So incredibly enough, Barak Hussein Obama has become the 44th President of the United States of America. I have no issues with a black man being President, what I have a problem with is an extreme left wing liberal with ties to a self-confessed domestic terrorist, as CiC.
Here are my suggestions for our new President:
1. Listen to your generals, listen to the troops who are in Iraq and Afghanistan. You have never served, you don't know or understand our military; listen to those that do.
2. It seems you have signed an Executive Order to shut down Gitmo within a year. Now what? Whatcha' gonna do with all the terrorists there? You have daughters and a wife...would you want them incarcerated near your own family? Hmmm...ok. How about sending them all to that wonderful Sheriff in AZ...Joe. Stick them in the middle of the desert with him.
3. Let the economy do what the economy will do. No more stimulus programs, no more bailouts. It will fix itself the way that it's suppose to in a free market.
4. If you are so worried about "re-distribution" and "wealth equality", start with the US Armed Services and give these families a raise that would make the sacrifices they make worth it. Don't let our guys/gals go off to an overseas assignment with the worry of their families welfare heavy on their minds.
5. John F Kennedy refused his Presidential pay. How about you put your money where your mouth is and donate your pay to some of our Wounded Warriors? At $400,000 a year, you could split that up 8 ways and help 8 of our heroes. $50,000 is more than I will make this year, I'm sure they would appreciate it!
That's if for now. I wish you well, Mr President and will reserve judgement for a time. Give you a chance to settle in and get down to work. But know that the country is watching, the WORLD is watching. And we, the middle ground, independents will be the deciding factor in the next election.
One final note....you have beautiful daughters, please...PLEASE, keep them out of the media as much as possible. They are in for a rough 4 years and are very young...isolationism has it's benefits.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Saturday, March 29, 2008
This whole political thing
So here we are, March 2008. The Republicans have decide on John McCain; the Democrats are still fighting amongst themselves over Obama and Clinton.
What's amusing is to sit on the sidelines and watch as the Democratic party destroys itself and McCain stays in background watching. Neither Obama or Clinton could manage the position, as evidenced by their juvenile antics of late. Clinton's "I misspoke" in reference to the 'sniper fire' in Bosnia and Obama's 'well, yes I was a member of his church for 26 years, but don't agree with his views, though I made a contribution of $20,000 to him'. Hmmmmmm.....
McCain has a good plan. Sit back and laugh as they destroy themselves, then sweep up the office in November.
What's amusing is to sit on the sidelines and watch as the Democratic party destroys itself and McCain stays in background watching. Neither Obama or Clinton could manage the position, as evidenced by their juvenile antics of late. Clinton's "I misspoke" in reference to the 'sniper fire' in Bosnia and Obama's 'well, yes I was a member of his church for 26 years, but don't agree with his views, though I made a contribution of $20,000 to him'. Hmmmmmm.....
McCain has a good plan. Sit back and laugh as they destroy themselves, then sweep up the office in November.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
2007 and Beyond
As the new year rapidly approaches, I am left to examine the year gone by. So much has happened in my world, all of it incredibly wonderful.
In February, I found Gathering of Eagles. This group would soon become "family", as we work hand in hand to accomplish what no others have yet to accomplish. We piss off the left, we stand, solidly, behind our men and women in uniform and defend them as they take on the bigger (?) threat of terrorists overseas. We love you all! Thank you!
In March, GoE gathered for the first time as a team. It was cold and windy in DC that day, but the love and brotherhood shared by all kept us warm. It was a day of tears, laughter and healing. Time well spent.
Throughout the year, we gathered in various places across the country. I made most of the Northeast events, from DC up to Maine. Each time we gathered, it was with our active duty and veterans in mind. We kept them close to our hearts and kept our mission firmly in the forefront. NEVER AGAIN!
I accepted the Vermont state coordinator position in April, never thinking that 9 months later I would still be leading a VT team of 3-4. There are many fine folks that I can, and do, call on when needed. PGR, Combat Vets, Vermont Fallen Families, Sandy and a multitude of others who try to make the few events that we have here in the frozen tundra. Thank you all for all that you do! I certainly couldn't do this alone!
In November, I created and asked for the position of Marketing Director. I haven't really taken it anywhere, but after the new year begins, I shall endeavor in earnest to get us out there. I always love a challenge!
So the New Year finds me busy on the computer, networking, scheming and completely content with the way my life is going. Many have commented that I spend to much of my free time involved with GoE matters. To them I say: We have over 150,000 kids serving our country overseas in hostile environments. They are spending their holiday without family and loved ones. They are voluntarily giving, in some cases all, to defend the things that I hold dear. Freedom for myself and my children, my country and my right to persue happiness. If they are willing to do all this, it is the very least that I can do to make sure that NO group that would attempt to demean or undermine them goes unchallenged. If you don't approve of the what I am doing, or the amount of time I spend doing it, the front door works both ways, you are free to leave at any time.
I choose, for the coming year, to continue the good fight. How can I not? My heart is with all those kids and with the so many that are in hospitals around the world recovering from life altering injuries they have endured in defense of my country. You all are truly my heroes and I will work tirelessly to cover your backs here on the homefront.
