Counterpoint: I did not help the defense industry as a spineless sellout looking for money. I studied computer science because it was interesting. Period. N

Counterpoint: I did not help the defense industry as a spineless sellout looking for money. I studied computer science because it was interesting. Period. Not because I wanted to change the world, or make a pile of money. I wrote code, as a contractor, for the army, as a way of serving my country. I know that's not a popular stance to take now that pride in one's country is not politically correct, but pride in and service to my country is something that is important to me. Don't mistake pride for blind unwavering support in everything we do like the "USA-USA" chanting folks often have. I'm more than happy to point out where we, as a country, have fucked up. We've done it quite a lot. I have medical conditions that preclude active service. I also have a family tradition of service, both in and out of uniform. Since I could not serve in uniform like my great grandfather did in WWI, my grandfather and his brother did in WWII, or like my uncles did in Korea and Vietnam, I did as my father did and served my country by providing my skills in a time, place, and manner the DoD needed. I'll have no decorations, no glory, no rifle salute at my funeral. I most certainly could have made a boatload more money working elsewhere. Yet, I don't regret it one bit. It was something I felt I needed to do - some will understand, others, I suspect including you, won't ever comprehend War moves humanity forward, but at a terrible price. Since humanity will never eliminate war, when someone has to pay that price, I'd simply rather it not be my countrymen (and now countrywomen). I'm happy you've got values you're willing to stand by and not compromise. I'm happier that I live in a country where you're allowed to call those that serve "immoral" and "spineless piece[s] of shit" with no governmental repercussions or retaliation. I'm happiest that despite my conditions, I found a way to contribute, even if in a minor (and now most likely obsolete) way, to the defense of that nation.