What Will You Do??

I went home this weekend. The trip just happened to coincide with a visit from the Soldiers based in Darwin who were down playing with MG tanks (scroll down to that post). 2 things really blew me away on this visit. The small town where I spent 25 years of my life is steadily progressing, getting bigger and bigger to accomodate the mining boom further north. It's amazing to see it grow after all that time. The government and DOD are also looking into expanding the Military Training Facility just out of town which will also contribute to the economy of the town.

Now, totally unrelated to anything military, I went shopping with my mum on sunday morning and was just a little disgruntled (to say the least) to see a sign advertising pokies now available
at 7am. Seems human misery is now on the menu for breakfast as well as lunch and tea. But to say I was disgruntled at that pales in comparrisson to the things I was told about how our Military have been treated since coming to town a month ago. You have to remember here that having 1000 extra people in town for a month is quite a money spinner. Well, if all reports are true it would seem the locals have been upping the prices just for our Soldiers. and if that isn't insulting enough, they have also been making complaints about the noise and dust being kicked up by the tanks on the training range. Apparently it hasn't ever occurred to these people that these are the men and women who will defend them, their rights and their freedoms against our countries enemies - foreign and domestic.

So tell me...What will you do when these people are called upon to actively defend us on our soil?? Will you add your 20% to the cost of items most commonly brought by Soldiers?? Will you complain about the environmental impact from their tanks as those tanks are called upon to fight for our freedoms and our way of life?? Will you complain about the noise as people fight in the streets to preserve your way of life?? Someone told me yesterday it isn't an issue because we aren't being attacked on our soil. Does the fact that Aussies were the ones targeted in Bali not scare you people?? Does it not occur to you that the Bali Bombings were merely the opening act for what could happen in the future if our Soldiers don't fight?? Are we happy to accept the drugs being smuggled into our country and sold to our children to support the Talibans fight against OUR country?? Do you not believe that we, as a peaceful and democratic country, have
a responsibility to help those who aren't fortunate enough to have our lifestyle??

No, because the dust ruins your BBQ's and the noise from the tanks disturbs your sunday morning sleep ins 8 sundays out of the year. No, because you believe that living in that area you do makes you privelliged and better than those men and women who fight for you. No, because you believe it is your right to inflate the prices of essential items the Soldiers commonly buy because it further lines your pockets.

South Australians openly wept in the streets when Port lost the Grand Final (annhilated actually by 120 points) but did not even acknowledge the Soldiers as they walked past. They scream at the injustice of their loss while wars are fought by our brave Diggers every day. What happened to our priorities?? Is our freedom not bigger than a footy match??

Perhaps it's time we got our priorities straight Australia.....What will YOU do??

Gold Star Mother's Day 2007

Gold Star Mother's Day, 2007
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America


RSS Feed White House News

"The gift of liberty is secured by heroes who have answered the call to serve when America needed them most. On Gold Star Mother's Day, we honor the mothers of the service men and women who have given their lives in the defense of our great Nation.

America's Gold Star Mothers are remarkable patriots who serve their communities by demonstrating good citizenship, providing support and services to our troops and veterans, and helping comfort the families whose loved ones have made the ultimate sacrifice. Their sense of duty and deep devotion to our country inspire our Nation, and we thank them for their compassion, determination, and strength. Though they carry a great burden of grief, these courageous mothers help ensure that the legacy of our fallen heroes will be forever remembered. On this day, we offer our deep gratitude and respect to our Nation's Gold Star Mothers; we honor the sons and daughters who died while wearing the uniform of the United States; and we pray for God's blessings on them, their mothers, and their families.

The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1895 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as "Gold Star Mother's Day" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in its observance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Sunday, September 30, 2007, as Gold Star Mother's Day. I call upon all Government officials to display the flag of the United States over Government buildings on this solemn day. I also encourage the American people to display the flag and hold appropriate ceremonies as a public expression of our Nation's sympathy and respect for our Gold Star Mothers.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second."

GEORGE W. BUSH
(here)
*****

Here at Tanker Bros we always honour our military families who have given all in service for their country. Today, please take a moment to honour ALL the special women who are the Gold Star Mothers. These mothers, who are the epitome of grace, courage and dignity, are a daily inspiration to me. Truly they are.

God bless them all.