To my new Eagle family, thank you for all you have given me. For the love, friendship and peace that you have brought to my world. Thank you for providing me with a venue in which to serve. Your strength and dedication inspires me, and I will do all that I possibly can not to let you down.
In February, I found Gathering of Eagles. This group would soon become "family", as we work hand in hand to accomplish what no others have yet to accomplish. We piss off the left, we stand, solidly, behind our men and women in uniform and defend them as they take on the bigger (?) threat of terrorists overseas. We love you all! Thank you!
In March, GoE gathered for the first time as a team. It was cold and windy in DC that day, but the love and brotherhood shared by all kept us warm. It was a day of tears, laughter and healing. Time well spent.
Throughout the year, we gathered in various places across the country. I made most of the Northeast events, from DC up to Maine. Each time we gathered, it was with our active duty and veterans in mind. We kept them close to our hearts and kept our mission firmly in the forefront. NEVER AGAIN!
I accepted the Vermont state coordinator position in April, never thinking that 9 months later I would still be leading a VT team of 3-4. There are many fine folks that I can, and do, call on when needed. PGR, Combat Vets, Vermont Fallen Families, Sandy and a multitude of others who try to make the few events that we have here in the frozen tundra. Thank you all for all that you do! I certainly couldn't do this alone!
In November, I created and asked for the position of Marketing Director. I haven't really taken it anywhere, but after the new year begins, I shall endeavor in earnest to get us out there. I always love a challenge!
So the New Year finds me busy on the computer, networking, scheming and completely content with the way my life is going. Many have commented that I spend to much of my free time involved with GoE matters. To them I say: We have over 150,000 kids serving our country overseas in hostile environments. They are spending their holiday without family and loved ones. They are voluntarily giving, in some cases all, to defend the things that I hold dear. Freedom for myself and my children, my country and my right to persue happiness. If they are willing to do all this, it is the very least that I can do to make sure that NO group that would attempt to demean or undermine them goes unchallenged. If you don't approve of the what I am doing, or the amount of time I spend doing it, the front door works both ways, you are free to leave at any time.
I choose, for the coming year, to continue the good fight. How can I not? My heart is with all those kids and with the so many that are in hospitals around the world recovering from life altering injuries they have endured in defense of my country. You all are truly my heroes and I will work tirelessly to cover your backs here on the homefront.
To my new Eagle family, thank you for all you have given me. For the love, friendship and peace that you have brought to my world. Thank you for providing me with a venue in which to serve. Your strength and dedication inspires me, and I will do all that I possibly can not to let you down.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Discussions with a moonbat
So since Christopher felt it necessary to post what I thought was a personal email exchange on democratict underground, I suppose it's ok for me to post it here as well. Start at the bottom so you can see the full discussion and fruitlessness of it. I've provide the link so you can go see for yourself what they had to say about me...:)
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x2302569#2302611
go west young man (1000+ posts) Sat Nov-17-07 11:48 AM
Original message
My email exchange with "Gathering of Eagles" leader Kathy Upton.
I just wanted to post this so DU'ers can see what we're up against trying to stop the war movement. This is my 1000th DU post so I figure it's a notable worthy one. Just a few things to clarify first. Kathy Upton assumes I'm a Christian. I'm not. I'm an agnostic/pagan type. She assumes the ANSWER coalition represents all things left. Also because it's an email exchange you have to start at the bottom and work upward. I have yet to reply back to her last post. Here's the exchange.
Chris,
I apologize for not answering your question before...I am not a veteran. I am an army brat, does that now disqualify any of my opinions?
A stable Middle East will procure those oil resources for generations to come. Of course we need to focus on renewable energy sources. Wind power, solar power, hydro-electric..the problem we have here in Vermont is environmentalists (the extremists) not wanting wind towers (there was a bird once that flew into one and got killed and they destroy the beauty of the ridgeline) It seems they like to scream about OIL, but any alternatives are fought tooth and nail.
BUT, this discussion is not about environmentalists. No, you won't change my opinion. I have had to many discussions and to many emails from those serving or having just come back from Afghanistan and Iraq, I have seen to many veterans determined to not let what happened to them happen to the current generation of military.
If we pull out of Iraq now, millions will die. Aren't their lives worth something as well? Or are you saying that only American lives are important? That wouldn't be very Christian of you. Would your Lord Jesus Christ say the same thing do you think?
I am pagan. My belief system involves the entire natural world. I want peace as much as anyone else, we are not "war-mongers", but we also realize that there are times when war is the only answer. The people we fight don't believe in peace unless we are willing to subject ourselves to the laws of Islam. I am NOT.
So yes, I will continue on with Gathering of Eagles and other like minded organizations, fighting the anti-war movement as much as I can. Remember this please: When you march under ANSWER, regardless of what your message may be, it is lost. I've provided their steering committee below for your review. I had a nice conversation with a couple of mid 20 age kids in Kennebunkport in August after the rally. They were hitchhiking back to their bus and I gave them a ride. Like you, they were articulate and passionate about their position. I told them the same thing I just said to you: Watch who you position yourself with. The world sees a big anti war rally sponsored by ANSWER and/or Code Pink and if you are in that crowd, you voice is lost to their tyrantical views. Those kids and I parted friendly, hoping to see each other again in DC on the 15th.
