Posts with the tag Army

BULLETS SENT TO THE PRESIDENT via WHITE HOUSE WEB SITE (14Nov2009)

Toasty in Tennessee — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:24:25 EST

Get out of Afghanistan, pass meaningful healthcare and if it fails, move on.

Regulate financial industries. Jobs, Jobs, and Jobs.

Stop building unwanted bridges and schools in Afghanistan. We need them at home.

The terrorist are not warriors. They have no army to blow up. We give them creditability calling their gang an army.

The FBI and CIA can chase them. Use the law to prosecute them, jails to hold them and the electric chair to kill them.

Stop spending our precious resources outside of the country and spend it at home.

Don't become "Bushed!"

Stand by the progressives, discipline the blue dogs and bring bills to the floor. If they don't pass it is OUR job (not yours alone) to fix it.

Oh, most important to you. You're not only slipping in the polls, you are losing your base. I love ya, but sometimes action is better than wimpy results!!

Stop enjoying yourself soo.... much. We are living hard lives and are trying to get through tough times.

Where is the "OLD" Barack? Bring him back and if bills go up or down, we will at least have a great time trying.

Good Luck, I am still in your camp for now. I don't think I can afford to give any more money. At least not until things change.

Veterans Day

"Voice for Humanity" — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:40:05 EST

By Padmini Arhant

On this important day, we take a moment to remember the men and women in harm’s way and their courageous service at home and overseas. This particular time is remorseful with the recent tragedy at Fort Hood, Texas involving the loss of innocent lives and subsequent grief among the victims’ families.

Not all human beings can pledge their life to serve the nation in a combat environment and those who come forward to do so are uniquely honorable. Every one of these individuals deserves national appreciation for their tremendous contribution towards security, freedom and humanitarian deeds.

It’s important to maintain the federal run VA health care and rehabilitation programs for all service members and their families. Further, the government assistance to the veterans’ families with housing, education and other social services are equally essential to help them cope with the economic hardships while their family members are engaged in the active duty or otherwise. It’s the least any nation can do for the armed personnel deployed in various parts of the world.

Remaining article available @http://www.padminiarhant.com

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Health Care Reform - Former Rear Admiral Rep. Joe Sestak Vet benefits and VA would be increased (video)

Unknown user — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:48:56 EDT

Health Care Reform - Former Rear Admiral Rep. Joe Sestak Vet benefits and VA would be increased
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C7MnTdbf84 (video)

Bush administration kicked out about 265,000 vets in 2003 and now it’s about 500,000 vets.

Bush administration cut funding to VA
2 billion in 2003
2 billion in 2004
2 billion in 2005
2 billion in 2006

The Obama health care reform brings them back in.

VA gets an 11% increase over 5 years and it’s the largest increase in it’s history.

VA is exempt from the 2.5% tax.

Alright let's stick together. We need to get over this quickly.

DanH — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 01:54:06 EDT

First, let me apologize for not writing sooner, as we all should. Yes my life has been very busy. The economy is picking up, and as a CPA consultant so has my work. The change has been very noticeable and profoundly encouraging. I know we're not out of the woods yet, but we seem to be heading in the right direction on the clear path we built out of this awful haze.

Secondly, I am very disappointed in Obama's apparent decision to concede the public option section of the health care plan. But I believe we've got to pick up the pieces quickly and realize that, since January 20th and before, this is the first time this administration has done anything I disagree with of significance. I'm sure President Obama is exhausted, and he's done amazing and superlative things to this point. I'm not ready to throw him under the bus because of this, and nor should anyone else in our camp, regardless of how strongly they feel about this event. He is our guy and our family. We should not simply forget how far we've come in just a few months, nor should we forget how much pressure and challenge Obama has had to endure to this point. The man is a study in seemingly superhuman endurance. We shouldn’t simply give up on him because he is a human being.

Another thing to consider is that to simply rail against the Obama administration now is to cause our own undoing. We need to take stock of what we have accomplished in this moment of frustration, because we will lose a lot of ground to break apart like a herd of cats. To do so emboldens the distortion makers and obstructionists. People like Sarah Palin and Rush Limbaugh. And like Dick Army.

Let's take a deep breath and catch our composure. Let's remember that we must stick together and stay together, even in tough times.

To President Obama, the only thing I would like to say, other than to express my continued support and respect, is that I believe it is better to go down fighting and lose the health care fight with dignity than to give in to the lying minority, even if they have touched a nerve in the general population. This time of emotionally charged criticism will pass, and when we are on the other side of these troubled economic times, people will see that we as Democrats are of integrity and strength. People respect that, even our detractors. That is what will carry us through 2010 and beyond as a governing majority. Please stay strong and resolute in your convictions and plans. I realize there is also the risk of becoming Bush/Chaney-like and completely disregarding new facts that come to light that indicate our direction is flat out wrong, but I strongly believe the decision to push to public option clause of the heath care plan overboard was premature.

Let's regroup and go forward as the team of which I have been so proud to be part. I know we can regain our momentum and strength of unity back again.

What do you think?

Krickle — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:07:48 EDT

I support health care reform because our country cannot continue on the same course. We all know that it may not be perfect from the start, but we have to start somewhere. Let's improve it as we go. My concern is that our active service men and women, veterans and their families will be asked to pay for their health care. I do not support this because they have endured and have sacrificed alot for our safety and freedoms. We should thank our military and their families by providing them with the care they need and require. I am married to a Vietnam Veteran, my son-in-law is in the Air Force being deployed next week to Afghanistan, my nephew is in the Army, and I have several uncles who have served in the military during war time so I know and understand the hardships they and their families endure. Let's pass health care reform and take care of our military...it won't be perfect from the start, but what is? We can make it work..

China vs. USA in creating the world's largest botnet army?

Unknown user — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:17:19 EDT

We have the technology, but so do they....in the event that there is a cyber attack, the idea is that the US army be able to take over your computer for the greater good of the country. However, if we compare ourselves to our bigger cousins, China...we pail in that comparison.

China could easily afford to have 250 million machines to node together into a massive botnet, sort of what we have seen the likes of with that virus STORM. We probably could accomadate 10 million machines, if there are that many infected with a special malware the army created.

There are also those special organisations..like google...that allow you to donate your cpu cycles for a special reason (like doing cancer stem cell research) which in the end makes us feel like we are doing our part, but who says that those mega machines are not infected with the same virus or worm, thereby coming back full circle as if you had the malware installed on your pc.

We match our 10 million to their 250 million, and we have to wonder...is this why we are login the cyber war??? What can we do differently, or better, to make sure this type of thing does not happen.

I would recommend something along the lines of an organised committee, that analyses the current threat that countries may pose based on their advanced techonlogy or access to...and formulate a way to moderate a country's progress. Let's say for example Africa was starting a special project to get some computers into schools.... this would be classified as mundane.

If you took a third world country that just finished purchasing special servers that allow multi processing of complex nature, sort of what you need to use to guide missles...well then we would have to review the background of where that hardware was going, and account for its presence at all times.

In the case of a botnet, it is the sum of the small parts that make the whole...does that mean we should limit the amount of computers allowed...or limit the connectivity of those computers to internet access...or anything that might put a small dent into that armor?

Who is to say, but it is something to think about in the years to come, especially now that we are seeing more and more cyber threats surfacing and making theirpresence known. ID Fraud, CC fraud, email scams....spamming, omg spamming! Just food for thought.

Army Personnel may be more vulnerable to Macromineral Deficiencies – Suicide and Homelessness

Unknown user — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:01:11 EDT

Army personnel may be more vulnerable to macromineral deficiencies caused by high levels of stress and sleep deprivation over long periods of time. Macromineral deficiencies can cause neurological disorders such as insomnia and depression.

Alcohol and homelessness just makes the macromineral depletion worse.

[The deficiency of Macrominerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium due to stress can cause serious disorders. Some psychological and neurological disorders are depression, emotional disturbances, personality changes, hallucinations, confusion, loss of memory, seizures, and coma. Some physical symptoms (disorders) are muscle pain, muscle cramps, muscle spasms, tremors, and complications of the heart such as cardiac arrest or heart failure. Deficiencies in Macrominerals can also cause or lead to Acid-Base disorders.]

ONLINE VETERANS COMMUNITY

WEBMASTER — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 22:42:47 EDT

President Barack Obama says all Americans have a “sacred trust" with the military personnel who have served this Nation, a responsibility to reward courage and self-sacrifice with all the benefits an open democratic society can provide.

MyVetwork (myvetwork.com) provides the solid foundation for a vibrant network of support in the spirit of that sacred trust to improve the lives of not only our active duty personnel and the 600,000 veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, but all our nation's estimated 23 million living military veterans - and their families, too.

MyVetwork is already operational, with the capability to service the Veterans Community—for the first time—in three intersecting strings, known as a Trident Connection, add up to One Trusted Source for Veterans that anyone connected to the government understands is crucially needed:

Connection: An easy to use—free—means for our service men and women (all branches, all conflicts, whether active duty, veterans or retired) and their extended families to connect and shape their own community where they can interact and exchange information on getting the services and resources they need (replacing current “Needle in a haystack” searches with the badly needed “Bingo. Found it!” laser-like search). Employs a cool Pin View that makes it easy to:
- Locate people you know, like buddies from combat
- Find people you don’t know, the very people—living nearby or half a world away—with whom you most want to connect based on values, interests, concerns, and specific experiences you’ve identified as important
- Find jobs the MyVetwork way: the “job board on steroids” helps find work that matches your interests and skill sets, and helps vet-friendly employers ensure vets get first-look opportunity at available positions.
Information: MyVetwork is building the innovative “Milipedia” with content specifically shaped by and for the military community, continually adapting to the needs of service personnel and their families and updating the information they seek, especially in the areas of healthcare, education, money and finance, and careering. Whether cutting through the red tape to benefits programs available from the VA; differentiating the proliferation of local services and programs; or finding specific people offering advice and support, Milipedia info has the added advantage of being “vetted” by military personnel who can vouch for the value of the proffered service/information (think “Military meets Wikipedia meets Zagat guide”).
Organizational Umbrella: Finally, a place for unwinding the organizational maze, categorizing all the available services, the scores of organizations, the many websites and the hundreds of community programs already providing support for our military and their families, giving them the best possible means to showcase themselves to the military community with the accompanying opportunity to increase membership, even raise needed funds.

Veterans community in one location. All for free.

Founded by decorated veteran John R. Campbell, MyVetwork draws on the “secret sauce” of the military, the “I’ve-walked-in-your-shoes” strength military personnel willingly share with one another, which will be a driving force behind MyVetwork.

Learn more about MyVetwork by visiting myvetwork.com or join the Veterans Community by visiting community.myvetwork.com.

Online Veterans Community: veterans.barackobama.com/page/community/post/president/gGxcKg
Document posted by David Apperson

Military Sexual Assault

Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 20:08:49 EST

Marine Corps - “Victims of sexual assault are entitled to our support” | By Suzia Van Swol - University of New Mexico/Talk Radio News Service and Talk Radio News Staff | Friday, March 6, 2009

The House Armed Forces Subcommittee held a Military Personnel hearing, today, on “Sexual Assault in the Military: Prevention.”

The subcommittee heard testimony from Carolyn Collins, program manger of the Army’s Sexual Harassment and Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program, Raymond Bruneau, manager of the Marine Corps’ Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program; Katherine Robertson, deputy manager of the Navy Installation Command’s Counseling, Advocacy and Prevention Program and Charlene Bradley, assistant deputy for the force management integration in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Prevention and Response Office.

This was one in a series of hearings that this subcommittee will conduct on the subject of sexual assault in the military, this year. The hearing today focused on Prevention Programs that are currently in place.

Chairwoman Susan Davis (D-CA) said: “Just as we have the responsibility to ensure that victims of a sexual assault receive all the support that can be provided following an attack, we also have an obligation to do all we can to prevent such attacks from ever taking place. The Department of Defense has made significant improvements in recent years, but the question we need to ask is, has enough been done?”

Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (D-CA) asked the witnesses whether and why the question “do women belong in the military” was still an issue and stated that this needed to be addressed. She said there needs to be a “change in cultural attitudes” towards woman in the military, and more “effective laws.”

The prevention and after-care systems that were identified by the panel seemed focused on the woman; offering counseling for victims. There was no evidence of rehabilitation programs in place for the men who commit this offense.

Mr. Bruneau said: “People are our most important resource. Marines have a long history of taking care of their own. Which means that we do not intentionally harm one another. Nor, do we leave a comrade behind. Victims of sexual assault are entitled to our support and care and deserve to be returned to the fight as fully functioning marines. The marines as always, are committed to caring for their own, as it’s the right thing to do.”

The subcommittee showed three videos by the witnesses that have been created by and for the military in an attempt to highlight the serious nature of sexually criminal behavior.

Source:

http://talkradionews.com/2009/03/marine-corps-%E2%80%9Cvictims-of-sexual-assault-are-entitled-to-our-support%E2%80%9D/

IN OUR OWN WORDS

Terry Danielson — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 00:18:34 EST

IN OUR OWN WORDS

A Collection of Stories and Photographs

From Military Families of the

Iraq and Afghanistan Wars

To our President and First Lady

On February 27, 2009, in his speech from Camp Lejeune, President Obama said, "…my strategy for ending the war in Iraq does not end with military plans or diplomatic agendas; it endures through our commitment to uphold our sacred trust with every man and woman who has served in Iraq.... And for you and your families, the war does not end when you come home. It lives on in memories of your fellow Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who gave their lives…. You and your families have done your duty; now a grateful nation must do ours….”

“We also know that service does not end with the person wearing the uniform. In her visits with Military Families across the country, my wife Michelle has learned first hand about the unique burden that your families endure every day. I want you to know that Military Families are a top priority for Michelle and me, and they will be a top priority for my administration…. Each of you has your own story. And that story is now a part of the history of the United States of America..."

Recently, on a show from Walter Reed, Oprah talked about Military Families, reminding Americans that every day when we listen to the news, we hear another number, and we go on with our lives. Behind the statistics are real families. An injured service member at Walter Reed said, “No soldier comes back the same - it is a family process. Go to the floor upstairs where the injuries are not seen. They are just as injured as those with physical injuries."

As President Obama works to end the war in Iraq, and the war in Afghanistan continues, the faces and every day lives of Military Families who wait at home will remain at the center of the war and our stories will continue. During war, military family experiences are so much more than can ever be communicated in news reports, care packages, legislation, military or political strategies.

Our MYBO/OFA group, “Military Families Need Obama as We Share the Human Faces of War,” led by military parents and siblings, invites military spouses, children, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles to be a part of "IN OUR OWN WORDS," a special collection of stories and photographs that will be presented to our President and First Lady.

"IN OUR OWN WORDS" will share the human faces of the consequences of war from the hearts and souls of those who live it everyday. It is intended to serve as a tribute to the lives of Military Families of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars and will include both our inspirational and heart breaking experiences, with a special section honoring those service members who have been killed while at war. Together, Military Families will create "IN OUR OWN WORDS” with the hope that as we share our stories, it will lift us all up.

