, which is a thousand times more important than past glories, I believe there has been quite a bit of laisser-aller in the Canadian military. Our country is currently unable to efficiently participate in the joint defense of North America, and this will likely keep on going until a new government is elected. The Liberals have ignored the Armed Forces ever since their rise to power, which is among many things a factor that is disgruntling voters around the country. I myself am leaning towards voting for the Canadian Alliance which is the furthest right party we have in Canada. Ironically, if you look at them from an international perspective they are still left of centre.
At any rate, I digress, that's that. I don't think our countries need unhealthy competition and bragging right now, but rather mutual respect and cooperation on the global level.
*steps down from podium*