I have been told [never seen it for my self] that they also have most or all bridges built to be destroyed or incapacitated quickly in the event an enemy army was approaching. Imagine trying to get around Switzerland without the bridges and with a trained and armed populace. BillR
-----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Archer Sent: Monday, June 16, 2008 12:19 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Sunil's active duty The Swiss haven't been invaded and haven't gone to war in several hundred years. They have a unique defense system: "The armed forces consist of a small nucleus of about 3,600 professional staff, half of whom are either instructors or staff officers, with the rest being conscripts or volunteers. All able-bodied Swiss males aged between 19 and 31 must serve, and although entry to recruit school may be delayed due to senior secondary school, it is no longer possible to postpone it for university studies. About one third is excluded for various reasons, and these either serve in Civil Protection or Civilian Service." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swiss_army Gerry --------------------------------------------- From: "Gary Hurst" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > the real problem is that every government we've had seems to need these > wars, whether real or imagined. being hoodwinked did not start with bush, > even if he is the most egregious example. >> Hendrik & Fay wrote: >> > I do believe currently it is based on religious beliefs, this may >> > change. >> > Although the question is, if they find Osama Bin hiding in a Cave, will >> > the war on terror be over? >> Our current government needs a War On Something the way the third reich >> needed Jews for scapegoats. "You must give us your freedoms because we >> are at war >> and war requires sacrifice (from you peons, not from us)". _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