Stories and photographs will only be used in this project to be presented to our President and First Lady. They will not be distributed to any other group, organization, or the media. To learn more about how to participate in this project, please contact one of us:

Debbie: DebbieIngraham@gmail.com

Jessica: JessicaIngraham@gmail.com

Terry: Tdaniel333@comcast.net

Military Backs Obama Plan

Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 08:50:41 EST

Military Leaders Back Obama's Iraq Plan By Paula Wolfson | Washington| 01 March 2009
America's top military leaders say they back President Barack Obama's plan to drawdown U.S. forces in Iraq. They indicated in broadcast interviews they are fairly confident the plan will move forward on schedule.

President Obama's broadcast address, 28 Feb 2009After extensive consultations with defense officials, the president went before members of the military Friday to announce his plan to end the war in Iraq.

"By August 31st, 2010, our combat mission in Iraq will end," said Mr. Obama.

Roughly two-thirds of the 142,000 U.S. troops now in Iraq will come home. The remainder, 35 to 50,000, will stay behind as a transition force. In time, they too will leave.

"I intend to remove all U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of 2011," he said.

That timetable is in keeping with an agreement reached between the United States and Iraq in the last weeks of the Bush administration.

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, the only holdover from the Bush Cabinet, says President Obama retains the ability as commander-in-chief to modify the withdrawal plan. But during an appearance on the NBC television program Meet the Press, he appeared confident no changes will be needed.

"I would characterize the likelihood of significant adjustments to this plan as fairly remote," said Gates.

Gates was asked about criticism of the plan from members of the president's Democratic Party, who do not like the idea of a large transitional force in Iraq until 2011.

He stressed their mission will be very different from the combat forces now in place. The defense secretary acknowledged the remaining troops will still face some danger, but far less than today.

"It is a very different kind of mission and the units that will be left there will be characterized differently, they will be called advisory and assistance brigades," he said. "They will not be called combat brigades."

U.S. commanders have indicated they are strongly supportive of the plan. The nation's top military officer, Admiral Mike Mullen, told the Fox News Sunday program that he is comfortable with the president's decision.

"Clearly, the conditions are much more positive than they were two years ago," said Mullen. "And the conditions are set for the Iraqi government, the Iraqi people, to take over their own country and be responsible for it."

Both Secretary Gates and Admiral Mullen said they were pleased with the process that led to the withdrawal plan.

Mullen said the president listened extensively to the commanders. And Gates said he thought Mr. Obama was more analytical than his predecessor, George W. Bush.

"He makes sure he hears from everybody in the room on an issue, and if they do not speak out, he calls on them," he said.

Gates said he does not know how long he might be willing to stay at the Pentagon, but admitted it might be a challenge to remain through President Obama's current four-year term in office.

Source: Voice of America

http://www.voanews.com/english/2009-03-01-voa16.cfm

Military Electronic Medical Records

Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 08:44:11 EST

Orlando Illi: Unraveling a Web of Medical Records, One Veteran at a Time

From the Partnership for Public Service | Sunday, March 1, 2009; 11:00 PM

Orlando Illi has been a man on a mission, a very personal mission to change the way the military handles medical records.

Three decades ago, Illi was thrown from a vehicle during an Army training accident, hospitalized for a month and left with permanent back injuries. Many years later the medical file detailing his injury could not be found when he applied for veterans' disability benefits, causing him great difficulty proving his claim.

Now a civilian manager working for the Army at Fort Detrick in Maryland, Illi is playing a pivotal role bringing electronic medical records to the battlefield -- a task that is helping improve the care of wounded soldiers and ensuring that injured veterans will not have to fight our government for the benefits they deserve.

"When I leave here at night, I know that somewhere in Afghanistan or Iraq that if somebody is injured or in combat and wounded, that data is being captured and that guy will know forever what happened to him," said Illi. "That's what keeps me going. That is the bottom line."

Illi, deputy product manager with the Army's Medical Communications for Combat Casualty Team, or MC4, has been a steady and persistent hand for almost 10 years in helping oversee the worldwide deployment, expansion and improvement of the military's electronic medical records system that today is used in 14 countries.

While President Obama has made electronic medical records one of the hallmarks of the recently--approved economic stimulus package, Illi and his team have been ahead of the curve. The Army's MC4 unit has already trained more than 33,000 personnel, fielded 28,000 laptops, servers and handheld devices used to collect 9.6 million medical encounters.

The system has made a real difference.

When a soldier is injured in Iraq, doctors and nurses in the field hospitals use MC4's system to immediately create a permanent electronic record of the patient's condition, treatment and medications -- digital records that follow the soldier to larger military hospitals in Iraq, Germany or the United States. This allows doctors to have the complete medical history at their fingertips, and to make quick and often critical life-saving decisions.

"We used the MC4 system daily," said Mary Miller, a nurse in St. Charles, Mo., who served in a combat support hospital in the Iraqi desert in 2007 and 2008.

"We would build a record from the get-go, from the first point of contact when an injury or illness occurred'' said Miller, an Army Reservist.

Miller said before the "user-friendly" system was put in place, a paper record was created and sent from the frontlines to the next treatment center with an injured solider. ``Things would get lost and there would be no continuum of care,'' she said. "Now they can pull up the record and see everything."

Illi's boss, MC4 Product Manager Lt. Col.William Geesey, said Illi has been a big part of the program since its inception and is "relentless and committed in everything he does."

"He's seen the program grow from only a handful of people in 1999 to an outfit that's meeting a global mission with a workforce of more than 250 people," said Geesey.

"Getting doctors and commanders to adopt new technology in the war zone has been MC4's biggest challenge, and remains so," said Geesey. "Orie's historical knowledge of the program and ability to collaborate with industry and military partners has been the difference between success and failure."

Army Major Kevin Peck, who served in Iraq and is now a chief information officer stationed in Korea, said MC4 technical support teams have been responsive to those in combat, providing software and hardware "way faster than anything else ordered when in theater."

"If I put in a ticket to get a problem solved on the ground, the guys get on it right away and work nonstop to fix it," said Peck. "They provide excellent support for the system down range."

Illi said it is satisfying knowing he is helping save lives and sparing other veterans the same personal ordeal he endured when trying to link his medical condition to his military service.

"Everyone else in this office feels the same way," he said. "We are all here for the same reason."

(This article was jointly prepared by the Partnership for Public Service, a group seeking to enhance the performance of the federal government, and washingtonpost.com. Visit www.ourpublicservice.org for more about the organization's work to recognize the men and women who serve our nation.)

Source:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/27/AR2009022702059_pf.html

ARMY EMERGENCY RELIEF

Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 01:16:06 EST

Veterans advocates riled by report on Army charity | By JEFF DONN

Veterans advocates are venting anger and frustration toward the biggest charity within the U.S. military after revelations that it has been packing more money into reserves than it has spent on aid during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"We have so many soldiers, reservists and National Guard who are in dire need, and for the Army to be holding this much money in reserve is despicable," chairman Bob Handy of Veterans United for Truth, of Santa Barbara, Calif., said Monday.

He was reacting to an Associated Press investigation that examined five years of tax returns by Army Emergency Relief and reported on interviews with dozens of soldiers, veterans and officials from other military charities.

From 2003 to 2007, the charity, also known as AER, packed $117 million into its own reserves while spending just $64 million on direct aid, records show. By contrast, smaller Navy and Air Force charities both put far more of their resources into aid than reserves. Also, more than 90 percent of AER's aid was given as no-interest loans, not outright grants.

Though tax-exempt and legally separate, AER operates largely under Army control, the AP found. Soldiers are squeezed for contributions, often rewarded for them in violation of regulations, and sometimes delayed in transfers or promotions when loans aren't repaid.

AER, which operates on 90 Army sites worldwide and grew into a $345 million colossus during the Iraq war, is meant to help active-duty soldiers and Army retirees with their cash emergencies and to provide college scholarships to their families.

In written comments Monday, AER said it has been giving generously. "AER has always met the need for financial assistance. No soldier or family member has ever been denied financial assistance for a valid need due to a lack of funds," said retired Col. Andrew H. Cohen, the charity's national treasurer at its headquarters in Alexandria, Va.

He said the charity's expenses fail to provide a complete picture of its performance. He said the total value of assistance, counting loan and grant dollars as equal, has grown every year since 2003.

At a news conference Monday outside El Paso, Texas, Col. Ed Manning, commander of Fort Bliss, said that the charity works well and he was "just kind of surprised that there'd be a question about the money." He said the charity at his post of 20,000 soldiers had distributed $2.9 million over the past year, though he acknowledged that it was mostly in loans.

He said soldiers contribute entirely of their own will, but he defended rules that make needy soldiers request aid through an Army superior. "It's good that a commander knows what's going on in his unit," Manning said.

Other charities on Monday questioned AER's generosity.

"It just makes me sick to my stomach," said Amy Fairweather, director of the Iraq Veteran Project in San Francisco, a nonprofit that helps veterans with shelter and emergency payments. "There are resources that are not being used when organizations like ours ... are pounding the pavement every day in this tough economic time to bring in dollars to help our veterans."

Paul Sullivan, executive director of Veterans for Common Sense, in Washington, D.C., said AER should rework its policies to help more veterans. Right now, it limits emergency aid to active-duty soldiers and veterans who served long enough to retire.

"If they're sitting on all this money and there is a demonstrated need out there, they can expand their mission to meet the need," said Sullivan, an Army combat veteran who used to work as a project manager for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Veterans for Common Sense and Veterans United for Truth are appealing the dismissal of a federal lawsuit they filed during the Bush administration over federal delays in providing disability benefits.

Source: Associated Press http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5i8RwU4-Rr9BiSOiAjZeJIArc7ZjwD96HJSQ00

UHAUL ARMY EMPLOYMENT

Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 13:38:06 EST

Wed., Feb. 18, 2009 PHOENIX, Feb. 18, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE)

U-Haul, in addition to supporting our veterans and troops throughout the world, now will become a partner with the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, which will allow U-Haul to provide priority status to qualified members of the Army who are participating in the Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS) Program.

Under the terms of the agreement between U.S. Army Recruiting Command (USAREC) and U-Haul, enlistees interested in gaining specific job training and qualifications will receive that training while in the U.S. Army. As part of the enlistment process, recruits sign a statement of understanding of their interest to work for U-Haul upon completion of their term of service. As they near the end of their enlistments, these members of the Army will have the opportunity to interview with U-Haul for a specific job at a specific location.

"U-Haul has supported our military personnel since 1945 and has always given a high priority to veterans in our recruiting process, so this partnership is a natural fit," stated U-Haul International President John ("J.T.") Taylor. "U-Haul simply wants to give back to the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. Veterans have the qualities that we look for in our U-Haul team members: dedication, an excellent work ethic and strong leadership values."

U-Haul will be signing the agreement with the U.S. Army during a ceremony on February 20, 2009 at 10 a.m., at U-Haul International, Inc., 2727 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Ariz., with Colonel Michelle D. Mitchell, Battalion Commander, U.S. Army Phoenix Recruiting Battalion, and Colonel Robert Akam Commander of the 5th Recruiting Brigade out of San Antonio, TX.

"The Army is excited to add U-Haul to its team of corporate partners," said LTC Michelle Mitchell. "Signing this agreement enables our recruiters to offer quality employment opportunities to Soldiers upon entering the civilian workforce."

About U-Haul

After World War II, there existed a widespread need for do-it-yourself moving equipment on a one-way, nationwide basis. World War II veteran and U-Haul founder L.S. "Sam" Shoen and his wife, Anna Mary Carty Shoen, recognized that need and acted upon it. Ever since, U-Haul has been the undisputed choice for the do-it-yourself mover, with a network of more than 15,650 locations in all 50 United States and 10 Canadian provinces.

U-Haul customers' patronage has enabled the Company to maintain a fleet of 96,000 trucks, 75,000 trailers and 35,000 towing devices. U-Haul offers more than 387,000 storage rooms and more than 34 million square feet of storage space at more than 1,075 owned and managed facilities throughout North America. U-Haul is the consumer's number one choice as the largest installer of permanent trailer hitches in the automotive aftermarket industry. U-Haul supplies alternative-fuel for vehicles and backyard barbecues as one of the nation's largest retailers of propane.

About U.S. Army Recruiting Command

The U.S. Army Recruiting Command, headquartered at Fort Knox, recruits quality men and women to serve in the Army and Army Reserve. Approximately 8,000 soldiers and civilian employees conduct recruiting operations throughout the States, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and at U.S. facilities in Germany and Asia. http://armypays.com/

CONTACT: U-Haul Public Relations Joanne Fried Ashleigh Wagner (602) 263-6194 publicrelations@uhaul.com U.S. Army Phoenix Recruiting Battalion Public Affairs Deborah Marie Gibson (602) 254-1981 deborah.gibson@usarec.army.mil

Source: MSNBC http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29266273/

Stand down of recruiters

Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 11:01:22 EST

The Army has ordered a stand-down of its recruiting force on Friday, Feb. 13. The one day stand-down includes all 7,000 active duty and 1,400 Army Reserve recruiters. During that day the soldiers will receive training on leadership, suicide prevention, coping skills, recruiter wellness. The stand-down was ordered after an investigation of four suicides in the Houston Recruiting Battalion.

Poor command climate, failing personal relationships and long, stressful work days were factors in the suicides. All four recruiters were combat veterans (Iraq and Afghanistan) although none had been diagnosed with PTSD.

The Army's suicide rate increased from 12.4/100,000 soldiers in 2003 to 18.1/100,000 soldiers in 2007. This is an all-time high for the service. (This information is from an article in the "Army Times", 1/27/2009.)

Letter to the President from Army of Dude, Very Important

Annette Sousley — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:35:55 EST

This is for Alex, a young veteran of the Iraq War. I have linked to his blog before, in the B A D list, when the Weblog Awards were going on and I have talked about it at other times.

Well, this morning I noticed there was a new post, so I went to read it. I have been touched deeply by Alex's posts before, but this one really, really touched my heart. So, I am asking you to read this post, I am putting here, I will also link to his blog, he is a very talented writer, and you can follow your heart, but I think you will see where he and I are coming from. I hope you will write to Pres. Obama as I am and ask that he spare Alex's friend and all the others who are caught up in this back door draft that the Bushies got us into. Because that's how it is. So, read this and see what you think. Then if you want, go here to "http://armyofdude.blogspot.com/ and read more.

More after the fold

Army to buy electric cars

Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 23:39:37 EST

Army Times | Tuesday Nov 25, 2008

Picture: Chrysler's General Electric Motorcar delivered the first six, out of the thousands of NEVs the U.S. Army plans to lease in the coming years.

Aiming to save fuel and advance alternative-energy plans, the Army, Navy and Air Force intend to buy thousands of battery-powered, 35-mile-an-hour electric cars and light trucks to provide on-base transport, senior Army officials said.

“The Neighborhood Electric Vehicle [NEV] will be at Fort Belvoir, [Va.,] before Dec. 15. Our goal is to have the secretary [of the Army, Pete Geren] there to drive in one of the first ones,” said Paul Bollinger, deputy assistant Army secretary for energy and partnerships. “We are having bumper stickers put on and decals on the doors which say ‘Army Green, Army Strong.’ ”

The Army plans to order the street-legal NEVs from E-Z-Go, Native American Biofuels International and other electric-car makers. E-Z-Go, which is a subsidiary of defense giant Textron, makes golf carts that are listed online at about $1,300 each.

