> When you talk to the military you have to remember that many levels of military are regarded as drones that go through motions and that much of what goes on i

> When you talk to the military you have to remember that many levels of military are regarded as drones that go through motions and that much of what goes on is assumed to be defined without critical thinking. When things deviate, they ask for directions from higher levels where critical thinking occurs. This is the exact opposite to modern Western military doctrine. All levels are expected to exercise critical thinking when facing questions rife with nuance and subtlety. These range from how to employ complex weapons systems in tactical environments to abstract legal questions such as "Is this order lawful?". At all levels, from officer to NCO to enlisted, troops are expected to employ a high level of flexibility and creativity in carrying out their orders, to be able to step up to cover the responsibilities of higher ranks if necessary, and to hold a high level of situational awareness. Modern professional soldiers are not drones. Frankly, I'd go so far as to say that ignorance displayed in your comment here should all but disqualify you from holding an opinion on military matters.