I respect, though disagree with your stance. I think that it is good we can have discussions without reverting to name calling and all the other nonsense that high emotions reveal. Trust me, yours was the most comprehensive and polite email from a "moonbat" that registered on GoE and received my email that I got. LOL...
Good Luck to you, and may you find the peace you are searching for.
Kathy
Look over this steering committee and think about what American interests they may hold:
IFCO/Pastors for Peace
Free Palestine Alliance - U.S.
Haiti Support Network
Partnership for Civil Justice - LDEF
Nicaragua Network
Alliance for Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines
Korea Truth Commission
Muslim Student Association - National
Kensington Welfare Rights Union
Mexico Solidarity Network
Party for Socialism and Liberation
On 11/17/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
Kathy, we lost in Vietnam because we should have never been there in the first place. It was a bad policy. Same as this one now. Iraq is more than just about oil. I mentioned a few other things as well as oil. But oil is the primary reason. The Iraqi oil is not yet available hence the high price now as the market is unstable. If the US stays ten years and many more people die then that oil will be available to the US. The funny thing is if our government was more progressive we could have had renewable energy years ago. As a former Marine I don't believe in people saying support the troops and support the mission. They are seperate things. The mission can be a bad one. The troops have no choice. many of my friends who have served feel that we are an invading force and that we are fighting Iraqi insurgents not terrorists. They are fighting for their country same as we would do if we were invaded. Bush uses the troops for his bad policy. I don't think I'm gonna change your mind but I hope you realize many troops don't feel the way you do. Once again I ask you what branch you have served and hope you switch over to an antiwar belief like my own. It's healthier. Since I became a pacifist I feel a lot better about life and I feel that Jesus Christ is more closely aligned to my thinking than that of people who advocate for war. Peace is the answer. Love and peace as John Lennon said long before he was killed. Good luck in your life, Chris
Kathy Upton wrote:
Well Chris,
I believe we should be conducting stem cell research. You see, just because I support our troops AND their mission, does not
necessarily translate into and unthinking approval of the things that President Bush does.
Do I think that we should pull our troops out of Iraq? No, I don't. I believe that if we do there will be much the same thing happen there as happened when we pulled out of Vietnam. Ask the millions of Vietnames families how they feel about that. I also believe that if we DON'T deal with this threat now, we will just be back over there in the near future.
Politicians on BOTH sides of the isle play us like we are fools. They hope (and in the majority of instances are correct) that American's won't indulge themselves to find out the truth. Think about this...IF it is about the oil, why is gas now $3.12 per gallon? Why did I just have to put a wood stove in my home so that I could heat it? I live in Vermont, do you think that $800+ is doable a month for heating oil? IF it was about oil, why didn't we just go in and take it? Claim Iraq as an American territory? We certainly have the military power to do so?
No...we haven't caught Bin Laden yet? Why is that? Our military force is one of the most highly trained and best equipped armies in the world. If they were given the green light, without all the political pandering, and congress trying to run the military for which they have NO qualification (with rare instances), they would have accomplished this mission long ago.
Listen, I don't get into politics, because personally, I don't trust a damn one of them. What I do know, is that we have well over 200,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who won't be home this holiday season as you and I are. What I do know is that they deserve to turn on a news report and instead of seeing a sea of yellow posters and posters decrying everything they are fighting for, they deserve to see a country that loves and supports them and wants them to come home victorious. These are trained, VOLUNTEER soldiers. They want peace more than anyone, after all, it's they who put their lives on the line! But they also want to be victorious. They know the threats this country face, and they are willing to defend this country for the future of their children and grandchildren.
Support....them and their mission. We welcome you to come to our side as well...
On 11/16/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
I don't hate you and I'm on the left I believe. That's what our country is about freedom of choice. You stand a much better chance of dying from a disease that stem cell research can cure than you do of being hurt by a "jihadist". Note that we are over there and have been for a long time. They only recently came over here and attacked us. Your odds of being killed by one of "them" is miniscule. Your odds of yourself or one of your family members dying from cancer or some other illness is almost gauranteed. which way does a smart person vote in that situation? Think about it. Think deeply. The Bush administration uses terrorism just like jihadists do. To further their political agenda. That agenda relies upon people like yourself to go along. I'm not fooled. I served in the Marines and did my time and have the right to say that. I am curious what branch you served and how you feel about stem cell research? I believe the Bush admin uses fear as a political tool. And to quote another famous American phrase. "These colors never run." I see Bush and Faux news using fear for their own selfish gains. That is pathetic. they have exploited Sept.11 and disgraced the families. They have not caught Osama Bin Laden but they have managed to get a foothold in two oil rich countries. I would recommend you read up on "The Big Game" for oil. As Bertrand Russell called. Geopolitically the US is using "terra" as a ruse in order to achieve nefarious goals. Procurement of oil, containment of Russia, China and other states, protection of Israel. All these things have hurt the US. When we could have switched to renewable resources, focused on our own national interests and established a helpful relationship with Russia instead of reigniting a new cold war. Who is being served? Well the numbers don't lie. Cheney is making a fortune as are the weapons companies. Look deeper Kathy and you will see more clearly. I welcome you to our fold as in the long run we will be the true savoirs of the US. Cheers and come on over, Chris
Kathy Upton wrote:
I am well aware of what Semper Fi means, but thank you for the lesson. The only anger you will ever find in me is when I am on the streets facing the anti-war protesters as they burn a flag, drag it on the ground, shout to veterans who are standing shoulder to shoulder that they are murderer's and they deserve to die. Don't think that happens? Come on out to one of ANSWER or Code Pinks rally, see what they really think of you guys in the service.The only hate I harbor is for extremist's on any side of any issue. People who don't know enough and follow along blindly like sheep.