“We’re excited about this,” said James Cooke, CEO of Native American Bio-fuels International, Arlington, Va. “We’ve been working on alternative energy for about three-and-a-half years. We’ve innovated with Native American tribes all over the country.”

Next year, 800 cars will be delivered and 4,000 over the next three years. Ultimately, “we should be able to go to at least 10,000 vehicles overall,” Bollinger said.

The Army’s plan has persuaded its sister services to jump on board.

“The good news is that the Air Force and Navy have come to us and said that they want to piggyback on the order. Previously, the Air Force was looking at low-speed vehicles, which are actually still gasoline vehicles. We’ve skipped that and we are going straight to electric. We are eliminating the fuel issue, period,” Bollinger said.

An Air Force official confirmed his service’s involvement in the electric car purchase, but could not immediately provide details.

The Army is moving quickly; the purchase plans were unveiled last month as part of the service’s ambitious new energy strategy, which also calls for the construction of solar and geothermal facilities.

Bollinger said each electric car would use an average of about $400 in electricity per year, compared to the roughly $2,400 in fuel needed to run a gas-powered car, citing General Services Administration figures. Moreover, the 4,000 electric cars will save 11.5 million gallons of fuel per year, he said.

Daniel Goure, vice president of the Lexington Institute, a Va.-based think tank, noted that the price of fuel is nearly half of its record high earlier this year.

“In a few months, the savings that they could have expected has dropped by half,” he said.

The first batch of vehicles will likely be leased per year from Native American Biofuels International, Bollinger said. The Army expects to continue to lease the electric cars on a yearly basis and possibly buy them down the road.

“We will not be paying any more for the NEV than for a standard gasoline-powered vehicle,” Bollinger said.

The NEVs, now powered by lead-acid batteries, may one day be operated by lithium batteries, which are able to store and dispense larger amounts of energy at a lighter weight compared with lead-acid batteries.

The Army hopes to inspire a broader market for electric cars and has been telling automakers about the plans.

“Chevy is looking at making the Volt, a street vehicle that will go highway speeds. We don’t need that because the speed limit on our installation is 30 mph. We don’t need something that big or expensive, but we might need something that powerful. So in the future, if they are able to make it, that is great,” Bollinger said.

Source: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/11/army_electric_cars_112408w/

JON BON JOVI

WEBMASTER — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 13:37:04 EST

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF'S BALL TO AIR ON PENTAGON CHANNEL
AVAILABLE ON MILITARY BASES AROUND THE WORLD

JON BON JOVI TO PERFORM

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Presidential Inaugural Committee announced today that the Commander-in-Chief's ball, honoring the country's active duty and reserve military, will be broadcast to American troops around the world on the Pentagon Channel, which is available via cable on 368 military bases and on commercial cable and satellite services throughout the United States. Overseas, the Pentagon Channel is distributed via cable and direct-to-home satellite to nearly one million troops via the American Forces Radio and Television Service.

Jon Bon Jovi will headline the talent lineup for the ball, which will be held on Tuesday, January 20th, at the National Building Museum. George Lopez will emcee the event, which also feature performances and appearances by Jordin Sparks, Miss America 2009 Kirsten Haglund, and Right On. The event is also co-hosted by the Senior Enlisted Advisors of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.

"This opportunity to honor our troops should not be limited to those who are able to be in the room with us for the evening," said PIC Executive Director Emmett S. Beliveau. "We want all our troops, around the world, to share in this special evening with the newly sworn-in President and Vice President and the excellent talent we have for the evening. Our troops deserve our thanks and our gratitude and this is one way we hope to express our thanks to those here and abroad."

"While a relatively small number of service members will be able to attend the Commander-in-Chief's Ball in person, they will represent more than 2 million men and women in uniform," said Col. Hiram Bell, director of public affairs for the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee. "Most of those service members will be able to watch the celebration on the Pentagon Channel, or later on Armed Forces Network, and we want them all to feel part of this historic event."

The Pentagon Channel will break into regular programming with live coverage of the Commander-in-Chief's Ball, including remarks by Department of Defense leadership and both the Vice President and the President. Coverage begins at approximately 8 PM Eastern time and continues throughout the evening.

The event will be produced by The iDream Company, led by entertainment executives Suzanne de Passe, Suzanne Costen, and Madison Jones, and written by Ruth Robinson. The iDream company has been recognized with Emmy Awards, Golden Globe and Peabody Awards.

Tickets are being provided free of charge to all invited guests, which includes active duty and reserve military, wounded warriors (Purple Heart recipients), families of fallen heroes, and spouses of deployed military. This event is not open to the general public.

source: http://veterans.barackobama.com/page/community/post/president/gGxFsx

SUPPORT MILITARY FAMILIES

WEBMASTER — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:37:28 EST

Getting our Military Families what they Deserve
By Jay Chalnick 15 January 2009

NEW YORK, NY– In his Inaugural speech, President-elect Obama will no doubt voice his intention to ensure those who have served their country in the US military get what they deserve. As he said, “This is something I care deeply about.” The team of people who built MyVetwork (www.myvetwork.com) will be among those cheering his words.

One of them is Brendan Hart who left the Marine Corps in 2005, and wanted to reconnect with other veterans, people who would understand what he went through and what support he may need. Plenty of services exist, says Hart, 26, on medical leave from Dartmouth College because of a contaminated smallpox vaccine he was given while serving. But finding them was another matter. Hart launched Student Veterans of America, now one of the many military-focused groups taking advantage of www.myvetwork.com, the new online community designed specifically to facilitate the intention of President-elect Obama and others to take advantage of available technology to get to veterans the services they have earned.

MyVetwork.com is the first-ever online social network designed specifically for our military and their families that lets them shape their own community…so they can connect and interact with each other while exchanging information on getting the services and resources they need– all in one place. This has not been possible until now; MyVetwork.com provides the timely vehicle to bring to reality Michele Obama’s “vision of a system that does more to support military families, both when loved ones are deployed and long after they return.”

“Why is it that no one has ever asked the military community what they need?” says John R. Campbell, Founder and CEO of MyVetwork, and a decorated Vietnam era Marine officer. “We’ve conducted interviews across service branches, ranks and cities, and have heard time and again our service men and women want to connect with one another, share stories, exchange resources, and give and receive support. This fundamental and natural channel for sharing information is long overdue. And they want all the groups who serve them to be easily accessible, under one umbrella.”

MyVetwork invites active duty, retired, and veteran military members and their families to build their own community and interact on multiple levels of shared interests. The community is built upon a dynamic customized platform specific to the military, providing the basis for a community that’s shaped by and for its members. Member profiles and sophisticated matching algorithms make it easy for participants to find others with similar interests; make peer-to-peer recommendations; locate long lost buddies; find other parents of wounded veterans eager to exchange critical information; look for support from someone who has “walked in their boots;” give, receive mentoring or career advice; and exchange information on a virtually unlimited number of topics.

Many of our 1.6 million troops deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan return home to challenging times for them and their families. “MyVetwork replaces the sense of isolation with the comfort of community for military personnel and their families,” says Jaine Darwin, Clinical Instructor in Psychology, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School. “As a conduit for the exchange of information and support, MyVetwork provides a way to join hands across the nation during deployment as well as during the challenging time of reintegration.”

Large Veterans Service Organizations (VSO’s) like the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) with its 1.9 million members; AMVETS (600,000); and the American Legion Auxiliary (750,000) are partnering with MyVetwork to provide a new means of connection and interaction among their members. Similarly, smaller groups like VET Foundation, Army Wife Talk Radio, and The Coming Home Project; Strategic Outreach for Families of all Reservists (SOFAR) have signed on to get exposure and expand membership.

All will join the applause for President-elect Obama who seeks a “shift in attitude in the VA” to make sure those who served are getting treated with the honor and respect they deserve.”

# # #

About MyVetwork

MyVetwork (www.myvetwork.com) is a not for profit organization with 501(c)(3) status, and is free to members. MyVetwork is the exclusive trademark of MyVetwork, LLC

source: http://disabilties.barackobama.com/page/community/post/president/gGxbgp

CITIZENS BRIEFING BOOK

WEBMASTER — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:45:58 EST

Share your ideas on any issue facing the new administration, then rate or comment on other ideas.

The best rated ideas will rise to the top -- and be gathered into a Citizen's Briefing Book to be delivered to President Obama after he is sworn in.

'Citizens Briefing Book' sample: Military Medical Coverage

Please Overhaul Veterans Affairs!

Sandy — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 23:12:20 EST

Dear President Obama,

I read somewhere that you were going to be overhauling the Social Security system, it certainly needs it. While you are at it, could you possibly overhaul the Veteran’s Affairs department? Since I am a female service connected, US Army Vietnam Era Veteran, I have had all kinds of problems with receiving medical treatment and I have fought with Veterans Affairs for 35 years in trying to get the same treatment as the male veterans. I could tell you many of my stories but it would turn into a book. Please make it better for all of us female veterans who have honorably served this country. Health care for women still is not equal to the health care that the male veterans receive.

I just had a bad experience with the VA system here in Ohio. I was real sick. So I drove 3 hours to the VA Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. The hospital and personnel there are great and very caring. The emergency room doctor gave me a referral for Primary Care to the Veterans clinic in Columbus, Ohio, since I only live 55 miles from there.

I spent 2 days and around 2 hours each time, on the phone with the Cincinnati VA and the Columbus VA Clinic. I could not get anything accomplished as far as trying to find out about my referral from the VA doc in Cincinnati. He referred me to the Columbus VA clinic. I did find out that someone at the Columbus VA sent the referral back to Cincinnati VA. I don’t know why and can’t seem to find out why. So, it looks like I will have to go back to the Cincinnati VA and try again to have the referral sent to the Columbus VA. It makes no sense for the Columbus VA to send the referral back to Cincinnati when I live so close to the Columbus VA. I personally think the Columbus VA is screwed up. I think the right hand (Cincinnati VA) does not know what the left hand (Columbus VA) is doing. They need to get their communication together better.

I have more stories to tell but I will wait until later.

Please, please, please President Obama, please overhaul the Veterans Affairs like you are going to do with Social Security.

Sincerely,

Sandy

MILITARY HERO - G.I. JOE

WEBMASTER — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:30:15 EST

In honor of military pigeons throughout history, I post on this Christmas Eve, information produced by Otto Meyer, U.S. Army (Ret), and supplied by the ARPU, on the American Hero “G.I. JOE” -

“G.I. JOE”
American Hero

“G.I. JOE” is the most outstanding military pigeon in history and is credited with saving the lives of at least 100 British troops during World War II. The British 56th Brigade was scheduled to attack the city of Colvi Vecchia, Italy, at 10 a.m., October 18, 1943.

The U.S. Air Support Command was scheduled to bomb the city to soften the entrance for the British Brigade. The Germans retreated leaving only a small rear guard and as a result the British troops entered the city with little resistance and occupied it ahead of schedule.

All attempts to cancel the bombings of the city, made by radio and other means of communication, had failed. Little “G.I. JOE” was released with the important message to cancel the bombing. He flew 20 miles back to the U.S. Air Support Command base in 20 minutes and arrived just as our planes were warming up to take off. If he had arrived a few minutes later, it might have been a different story.

Gen. Mark Clark, Commanding the U.S. Fifth Army, estimated that “G.I. JOE” saved the lives of at least 100 of our British allies. In November 1946, “G.I. JOE” was shipped from Fort Monmouth, N.J. to London, England, where he was cited and awarded the Dickin Medal for Gallantry by the Lord Mayor of London. “G.I. JOE” is the only bird or animal in the United States to receive this high award.

“G.I. JOE,” a dark checker pied white flight cock, was hatched March 24, 1943, at the Pigeon Section in Algiers, Algeria, North Africa. Later he was taken to the Tunisian front, then to Bizerte, and from there to the Italian front.

After World War II, “G.I. JOE” was housed in the Churchill Loft, U.S. Army’s “Hall of Fame” at Ft. Monmouth, N.J., along with 24 other pigeon heroes. In March of 1957, the remaining pigeon heroes were placed with different zoological gardens throughout the U.S.A.

“G.I. JOE” was placed with the Detroit Zoological Gardens where he died June 3, 1961, at the age of 18. “G.I. JOE” was returned, mounted, and placed in the Historical Center, Meyer Hall, at Fort Monmouth, N.J.

--- Otto Meyer, U.S. Army (Retired)
--- Former Commander of the U.S. Army Pigeon Service

I dedicate this inspiring story of courage and determination of the pigeon named “G.I. JOE” to the generations of troops that will secure the success of the 44th President of the United States.

May the message of peace come to The White House and spread throughout the land.

Merry Christmas Everyone,

David Apperson, Life Cloud Discussions

American Legion - member
ARPU - lifetime member
VFW - life member

Source: http://veterans.barackobama.com/page/community/post/president/gGxKt3

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

WEBMASTER — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 02:26:14 EST

The Pickens Plan: For those who would like to become an active participant in a solution for our nations energy needs I urge you to join with T.Boone Pickens in his quest for a cleaner planet through alternative energy.

Also see Green Wave Energy: Green Wave was founded by Mark Holmes and was formulated for viable alternative energy solutions. Green Wave Energy is promoting state-of-the-art energy-saving products and services throughout the country.

Green Wave Energy understands alternative energy technology will become “main stream” when

individuals and organizations understand that alternative energy technology exists and
when people see the economic benefits of using alternative energy technologies

Call 949.645.1701 for information on how Green Wave Energy can help you save the planet.

Alternative Energy
Source: David Apperson

url: http://veterans.barackobama.com/page/community/tag/alternative-energy

VETERANS DAY

WEBMASTER — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 13:51:24 EST

On 11 NOV 2008 We CELEBRATE VICTORY by remembering our brothers and sisters who sacrificed for future generations of men,women and children throughout the world.

THE RIGHT TIME TO DO THE RIGHT THING; Today, children everywhere are celebrating the tremendous grassroots victory of President-Elect Barack Obama. THINK AMERICA FIRST and THANK A VETERAN.

With that said, I send a 'PRAYER OF BLESSING' to the following personnel who presently serve on active duty, have served in the past, and will serve honorably in the following branches of military service:

US AIR FORCE * US ARMY * US COAST GUARD * US MARINES * US NAVY

IT IS BETTER TO BE A FRIEND IN PEACE THAN AN ENEMY IN WAR

And yes, today we bless all service members around the world -

see NATIONAL RESOURCE DIRECTORY and PHYSICAL EVALUATION BOARD

Victory in Iraq?

Charles from Hammond, IN — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 22:21:35 EDT

It's funny how Senator McCain says he'll "bring the troops home in victory not in defeat" but at the same time he boast of the success of what's happening in Iraq. Which is it? Is there success in Iraq now or not? Removing the troops RESPONSIBLY seems to resonate "Success" to me if the whole plan is to RESPONSIBLY turn control over to the Iraqi government.

Welcome, Military Wives!

Sara from Oak Harbor, WA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 02:37:31 EDT

Thank you for joining me, and making your voice be heard. Please feel free to leave your comments, ideas, and concerns. You now have a voice, be loud and proud! Obama will bring us the change we NEED, and bring our men and women home again.

Posse Comitatus Chameleon

Kelson Philo — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:31:44 EDT

Why in the the world is the Army being allowed to position a brigade on home soil with the intent of being a police force?

