Quote:
Originally Posted by Raellus
Despite the Army’s best efforts, desertion became an increasing problem and field commanders were given extended latitude in dealing with deserters.
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As you've mentioned, desertion would most certainly be more of a problem in English speaking areas than in Europe, the Middle East or Korea. The language barrier would be a huge impediment to small groups or individuals trying to make it on their own.
Also, desertion when overseas could be seen by many as admitting all hope of returning home was gone. While ever at least some mail got through from time to time, soldiers would probably hang on to the hope that the military (and whatever was left of the government) might be able to scrape up enough transportation to get them all home again. I imagine great effort would be made to maintain at least minimal contact with the US, propaganda units going to far as to print fake copies of newspapers and magazines from home to distribute amongst the troops.
The reality might well be all hope was gone, but the illusion would have to be maintained at all costs.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Webstral
It's got to be better than the alternative. The way young American servicemembers behave in Amsterdam is just embarrassing.
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It's bad enough when they're over here in Australia. I don't even want to think about how they'd be in a country where prostitution and marijuana are legal! :O