As we gain new Soldiers, what these experienced veterans are doing is teaching them how to react under various conditions they encounter.

Through repetition, we're getting the soldiers used to what they do in the event of various forms of contact, whether it's an IED (improvised explosive device) or someone shooting at them, and then how they react to that.

We try to make it as realistic as we can and then make it as challenging at the same time.

So for, you know, for a good 20 years now I've been involved with veterans and soldiers and in support of them no matter what they're doing.

American soldiers don't do that. And we don't do it because we think it's fun. And we don't do it for our laughs. And we don't take pictures of it.

Support our troops!” we cry, but I say, “Love our veterans!” And when he neglects church, take him cookies anyway. Sing him a song. Pet his cat.