The soldier purpose is to become a sacrificial victim. The perpetuation of warfare is based on the belief that sacrificial death for one’s nation is good. Soldiers are good (virtuous) because they give over their bodies to the nation-state.

They are the “chosen ones,” designated victims who take upon themselves the burden of sacrificial death. 

To be willing to sacrifice one’s life for one’s country is the essence of national goodness. Wars give soldiers the opportunity to demonstrate their goodness.

The soldier symbolizes the sacrificed Christ, dying for all of us so that we may live.

Human beings get off on the idea that young men are willing to give over their bodies to their nations. People love the idea that some men are so dedicated and devoted. National glory derives from the fact that men have died in the name of their countries.

Monuments and gravestones testify to our belief in the goodness of sacrificial death (click preceding link).