Funny thing, every culture throughout history has constantly said society is in decline. But guess what, thousands of years later we're still walking around saying the same thing.
And to comment on the people against the OP; no one owes anyone anything else. It is his option to do as he pleases, and he chose to stay out of a potential confrontation. Does he not have the right to protect his own life? There's a little saying that goes, innocent until proven guilty. No one knows any of the facts about these situations, and I expected more from these so-called soldiers. Do you ever go into battle without knowing the scenario and facts? Sounds a bit hypocritical and brassy if you ask me.