Here are some poll numbers released earlier today by Rasmussen Reports -- "an electronic publishing firm specializing in the collection, publication, and distribution of public opinion polling information."
As the nation prepares to celebrate Memorial Day honoring those who lost their lives in military service, 75% of Americans have a favorable opinion of the U.S. military.
Only 11% view the military unfavorably, and 14% are undecided in a new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey.
These figures are virtually unchanged from last year .
Eighty-five percent (85%) of Republicans have a favorable view of the U.S. military, compared to 68% of Democrats and 73% of adults not affiliated with either major political party.
Just 17% of Americans say they have served in the military, and of this group, 84% regard the military favorably.
Thirty percent (30%) of men have been in uniform, compared to five percent (5%) of women. Eighteen percent (18%) of Democrats, 17% of unaffiliateds and 16% of Republicans say they have served.
But 44% of all adults say they have had a close friend or relative who gave their life while serving in the military. Forty-eight percent (48%) have not known someone who perished in the line of duty.
Nearly half of Republicans (49%), 44% of unaffiliated adults and 40% of Democrats have lost a close friend or relative in military service.
To honor the fallen, 23% of all adults say they will attend a Memorial Day service on Monday. Sixty-two percent (62%) will not.
Adults 50 or older are far more likely to attend a Memorial Day service than younger Americans.
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To view a copy of the original report, please use this link: A Memorial Day Code of Conduct?