Link One

Link Two.

DISPATCHES FROM THE GROUND WAR ...

Martin Edwin "Mick" from Churchton, MD — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 23:40:29 EDT

THE ARMY TIMES REPORTS ...

McCain on FCS: Flip-flop or fib?

By Bradley Peniston - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday Sep 13, 2008 6:58:20 EDT

Has Sen. John McCain renounced his longtime antagonism toward the Army’s Future Combat Systems?

On Sept. 8, the Republican presidential candidate told a rally crowd in Lee’s Summit, Mo., about an Obama video message to a liberal advocacy group.

“He promised them he would, quote, ‘slow our development of Future Combat Systems,’” McCain said, according to wire reports. “This is not a time to slow our development of Future Combat Systems.”

Flashback to July, however, when his campaign furnished McCain’s economic plan to The Washington Post, declaring that “there are lots of procurements — Airborne Laser, [C-17] Globemaster, Future Combat System [sic] — that should be ended and the entire Pentagon budget should be scrubbed.”

In fact, McCain has long criticized the over-budget, behind-schedule FCS program. In 2005, he blasted the Army for allowing the program to balloon to $161 billion, and forced the service to rewrite the main FCS contract.

So where does McCain really stand? Some bloggers and analysts have suggested that he used the term “future combat systems” generically. Obama’s campaign maintains their candidate was speaking specifically about FCS, in which case McCain may be twisting his rival’s words.

Loren Thompson of the Lexington Institute called it deceitful.

“McCain’s interpretation of Obama’s position is typical of the way in which the Republicans have twisted Democratic views in order to undercut their opponents and at the same time obscure the past positions of the Republicans,” Thompson said. “Future Combat Systems is the centerpiece of Army modernization. However, McCain has been more critical of it than anyone else in the chamber. Obama has been much more detailed and thoughtful in his comments about future military investment than McCain’s very superficial statements.”

Officials with the McCain campaign did not return phone calls and emails requesting clarification.

What Obama said

McCain was quoting from a campaign video message from Obama to a liberal group that seeks to cut Pentagon funds by 15 percent.

“I will cut tens of billions of dollars in wasteful spending,” Obama said in the video, recorded earlier this year. “I will cut investments in unproven missile defense systems. I will not weaponize space. I will slow our development of Future Combat Systems.”

F. Whitten Peters, a defense adviser for the Obama campaign and former secretary of the Air Force, confirmed that the Democratic candidate was talking about the Army program.

“Obama had said that he wanted to review FCS and he thought that he might want to slow the fielding,” Peters said. “His feeling is there really needs to be an overall strategic review of larger weapon programs to decide which ones are sufficiently important to keep going and which ones may need to be scaled back.”

Antonie Boessenkool contributed to this report.

"Dont ask Dont Tell"

Jordan from Pittsburgh, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:27:14 EDT

I have been searching the web for about a half an hour trying to figure out where obama stands on this issue. Yet I've noticed that when it comes to this issue or any other gay rights issue the information i am getting back is either extremely vague or non existant.

I am a 24 year old man from Pennsylvania, I am a libertarian, I love my country, and I would fight for it in a new york minute. However, I refuse to pretend that I am something or someone other than who I am. The fact that gays cant serve in the US military openly is completely rediculous. I mean if its ok with the queen of fucking England why should it not be ok in this "free" land that we live in. We state that we are a free country yet everywhere you look people are in chains.

Obama needs to be clear on issues like this as well as issues in general. As much as I know we can not take four more years of republican policy I also can not imagine an "obama-nation" either. I think alot of people out there are ready to write their own name in sit back and watch the world burn. Change, Change, Change??? change what!? Help me understand please.

Palin and the National Guard

Marcia--One who believes in Dreams! — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 07:09:18 EDT

Sarah Palin says she is the "Commander-in-Chief of the Alaskan National Guard". Those are words in which she is using to make her appear ready to be "Commander-in-Chief" of the United States of America. Actually the Governor has very little day to day involvement with the command of the National Guard. It is the states' AG (Adjutant General)/Commissioner who oversees the Army and Air National Guard. In Alaska, it is Major General Craig E. Campbell. Maj. General Campbell is assisted by Brigidier General Thomas Katkas, Army National Guard Commander, and Brigidier General Deborah McManus, Air National Guard Commander.

On June 30, 2008 the Alaskan Air National Guard 176th Wing held a ground breaking ceremony for their historic move. Senator Ted Stevens was in attendance; however, there wasn't any mention of Govenor Sarah Palin. http://www.ak-prepared.com/dmva/Press_Releases/2008/08_June/Alaska%20Air%20National%20Guard%20Groundbreaking%20Ceremony.pdf Now she is traveling the country with Senator John McCain as his candidate for Vice President of the United States.

Govenor Palin does have the authority to activate the National Guard in times of crisis; however, her role is essentially very limited. Does this really qualify her to be Commander-in-Chief of the United States? Eighteen months in a politically appointed position, which has no hands on, day to day involvement with the administration of one of this country's military resources. Has Senator John McCain shown good judgement by choosing her as his Vice Presidential candidate? Is he really putting "country first" or is he just trying to win an election?

I have 3 sons who are active duty military, who have been deployed numerous times. My husband is a Vietnam Veteran and recently retired from the Army National Guard. My family has a long military history dating back to WWII. Please do your research and ask yourself if you can really see Sarah Palin as "Commander-in-Chief of the United States of America"? If you see this as I do, a political ploy, then please talk to everyone you know. Call your family and friends. Spread the word and use your vote wisely in November. Vote Obama/Biden!

Moment of Truth: A despair Mccain

DARIO from Deltona, FL — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 11:38:35 EDT

On august 29 th of 2008, this very day is Sen. John Mccain's birthday, we all want to wish him "happy Birthday". However he has given himself a great gift, he nominates Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska to be he's running mate. Wow, this man has taste. Ladies ask yourselves does Mr. Mccain think you are not smart enough where does he come from? He thinks that all of you would vote for him if he just picks someone who has similar body paRTS as you do. We got news for Sen. Mccain, women's ability is not limited to Vice Presidency, they can be President. Please stop taking women for granted! He is doing this out of despair you can tell when someone is about to lose he or she would do anything. After watching, seeing one of the most great speeches that ever given in the 21st century by Sen. Barack Obama for his presidential nomination. The republican party and their candidate got scared to death all of a sudden they can not think straight. Gov. Sarah Palin, why are you accepting to be used, you are simply your party's scapegoat. You are making a bad name for all women, they are better than that this is why Sen. Hillary Clinton ran for the highest office in America...more power to her. We have a trememdous respect for her. She changed America not you, Gov. Palin, she was not picked out of the chery bowl. On November 4th, we are going to vote for Obama, Mr. Mccain, you cannot help us. We are witnessed when it comes to battle you go and hide your true self. We will not let that happen inside the WHITE HOUSE. We won't find Mr. Mccain if elected he is going to run away. "Eight years is enough" We need to breath fresh air for next 4 YEARS. We are voting democrats.

Average Joe Biden's "Night"

Unknown user — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:58:16 EDT

Tonight, i will be watching Joe Biden...He is now the rock behind Obama..Let's see what he can deliver, everyone is talking about Unity,Unity,Unity.

It's going to take a new wave of people, not just One speech, but an Army of like minded people, to get the Democrats in the Big House..

Let's call Joe Biden's people the Average Joe Army...And get the Job done!!

Obama's Interview with Military Newspaper

E.Rich — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:04:51 EDT

An important read for military folks...

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=56694

A similar interview with McCain is also on the Stripes.com site for comparison.

She is a hero of mine and I miss her dearly

Brad — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:22:17 EDT

Reflections of a Army Husband

I am thankful we have nurses that can by touched by the human side of their skill. My wife is one of the ICU nurses there in Baghdad with the 10th Combat Support Hospital. In the heat of the moment you want her by your side fighting for your welfare. It does not matter who you are friend or foe, skill and daring are shared with equal parts of compassion. She is a hero of mine and I miss her dearly. She has mentioned the closeness of the medical brotherhood in that hospital. It's what keeps you sane. Still there are those quiet moments when she calls me and we pray together. The human side of my nurse mate echoes in her wavering voice as she talks about the injured children. A thousand miles can not separate us then. It is a gift of God that keeps us. We are thankful to serve together. We are blessed to share what He has given. In His Service, Brad

McCain's Not So Steller Veteran Voting Record

Nia "Hussein" J. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:46:59 EDT

· Bill: S 1438 - Conference Report to Accompany S. 1438; National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002
Date/time: December 13, 2001, 5:03 p.m.
Voted No: John McCain ·

Bill: H R 3338 - Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 3338; Department of Defense and Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Recovery from and Response to Terrorist Attacks on the United States Act, 2002
Date/time: December 20, 2001, 3:13 p.m.
Voted NO: John McCain, Phil Graham·

Bill: H R 5010 - Vote description: Conference Report H.R. 5010; Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2003
Date/time: October 16, 2002, 2:32 p.m.
Did not Vote: John McCain, Wayne Allard, Michael Enzi, Timothy Hutchinson, , Jeff Sessions ·

Bill: H R 1 - Vote description: H.R. 1 Conference Report; Prescription Drug and Medicare Improvement Act of 2003
Date/time: November 25, 2003, 9:23 a.m.
No Votes: John McCain, Donald Nickles, John Sununu, Lincoln Chafee, John Ensign, Lindsey Graham, Judd Gregg, Chuck Hagel, Trent Lott ·

Amendment num: S.Amdt. 3409 - Motion To Waive CBA Daschle Amdt. No. 3409 As Amended; To assure that funding is provided for veterans health care each fiscal year to cover increases in population and inflation.
Date/time: June 23, 2004, 10:43 p.m.
NO Votes: John McCain, Lamar Alexander, Wayne Allard, George Allen, Robert Bennett, Kit Bond, Jim Bunning, Conrad Burns, Ben Campbell, Lincoln Chafee, Saxby Chambliss, Thad Cochran, Norm Coleman, John Cornyn, Larry Craig, Michael Crapo, Mike DeWine, Elizabeth Dole, Pete Domenici, John Ensign, Michael Enzi, Peter Fitzgerald, Bill Frist, Lindsey Graham, Charles Grassley, Judd Gregg, Chuck Hagel, Orrin Hatch, Kay Bailey Hutchison, James Inhofe, Jon Kyl, Trent Lott, Richard Lugar, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Donald Nickles, Pat Roberts, Rick Santorum, Jeff Sessions, Richard Shelby, Gordon Smith, Ted Stevens, Jim Talent, Craig Thomas, George Voinovich, John Warner ·

Amendment num: S.Amdt. 3303 - Vote description: Motion To Waive CBA RE: Corzine Amdt. No. 3303; To amend title 10, United States Code, to reduce the age for receipt of military retired pay for nonregular service from 60 to 55.
Date/time: June 23, 2004, 1:47 p.m.
No Votes: John McCain, Lamar Alexander, Wayne Allard, George Allen, Robert Bennett, Kit Bond, Jim Bunning, Conrad Burns, Ben Campbell, Lincoln Chafee, Saxby Chambliss, Thad Cochran, Norm Coleman, John Cornyn, Larry Craig, Michael Crapo, Mike DeWine, Elizabeth Dole, Pete Domenici, John Ensign, Michael Enzi, Peter Fitzgerald, Bill Frist, Lindsey Graham, Charles Grassley, Judd Gregg, Chuck Hagel, Orrin Hatch, Kay Bailey Hutchison, James Inhofe, Jon Kyl, Trent Lott, Richard Lugar, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Donald Nickles, Pat Roberts, Rick Santorum, Jeff Sessions, Richard Shelby, Gordon Smith, Ted Stevens, John Sununu, Jim Talent, Craig Thomas, George Voinovich, John Warner ·

Bill: S RES 356 - Vote description: S. Res. 356; Condemning Iraq Abuse of Prisoners resolution
Date/time: May 10, 2004, 5:31 p.m. Not Voting: John McCain, Norm Coleman, Lisa Murkowski, Arlen Specter ·

Bill: S CON RES 95 - Vote description: Nelson Amdt. No. 2745; To create a reserve fund to allow for an increase in Veterans' medical care by $1.8 billion by eliminating abusive tax loopholes.
Date/time: March 10, 2004, 9:34 p.m.
NO Votes: John McCain, Lamar Alexander, Wayne Allard, George Allen, Robert Bennett, Kit Bond, Sam Brownback, Jim Bunning, Conrad Burns, Ben Campbell, Lincoln Chafee, Saxby Chambliss, Thad Cochran, Norm Coleman, Susan Collins, John Cornyn, Larry Craig, Michael Crapo, Mike DeWine, Elizabeth Dole, John Ensign, Michael Enzi, Peter Fitzgerald, Bill First, Lindsey Graham, Charles Grassley, Judd Gregg, Chuck Hagel, Orrin Hatch, Kay Bailey Hutchison, James Inhofe, Jon Kyl, Trent Lott, Richard Lugar, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Donald Nickles, Pat Roberts, Rick Santorum, Jeff Sessions, Richard Shelby, Gordon Smith, Olympia Snowe, Arlen Specter, Ted Stevens, John Sununu, Jim Talent, Craig Thomas, George Voinovich, John Warner ·

Bill: H R 2863 - Vote description: H.R. 2863 Conference Report; Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2006
Date/time: December 21, 2005, 9:57 p.m. Not Voting: John McCain, Lincoln Chafee, Jim DeMint, Judd Gregg, ·

Bill: S 1042 - Vote description: Nelson (FL) Amdt. No. 2424; To repeal the requirement for the reduction of certain Survivor Benefit Plan annuities by the amount of dependency and indemnity compensation and to modify the effective date for paid-up coverage under the Survivor Benefit Plan.
Date/time: November 8, 2005, 4:35 p.m.
Did Not Vote: John McCain ·

Bill: S 1042 - Vote description: Durbin Amdt. No. 2473, as modified; To provide for eligibility for retired pay for non-regular service.
Date/time: November 9, 2005, 6:04 p.m. Voted NO: John McCain, Lamar Alexander, Wayne Allard, George Allen, Robert Bennett, Kit Bond, Sam Brownback, Jim Bunning, Conrad Burns, Richard Burr, Lincoln Chafee, Saxby Chambliss, Tom Coburn, Thad Cochran, Norm Coleman, Susan Collins, John Cornyn, Larry Craig, Michael Crapo, Jim DeMint, Mike DeWine, Elizabeth Dole, Pete Domenici, John Ensign, Michael Enzi, Bill First, Lindsey Graham, Charles Grassley, Judd Gregg, Chuck Hagel, Orrin Hatch, Kay Bailey Hutchison, James Inhofe, Johnny Isakson, Jon Kyl, Trent Lott, Richard Lugar, Mel Martinez, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Pat Roberts, Rick Santorum, Jeff Sessions, Richard Shelby, Gordon Smith, Olympia Snowe, Arlen Specter, Ted Stevens, John Sununu, Jim Talent, Craig Thomas, John Thune, David Vitter, George Voinovich, John Warner ·