But it's ok, even though you despise us, we stll will fight.
I would recommend you visit www.jihadwatch.com and learn who the real enemy is. You can whine all you want about gas prices and taxes....the US military has fought and died for your right to do so.
On 11/15/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
Oh I'm contributing cash everyday for this illegal war. Through taxes and gasoline. I have to or break the law. I bet Bush and Cheney are pretty happy with all the money they've made. Cheney and Halliburton have been raking it in. So has Rumsfeld and The Carlyle Group. I would recommend you read up on what Eisenhower said about the military industrial complex. These folks are robbing you and me blind. Come on over to the truth and all is forgiven. We want to see you full of light and love, not hate and anger. In the words of Chesty Puller Semper Fi. Always faithful. Chris
Kathy Upton wrote:
Hi Chris,
Look across the street at any rally and you will see me on the good side. I'm sorry to hear you feel the way you do, but we will always disagree on this. Gonna contribute some cash anyway?
Kathy
On 11/13/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
Gathering of hawks is more like it. Take it from this U.S. Marine living in NC. 1st battalion, 6th marines, 2nd mar div, MOS 0341, mortarman. You guys are supporting an illegal and immoral war. Grow up. It was never about WMD. It was always about oil. You are foolishly being used by Bush to fatten his bank account. The sooner we pull out and indict these criminals in office the better off we all will be. Hope to see you on the good side of things in the future. Chris
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x2302569#2302611
go west young man (1000+ posts) Sat Nov-17-07 11:48 AM
Original message
My email exchange with "Gathering of Eagles" leader Kathy Upton.
I just wanted to post this so DU'ers can see what we're up against trying to stop the war movement. This is my 1000th DU post so I figure it's a notable worthy one. Just a few things to clarify first. Kathy Upton assumes I'm a Christian. I'm not. I'm an agnostic/pagan type. She assumes the ANSWER coalition represents all things left. Also because it's an email exchange you have to start at the bottom and work upward. I have yet to reply back to her last post. Here's the exchange.
Chris,
I apologize for not answering your question before...I am not a veteran. I am an army brat, does that now disqualify any of my opinions?
A stable Middle East will procure those oil resources for generations to come. Of course we need to focus on renewable energy sources. Wind power, solar power, hydro-electric..the problem we have here in Vermont is environmentalists (the extremists) not wanting wind towers (there was a bird once that flew into one and got killed and they destroy the beauty of the ridgeline) It seems they like to scream about OIL, but any alternatives are fought tooth and nail.
BUT, this discussion is not about environmentalists. No, you won't change my opinion. I have had to many discussions and to many emails from those serving or having just come back from Afghanistan and Iraq, I have seen to many veterans determined to not let what happened to them happen to the current generation of military.
If we pull out of Iraq now, millions will die. Aren't their lives worth something as well? Or are you saying that only American lives are important? That wouldn't be very Christian of you. Would your Lord Jesus Christ say the same thing do you think?
I am pagan. My belief system involves the entire natural world. I want peace as much as anyone else, we are not "war-mongers", but we also realize that there are times when war is the only answer. The people we fight don't believe in peace unless we are willing to subject ourselves to the laws of Islam. I am NOT.
So yes, I will continue on with Gathering of Eagles and other like minded organizations, fighting the anti-war movement as much as I can. Remember this please: When you march under ANSWER, regardless of what your message may be, it is lost. I've provided their steering committee below for your review. I had a nice conversation with a couple of mid 20 age kids in Kennebunkport in August after the rally. They were hitchhiking back to their bus and I gave them a ride. Like you, they were articulate and passionate about their position. I told them the same thing I just said to you: Watch who you position yourself with. The world sees a big anti war rally sponsored by ANSWER and/or Code Pink and if you are in that crowd, you voice is lost to their tyrantical views. Those kids and I parted friendly, hoping to see each other again in DC on the 15th.
I respect, though disagree with your stance. I think that it is good we can have discussions without reverting to name calling and all the other nonsense that high emotions reveal. Trust me, yours was the most comprehensive and polite email from a "moonbat" that registered on GoE and received my email that I got. LOL...
Good Luck to you, and may you find the peace you are searching for.
Kathy
Look over this steering committee and think about what American interests they may hold:
IFCO/Pastors for Peace
Free Palestine Alliance - U.S.
