Although, in the old days, we have to serve 5 ICT (I served 3 ICT, and attended SATO, and therefore, short of 1 ICT), I believe that 30 years ago, there were not that many, like me, who left to work overseas.
However, I believe it is inappropriate (and no comparison) for any other individual to claim that being a medical doctor (and may be saving lives) is equivalent to serving NS. If that individual is an ordinary citizen, it may be OK to make that claim, but with respect, for a MP candidate or an MP to make such a claim, it clearly reflects his lack of respect for all of us who served 2.5 years NS, and reservist.
However, I believe it is inappropriate (and no comparison) for any other individual to claim that being a medical doctor (and may be saving lives) is equivalent to serving NS. If that individual is an ordinary citizen, it may be OK to make that claim, but with respect, for a MP candidate or an MP to make such a claim, it clearly reflects his lack of respect for all of us who served 2.5 years NS, and reservist.