I was still a dumb lib back then. But my radicalization has really peeled opened my eyes to my part in continuing colonialism in Africa and imperialism in the Middle East.
But if I had never served, a lot of the understanding I have would not exist. Or how the military functions and how fucked up and clueless everyone is. Or how so many are working class being recruited for the basic conditions we as leftists want for everyone. Housing, job, sense of purpose, food, etc.
Just hard tackling all of this stuff and thoughts sometimes.
We're not immune to propaganda. And we grew up steeped in artifice. Raised by a generation steeped in artifice. It's hard to really excuse the military, but I do know they prey on the poor and working class for recruits. And the occasional sacks of shit like Mayo Pete. So it's hard for me not to empathize with the literal kids they prey on.
Anyway, I'm glad you're here. Everybody here but me is a bunch of fucking libs anyway.