Well, about the stress card myth, I think that's something the drill sergeants started to mess with your head. I went to Ft Jackson in 97 and 98 and I heard the rumors both years and that the cards would start being implemented next cycle and what to expect if you even think of using them. Same as in 93 and from what I understand from new soldiers, the rumor is still circulating. I'm glad it's not true. If I were the drill sergeant, I'd have to smoke the shit outta the rest of the platoon and make the one who pulled the stress card watch. See if he or she pulls that shit again. Peer pressure is a bitch.
And the profanity ban? It's actually true. You can technically be court martialed and kicked out for profanity. Then again, no one gives a shit. My company actually tried to enforce a cussing ban. My squad leader said to that, and I quote: "That's fucking bullshit." Loudly. Daring anyone to say something. Only thing the leadership asks of us is to try to minimize the use of profanity in front of customers. That, I don't think is unreasonable. But my drill sergeant said, "We're not supposed to cuss at you, so if it offends you, get the fuck over it."
Basic is still pansified, though. I think it was too easy to be challenging and too hard to chill. It was more annoying than tough. The results boil down to the individual soldier, though. Jessica Lynch's convoy was likely led by an NCO or an officer that didn't learn his job right, and I highly doubt that none of the other soldiers picked up that they were going the wrong way. They just didn't want to question their leaders. Same with the prisoner photos. No one stood up.
While I agree that training should be tough, I think that the training has its place. Follow all lawful orders. The defense "I was just following orders" is bullshit. That was the defense at Nuremberg too. Yeah, I know I'm getting into another topic here, but they kinda link.
My unit came back with no casualties. Yes, we're the personnel/finance battalion, but they were still in the shit. They still got attacked and although you'd think we'd be the last ones to get attacked, they still were able to call in reinforcements, defend themselves and come out with no casualties. I guess I'm rambling now, but anyway, it does have its place... just not in basic. Maybe AIT or permanent duty stations. Or if they do have sensitivity training it should be more hands-on to show why it's important and when it's appropriate. I'll stop rambling now.