Haiti Support Network
Partnership for Civil Justice - LDEF
Nicaragua Network
Alliance for Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines
Korea Truth Commission
Muslim Student Association - National
Kensington Welfare Rights Union
Mexico Solidarity Network
Party for Socialism and Liberation
On 11/17/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
Kathy, we lost in Vietnam because we should have never been there in the first place. It was a bad policy. Same as this one now. Iraq is more than just about oil. I mentioned a few other things as well as oil. But oil is the primary reason. The Iraqi oil is not yet available hence the high price now as the market is unstable. If the US stays ten years and many more people die then that oil will be available to the US. The funny thing is if our government was more progressive we could have had renewable energy years ago. As a former Marine I don't believe in people saying support the troops and support the mission. They are seperate things. The mission can be a bad one. The troops have no choice. many of my friends who have served feel that we are an invading force and that we are fighting Iraqi insurgents not terrorists. They are fighting for their country same as we would do if we were invaded. Bush uses the troops for his bad policy. I don't think I'm gonna change your mind but I hope you realize many troops don't feel the way you do. Once again I ask you what branch you have served and hope you switch over to an antiwar belief like my own. It's healthier. Since I became a pacifist I feel a lot better about life and I feel that Jesus Christ is more closely aligned to my thinking than that of people who advocate for war. Peace is the answer. Love and peace as John Lennon said long before he was killed. Good luck in your life, Chris
Kathy Upton
Well Chris,
I believe we should be conducting stem cell research. You see, just because I support our troops AND their mission, does not
necessarily translate into and unthinking approval of the things that President Bush does.
Do I think that we should pull our troops out of Iraq? No, I don't. I believe that if we do there will be much the same thing happen there as happened when we pulled out of Vietnam. Ask the millions of Vietnames families how they feel about that. I also believe that if we DON'T deal with this threat now, we will just be back over there in the near future.
Politicians on BOTH sides of the isle play us like we are fools. They hope (and in the majority of instances are correct) that American's won't indulge themselves to find out the truth. Think about this...IF it is about the oil, why is gas now $3.12 per gallon? Why did I just have to put a wood stove in my home so that I could heat it? I live in Vermont, do you think that $800+ is doable a month for heating oil? IF it was about oil, why didn't we just go in and take it? Claim Iraq as an American territory? We certainly have the military power to do so?
No...we haven't caught Bin Laden yet? Why is that? Our military force is one of the most highly trained and best equipped armies in the world. If they were given the green light, without all the political pandering, and congress trying to run the military for which they have NO qualification (with rare instances), they would have accomplished this mission long ago.
Listen, I don't get into politics, because personally, I don't trust a damn one of them. What I do know, is that we have well over 200,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who won't be home this holiday season as you and I are. What I do know is that they deserve to turn on a news report and instead of seeing a sea of yellow posters and posters decrying everything they are fighting for, they deserve to see a country that loves and supports them and wants them to come home victorious. These are trained, VOLUNTEER soldiers. They want peace more than anyone, after all, it's they who put their lives on the line! But they also want to be victorious. They know the threats this country face, and they are willing to defend this country for the future of their children and grandchildren.
Support....them and their mission. We welcome you to come to our side as well...
On 11/16/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
I don't hate you and I'm on the left I believe. That's what our country is about freedom of choice. You stand a much better chance of dying from a disease that stem cell research can cure than you do of being hurt by a "jihadist". Note that we are over there and have been for a long time. They only recently came over here and attacked us. Your odds of being killed by one of "them" is miniscule. Your odds of yourself or one of your family members dying from cancer or some other illness is almost gauranteed. which way does a smart person vote in that situation? Think about it. Think deeply. The Bush administration uses terrorism just like jihadists do. To further their political agenda. That agenda relies upon people like yourself to go along. I'm not fooled. I served in the Marines and did my time and have the right to say that. I am curious what branch you served and how you feel about stem cell research? I believe the Bush admin uses fear as a political tool. And to quote another famous American phrase. "These colors never run." I see Bush and Faux news using fear for their own selfish gains. That is pathetic. they have exploited Sept.11 and disgraced the families. They have not caught Osama Bin Laden but they have managed to get a foothold in two oil rich countries. I would recommend you read up on "The Big Game" for oil. As Bertrand Russell called. Geopolitically the US is using "terra" as a ruse in order to achieve nefarious goals. Procurement of oil, containment of Russia, China and other states, protection of Israel. All these things have hurt the US. When we could have switched to renewable resources, focused on our own national interests and established a helpful relationship with Russia instead of reigniting a new cold war. Who is being served? Well the numbers don't lie. Cheney is making a fortune as are the weapons companies. Look deeper Kathy and you will see more clearly. I welcome you to our fold as in the long run we will be the true savoirs of the US. Cheers and come on over, Chris
Kathy Upton
I am well aware of what Semper Fi means, but thank you for the lesson. The only anger you will ever find in me is when I am on the streets facing the anti-war protesters as they burn a flag, drag it on the ground, shout to veterans who are standing shoulder to shoulder that they are murderer's and they deserve to die. Don't think that happens? Come on out to one of ANSWER or Code Pinks rally, see what they really think of you guys in the service.The only hate I harbor is for extremist's on any side of any issue. People who don't know enough and follow along blindly like sheep.
