The idea of perpetual conflict is nothing new. But the reality of it is here. And it’s not leaving anytime soon.

The first time I heard “Forever War” was back in 2006. I’d just assumed my role as platoon leader for a cavalry scout platoon based out of Hawaii, and was trying my best not to be that lieutenant. So basically — don’t be a jackass, watch, learn to see how it’s done.

Such is the life of the butterbar. 

After a training mission, the topic came up of what the end goal of our upcoming tour would be. I recited some battalion talking points about stability and economic growth, a return to normalcy, blah blah. Our platoon sergeant did something similar. Then one of the Joes raised his hand and said, earnest as a sculpture, “I really don’t... Leer Más