In 'Three Cups of Tea' I was fairly critical of the military. And I mentioned that they're laptop warriors and there's no boots on the ground. But I can say now that they've gone through a tremendous learning curve.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
Most of my young years were spent under the boots of the military.
My dad always had huge respect for the British Army. He always thought it was one of the best. And I think it changed his life - those seven years in that Army.
I was impressed by the capability and talent and intellect of our troops on the ground. These kids are really impressive.
My parents were very pleased that I was in the army. The fact that I hated it somehow pleased them even more.
The things I learned from the army - and I think it was a lesson for life - was how to work in unison with other people. How to take responsibility.
Well British troops are superb in the field in terms of conflict.
These doomsday warriors look no more like soldiers than the soldiers of the Second World War looked like conquistadors. The more expert they become the more they look like lab assistants in small colleges.
I loved the Army as an institution and loathed every single thing it required me to do.
We have the finest military personnel in the world.
Our servicemen and women are highly trained, highly skilled, and the most professional fighting force in the world.