Sensationalism From USA Today

Title: 8,000 desert during Iraq war

Finally, after SEVEN paragraphs: "The desertion rate was much higher during the Vietnam era. The Army saw a high of 33,094 deserters in 1971 - 3.4% of the Army force. ... Desertions in 2005 represent 0.24% of the 1.4 million U.S. forces."

The desertion rate has dropped considerably since 9/11. Re-enlistment rates are high. Why isn't the story about American patriotism and resolve? (Oh yeah, it would be praising Americans, so that's out.)