That is a nonsensical comparison. OBL and the AQ mob are not people who took over a nation state and foisted their philosophy on it thru various nefarious means. They are simply a group of nauseating ideologues festering in whatever location will have them, which as it turns out is quite a few given that the philosophy under which they hide is widespread thru many nation states, and failed states, and provides excellent succor for them.

As for the Germans. With the exception of the death camps targeting mostly a specific race, the atrocities they committed were not unique, except in their grotesque efficiency, either in Europe or elsewhere at that time. In fact I doubt there was a meaningful difference between the Germans and Russians. I'm not talking about Einsatzgruppen or KL personnel here, I'm talking about front line combat troops.

Happily for the western allies their troops were not particularly heavily involved in the war in Europe and as victors get to write the history their actions can be easily laundered. The real ugly stuff went on in the east. And in terms of pure atrocities if you think you can distinguish meaningfully between the Russians and Germans I'd say you have a "Hollywood" view of History all right.

This doesn't excuse what the Germans did. I'm merely pointing out that hearing that the regular German army committed atrocities is not news. And claiming that there was no difference between many of them and the hard core Nazi apparatus is simplistic to the point of worthlessness, as far as historical truth is concerned.

- Peter.

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2021 Chevrolet Spark
Formerly...
2000 GMC Sonoma
1981 240D 4spd stick. 347000 miles. Deceased Feb 14 2021
2002 Kia Rio. Worst crap on four wheels
1981 240D 4spd stick. 389000 miles.
1984 123 200
1979 116 280S
1972 Cadillac Sedan DeVille
1971 108 280S