From: Adam Flinton 


> Interesting. I wonder if the greater exposure to other cultures by the UK is
> a reason. I know we do a good bit in the way of joint exercises but that by
> itself would not expose a solder to other cultures.
>

Nah I don't think so (anymore). I used to think it was just the
"Dorothy from Kansas" syndrome & then that it was that + a
lack of training etc.

But I think it's cultural.

A) A certain sort of American is attracted to the various US mil
formations. Naval types seem to be the least "booyah" but that's
probably coz they have to suffer marines who are the most.

The UK has a similar thing wrt to the paratroops where (e.g. Bloody Sunday)
they are often inflamatory & are a bit like US forces.

B) The US has a vastly strong gun culture where there is a very real belief
that the gun/violence can "sort" a problem (as opposed to make it
much worse). It's the single aimed shot & the winner is he who comes
back with the most rounds vs the fully automatic spray t'other end of the
road method.

C) The US forces need to have a "We're number 1" feeling or
morale falls. The UK troops find this typically weirdly american. This
often expresses itself as arrogance towards locals (e.g. in the Iraq,
Somalia,
  etc.etc.) You do this & I'm right coz I have a gun & coz I'm American....

Crikey the list goes on. But it's cultural & not training. All training
can do is to try & counter the culture.

Adam




> Not Invented Here is a definite problem though .
>
> Bob Lewis
>
>
>
>

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