Virtual ww2 simulation online..

[Matt]

Guys, I've been thinking about the "war games" controversy all day and would like to throw in another two-cents worth. While I have no interest in playing them, I do not believe they necessarily make one less sensitive to suffering or are immoral. I played "army" constantly as a kid and it did not make me any less sensitive to the realities of war. My neighbor is a Church of Christ minister and occassionaly plays paintball wargames for fun. I am certain that has not lessened his moral standards or understanding of suffering. Keep in mind that the anti-gun movement uses the same arguments against us for being gun enthusiasts, claiming we are morally depraved for being interested in weapons and war.

However, I understand where you all are coming from when you say you do not approve of war games. As a newspaper reporter, I have interviewed veterans and seen them burst into tears when recalling their combat experiences. It's certainly not a game or anything to be glorified.

I can't watch the opening scene of "Saving Private Ryan" without it giving me an emotional jolt.

No, war is not a game. I have read the letters my great-uncle wrote home before he was killed in action during World War II. Reading them made me feel a sense of loss even though he died more than 22 years before I was born.