If I had a confirmed seat in F and was bumped for whatever reason I wouldn't be pleased. I think it is similar to to some of the 'switching seats' thread. If people ask politely, many FTers are more than willing to give up their seat. However, if someone else just plonks themselves in your seat, regardless of whether you are the president or a random person, the person whose seat it is has a right to be POd IMHO.
Originally Posted by
asnovici
Maybe someone will help you here, but its not going to be me. Why is it patriotic to give your seat up for someone in the military, and not to, say, a firefighter? What about a police officer? Teacher? Aren't kids our future? Where does one draw a line? US Army is a contract institution, not a draft, i.e. it is a choice of an individual to join the forces.
I truly feel awful that our soldiers are dying in Iraq for no reason at all (but I don't want to turn this into a political discussion), I also feel awful that there are plenty of firefighters, police officers, etc. that are in danger everyday, and no one gives their seats up for them.
I am fully aware that the majority of people here would disagree with this, but this is my point of view.
EDITED: Just saw enviroian's post, and agree with it completely, looks like I am not the only one who feels that way.
I agree completely as well. I would not give up my seat for someone who is fighting in a country where so many civillians (some of whom are family members of my close friends) have been killed, IMHO uneccesarily.
Even then, I think it is fair that you would also give up your seat to a doctor, police officer, firefighter etc. if you are willing to give it up to someone in the military. On a side note - in such situations would US refund the money / miles to the man who gave up his seat?
Cheers,