Yellowknife (Nov 10/04) - Generally contentious, Canada's military forces seem to experience overall appreciation and support in Yellowknife.

In a casual poll, five out of six people admitted they would join the ranks if they believed the cause to be just.

"(I would) for sure," said Keith Wong. "Because Canada's the greatest country in the world."

For Brendan Nitsize the answer was easy. "I'm already wanting to join the army," he explained.

While other answers ranged from because it's important to wanting to make proud a fallen relative, Felix Modesto felt differently.

"I don't want to spend my life with nothing," he explained, alluding to the low pay of soldiers.

When asked whether or not Canada should be sending troops overseas, and whether these troops could be effective, once again the resounding answer was "Yes!"

With a qualifier, however.

"Just in peacekeeping," Paul Moore said. "I don't think we should be fighting Bush's war."

Jason Valyear disagreed, however, feeling that Canadian troops are stretched too thin and Canada's military presence should be stronger at home.

In Charmaine Broadhead's opinion though, Canada should just pack up its troops for good.

"All we can do is play hockey," she joked.

When asked what parts of the military machine should be cut or have spending directed towards it, most respondents failed to answer.

Randy Caines was able to rise to the challenge. Ranks should be increased to help fight forest fires while not on deployment, he said.

Whether it is the times, the troubles experienced around the world or the proximity to Remembrance Day, to top off the military's wish list all respondents agreed Canada's forces should be increased.