Bill: S 1042 - Vote description: Dorgan Amdt. No. 2476; To establish a special committee of the Senate to investigate the awarding and carrying out of contracts to conduct activities in Afghanistan and Iraq and to fight the war on terrorism.
Date/time: November 10, 2005, 11:35 a.m. Voted NO: John McCain, Wayne Allard, George Allen, Robert Bennett, Kit Bond, Sam Brownback, Jim Bunning, Conrad Burns, Richard Burr, Saxby Chambliss, Tom Coburn, Thad Cochran, Norm Coleman, Susan Collins, John Cornyn, Larry Craig, Michael Crapo, Jim DeMint, Mike DeWine, Elizabeth Dole, Pete Domenici, John Ensign, Michael Enzi, Bill First, Lindsey Graham, Charles Grassley, Judd Gregg, Chuck Hagel, Orrin Hatch, Kay Bailey Hutchison, James Inhofe, Johnny Isakson, Jon Kyl, Trent Lott, Richard Lugar, Mel Martinez, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Pat Roberts, Rick Santorum, Jeff Sessions, Richard Shelby, Gordon Smith, Olympia Snowe, Arlen Specter, Ted Stevens, John Sununu, Jim Talent, Craig Thomas, John Thune, David Vitter, George Voinovich, John Warner ·

Bill: S 1042 - Vote description: Talent Amdt. No. 2477; To modify the multiyear procurement authority for C-17 aircraft.
Date/time: November 10, 2005, 12:04 p.m.
Voted NO: John McCain, Wayne Allard, Jon Kyl, Jeff Sessions, John Sununu, Craig Thomas ·

Bill: S 1042 - Vote description: Warner Amdt. No. 2518; To clarify and recommend changes to the policy of the United States on Iraq and to require reports on certain matters relating to Iraq.
Date/time: November 15, 2005, 11:47 a.m. NO Votes: John McCain, Jim Bunning, Richard Burr, Saxby Chambliss, Tom Coburn, Jim DeMint, Lindsey Graham, James Inhofe, Johnny Isakson, Jon Kyl, Jeff Sessions, John Thune, David Vitter ·

Vote description: Motion to Proceed to Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 1815; National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 Missed the Vote: John McCain, Richard Burr ·

Bill: H R 2863 - Vote description: H.R. 2863 Conference Report; Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2006
A simple majority of those present and voting is required for approval or passage.
Date/time: December 21, 2005, 9:57 p.m.
Missed the Vote: John McCain, Lincoln Chafee, Jim DeMint, Judd Gregg, ·

Bill: H R 1585 - Vote description: Boxer Amdt. No. 2947; To reaffirm strong support for all the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and to strongly condemn attacks on the honor, integrity, and patriotism of any individual who is serving or has served honorably in the United States Armed Forces, by any person or organization.
Date/time: September 20, 2007, 11:58 a.m.
Voted NO: John McCain, Lamar Alexander, John Barrasso, Robert Bennett, Kit Bond, Sam Brownback, Jim Bunning, Richard Burr, Saxby Chambliss, Tom Coburn, Thad Cochran, Norm Coleman, Susan Collins, Bob Corker, John Cornyn, Larry Craig, Michael Crapo, Jim DeMint, Elizabeth Dole, Pete Domenici, John Ensign, Michael Enzi, Lindsey Graham, Charles Grassley, Judd Gregg, Orrin Hatch, Kay Bailey Hutchison, James Inhofe, Johnny Isakson, Jon Kyl, Trent Lott, Richard Lugar, Mel Martinez, , Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Pat Roberts, Jeff Sessions, Richard Shelby, Gordon Smith, Olympia Snowe, John Sununu, John Thune, David Vitter, George Voinovich, John Warner ·

Vote description: Motion to Concur in the Amendments of the House to the Amendments of the Senate to H.R.976; Support for Injured Servicemembers Act
Date/time: September 27, 2007, 7:54 p.m. Not Voting: John McCain, Sam Brownback ·

Bill: H R 1585 - Vote description: H.R. 1585 as Amended; National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008
Date/time: October 1, 2007, 5:59 p.m.
Not Voting : John McCain ·

Vote description: Motion to Invoke Cloture on H.R.3963; Support for Injured Servicemembers Act
Date/time: November 1, 2007, 4:45 p.m.
Not Voting: John McCain, John Warner ·

Bill: H R 3963 - Vote description: H.R.3963; Support for Injured Servicemembers Act
Date/time: November 1, 2007, 5:15 p.m.
Not Voting: John McCain, John Warner

·Bill: H R 1585 - Vote description: H.R. 1585 Conference Report; National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008
Date/time: December 14, 2007, 1:26 p.m.
Not Voting: John McCain ·

Bill: H R 4986 - Vote description: H.R.4986; National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008
Date/time: January 22, 2008, 5:32 p.m.
Not Voting: John McCain, John Thune, John Warner ·

Bill: S CON RES 70 - Vote description: Boxer Amdt. No. 4368 as Modified; To increase funding for the Department of Justice for the vigorous enforcement of laws protecting children.
Date/time: March 13, 2008, 8:45 p.m.
Not Voting: John McCain ·

Bill: S RES 501 - Vote description: S. Res. 501; A resolution honoring the sacrifice of the members of the United States Armed Forces who have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Date/time: April 3, 2008, 2:48 p.m. Not Voting: John McCain Saxby Chambliss, ·

Vote description: Motion to Invoke Cloture on the Motion to Proceed to S.1315; Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007
Date/time: April 22, 2008, noon
Not Voting: John McCain, Pete Domenici, David Vitter ·

Bill: S 1315 - Vote description: Burr Amdt. No. 4572; To increase benefits for disabled U.S. veterans and provide a fair benefit to World War II Filipino veterans for their service to the United States.
Date/time: April 24, 2008, 12:16 p.m.
Not Voting: John McCain, Jim DeMint ·

Bill: H R 980 - Vote description: Motion to Table Graham Amdt. No. 4763; To improve educational assistance for members of the Armed Forces and veterans in order to enhance recruitment and retention for the Armed Forces.
Date/time: May 14, 2008, 2:50 p.m.
Not Voting: John McCain ·

Vote description: Motion To Concur In House Amdts To Senate Amdt To House Amdt To Senate Amdt To H.R. 2642; Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008
Date/time: June 26, 2008, 9:42 p.m. Not Voting : John McCain Voted No: Wayne Allard, Tom Coburn, Larry Craig, Jim DeMint, Jon Kyl, George Voinovich

·Lets also not forget Jim Webbs GI Bill this year that McCain voted against and his comments backing President Bush’s threatened veto.

Here is an article to put it all into context: http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/articleid/9559andhttp://www.thenation.com/doc/20080602/beutler

McCain claims that veterans overwhelmingly support him for President, my only question is why? He does not support them as this record shows. I would also like to point out that the last time McCain showed up in the senate to vote was April 8th, consecutively.Here is an article I think is also intresting McCain Questioanble Record:http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jeffrey-klein/mccains-secret-questionab_b_107409.html

Afghanistan Email Refuted by The ARMY

Michael Hubbard — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 01:33:50 EDT

I know, I know, everybody already knows this but.............

I thought you Republicans surely were better scholars than to repeat false rumors without verifying them first. Hell, even the Army itself refutes this story and they say in the article in ARMY TIMES (see below and reference link from ARMY TIMES itself) that they were indeed delayed at Bagram Airbase as he TOOK TIME TO SHAKE HANDS WITH THE TROOPS AND THANK THEM FOR THEIR SERVICE.

Having been in the Army I'm sure this Captain (and probably the other officers signing their names to it are getting reamed over it right now. I find it ironic though that Porter tries to put Obama's calibre down, looks like the bullet's in the other chamber now though eh Captain?
1 it was reported on our local right wing radio station today that this email was false. Obama didn't even play basketball in Afghanistan, those pictures were in fact from Kuwait. 2 This From Obama's "fight the smears" website: The truth about Barack's foreign trip Lie:

Barack Obama didn't take time to meet with troops on his overseas trip.

Conservative blogs, referencing an inaccurate email from abroad, have been spreading the rumor that Barack Obama gave troops the cold shoulder on his foreign trip.

Truth:

Barack Obama spent time throughout his trip visiting with and thanking our troops in Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq. He was proud to meet so many of our troops overseas and has repeatedly praised their service and dedication.

UPDATE FROM ARMY TIMES: "Anti-Obama e-mail was wrong"

"An Army officer's negative e-mail account of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's visit with the troops in Afghanistan that set the blogosphere ablaze prompted Army officials to correct aspects of the e-mail and resulted in a statement from the message's author that "some of the information that was put out in my e-mail was wrong." 3 This from ARMY TIMES website: .. -->StartFragment --> Anti-Obama e-mail was wrong
By Matthew Cox and Rick Maze - Staff writers
Posted : Monday Jul 28, 2008 16:16:12 EDT

An Army officer's negative e-mail account of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's visit with the troops in Afghanistan that set the blogosphere ablaze prompted Army officials to correct aspects of the e-mail and resulted in a statement from the message's author that "some of the information that was put out in my e-mail was wrong."

The e-mail, signed by Capt. Jeffrey S. Porter at Bagram Airbase, characterized Obama's July 19 visit with soldiers there as contrary to the positive portrayals of the mainstream press.

"As the soldiers where (sic) lined up to shake his hand he blew them off and didn't say a word as he went into the conference room to meet the general," the e-mail said.

Porter wrote that Obama then went straight to the base's "Clamshell" or recreation facility to pose for "publicity pictures playing basketball" and "shunned the opportunity to talk to soldiers to thank them for their service. I swear we got more thanks from the NBA Basketball Players or the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders than from one of the Senators, who wants to be the President of the United States. I just don't understand how anyone would want him to be our Commander-in-Chief. It was almost that he was scared to be around those that provide the freedom for him and our great country."

Army Times sent an e-mail to Porter, a Utah Army National Guard member assigned to the 142nd Military Intelligence Battalion, asking if he could verify that he wrote the controversial e-mail and requesting an interview.

Porter's reply declined the interview request, but said:

"I am writing this to ask that you delete my e-mail and not forward it, after checking my sources some of the information that was put out in my e-mail was wrong. This e-mail was meant only for my family. Please respect my wishes and delete the e-mail and if there are any blogs you have my e-mail portrayed on I would ask if you would take it down too."

When contacted, Tiffany Porter who identified herself as his wife, said: "There were discrepancies in the e-mail, but I am not at liberty to say more."

The Army refuted the accuracy of the account of the Obama visit.

"These comments are inappropriate and factually incorrect," Bagram spokesman Lt. Col. Rumi Nielson-Green told the New York Daily News.

Obama didn't play basketball at Bagram or visit the Clamshell, she said.

"We were a bit delayed ... as he took time to shake hands, speak to troops and pose for photographs," Nielson-Green said.

Opinion aside, Obama campaign officials cited factual errors in the e-mail. Porter said Obama had gone to play basketball; Obama aides said that during the trip he only played basketball in Kuwait, not during stops in Iraq or Afghanistan.

An Obama campaign Web site, called "Fight the Smears," labels it a "lie" that Obama refused to meet with the troops. It includes links to news stories and videos showing Obama interacting with crowds of service members as evidence

Reference: http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/troopssmear

http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/07/military_blog_obama_072508w/

Response to recent anti-Obama e-mail

Heidi & Blue Star Families, Blue Star Voices — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:37:47 EDT

Yesterday, my husband received the email letter referd to below. In response, I sent this article from the Military Times to all those on the orginal distribution list in hopes of setting the record straight. I'm posting ithe aricle for you to do the same if you receive the email smear.

Thanks, Heidi

http://www.militarytimes.com/news/2008/07/Military_blog.Obama_072508w/

Officer: Part of anti-Obama e-mail was wrong

By Matthew Cox and Rick Maze - Staff writers
Posted : Sunday Jul 27, 2008 10:04:27 EDT

An Army officer’s negative e-mail account of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s visit with the troops in Afghanistan that set the blogosphere ablaze prompted Army officials to correct aspects of the e-mail and resulted in a statement from the message’s author that “some of the information that was put out in my e-mail was wrong.”

The e-mail, signed by Capt. Jeffrey S. Porter at Bagram Airbase, characterized Obama’s July 19 visit with soldiers there as contrary to the positive portrayals of the mainstream press.

“As the soldiers where (sic) lined up to shake his hand he blew them off and didn’t say a word as he went into the conference room to meet the general,” the e-mail said.

Porter wrote that Obama then went straight to the base’s “Clamshell” or recreation facility to pose for “publicity pictures playing basketball” and “shunned the opportunity to talk to soldiers to thank them for their service. I swear we got more thanks from the NBA Basketball Players or the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders than from one of the Senators, who wants to be the President of the United States. I just don’t understand how anyone would want him to be our Commander-in-Chief. It was almost that he was scared to be around those that provide the freedom for him and our great country.”

Army Times sent an e-mail to Porter, a Utah Army National Guard member assigned to the 142nd Military Intelligence Battalion, asking if he could verify that he wrote the controversial e-mail and requesting an interview.

Porter’s reply declined the interview request, but said:

“I am writing this to ask that you delete my e-mail and not forward it, after checking my sources some of the information that was put out in my e-mail was wrong. This e-mail was meant only for my family. Please respect my wishes and delete the e-mail and if there are any blogs you have my e-mail portrayed on I would ask if you would take it down too.”

When contacted, Tiffany Porter who identified herself as his wife, said: “There were discrepancies in the e-mail, but I am not at liberty to say more.”

The Army refuted the accuracy of the account of the Obama visit.

“These comments are inappropriate and factually incorrect,” Bagram spokesman Lt. Col. Rumi Nielson-Green told the New York Daily News.

Obama didn’t play basketball at Bagram or visit the Clamshell, she said.

“We were a bit delayed ... as he took time to shake hands, speak to troops and pose for photographs,” Nielson-Green said.

Opinion aside, Obama campaign officials cited factual errors in the e-mail. Porter said Obama had gone to play basketball; Obama aides said that during the trip he only played basketball in Kuwait, not during stops in Iraq or Afghanistan.

An Obama campaign Web site, called “Fight the Smears,” labels it a “lie” that Obama refused to meet with the troops. It includes links to news stories and videos showing Obama interacting with crowds of service members as evidence.

An Open Note To John McCain

Obamanizer — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:23:54 EDT

... so Senator McCain, is it really the case that you think that the Americans and especially the ones leaning towards voting for you are so stupid that you can make them believe that Senator Obama is a careless, unpatriotic and selfish swine?

Plus: Yeah, and Obama's team is so political insensitive that they underestimated that somebody would pick up on this, right. I guess though I would have expected that this argument would have been picked up by some swift boaters and not by your campaign itself. Now you tell me who passed the moral litmus test.

Yours,

A former believer (now retarted) in honest conservatives.

The Landstuhl Spin

Obamanizer — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:09:03 EDT

"I rather loose a campaign than exploiting our wounded troops for a political campaign."

California Veterans for Obama

Dee Dee, CalVFO Co-Chair; Delegate, Assembly District 4 — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:23:10 EDT

Hello: I am the California State Co-Chair for Veterans for Obama. If you are a veteran, military Reservist, active duty, family member, or just someone who supports veterans and has an affinity for their concerns, please join the "California Veterans for Obama" group so that we can communicate with you. Please pass this on to anyone you know who would have an interest. Our goal is to get the word out to the vets, as well as geting their feedback to the campaign . Thanks!

