But I do not believe war or even military service are the only means to honor. God grants us all the privilege of having our character tested and our honor affirmed. The tests come frequently. We all fail some, but, hopefully not most of them. I do not cherish a romantic remembrance of war.
All wars are awful.
When nations seek to resolve their differences by force of arms a million tragedies ensue. Nothing, not the valor with which it is fought nor the nobility of the cause it serves can glorify war. Whatever is won in war, it is loss that the veteran remembers most keenly. And I take Yeats' point. Like most people, when I reflect back on the adventures, joys and beauty of youth, I feel a longing for what is lost and cannot be restored.