Considering the support our troops got in Korea and Vietnam, IMO the support they are getting now is gratifying. As to financial reward, that is quite a different story. No one should expect the financial aspect of a military career to be equal to an average civilian job. The financial rewards of those that served in WWII were a fraction of what we pay our military today but we didn't think it was unpatriotic or disrespectful then and I don't think it is now. Why is it that we think money is the answer to everything? It isn't, not in the military, not in education and certainly not in government. Pouring more money into anything is seldom the answer. It usually leads to making the problem worse.

Being a retired Marine myself, the military person is geared to sacrifice. A spartan way of life is the norm.

I have the utmost respect for those that serve but money will never buy loyalty, that comes from dedication and training.