I too am in the military(Phib CB reserves)and just wont go on an operation with out my Camle Back.I use and abuse my H.A.W.G.of which is a step up from the MULE.It is the last thing packed,first thing unpacked.The military versions(called Extreme Gear)are a lot more robust than the civilian counter parts.They are now even producing gas mask adapters for them <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />.I no longer carry bulky canteens any more.But I do pack a metal cup(for cooking and boiling water)and a one quart Flexi Flask as a backup.