muckmaw: You certainly do sound like quite a fan, Miko.
Bravery is a usefull trait of character that has nothing to do with morality. It's a capability, not an ethical value. The man is capable in many respects, not just bravery. Why would I care for me or any of my countrimen to underestimate him?
Saying OBL is a brave is like saying enemy's weapons shoot hard bullets. There is nothing wrong admitting that enemy's bullets are hard and present real danger.
Armchair generals lose nothing claiming the opposite but when push comes to shove, it's better to be operating on the basis of reality for everyone involved.
Many people on this board confise the difference between good/evil and smart/stupid, brave/cowardly, shiftless/motivated, etc.
Eagler: or proof of his insanity .. the guys a nutbag
True, but that applies equally to any religious person - muslim, christian, socialist, democrat, etc. Any person basing his decision on irrational belief is acting insanely.
Some are just much more capable and motivated in bringing their insanity to their logical conclusion.
SunTracker: Its easy to live a life of fighting and hiding if one is a fanatical muslim.
It's not easy. The cold, the pain, the instinct of self-preservation, the love for one's family are the same.
Most religious people are quite sure they will get to paradize without exposing themselves to as much danger or hardship.
Its similar to running a marathon if you believe there is a stack of gold bars waiting for you at the end.
If OBL was in a rush to get the "gold", he could have easily died taking a couple of enemies with him.
miko