Big local connection to the whole Dambusters thing.

Barnes Wallis was from ripley (next town to me) and lady bower is just up the road, as said proper lads.

I think you're being a bit unfair Chip regarding todays servicemen, I dont think I'd have much get up and go for fighting bull shit wars in countries that havent really caused us any problems, however, if the chips were down and another situation to WW2 then there would be plenty of people sign up fully prepared to fight for queen and country.

I think us Brits take a lot to get to that stage to be honest, we need to be under real threat, the yanks dont they love it and go anywhere thinking they're fighting for the defence of America. Trust me, if someone was on the other side of the channel bombing us again I think you'd see truer reflection of our mettle.