Brat

Cmon Aussie, Cmon

The victorious captain of an Australian Army cricket team, Sergeant William Ross and vice-captain Trooper Robert Lavendar, raise the 'Desert Ashes' after crushing England in southern Iraq.

Aussie soldiers claim 'Desert Ashes' The Darwin-based Aussies thrashed a British Army cricket team by 9 wickets and 11 overs to claim the 'Desert Ashes' urn, a replica of the Ashes trophy. The plucky Australians bowled the Brits out for 92 runs in just 15 overs, and needed only 55 balls for the loss of one wicket to clinch the 'Desert Ashes' urn. The 'Desert Ashes' was played at the Australian Camp Terendak in southern Iraq, on Friday 14 September. The match involved the best 11 from the Australian Overwatch Battle Group (West)-Three, and cricketers from the British Army's 1st Brigade (Forward) based at Basrah. The Australians played in the Official One Day International strip thanks to Cricket Australia which donated uniforms especially for the campaign. The Brits were one wicket down for no runs after two deliveries from pace-man Captain Marco De Freitis, of 5 RAR in Darwin. Captain De Freitis finished with 4 wickets for 12 runs. Commanding Officer of the OBG(W)-3, Lieutenant Colonel Jake Ellwood, joked that the match was the first time that an Australian Battle Group of 515 personnel had routed a British Brigade of 5000. Sportsmanship was a feature of the match that was played in stifling heat that reached 44 degrees celsius. More than 600 Coalitiion soldiers watched the game, that raised US$10,000 for local charities. The Desert Ashes is an annual cricket event staged by the Australian and British armies in southern Iraq. Approximately 515 personnel, drawn mostly from Darwin's 1st Brigade, make up the Overwatch Battle Group (West) - Three (OBG(W)-3). The battle group is helping the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) and Provincial Governments build a secure and stable Iraq.

Australian slip fieldsmen successfully appeal for a caught-behind during the 'Desert Ashes' won by Australia in southern Iraq.

Corporal James Thompson hits a six in the 'Desert Ashes' match won by Australia in convincing fashion in southern Iraq on Friday 14th September.

Corporal James Thompson hits a six in the 'Desert Ashes' match won by Australia in southern Iraq. Corporal Thompson, of 5 Royal Australian Regiment based in Darwin, was caught after smashing 34 runs in 5 overs.

Mascot for the Australian Battle Group 'Terry the Tiger' cheers the Australian team to victory in the 'Desert Ashes' won by the Aussies in southern Iraq.

Mascot for the Australian Battle Group Terry the Tiger consoles a British batsman who was bowled for a duck in the 'Desert Ashes', won by the Aussies in southern Iraq.

The victorious Australian team pose with the 'Desert Ashes' after defeating a British Army cricket team by 9 wickets and 11 overs.

The triumphant Australian and vanquished British Army cricket teams pose with the 'Desert Ashes' in southern Iraq.

Well, it's nice to see our Boys in the Box keeping up the proud Aussie Cricketing tradition of kicking butt wherever they go!!

AC

Sign Seen On My Street Thursday~~UPDATED

"DAD--HOME AT LAST!"

This just made me smile. Across the street and 4 houses down, flags a flyin' and about 4 different welcome home signs on the house.

Their oldest daughter is my oldest son's age, and their youngest daughter is my youngest son's age.

At the dinner table we were talking about the sign and how happy the girls must be that their daddy is home. The oldest girl, M., was in my son's class last year and he talked about how they made cards at school and sent them to Iraq. I'm not sure he told me that last year when he did it! LOL

My youngest piped up, "Mommy, remember I told you we colored flags for K's dad last week to send to him?" Yep, buddy, but are you sure they weren't "Welcome Home flags?" He insisted they were not, but I think I see a bunch of Kindergarten looking flags on on of the Welcome Home signs!!

I wish I could take pictures, but there is no way I'd do that without permission and I don't want to intrude on their time together right now.

One family is VERY happy today!!

~Tracy

Edited to add: when I took my walk this morning I took a closer look at the signs. The one that says "Dad--Home at Last" is from M's class. The one with all the flags is indeed from K's class.

I love my small town that has the kids take time out of the school day to make a welcome home sign for a classmate's Dad returning from war, whose school says the Pledge of Allegiance EVERY day and has at least 7 houses with flags flying on this street alone.

