Having a bad morning?? As British 'squaddies' would say, "What are you on about, mate?"
No offence meant, and I don't wish to toss naptha on a hot Coleman, but this whole reference to the slingshot AD weapon was meant tongue-in-cheek, as was your recent posting concerning CF uniform references. Frankly I don't see a difference in the sense of humour required by either, so why are you in the alert position over this one? Furthermore, at least this original question concerning Canada's AD weapons has been answered by the provision of two informative websites.
I have always taken great pride in my uniform and my nation, and even more pride in the adaptability of Canadian soldiers and our ability to overcome adversity with ingenuity. This indomitable spirit of Canadian soldiers has won more actions than has top-notch equipment. I have served at home and overseas with some excellent soldiers who, by virtue of their intelligence, were always thinking of ways to improve the equipment, tactics, or just how we did things in general. These soldiers first identified the problem (bitched), then solved it or worked around it.
>It is easier to understand them coming from unknowing civilians, less easier to hear them from someone professing a deeper understanding of, or currently serving in, the Canadian Forces.
Perhaps you are aware that Newfies themselves originated the best Newfie jokes? If one cannot poke fun at oneself, then one should not make fun of others. Additionally, the military will always be a target of the media in this country, so thick skin and humour are the best defence.
As for 'bitterness' about our vehicles, I disagree, but I do concur with your statement about our softskins, as there is room for improvement. But having had the opportunity to operate in the equivalent vehicles of some of our allies, I'd have to say that we are in very decent shape. I would also put forth that although your unit (or mine, for that matter) do not have them, the CF has or is procuring some of the finest vehicles in their class - namely the Bison (and variants), the Coyote and the LAV III, and our small arms are second to none.