But it's ok, even though you despise us, we stll will fight.
I would recommend you visit www.jihadwatch.com and learn who the real enemy is. You can whine all you want about gas prices and taxes....the US military has fought and died for your right to do so.
On 11/15/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
Oh I'm contributing cash everyday for this illegal war. Through taxes and gasoline. I have to or break the law. I bet Bush and Cheney are pretty happy with all the money they've made. Cheney and Halliburton have been raking it in. So has Rumsfeld and The Carlyle Group. I would recommend you read up on what Eisenhower said about the military industrial complex. These folks are robbing you and me blind. Come on over to the truth and all is forgiven. We want to see you full of light and love, not hate and anger. In the words of Chesty Puller Semper Fi. Always faithful. Chris
Kathy Upton
Hi Chris,
Look across the street at any rally and you will see me on the good side. I'm sorry to hear you feel the way you do, but we will always disagree on this. Gonna contribute some cash anyway?
Kathy
On 11/13/07, christopher harrison < christopherharrison31525@yahoo.com > wrote:
Gathering of hawks is more like it. Take it from this U.S. Marine living in NC. 1st battalion, 6th marines, 2nd mar div, MOS 0341, mortarman. You guys are supporting an illegal and immoral war. Grow up. It was never about WMD. It was always about oil. You are foolishly being used by Bush to fatten his bank account. The sooner we pull out and indict these criminals in office the better off we all will be. Hope to see you on the good side of things in the future. Chris
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
You are not forgotten.
Though it was a nearly steady rain, about 8 members of Veteran's Combat Assoc and some Shamrock MC rode their motorcycles from as far away as Swanton and Derby to be present at the 25th anniversary of the Vietnam Memorial. One die-hard from the Vietnam Veterans NE MC rode in from Maine!
Gov. Jim Douglas made a very nice (non-political) speach:
Thanks to Bill Wolf and his color guard that came from NY. This was a nice touch:
Reading of the 113 names of Vermonters that died in Vietnam:
It was a very nice service. This lady laid the wreath during the ceremony.
Despite the rain, it was a good turnout. My guess would be about 100 showed up and stood in the rain and chilly fall weather to remember all those who gave so much and all those who have yet to come home. A special thanks goes out to Marion Gray and the Vt Fallen Families and to Charlie for helping spread the word about this little known event.
Friday, October 26, 2007
If this doesn't upset you....it's probably time to check your meds.
http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_S_flag25.3ee2dc9.html
Now I'm a practicing Pagan. While my definition of "God" may differ from other religions, I do not feel threatened when someone mentions "God" in my presence. I do not feel I am being slighted when I recite the Pledge of Allegence, "One nation, under God", nor do I reword it to include "Goddess". When did American's get such thin skinned that we can't even translate in our minds the word "God" to mean whatever it means to us?
I'm just saying..........
After complaint in Riverside, flag-folding recitation banned at veterans cemeteries nationwide
Download story podcast
08:12 AM PDT on Thursday, October 25, 2007
By JOE VARGO
The Press-Enterprise
Through thousands of military burials, Memorial Honor Detail volunteers at Riverside National Cemetery have folded the American flag 13 times and recited the significance of every fold to survivors of those being laid to rest.
The first fold, a narrator tells relatives, represents life, the second a belief in eternal life.
The 11th fold celebrates Jewish war veterans and "glorifies the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob."
A single complaint lodged against the words for the 11th fold recently prompted the National Cemetery Administration to ban the entire recital at all 125 national cemeteries.
A spokesman in Washington said the complaint originated from someone who witnessed the ceremony at Riverside National but would provide no other details and declined to release the directive banning the flag-folding recital, saying it was "an internal working document not meant for public distribution."
Veterans are furious.
The recitation of the 13 folds of the U.S. flag can no longer be made at national cemeteries. Veterans and honor detail volunteers, such as Bobby Castillo, 85, left, and Rees Lloyd, 59, are furious.
"That the actions of one disgruntled, whining, narcissistic and intolerant individual is preventing veterans from getting the honors they deserve is truly an outrage," said Rees Lloyd, 59, a Vietnam-era veteran and Memorial Honor Detail volunteer. "This is another attempt by secularist fanatics to cleanse any reference to God."
World War II Navy sailor Bobby Castillo, 85, another member of Memorial Honor Detail 12, called the federal decision "a slap in the face to every veteran."
"When we got back from the war, we didn't ask for a whole lot," said Castillo, who was wounded in 1944 as he supported the Allied landings in France. "We just want to give our veterans the respect they deserve. No one has ever complained to us about it. I just don't understand."
The pair, part of a team that has performed military honors at more than 1,400 services, said they were preparing to read the flag-folding remarks when workers in a staff car came up to them and stopped them.
Charlie Waters, parliamentarian for the American Legion of California, said he's advising memorial honor details to ignore the edict, even if it means being kicked out of cemeteries.
"This is nuts," Waters, a Korean War veteran, said in a telephone interview from Fresno. "There are 26 million veterans in this country and they're not going to take us all to prison."
