When DH was in the military I HATED starching and ironing clothes. I completely disagree with the original statement "it wasn't considered difficult at all" - everyone complained about it. (And the new BDUs they got don't require it anymore...)
I starch my quilt backs though- it makes a huge difference in how they glide when quilting. I plan to start starching my yardage before cutting for the next quilt, to see if it helps me in piecing.
I don't mind starching things that are flat- I don't think it is difficult at all.
I do have a problem with pressing vs ironing. I guess I don't get it. Teachers always say be careful to not iron, and then when you watch them- they sure look like they are ironing to me...