I am currently watching a HBO mini-series about WW2 called "The Pacific", featuring the exploits of the U.S.

1st Marine Division who fought their way across that great ocean's islands against a deadly enemy and

deadly jungle conditions.  With the threat of death at every rustle of the all-enveloping tropical growth

and the disease-laden conditions that were with them every weary rain-aodden step, those men knew

adversity of a sort that makes much of what we put up with in our modern hum-drum existences pretty

tame stuff.  Indeed, comparisons are odious and insulting to them.  A fascinating indication of their

commitment to their struggle and to each other was the revelation that even when exhaustion and

injury/illness put them in hospital, the common denominator was their eagerness to get discharged

to rejoin their fellow marines.  When I read some of the moans around today, I tend to wish that there

was some of that spirit around today amongst the modern political generation that is supposed to be

fighting our corner.  Sadly, that seems to be wishful thinking only on available evidence!  

In the meantime, there are reminders from the likes of this excellent production (based on two books

by veterans of that campaign) that offer the consolation of knowing just how much can b endured and

achieved against all odds when the spirit and determination is present.

Semper Fi !