A day with my son, an Iraq vet

Maura Satchell — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 07:04:43 EDT

Those who serve in the military are prevented by the Hatch Act, I think it is, from endorsing or publicly sponsoring candidates for political office. We now it happens all the time, subtly, and sometimes not so subtly as the time, in 2004, I drove onto a military base brandishing my Kerry / Edwards bumper sticker and waved through by security only to be chastised by someone inside the base for the polical sentiment I was expressing. Had it been a Bush/Cheney sticker, he would never have spoken up.

Because of his training, and perhaps with some degree of disillusionment at his perception of politics in general,, my son, who served in Iraq and in other foreign posts, has done his best to remain apolitical and disengaged.

We happened to gently ease into a discussion of politicals with his girlfriend on day trip to a gorgeous state park for some swimming and frolicking, when I reminded them it WAS important to their lives, their futures. They listened, and I took the opportunity to read him the first few lines of an article in The USA Today:

"Republican John McCain's campaign jousted Sunday with two prominent politicians over when and how to pull troops out of Iraq: Barack Obama and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

Read why here:

Support our Troops -- Join Veterans for Obama

Vicki "Hussein" in New Mexico — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 10:39:11 EDT

In these days of the All Volunteer Army, I fear too many Americans are oblivious to the sacrifices of our servicemen and women on our behalf. I am pleased to see several new groups and the growth of existing groups dedicated to Veterans, active duty soldiers and their families supporting Barack Obama for President: http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/vetshome

Friends and families of our soldiers can help them make sure their vote will be counted in the upcoming Presidential Election for their Commander-in-Chief. Let them know about the Military Voter Services Web site: https://military.overseasvotefoundation.org/overseas/home.htm

Also, here in New Mexico, we would like to identify Veterans and active-duty military and their families who are supporting Barack Obama and would like to know about future veteran-related events in the next few months. For more information or to get on a contact list, please send your name, mailing address, home/cell phone, rank, branch and dates of service and email address to Jim_Buhaug@msn.com.

Here is a powerful new video "How You Ended the War" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frR0qklU1_o. Watch it, then make a donation to Barack Obama's campaign. We cannot wait any longer to bring good judgement and sanity back to the White House.

Please Remember Them

Marcia--One who believes in Dreams! — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:49:26 EDT

My son is a member of the Army Golden Knights Parachute Demonstration Team. One of their maneuvers is to pass a baton in mid-air from one team member to another. They were in Cape Girardeau, MO for the 4th of July and they performed this maneuver. Once all of the team members were safely on the ground, a young man who was 17 years old was called to the stage. The team members presented that baton to the young man in honor of his 18 year old brother's service to our country, who had sacrificed his life in the Iraq War. There wasn't a dry eye on the fair grounds.

Senator Obama is standing firm with regards to bringing our troops home from Iraq. It has been proven that the real threat is not there; however, we have young men and women giving their lives whether it is through injuries sustained, mental and/or physical fatigue from countless deployments, or the ultimate sacrifice...death. They need us to continue to fight for them here. Their rights to adequate care, support for their families, reasonable rotations, food and shelter. Please remember them... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nptA5uj6ZRY&feature=related They have and are giving their all! He was only 18...

Barack's "plan for national service"

David "The Forehead" — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:48:12 EDT

Reading through news from a week ago, I found a story in the Chigago tribune that outlined his plan for getting youth, like myself, more involved in community service. I have a few questions, and I found it here: http://bulletin.aarp.org/states/il/articles/obama_outlines_plan_for_national_service.html

Memorial Day Celebration

bekehangel — Mon, 26 May 2008 12:01:50 EDT

Our celebration of Memorial Day is a reminder of the lives of the many men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. We also remember our loved ones who have died. In many parts of the world today, millions of people are living under political and economic bondage. There are people who are still enslaved today and there are those who have been denied the choice to make decisions for themselves. The government decides for them and usually this is not good for them. We have been so privileged in this country to have freedom.

Soldiers to Deploy to Iraq in the Fall

Karen in St. Joseph, Missouri — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:45:45 EDT

More than 3,000 Fort Carson soldiers will leave for Iraq in the fall

Associated Press

Fort Carson's 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 4th Infantry Division, a unit of about 3,800 soldiers, will ship out to Iraq in September.

Pentagon officials issued the orders Monday, formalizing a decision that's been expected for months.

Members of the unit recently wrapped up pre-Iraq training in California's Mojave Desert. When the unit, one of two based at Fort Carson that include M-1 tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles, is deployed to Iraq it would increase the number of Fort Carson troops
there to more than 10,000.

Hundreds of the unit's soldiers will begin their third tour in Iraq.

WE MUST BRING OUR TROOPS HOME, NOT SEND THEM OUT.

VOTE BARACK OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT; WE CAN WIN THE ELECTION... YES WE CAN... AND WE WILL BRING OUR TROOPS HOME...

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT '08

Bush Has Privately Owned Spies

smffy — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:14:05 EDT

The Carlysle Group, a private intelligence Contractor, jsut bought out the second biggest such contractor to become a super intelligence agency. President Bush, his father George H Bush, former Sectretaries of State, and other high officials are owners of the Carlyle Group.

No longer is the CIA the intelligence gathering agency informing President Bush. He now has his own private army (Blackwater, and The Carlyely Group as well. It does not bode well for the country to have paid spies and a priveate military.

Goodbye To All That

Harold Ambler — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:25:44 EDT

David Brooks writes in today's NYTimes: "Iraqis are growing more optimistic. Fifty-five percent of Iraqis say their lives are going well, up from 39 percent last August." There are some questions I have about this statistic: (1) Does it include responses from all parts of the country? It's hard to imagine that Basra residents have been feeling real secure during the last month. (2) Does it include responses from all parts of Baghdad, Sadr City for instance? (3) Was it asked of the two million Iraqi refugees living in Syria and Jordan? (4) What was the exact phrasing of the question? Was the Arabic phrase for "going well" used or the one for "going better"? Just because it is better to be in critical condition than in grave condition doesn't mean most people would say they are pleased to be in critical condition. Electricity in Iraq remains intermittent, much of the restored oil flow goes toward funding the insurgency, and what peace there is has been bought and paid for with guns and money delivered to tribes we know oppose us.

If Brooks thinks things in Iraq are so safe, then why doesn't he post a few entries from Baghdad, outside the Green Zone, unaccompanied by bodyguards of any kind?

Of course Iraq remains hostile. Muqtada al-Sadr scoffs when Maliki tells him to disarm, because Sadr knows that he will outlast Maliki. Sadr is likely to be Iraq's next strongman leader, even if he presides over a country whose borders no longer include what will become Kurdistan.

Brooks, under a shroud of putative reasonableness, continues to provide cover for a catastrophic war of choice that he helped sell in the first place. The last I checked, however, he hadn't asked the Army to create a special age exemption for him so that he could go lead some grunts into a booby-trapped building.

Speaking of hypocrisy, Petraeus will mislead the public and Congress today when he insists that staying the course in Iraq is required to keep America safe. A strong Army is required to keep America safe, and our protracted engagement in Iraq has weakened our Army past any point in memory. If Americans truly believed in our mission in Iraq, then the Army would not need to be admitting criminals in the way that it has of late with "moral waivers," which it now does by the thousands.

Barack Obama, whose field of vision dwarfs that of Bush and his apologists (including Brooks), will not mindlessly stay the course in Iraq. Every day that we remain in Iraq, our enemies grow stronger. They do so due to our misspent resources and our lack of meaningful diplomacy, and even public relations, concerning the Middle East.

Barack will say goodbye to all that.

Gen. Odom Tells Senate Rapid Withdrawal Only Solution in Iraq

Michael Kotyk — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 20:42:16 EDT

Another general, this time, Gen. William Odom, has spoke to the Senate to say that the surge is not working and only a withdrawal of troops will bring any type of resolution to Iraq.

Supporting the Intrepid Phone Bank Volunteer!

Julie Hensley — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 16:40:35 EDT

In one short month, a group called Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army has grown to over 100 members strong. People who pick up the phone and make call after call from all over the country into areas of interest on behalf of Barack Obama! We're proud of it.

Maybe it's not your thing, maybe you're shy and choke up, maybe you just can't imagine dealing with the occasional swear word or hang up. You can still help. You can still encourage us to do more and help more..

We're asking for pledges of ONE PENNY per call.

That's it. One penny. You can support the entire group to a max donation or you can pick one caller and support them to a dizzying goal... pledge ONE PENNY per call. We don't care if it is to a max of 500 calls ($5) or just the calls of one of us in Pennsylvania (or whatever state you select) of all the calls we can make in a week. Pick your pledge. Pick the limit.

We want to raise $1000 for Barack...and that is only 10,000 calls. 10,000 calls divided among us is less than 100 calls per person. Help us do. Help us feel inspired.

Do you have any idea how much of a chuckle it would be to us to realize we are getting 'paid' to make the calls? Do you have any idea how ridiculous but true it is that getting paid ONE PENNY to be hung up on would make it worth it? It would -cause then we would you know YOU were out here supporting and encouraging us even through those occasional tough ones.

Please, contact me or join our group and let us know of your pledge.

Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army - Accepting Pledges!

Julie Hensley — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 14:31:32 EST

I just sent this to a few of my closest friends but would love EVERYONE to consider this as an option for supporting Barack and those of us making ALL those calls....

Please forward to everyone you know that wants to support Obama but hasn't taken the plunge into activity...please feel free to add this to blogs and other posts you make.

Our group, Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army is accepting pledges. You can simply pledge ONE PENNY per call that our group or someone in our group is making.

We have a goal of $1,000 at one penny a call that is 100,000 calls if we only had ONE PENNY per call and our group could do that. Or if we had 10 people pledging one penny each that is only 10,000 calls.

Pretty painless for us and you - cause we are already making those calls!

Our call volume is individually calculated on our phone bank page so we can capture it and send it to whomever needs confirmation prior to making their donation.

If you know people that want to do something but seem to have trouble building up the courage to make calls... suggest this. They can also join our group to get support til they do find themselves picking up that phone.

Of course, they can commit for a certain period or time or to a certain total or to a single caller... do you have any idea how motivating this would be for our callers? To know that with each call we're helping Obama with voters AND generating donations????

Please get the word out! We're a great bunch and definitely motivated! Check us out - Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army - one of the groups on www.my.barackobama.com!

Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army - Accepting PLEDGES

Julie Hensley — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 14:29:04 EST

I just sent this to a few of my closest friends but would love EVERYONE to consider this as an option for supporting Barack and those of us making ALL those calls....

Please forward to everyone you know that wants to support Obama but hasn't taken the plunge into activity...please feel free to add this to blogs and other posts you make.

Our group, Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army is accepting pledges. You can simply pledge ONE PENNY per call that our group or someone in our group is making.

Pretty painless for us and you - cause we are already making those calls!

Our call volume is individually calculated on our phone bank page so we can capture it and send it to whomever needs confirmation prior to making their donation.

Please get the word out! We're a great bunch and definitely motivated! Check us out - Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army - one of the groups on www.my.barackobama.com!

Support Phone Banking even if you CAN'T get on the PHONE!

Julie Hensley — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 14:28:06 EST

I just sent this to a few of my closest friends but would love EVERYONE to consider this as an option for supporting Barack and those of us making ALL those calls....

Please forward to everyone you know that wants to support Obama but hasn't taken the plunge into activity...please feel free to add this to blogs and other posts you make.

Our group, Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army is accepting pledges. You can simply pledge ONE PENNY per call that our group or someone in our group is making.

Pretty painless for us and you - cause we are already making those calls!

Our call volume is individually calculated on our phone bank page so we can capture it and send it to whomever needs confirmation prior to making their donation.

Please get the word out! We're a great bunch and definitely motivated! Check us out - Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army - one of the groups on www.my.barackobama.com!

Barack 2nd Largest in Military Donations

JAB - CO Precinct 119 Capt — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 12:24:49 EST

MILITARY DONORS FAVOR ANTIWAR CANDIDATES:

Individuals in the Army, Navy and Air Force made those branches of the armed services among the top contributors in the 4th Quarter, ranking No. 13, No. 18 and No. 21, respectively. In 2007, Republican Ron Paul, who opposes U.S. involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan, was the top recipient of money from donors in the military, collecting at least $212,000 from them. Barack Obama, another war opponent, was second with about $94,000. http://www.opensecrets.org/pressreleases/2008/YearEndPresidential.2.4.asp

An open letter to Senator Obama

Will — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 14:26:13 EST

Dear Senator Obama:

There are a few hot button issues out there that evoke strong emotional reactions the instance they are spoken. Veterans and the military are always front and center, especially in this time of conflict, but runs to the corp of our national being and as such has a bit of an untouchable/tread-lightly tint to it when spoken by politicians.

I joined the Navy Reserves in 2002 after long reflection on the events of September 11th, 2001. While I knew there were a number of programs available to volunteer for, I found my calling in helping my country by bringing my years of consulting in the computer industry to bear. Helping out where I could and since then I have been serving in Europe, the US, and other places around the globe. My active duty status will expire by the end of next year, God willing, and I'll go back to a well paying job in the computer industry again.

As a reservist I have the opportunity to see how our military functions from a viewpoint that active duty soldiers maybe don't appreciate but seeing how our young men and women leave home, many times at 18 or 19 years old, and give themselves up to the nation utterly amazes me on a day-to-day basis.

Senator, I don't know what you think about tax exemption but I think your campaign would make enormous strides by suggesting that all soldiers/sailors/marines/coast guard members would be tax exempt from federal taxes regardless of where they serve.

Currently the tax exemption applies only when we're in the war zone but daily I read that the Army, in particular, is having to lower its standards in order to obtain the recruiting numbers they need. I say, keep the standards as they once were but offer tax exemption. It would create an instant boost to the moral. An instant boost to the viability of serving to those who might have been on the fence. An instant recognition of your progressive thinking.

True, I'd benefit from these suggestions but only in the short term. I plan on heading back home, where I've been absent since October 2006, and enjoy living on the farm and consulting again.

You truly are different Senator. I've never given money to a campaign before but you have energized thought and action and for that I'm thankful.

God bless,

What is an 88M...

Endless — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 06:12:35 EST

What is the 88M? The Army's politically correct name for the job is "Motor Transport Operator" and describes it as a soldier who supervises or operates wheel vehicles to transport personnel and cargo. So in short, 88Ms are the Army's truck drivers and in this current war, they are absolutely crucial. Napoleon Bonaparte once said that an Army fights on its stomach. This is very true. Today we have American troops spread out all over the mountains, deserts, and cities of Iraq and Afghanistan. Along with food..water, ammo, medical supplies and many other basic necessities for life in the field must be delivered. To get the provisions to the troops, the Army calls up its truck drivers..the 88Ms. These special soldiers have been called the 'lifeblood' and the 'supply chain' of warfighting as without them the war effort would collapse in a matter of days. These brave men & women are delivering the goods, despite the long hours, excruciating conditions, and danger to themselves. In this war, there are no front lines; no Armies meeting on the battlefield, no strategically planned crusades. We simply overwhelm the enemy and he can not face our forces in traditional means. Therefore he must resort to guerilla warfare and his favorite target is the supply convoys. In these acts of violence, he and three or four of his conspirators set an explosive along an isolated highway. When the convoy comes by, they explode it as a truck passes, stopping the convoy. They then rake the trucks with RPGs and machine gun fire, and disappear into the safety of the secluded terrain. This type of warfare takes very little effort or equipment, but can be deadly to the 88m and causes massive damage to the Army's moral, materials, and equipment. The official song of the US Army 88M in combat is "Delivering the Goods" off the "Hell Bent for Leather" album by Judas Priest.