Good News Friday (B*N*S*N)

By the numbers, folks! You know how the msm always, ALWAYS starts a story with the numbers of troops we lost? That's in those stories when the 'number' is not the whole story. You know how the msm never seems to start any story with how many bad guys our troops have managed to send off to the 72 virgins? For some reason which escapes me the msm doesn't seem to care that we are winning this war, whole bunches of terrorists at a time. Well, as part of this Good News Friday, here at Tanker Bros, I like to think we present a counter-balance to the msm numbers! So, today by the numbers:

19 Terrorists killed, 80 detained during four days of operations.... Coalition and Iraqi forces killed 19 terrorists and detained some 80 others during operations in Iraq since Sept. 20. Forces targeted an alleged emir of foreign terrorists for Kirkuk province today. As ground forces secured the area, several armed individuals engaged the coalition forces. The ground forces engaged the men and called in close-air support. Eight terrorists were killed, officials said. Inside one of the buildings at the target area, coalition forces found a weapons cache that an explosives team destroyed.... They engaged the terrorists, killing two, officials said. Two suspected terrorists were detained during the operation. ... ground forces detained seven suspected terrorists during the operation... “Iraqi and coalition forces continue to go after terrorists who threaten Iraq’s security,” said Army Maj. Winfield Danielson, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. “We’re applying the pressure so the terrorist cells cannot recover and carry out their brutal attacks.” (my emphasis)

Dunno about all of you, but I think this SHOULD be front page news; you know, to show that our troops ARE doing their job. Anyway you report this, it is evidence that terrorists who 'threaten Iraq's security' are being taken out of action. You can find the rest of this story, and more numbers here. And that is B*N*S*N!

Brat

Good News Friday (B*N*S*N)2

One picture is worth a thousand words. I know this is from the beginning of the month, BUT I missed it then. Maybe because it wasn't in the msm? Even so, this was just too good (and yes, typical of what our troops are doing EVERY day!) to not share with you.

EOD Airmen Detonate Munitions in Afghanistan

U.S. Air Force explosives ordnance disposal specialists living on and working out of Forward Operating Base Mehtarlam in Afghanistan's Laghman Province, conduct a controlled detonation, Sept. 1, 2007. They destroyed approximately 900 pounds of small-arms ammunition, rocket propelled grenades and mortars turned in by provincial citizens under the small arms for rewards program. U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Jim Varhegyi

And yes, that is my emphasis. 900 pounds that were destroyed before they could kill and maim. And the other part of that great news? This lot was turned in by provincial citizens. Oh you know - those Afghanis who hate us all, and don't want us there as "invaders". Uhuh, heavy Brat sarcasm of course. Just another B*N*S*N story!

Brat

DIGGERS DEFEAT TALIBAN ATTACK IN HEAVY FIGHTING

DIGGERS DEFEAT TALIBAN ATTACK IN HEAVY FIGHTING In their heaviest fighting to date, Australian soldiers with the Reconstruction Task Force (RTF) in Afghanistan have successfully repelled a prolonged attack by approximately 50 Taliban extremists. RTF Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Harry Jarvie, praised the skill and determination of his soldiers. “Over the last few months Australian soldiers have been regularly tested by Taliban extremists. In every case they have performed magnificently.” The failed attack was one of a number of decisive defeats suffered by the Taliban in Oruzgan Province and the neighbouring Helmand Province during the past week. The attack came as the RTF was conducting a reconnaissance mission for the construction of Afghan National Police outposts about eight kilometres north of Tarin Kowt. Taliban extremists fired automatic weapons and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) at the Australian patrol from the cover of an orchard. The patrol immediately returned fire and then engaged in an intense confrontation with the Taliban during the next four hours. Infantry Platoon Commander Lieutenant Glenn Neilson said the Taliban had established strong firing positions and were reinforced with more fighters as the attack progressed. “We were engaged with some very accurate fire from a range of about 300m and there were a lot of bullets coming our way. Making use of all the weapons at our disposal, including the Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV) and Bushmaster Infantry Mobility Vehicle (IMV), we held our ground.” The soldiers were also able to employ Dutch F16 fighter aircraft and Apache helicopters. Afghan National Army troops that were trained by Australian Forces in Oruzgan participated in the patrol and performed admirably. “Together we neutralised the positions that were causing us trouble,” Lieutenant Neilson said. Another Australian platoon supported the movement of RTF troops by providing essential covering fire as soldiers moved across hazardous open ground. The Taliban are known to have suffered heavy casualties during the incident, but the ADF will not discuss specific details. There were no civilian casualties resulting from this incident. No Australian soldiers were wounded, nor was there any damage to Australian vehicles.

