Lt. Gen. Walter Short after Pearl Harbor. The fact that this is an international incident certainly adds more fuel to the fire. Comments about the Kahuku incident involving the two helicopters is further evidence of a lack of understanding of the mission of the military. Joining the military is not joining a country club. There are a lot of sacrifices and hardships, most of which the public has a narrow view, if any.
Military people are mostly dedicated professionals who care about their service to their country.
War is a nasty business, and you cannot always wait for the optimum weather conditions to do what needs to be done. Just like professionals everywhere, these soldiers, sailors and airmen need to continually practice their skills in the most realistic of peacetime circumstances to maximize their chances of survival and victory in actual conflict. Unfortunately, accidents happen and often they end in tragedy. An invitation to civilians to observe military operations is a long and proud tradition. It is good public relations and shows taxpayers what they are getting for their money and of the awesome responsibility these fine military individuals have.