Military says not to forward e-mail about Barack Obama

Lisa Beyer — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:06:57 EST

BOSTON GLOBE: Soldiers warned not to forward bogus chain e-mail using military computers

STARS AND STRIPES: Military says not to forward e-mail about Barack Obama

NORTH CAROLINA CHURCH SAYS ‘NO” TO MUSLIMS

funkfresh01 — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 19:30:15 EST

Source: Oriental Harbor

http://www.orientalharbor.net/hotoffthepress.html

Oriental's Episcopal Church has 'un-invited' a Muslim group that was to speak at the church to quell a parishoner revolt against '"non-Christians" and keep peace in the parish.

"Concern was expressed that non-Christians should not be given a voice in our church," Senior Warden George Robinson wrote in the church's October newsletter, The Moorings. "Others felt that to gain understanding, particularly about 'the enemy' was important."

The Muslim group was invited after a local Methodist congregation had them speak and thought it added to understanding between faiths, according to the newsletter. The Muslim group was invited to St. Thomas Episcopal Church as part of its "One God" series of seminars.

But some members objected, and at a September meeting at the church where both sides presented their cases, the church's Rev. Jeremiah C. Day apparently stepped in to quell controversy, saying the group would be un-invited, based on the newsletter.

The Muslim group was the idea of the church's Christian Education Committee.

"So what was the result of all the discussion? Father Day suggested that ministers in the community might have a forum for the whole community. Pat Webster, of the Christian Education Committee – the group suggesting a Muslim speaker – suggested we could spend some time together trying to develop a tolerance for diversity," Webster wrote on Page 5 of the October newsletter.

"Consequently, the Muslim speaker is not coming to St. Thomas, as Father Day noted, to keep peace in the parish.

Senator Obama supports Soldiers & Veterans

Major_Man saying YES WE CAN! — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 16:09:09 EST

Friends:

With Veteran's Day approaching...here is great info for you to use to recruit more support for Senator Obama:

Information about Senator Barack Obama....you may be interested (share with others as you deem fit):
Interview about Iraq war Nov '02 (Listen to the problems he forsees):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXzmXy226po
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhpKmQCCwB8&mode=related&search=

Official Campaign positions on Veterans issues:
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/veterans/

...Iraq War:
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/iraq/

Obama: Troops should not get unexpected tour extensions
Lengthened deployments shortchange the country, Democratic senator
says
http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071005/NEWS...

Defense issues (from his Senate site):
http://obama.senate.gov/issues/defense/

Obama Sponsors Bill to stop Veteran Homelessness:

http://obama.senate.gov/press/071109-obama_introduce_21/

Senator Obama is also ENDORSED BY THE ONLY IRAQ WAR VETERAN IN CONGRESS: U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy (D-PA) http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/08/21/iraq-vetcongressman-endorses-obama/

***This message complies with DoD Joint Ethics Regulations***

MY REPORT ON CHINA!

Timothy from Hastings, NE — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:25:54 EST

The aim of this report is to demonstrate that China's economic and military transformation, under the current Communist regime, has the potential to seriously threaten the current economic and military security of America and the West. The economic reforms that were introduced by Deng Xiaoping in the late seventies have transformed the Chinese economy and produced a period of spectacular growth. China's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew at an average rate of 9.3 percent between 1979-1993. The world experienced a growth rate of 2.6 percent for the same period. China's GDP has also quadrupled over a period of only fifteen years. While China's performance has been impressive, it also has the potential to maintain this growth. It has a massive population, which represents not only a large domestic market but also a cheap labour source of some eight hundred million people. It is also a country that is blessed with vast natural resources. Even in its present form China has the world's largest military. The PLA consists of over two million men and is complemented by the world's third largest air force, consisting of 5,300 aircraft, and the world's largest small ship navy. Although these figures look impressive, there are major problems with obsolete equipment, poor training and the transition to new doctrine.However, the future promises to be different. In an effort to modernize the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), China is developing or acquiring the rights to produce six new tactical aircraft models. China has already purchased Russian Su-27 aircraft and has also acquired the license to produce these aircraft. China also developed a new F-10 single seat aircraft that is based on the cancelled Israeli Lavi fighter aircraft. Both Israel and Russia are providing assistance in this project and the F-10 is operational now. China's military has undergone significant change in the last decade. Its military strategy has become more offensive oriented and it has recognized the importance of power projection with modern military technology. Americas strategic policy concerning China is in a state of confusion. While China emerges into the new superpower. The Bush administration is gripped by greed. Yielding to China's every whim as long as it lines their pockets. While high paying jobs disappear from the USA and billions are wasted overseas to supposedly build new democracies, the current administration adopts the (One China) policy? Abandoning a established sovereign democracy (Taiwan). As China emerges as the next superpower, public opinion in the West seems split over how this event should be treated. A policy of openly engaging China encourages establishing a wide range of contacts with the hope of having some influence. However, it can also be viewed as giving concessions when a more firm policy is required. It is clear that China's economic and military transformation has been aimed at challenging the balance of power that has existed in the region since World War Two. China has demonstrated hegemonic intentions through its territorial claims in the South China Sea and in its recent actions against Taiwan. A more aggressive and expansionist policy may occur as China faces more pressure to provide food and resources for one quarter of the world's population. If the current transformation continues, China will have, in the future, the economic and military might to threaten both the countries in the region and the West. The closer ties with Russia have already resulted in a strategic relationship that is designed to counter the influence of the US. How long this relationship will be required is unknown. With its ongoing effort to develop a high technology economic system, China has set the foundation that will likely ensure that it is much stronger than the former Soviet Union and even more powerful than the US. China more and more sees itself as a counter to Western values and way of life. In its effort to emerge as a great power, China has changed its security strategy from defensive to offensive. If China wants to be a dominant world power, and chooses to act based on the example of the former Soviet Union, it will have the potential to seriously undermine the current world order. The economic and military transformation of China is well underway. It is critical that the West not be naive to its intentions. [As for the United States] for a relatively long time it will be absolutely necessary that we quietly nurse our sense of vengeance...We must conceal our abilities and bide our time. - Lieutenant General Mi Zhenyu Vice-Commandant, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing

Soldiers supporting Obama

Jared — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 16:18:57 EDT

I am a soldier in the US army currently serving our country overseas. My support for Obama has been very strong from the beginning. I feel that Obamas ideas and policies show strong support for the soldiers by fighting for just causes and ONLY those causes that are justified. Like most US citizens I do not agree with the reasoning behind our invasion of Iraq or the longetivity of our occupation there. My point is not whether we intially invaded Iraq for legitamate reasons or not. President Bush reacted from the events of 9/11, and as a Soldier in the Army, it is my duty to follow the orders of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. I serve our country with pride and honor no matter where I am and what I am doing. This is the reason I see it so important to elect a President/Commander-in-Chief that is competent, rational and does not have a personal agenda when dealing with International affairs and war in general.

My concern is that many of my fellow soldiers do not have the same support for Obama that I do. I don't identify myself as either a Democrat or a Republican but as someone that supports the politician that is, as previously stated, competent and rational. Nonetheless their views must be somewhat concurrent to my own and must be a strong supporter of the Military. The problem is that a lot of soldiers identify themselves as Republicans and I feel that most of them view Obama as another Liberal with anti-war views. I do my best to shed light on the issues and portray Obama for what he truly does stand for, however I think it is important that Obama reaches out more to the soldiers by communicating a strong support for the Military.

The best thing that could happen to this country is having Obama in office. As we all know our country is at a critical point and a wrong move could cause our country even more severe problems. I have never felt so strongly about a candidate before Barack Obama, and I have great hope that my fellow soldiers and servicemen can share this great hope for a change in our country. A change in politics and a change in the direction of our country. A President that has not only hope for a better stronger America but also a logical and attainable plan to achieve that hope.

George W. Bush jokes about killing our men & women

Mary H. — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:31:45 EDT

Bush Jokes About WMD by debbyski

How sad that the "President" of the United States amuses himself and his associates with jokes about Weapons of Mass Destruction.

REPORT ON CHINA - CHINA THE WORLDS NEW SUPERPOWER

Timothy from Hastings, NE — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:21:48 EDT

IRAQ: MORE THAN 1,000,000 IRAQIS MURDERED

funkfresh01 — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 15:42:50 EDT

IRAQ: MORE THAN 1,000,000 IRAQIS MURDERED

Opinion Research Business, 9/19/07

http://www.opinion.co.uk/Newsroom_details.aspx?NewsId=78

In the week in which General Patraeus reports back to US Congress on the impact the recent 'surge' is having in Iraq, a new poll reveals that more than 1,000,000 Iraqi citizens have been murdered since the invasion took place in 2003.

Previous estimates, most noticeably the one published in the Lancet in October 2006, suggested almost half this number (654,965 deaths).

These findings come from a poll released today by ORB, the British polling agency that has been tracking public opinion in Iraq since 2005. In conjunction with their Iraqi fieldwork agency a representative sample of 1,499 adults aged 18+ answered the following question:-

Q: How many members of your household, if any, have died as a result of the conflict in Iraq since 2003 (i.e. as a result of violence rather than a natural death such as old age)? Please note that I mean those who were actually living under your roof.

None 78%

One 16%

Two 5%

Three 1%

Four or more 0.002%

Given that from the 2005 census there are a total of 4,050,597 households this data suggests a total of 1,220,580 deaths since the invasion in 2003.

Detailed analysis (which is available on our website) indicates that almost one in two households in Baghdad have lost a family member, significantly higher than in any other area of the country. The governorates of Diyala (42%) and Ninewa (35%) were next.

Numbers that never add up!

Leo — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:07:43 EDT

I am watching Gen Petraeus report to Congress on C-SPAN. Florida Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen was brown-nosing the success in Iraq. As I listen the numbers that she regurgitated and then as I hear our Generals regurgitate the numbers of "progress", I keep thinking to myself, "We at the lowest level in the Army, can't report solid numbers"

The reason I say this is because, I've noticed that my time in the Air Force and Army,we report numbers that may or may not be accurate. I've noticed that people in general like to exaggerate to make them self look better or used as a tool to defend their actions.

Every time I hear reports, Its hard for me to believe reports of Data that reflect numbers because as the numbers make it up the chain of command, the numbers gets skewed. I currently deal with numbers and data that is reported to me and then to higher levels. I never feel comfortable with the data that I collect from the lower levels.

There are so many things that I wish was done right but I believe this war is going to be reported by numbers as to show progress. Remember Vietnam, that was all about skewed victories measured by enemy casualties.

Let me know what you guys think about the data that is reported on TV. Talk to you soon.

Immigrants serving our country...

Karon O. — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 18:33:00 EDT

I recently saw a story on television about an Iraq veteran who returned to find he was being deported. At the time I thought that was really bad. I still do! It has been a nagging thought each evening as I watch the news. If this man is laying his life on the line to serve this country, why can he not be granted citizenship?! And for that matter, why can't we let anyone, living in this country, work toward citizenship by serving in the armed forces? We haven't got enough troops to sustain our army now. Why not make citizenship a bonus of serving?

The question of how to allow immigrants, already living in this country, a path to citizenship could be answered by giving them the choice of serving for a specified amount of time. I couldn't help but notice each Sunday morning when George Stephanopolis runs the "In Memorium" list, the greater number of those killed in Iraq and/or Afganistan have hispanic names. I don't understand why, their families (if not already citizens) must make the ultimate sacrifice and be sent away in shame. If a young man or woman would like to earn citizenship for his family, I say we let them have it. This country used to have a conscience. I hope we have not lost our collective American heart.

He is not, what I thought he was

Asfeen from Milford, CT — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:39:41 EDT

Following words are express by one of the Doctors in CT. It's from a letter he wrote to Mr. Obama, as i feel hundred percent the way he feels, I am copying his letter over here. I am not using his full name since I did not ask to publich that over here. Please let me know how you guys feel about someone who starts his campaign with Anti-War Banner and once he gets support/money/popularity, he starts following the footsteps of his GWB. We were looking for change Mr. Obama, and we thought you can deliver something which Bush failed to deliver... Alas one more politicians ready to betray his people.

________________________________________________________

Dear Mr. Obama,As a Pakistani American, I watched in horror your comments about invading al-Qaeda targets inside Pakistan. I believe your lack of understanding of what the consequences may be is daunting. Such machoism is what has gotten Mr. Bush himself into the quagmire from where there is no return.Have you forgotten that Pakistan has dedicated more troops to anti-terror activities than ANY other country? Have you overlooked the fact that Pakistan has lost more troops than ANY other country in the fight against terror? Do you not see that Mr. Musharraf has been the target of more assasination attempts than all current world leaders combined? Do you not read news from Pakistan which is one of the biggest victims of terrorism from al-Qaeda and her affiliates? I was garnering support in my community to vote for you until now (over 200 families in my part of Connecticut). The reason was you seemed genuinely concerned about people in the world; you seemed to have touched many with your youth, enthusiasm and charisma; you have been articulate and forthcoming. This was all in stark contrast to Mr. George W. Bush. Alas, all has changed since your insensetive remarks in complete apathy to the feelings of those who supported you on foreign policy issues--both here and abroad. You've come across, not as an alternative to Mr. Bush, rather a chilling sequal should you get elected.I'm sorry to state but I will be campaigning to vote against you from now forward.

Dr. B

________________________________________________________________________________

God Bless America and rest of the world...

We want Peace...

Asfeen Ali

Connecticut

“They Do As They’re Asked to Do"—John Mitchell’s Story

Michael Negron — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 17:46:53 EDT

As the debate over the future of the American occupation of Iraq continues in Washington, John Mitchell watches the news with experienced eyes. John knows war firsthand, having served in the U.S. Army Infantry during Desert Storm. A powerful advocate for society’s responsibility to veterans, John brings his skills of persuasion to the campaign as a frequent volunteer in our Manchester office.

Random Thoughts

Leo — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 16:37:07 EDT

Note to the Reader, There will be grammar and spelling errors.

I am sitting here at the Denver USO waiting for my evening flight to Boise, ID. At first I was upset because the Airlines were affected by the weather and in turn every action there is a re-action or what I am saying is someone is going to get affected and not every involved person in the process will be happy or satisfied. How does this relate to my random thinking? I am not sure. But, I sit here in this USO looking at men/women who serve our country to include myself. Well first let me explain a little about myself. It may or may not be relevant but I have 8 more to get on the plane and reunite with my wife Sandra.

Ok. I am originally from Mexico. I was born in a small town near Culiacan, Sinaloa. My birth Certificate says Rancho Viejo, Sinaloa, Mexico. (Side note – I decided to copy and paste this into Word, in the event my web-browser fails.) My Mother’s name is Pilar Heraldez, she currently resides in Phoenix, AZ. I also have a brother with the same Mother/Father. Well, in the late 70’s my soon to be stepfather met my mother and it was then followed by him adopting my brother and I and bringing us to a suburb in Chicago. When I tell my life to people, I usually expand on more details because my existence and opportunity that I have is by chance and coincidence. My Step-dad could be a chapter, if I were to write a book. But, I am not an author or do I claim to be.