Washington's Explanation
Mike Nacincik, the spokesman for the National Cemetery Administration, said the new policy, which was outlined in a Sept. 27 memo, is aimed at creating uniform services throughout the military graveyard system.
He said the 13-fold recital is not part of the U.S. Flag Code and is not government approved. After the complaint made its way through government channels, Steve Muro, director of field operations, wrote the new policy.
Nacincik said that while the flag-folding narrative includes references to God that the government does not endorse, the main reason for the new rules is uniformity.
"We are looking at consistency," Nacincik said. "We think that's important."
As for comments that the edict is an attack on religious beliefs, Nacincik said, "People are going to have their own views on that."
He said the flag-folding narrative can be read but only if families make arrangements on their own and do not use cemetery workers, which include volunteers. The U.S. government owns Riverside National, the most active national cemetery in the country with more than 8,000 burials of veterans and immediate family members each year.
A Jewish Perspective
Rabbi Yitzhak Miller, of Riverside's Temple Beth El, said he understands the government's decision to ban the recitation but believes it is a quick solution to a complex issue.
"It is a perfect example of government choosing to ignore religion in order to avoid offending some religions," Miller said. "To me, ignoring religion in general is just as problematic as endorsing any one religion."
Miller said the 11th fold, and the 12th fold, which refers to the Christian Trinity -- "God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost -- amounts to an endorsement of Judaism and Christianity. He said he would like to see a reference to "God as we understand God" mentioned in the ritual but without endorsing any specific tradition.
"To acknowledge those two without acknowledging others denigrates the patriotic men and women of other faiths who serve our country," he said.
Family Wishes
Lloyd and Castillo said they always speak to families before providing military honors to their loved ones. Honors include a rifle salute, the playing of taps and the folding of the flag. Some families don't want any honors; others decline specific parts of the ceremony. Those wishes are paramount and are always respected.
Lloyd said the 16 members of the Memorial Honor Detail he serves on have distributed hundreds of copies of the script they recite while folding the flag. They've received dozens of letters thanking them, and several mention in particular the flag-folding recitation. But now presenting families that memento isn't allowed under the directive.
Lloyd, a member of the state American Legion, said he knows Riverside National Cemetery workers are just obeying orders. The real battle is with Washington.
"We're going to fight this tooth and nail, hammer and boot," he said.
Flag folds
These meanings, not part of the U.S. Flag Code, have been ascribed to the 13 folds of American flags at veterans burial services:
1. Symbol of life.
2. Symbol of our belief in the eternal life.
3. In honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain a peace throughout the world.
4. Represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.
5. A tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."
6. Represents where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
7. A tribute to our armed forces.
8. A tribute to the one who entered in to the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.
9. A tribute to womanhood.
10. A tribute to father.
11. In the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
12. In the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost.
13. When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, "In God We Trust."
Sources: USHistory.com, other Web site
Now I'm a practicing Pagan. While my definition of "God" may differ from other religions, I do not feel threatened when someone mentions "God" in my presence. I do not feel I am being slighted when I recite the Pledge of Allegence, "One nation, under God", nor do I reword it to include "Goddess". When did American's get such thin skinned that we can't even translate in our minds the word "God" to mean whatever it means to us?
I'm just saying..........
After complaint in Riverside, flag-folding recitation banned at veterans cemeteries nationwide
Download story podcast
08:12 AM PDT on Thursday, October 25, 2007
By JOE VARGO
The Press-Enterprise
Through thousands of military burials, Memorial Honor Detail volunteers at Riverside National Cemetery have folded the American flag 13 times and recited the significance of every fold to survivors of those being laid to rest.
The first fold, a narrator tells relatives, represents life, the second a belief in eternal life.
The 11th fold celebrates Jewish war veterans and "glorifies the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob."
A single complaint lodged against the words for the 11th fold recently prompted the National Cemetery Administration to ban the entire recital at all 125 national cemeteries.
A spokesman in Washington said the complaint originated from someone who witnessed the ceremony at Riverside National but would provide no other details and declined to release the directive banning the flag-folding recital, saying it was "an internal working document not meant for public distribution."
Veterans are furious.
The recitation of the 13 folds of the U.S. flag can no longer be made at national cemeteries. Veterans and honor detail volunteers, such as Bobby Castillo, 85, left, and Rees Lloyd, 59, are furious.
"That the actions of one disgruntled, whining, narcissistic and intolerant individual is preventing veterans from getting the honors they deserve is truly an outrage," said Rees Lloyd, 59, a Vietnam-era veteran and Memorial Honor Detail volunteer. "This is another attempt by secularist fanatics to cleanse any reference to God."
World War II Navy sailor Bobby Castillo, 85, another member of Memorial Honor Detail 12, called the federal decision "a slap in the face to every veteran."
"When we got back from the war, we didn't ask for a whole lot," said Castillo, who was wounded in 1944 as he supported the Allied landings in France. "We just want to give our veterans the respect they deserve. No one has ever complained to us about it. I just don't understand."
