[ExSoldier]

I teach history (both world and American). Nowhere here did I see any mention of the only true professional soldiers of the Crusades. The vast majority of the crusaders were conscripts, and adventurers, lured by the promise of riches and plunder. Between engagements and the ebb and flow of battles.....there was need for a steady force to keep the fronts going as replacements arrived in steady trickles. Remember, they were for the most part, walking. These professionals were the "shock troops" of the Catholic Church: The Knights Templar.

[AnAmericanMother]

The powers that be have always been a little reluctant to mention the Knights Templar, because of what happened afterwards . . .

I have stood just at the left front corner of this church, in the Inner Temple.

Makes ya think.