Why have we abandoned a lot of our Military Traditions?

Well I understand the 36-2903 very well after 20 plus years in the Air Force, but here is my "thorn in my side" if you will issue with the statement "be aware of your surroundings" I was the security "chief" for 2 multi-million dollar medical facilities while I was Active duty. I used to have to give all the security briefings etc and what I always had a problem with (and no I didn't find the blue uniform uncomfortable, it was no worse than wearing a suit) was that I have always been a believer in "show of force". If you are hiding behind civilian clothes then it is going to give a false sense of security to the "bad guy" weather it be a terrorist, a skin head or anyone else who doesn't like the military. I am a firm believer that if we wore our uniforms more in public and individuals saw a more impactful presence within our boarders, there would be less issues. So as far as wear of the uniform goes I respectfully disagree with your view and with the view of the AF in general.

While I understand both points as made, and as much as I wish we could wear our uniforms as a show of force both to the community as a positive and present force, and any enemy as a very present and very real force for good, we also have the issue of people acting a fool. I know I'm just a SrA, so I am one of these new people that I'm about to talk about, but I am also very much aware of the world I grew up in, in its entirety. It is depressing, and some may protest it, but the fact of the matter is that as we grow into a "softer" and more "politically correct" force, we lose the strict adherence to the rules, our leaders are doing what they can while the restrictions and complaints and investigations multiply. When we do go out, the pride that most of us feel is more often than not taken as arrogance given the right circumstances. Especially given the current state of affairs as far as "scandals", the magnifying glass is even closer than usual when we're out and about. And sadly enough, I could write lists of those I know I would not trust to present the correct image.

Basically, we ruined it. We being those that have never gotten to feel that certain pride that comes with knowing you are looked up to and respected. I want to feel that, and when I sew on SSgt next year I know I'll work to bring it back, but it is something that we can't even dream of fixing until leaders can lead without fear of reprisal. My two cents, at least.