The pair, part of a team that has performed military honors at more than 1,400 services, said they were preparing to read the flag-folding remarks when workers in a staff car came up to them and stopped them.
Charlie Waters, parliamentarian for the American Legion of California, said he's advising memorial honor details to ignore the edict, even if it means being kicked out of cemeteries.
"This is nuts," Waters, a Korean War veteran, said in a telephone interview from Fresno. "There are 26 million veterans in this country and they're not going to take us all to prison."
Washington's Explanation
Mike Nacincik, the spokesman for the National Cemetery Administration, said the new policy, which was outlined in a Sept. 27 memo, is aimed at creating uniform services throughout the military graveyard system.
He said the 13-fold recital is not part of the U.S. Flag Code and is not government approved. After the complaint made its way through government channels, Steve Muro, director of field operations, wrote the new policy.
Nacincik said that while the flag-folding narrative includes references to God that the government does not endorse, the main reason for the new rules is uniformity.
"We are looking at consistency," Nacincik said. "We think that's important."
As for comments that the edict is an attack on religious beliefs, Nacincik said, "People are going to have their own views on that."
He said the flag-folding narrative can be read but only if families make arrangements on their own and do not use cemetery workers, which include volunteers. The U.S. government owns Riverside National, the most active national cemetery in the country with more than 8,000 burials of veterans and immediate family members each year.
A Jewish Perspective
Rabbi Yitzhak Miller, of Riverside's Temple Beth El, said he understands the government's decision to ban the recitation but believes it is a quick solution to a complex issue.
"It is a perfect example of government choosing to ignore religion in order to avoid offending some religions," Miller said. "To me, ignoring religion in general is just as problematic as endorsing any one religion."
Miller said the 11th fold, and the 12th fold, which refers to the Christian Trinity -- "God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost -- amounts to an endorsement of Judaism and Christianity. He said he would like to see a reference to "God as we understand God" mentioned in the ritual but without endorsing any specific tradition.
"To acknowledge those two without acknowledging others denigrates the patriotic men and women of other faiths who serve our country," he said.
Family Wishes
Lloyd and Castillo said they always speak to families before providing military honors to their loved ones. Honors include a rifle salute, the playing of taps and the folding of the flag. Some families don't want any honors; others decline specific parts of the ceremony. Those wishes are paramount and are always respected.
Lloyd said the 16 members of the Memorial Honor Detail he serves on have distributed hundreds of copies of the script they recite while folding the flag. They've received dozens of letters thanking them, and several mention in particular the flag-folding recitation. But now presenting families that memento isn't allowed under the directive.
Lloyd, a member of the state American Legion, said he knows Riverside National Cemetery workers are just obeying orders. The real battle is with Washington.
"We're going to fight this tooth and nail, hammer and boot," he said.
Flag folds
These meanings, not part of the U.S. Flag Code, have been ascribed to the 13 folds of American flags at veterans burial services:
1. Symbol of life.
2. Symbol of our belief in the eternal life.
3. In honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain a peace throughout the world.
4. Represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.
5. A tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."
6. Represents where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
7. A tribute to our armed forces.
8. A tribute to the one who entered in to the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.
9. A tribute to womanhood.
10. A tribute to father.
11. In the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
12. In the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost.
13. When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, "In God We Trust."
Sources: USHistory.com, other Web site
Sunday, October 21, 2007
October 27, 2007
On Oct 27th, there will be a service at the Vietnam Memorial in Vermont to commemorate the 25th anniversary. I've attached a tenative schedule. For those coming from the south, take 91 North to 89. Once on 89 go past the Sharon exit and the memorial is at the next rest area. For those coming from NH...take 93 to Concord, then 89 across.
I hope to see alot of you there!
Tentative program
1:00 PM Posting of Color Guard VT - National Guard
1:05 PM Opening Prayer - Ed Jones
1:10 PM Singing of our National Anthem - Maiden VT
1:15 PM John Miner introduce our Master of Ceremony-
Rick Weidman
1:25 PM Guest Speaker - Gov. Jim Douglas
1:35 PM Guest Speaker - Gen. Richard Cody - Tentative
1:45 PM Guest Speaker - Senator Bernie Sanders
1:55 PM Guest Speaker - Congressmen Peter Welch
2:05 PM Recognizing other notables in the group
2:15 PM Reading of Names on Memorial
2:30 PM Laying of Wreath
2: 35 PM Rifle Salute
2:40 PM Taps
I hope to see alot of you there!
Tentative program
1:00 PM Posting of Color Guard VT - National Guard
1:05 PM Opening Prayer - Ed Jones
1:10 PM Singing of our National Anthem - Maiden VT
1:15 PM John Miner introduce our Master of Ceremony-
Rick Weidman
1:25 PM Guest Speaker - Gov. Jim Douglas
1:35 PM Guest Speaker - Gen. Richard Cody - Tentative
1:45 PM Guest Speaker - Senator Bernie Sanders
1:55 PM Guest Speaker - Congressmen Peter Welch
2:05 PM Recognizing other notables in the group
2:15 PM Reading of Names on Memorial
2:30 PM Laying of Wreath
2: 35 PM Rifle Salute
2:40 PM Taps
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