I am not sure if I should use names but, why not. Paul is my step-dad and Pilar is my mother. My brother and I were brought to the Chicago area at the very tail end of 1979 or beginning of 1980. From this point on, I will focus just on my life and try to be as accurate as possible. We lived in Chicago for 8 or so years before moving to Richland Center, WI. Small town that is not ready for change. But then again that is my opinion. This is where I graduated from high school. Public education was great to me but the culture shock to a 99% Anglo-Saxon school was an experience in its own. I realize now that the kids who called me spic, border-hopper, Pedro, bean-eater, and a bunch of other names, did it because they were passing on what they heard growing up. Well, this in a sense made me grow up faster and learn that the world isn’t fair.

During my senior year, I was focused on attending college and I knew I needed a way to cover the costs involved in attending a major University. I did what my stepfather did (he was drafted), my brother (Army Reserves) and I enlisted into Active Duty Army. I was 17 years old when I decided to take this next challenge/chapter of my life. At this point, I was still a Resident Alien and wasn’t thinking of applying for my citizenship. And yes, there are many people serving in the military that aren’t eligible to vote. That sort of bothers me but that is our system and you got people who can’t vote serving. That should make every American think and see if they have something at stake when we send our military to fight for the decisions of our elected officials. Just think about it. Have you done your part for your freedom? (Freedom to vote and play an active role in our government.)

What is my point and where am I going with this. First let me explain the rest of my story up until this moment here at the USO lounge. The first three years after high school I would get stationed in Germany and deploy to Bosnia for 9 months. At the three-year mark, I transferred to the National Guard while I was attending University of Wisconsin-Madison. After two years in the Guard, I transferred into my Brothers Army Reserves medical unit. In 2001, I graduated College and completed my 8-year Army Obligation. I didn’t re-enlist or extend because as a Resident Alien, you are only allowed to serve 8 years. Well, a month after I left the Army, my citizenship package was completed and I swore in at the Ronald Regan Court-House.

This opened up new doors for me. Not only could I vote, I was able to apply for federal agencies or become a Military officer. I applied for the FBI and the Air Force Officer Training School. The process was going well for both agencies. The Air Force responded in 10 or so months after testing and interviews. So, I now would become an officer in the Security Forces career field. This career field is unique because they think and operate like the Army and very recognizable in the Air Force.

My career was going well until the Air Force announced a Reduction in Force. I was like holy cow; you are going to cut 60-75% of my career field for 2002-03 officers. I thought I was going to be safe because of my time in. But, the Air Force’s vision was to cut Manpower by 57,000 and Inventory to cover the contract of the new planes. The contracts were for the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. I didn’t under stand. My career field was a ground troop who does Army missions and you are cutting us why? Well, every action there is a re-action. First, Accessions brought to many of us in 2002-03 without thinking it through. (Budget wise and rank wise). I was given the opportunity to take a severance package or to put in for a Blue to Green Package. (Intra-Service)

I decided to give the Army a chance and see what I can offer the Army as an officer. I would not lose any rank and in fact promote to captain 4 months ahead of when I would of got in the Air Force. This time I went into a the Human Resource Career field called “Adjutant General.” You lead and manage personal actions and of course do extra petty tasks. When I made the transfer my wife stayed at Boise to finish her masters while I attended the Captain’s Career Course at Fort Jackson, SC. (This is where I had the opportunity to meet Barack Obama in Florence.) Didn’t have the chance to tell him my story but I did file a Congressional on the Air Force down-sizing.

Today, After 7 or so months of training, I will re-unite with my wife and help her drive/move to our new home near Fort Hood, TX. I then will be deploying to Iraq in the months coming. I will see my wife for 7 days before flying out to train at Fort Irwin, CA. So, I sit here waiting to get on a plane. Remember, the first plane I missed due to the bad weather Midwest area.

Ok. Every Action there is a re-action (Cause and Affect). I can talk about our war policies, Reduction in Force, Joining the military, voting and so on. Anything we do will affect someone else. I look at these troops here at the USO. We are the extension of the elected officials. We are at the mercy of their signatures. This includes all branches and the people who serve. But, The Army is taking the brunt of the signatures of our elected officials. We are overworked, tired, lack of equipment, uncontrollable spending, and the list goes on and on. It affects our budget, operations of our government and the decision making process. And most importantly, It weakened our ties with all the inhabitants of this Great Earth. How do other Nations look us at? Cause and Affect my friend.

Please feel free to add to my random thinking. Please remember, I am not an English major or do I pretend to be. Take care and please be active in our political process. Do what is right for our country. Put someone in charge that has a vision and someone who can repair the damage we have caused. I believe Barack Obama is the answer.

Change

Benji_man — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:17:35 EDT

As a US Army Veteran, I find it absolutely appalling that we have a leader in place that could sacrifice so many for nothing. I believe it is time for a change. Not just any change though.

Barack Obama stands for what is right for the regular citizen. He stands for a new america that will overcome obstacles such as global warming and poverty right here in our land. The land of the free. So I raise a glass for my first post and to the future leader of the free world.

Cheers

A Lady Soldier's Story

Dena "Robin" — Sat, 12 May 2007 14:57:29 EDT

My name is Cristina without an “h!” I'm part Hispanic and that's how they spell it!"

That's how she responded when I introduced myself. I was her supervisor. I remember thinking to myself: "You go Girl! Here's a girl that's going to speak right up and tell you that she is Cristina and she wants it spelled correctly from the get-go!" And I vowed to myself that no one would ever spell her name incorrectly in that company, because that meant a lot to her.

As the months flew by, I found her to be bright, eager employee that I could count on regardless. If I could count on anybody, it was definitely her.

I could tell she was a little shy, and had no idea of how much she mattered in this world. I could tell her self-esteem was damaged. Later I would learn from her and her co-workers that her life outside of work wasn't what is was supposed to be. She had married young and had two little boys. Her husband's only job was selling drugs. They fought almost constantly. Many times others would tell me she was bruised, but she didn't want to discuss it with me. She was too embarrassed.

So I started talking to her! I was determined to work on her lack of self esteem, and from there I knew she could handle the rest.

When a place became available, I put her in a key position. She told me that she couldn't do it; I told her otherwise. We argued back and forth about it, and then she realized SHE WAS doing it. And I started to talk to her about her life outside work. One day, I got a religious book in the mail called, "I can, I shall, I will!" I knew exactly who needed it. I wrote a message in it and gave it to her the next day. I told her every time you think that you can't do something, I want you to read this book!

With a little time, Cristina began to change. She started driving her car to work (her husband drove it around town all day before that). She would gather the kids and leave when he got angry. Eventually she threw him out, and moved. Then she went out and bought "a new to her car". She walked into work and told us about it, and she pointed up and said it was the one that was up spinning on the thingy in the car lot. I asked if it was a sports car. She said, "Yeah, it's a Mazda!" My mouth just dropped open (this feeling of her self-esteem going to far was substantiated when she took some of the girls out to lunch and they rounded a curve on two wheels). Needless to say, I warned her to be careful a lot after that.

She wanted to be a nurse, but she didn't know how she could pay for it. I thought about her working in the medical field for the time being and they would have tuition re-imbursement. I knew that would be a really hard strain with two children in school, a full-time job, and a full-time load at school.

One day she came straight to me when she got to work and announced that she had figured out how she could accomplish this. She had gone and signed herself into the military. I asked her if she had had her physical, etc. And sure enough, she was IN the Army.

I congratulated her (even though I felt like I was going to faint). I thought, "Oh, God what have I done!" I wanted to boost her self-esteem not make her into a warrior. To this day, I wonder if I made a mistake.

She stayed with us for about another month. She started to train before she went to basic training. People told her she would never pass, but she did. I knew she would. Of course, they sent her to Iraq in transportation. I worry about her all the time, but once she does two years in Iraq she can start to train for nursing in Germany. When she got to Iraq, she wrote one of her old co-workers and said maybe she had made a mistake. She has already completed one year, and I am so proud of her. But I can't say, I'm not still terrified!

So if you ever see a lady soldier with C. Moore on her uniform, make sure you ask how she spells her first name.

It's Cristina without an "h!"

Thanks for asking me to share her story,

Robin

'DEVASTATING' MOYERS PROBE OF PRESS AND IRAQ COMING

funkfresh01 — Sat, 05 May 2007 00:27:52 EDT

Greg Mitchell, Editor and Publisher, 4/19/07

Link

The most powerful indictment of the news media for falling down in its duties in the run-up to the war in Iraq will appear next Wednesday, a 90-minute PBS broadcast called "Buying the War," which marks the return of "Bill Moyers Journal." E&P was sent a preview DVD and a draft transcript for the program this week.

While much of the evidence of the media's role as cheerleaders for the war presented here is not new, it is skillfully assembled, with many fresh quotes from interviews (with the likes of Tim Russert and Walter Pincus) along with numerous embarrassing examples of past statements by journalists and pundits that proved grossly misleading or wrong. Several prominent media figures, prodded by Moyers, admit the media failed miserably, though few take personal responsibility.

The war continues today, now in its fifth year, with the death toll for Americans and Iraqis rising again -- yet Moyers points out, "the press has yet to come to terms with its role in enabling the Bush Administration to go to war on false pretenses."

Among the few heroes of this devastating film are reporters with the Knight Ridder/McClatchy bureau in D.C. Tragically late, Walter Isaacson, who headed CNN, observes, "The people at Knight Ridder were calling the colonels and the lieutenants and the people in the CIA and finding out, you know, that the intelligence is not very good. We should've all been doing that."

At the close, Moyers mentions some of the chief proponents of the war who refused to speak to him for this program, including Thomas Friedman, Bill Kristol, Roger Ailes, Charles Krauthammer, Judith Miller, and William Safire.

But Dan Rather, the former CBS anchor, admits, "I don't think there is any excuse for, you know, my performance and the performance of the press in general in the roll up to the war…We didn't dig enough. And we shouldn't have been fooled in this way." Bob Simon, who had strong doubts about evidence for war, was asked by Moyers if he pushed any of the top brass at CBS to "dig deeper," and he replies, "No, in all honesty, with a thousand mea culpas….nope, I don't think we followed up on this."

Instead he covered the marketing of the war in a "softer" way, explaining to Moyers: "I think we all felt from the beginning that to deal with a subject as explosive as this, we should keep it, in a way, almost light - if that doesn't seem ridiculous."

AREA MUSLIM LEADERS REGRET PRESIDENT'S DECISION TO VETO BILL

funkfresh01 — Sat, 05 May 2007 00:25:46 EDT

Megan Blaney and Mona Shadia, Daily Bulletin, 5/1/07

Link

Muslims around the region Tuesday lamented President Bush's veto of a bill that set a timeline for U.S. withdrawal from Iraq.

"There is no military solution," said Salam Al-Marayati, executive director of the Los Angeles-based Muslim Public Affairs Council. "Right now the military operations are just that - operations. The operation can be a success but the patient is dead."

Al-Marayati said the ongoing violence is not a reflection on the capabilities of American soldiers, but that the conflict in Iraq can not be solved with military action.

"Our military is wonderful. It's made up of dedicated young men and women," he said. But, he said, the resolution of Iraq's crisis must "be done through political channels."

One of the necessary ingredients of that is the involvement of the American Muslim community, he said.

"That engagement has been missing," he said. "We have a lot to offer." . . .

Hussam Ayloush, the executive director of the Southern California Council on American Islamic Relations, said most Muslims agree the presence of the American troops in Iraq is causing more hostility.

Setting a timetable "doesn't mean they have to withdraw tomorrow, but it means that we have to have a clearly set strategy on how and when we need to withdraw," he said. "This is what Iraqis are asking for and this is what Americans are demanding."

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Kennedyesque anyone?

C.Mac — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:20:24 EDT

“America cannot meet the threats of this century alone, but the world cannot meet them without America...we must neither retreat from the world nor try to bully it into submission — we must lead the world, by deed and example.”

--Barack Obama

So Kennedyesque this man. Of course, he's right too. People keeping talking about Obama as though he's all flowers and hope and puppies with no real world idea or experience. Of course, the people saying this supported a president who got us into a war with flowery words about hope and freedom while having absolutely no concept of reality. Touché.

Buried in those candied words is real meat showing Obama has a real idea of what needs to be done and how to do it. In his speech he called for an additional 65,000 soldiers in the Army and 27,000 Marines. He talked about the fact that only 1 percent of our current military forces can speak Korean, Mandarin, or Arabic - three of the most important languages in the modern world. Do you hear Romney or McCain talking about this? Nope, while Obama is looking to the future they're busy skewering Gonzales and covering their own butts.

Obama knows his facts. He knows the policies. He knows how to work with people to get the job done. But does he have foreign policy experience? No. I concede that. Of course, there's only one way to solve that problem.

Brilliant blog re-posted by Dr. Freeborn -- titled "General Eaton: 'Republican Congress...' posted in Washintonians for Obama 2008! e-group March 10.

lionanimal — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 03:41:15 EDT

The following Link to an excellent "brilliant" blog re-posted by Dr. Susanne Freeborn titled "General Eaton: 'Republican Congress worst thing to happen to the U.S. Army and Marine Corps" posted March 10, 2007. In my opinion it presents facts, evidence, and informed opinions that the candidate and the candidates supporters need to know when reaching out to the public. Please allow time in your busy day to consider the facts, evidence and informed opinions that SilentPatriot and Logan Murphy have gathered for your consideration. Thank you.

Post from Dr. Susanne Freeborn's Blog: General Eaton: “Republican Congress worst thing that’s happened to US Army and Marine Corps”By Dr. Susanne Freeborn - Mar 10th, 2007 at 5:10 pm EST Also listed in: *Group Administrators* for Obama - Collaboration Group | Washingtonians for Obama 2008! | Whatcom County for Obama Comments | Mail to a Friend | Report Objectionable Content Tags: Bill Maher, Republican Congress Your Rating:
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General Eaton: “Republican Congress worst thing that’s happened to US Army and Marine Corps”

By: SilentPatriot on Saturday, March 10th, 2007 at 10:20 AM - PST

(Guest blogged by Logan Murphy)

Friday night on Real Time, Bill Maher interviewed retired Army Major General Paul D. Eaton who was the original Commander in charge of training Iraqi troops. Maher tries to get a laugh out of him but as you'll see, Eaton is a straightforward man who doesn't mince words — if he says it, he means it. He blames Donald Rumsfeld for the majority of the failures in Iraq (including the current problems at Walter Reed), thanks God for the new Democratic majority and lays down some truth:

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"We've got this thing that so many military believe that Republican administrations are good for the military. That is rarely the case. And, we have to get a message through to every soldier, every family member, every friend of soldiers that the Republican party, the Republican dominated Congress has absolutely been the worst thing that's happened to the United States Army and the United States Marine Corps."

Bush has always contended that he "listens to the generals on the ground", but we know that's a lie. It's obvious that he ignores or fires anyone who doesn't tell him what he wants to hear. After listening to Eaton rip him and his administration to shreds, I can see why.