Two things struck me about this story....

The first of course, was seeing the Aussies and Americans working together. I always love to see that bond forged in the battles of WW2 (those would be the ones where you guys saved our butts) still going strong today.

The second was the amazing calm of the Soldiers. As I sat watching the footage I couldn't believe how collected these Soldiers were as they were being shot at and returning fire. It reinforced to me just how well trained and proffessional all of our Soldiers are.

This news comes only days after another attack on the Diggers in this area left 3 wounded and an EDD (explosive Detection Dog) dead.

THREE Australian soldiers have been injured and an explosive detection dog killed in two roadside bomb attacks in Afghanistan. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) today said a Special Operations Task Group vehicle was hit by an explosive during a patrol in Oruzgan Province last week, slightly wounding two soldiers. The wounded soldiers were provided with first-aid by their fellow soldiers and evacuated to a nearby hospital for further treatment, ADF spokesman Brigadier Andrew Nikolic said. One of the soldiers received specialist medical care but due to the nature of his injuries is to return to Australia for further treatment, Brigadier Nikolic said. The remaining soldier is expected to make a complete recovery and will remain on duty in Afghanistan.

All of us here at Tanker Brothers know that the war in Afghanistan has consistently been overshadowed by that in Iraq. We also know that the reason for this is because the loons and Mungbeans do such a wonderful job of negating any efforts in Iraq and not because Afghanistan is any less important. Let us not forget the danger these brave men and women face each day.

AC

Wednesday Hero

Lance Cpl. Cory Jamieson
Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
Personal Security Detachment, Headquarters and Support Company, Task Force 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, attached to Regimental Combat Team 2


Hippocrates once said, "Art is long, life is short".

Cpl. Jeremy David Allbaugh lived a short life. But, he was immortalized recently in acrylics by a Lance Cpl. Jamieson who painted a mural in his honor.
"I feel sad because it is for him, but it makes me happy because I can still do something for him," said Lance Cpl. Jamieson. "I thought about it during the ceremony in the chapel. I looked up at the stained glass windows and I thought 'I should do something like that'".

Along with help from family, a fellow Marine and a Morale, Wefare and Recreation manager, Jamieson had the paint and tools needed.

"I would paint eight or nine hours in the gym and time would fly by," Jamieson said.


Cpl. Jeremy David Allbaugh, 21 years old from Luther, Oklahoma, was killed by a roadside bomb on July 5, 2007 while conducting combat operations in Qaim, Iraq.

"He believed very strongly in what our country's doing," said his mother, Jenifer Allbaugh. "They were doing good things over there, and we don't see that in the news or media. There's a lot of progress being made. I wish more people would talk to our boys who are in it and not our politicians because they see it firsthand".

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your blog, you can go here.

Hope Rides Eternal

Yesterday on this space I wrote a letter to Eddie Jeffers. During the days leading up to that post, and since I heard about Eddie's passing, I have been blessed to 'meet' his father David. To say I have been humbled by his grace would be an understatement. Today, Dave himself has written a post about his beloved son, Eddie:

Hope Rides Eternal USA David Jeffers September 24, 2007 “Right now, the burden is all on the American soldiers. Right now, hope rides alone. But it can change, it must change. Because there is only failure and darkness ahead for us as a country, as a people, if it doesn't.” – Sgt. Eddie Jeffers, USA, 1984-2007 Those now famous words scream out of these pages as a constant reminder of what I’ve lost. Those words were first sent to me as a quick note from my son serving so far away, becoming a man way too quick. I remember reading the email for the first time thinking to myself, “Oh my, Eddie has written something very big.” Of course in Eddie’s normal style, it came across as almost an afterthought.....

What follows is a declaration from a father to his precious son. And an invitation to all of us. David ends by saying:

I know with every moment I have left it is my hope to bring honor and glory to God and to continue the fight my son passed on to us. Most of you who wrote Eddie said that hope does not ride alone. You are right. Hope rides eternal. So let’s ride!....

Go now, and read the rest here. And then YOU decide. I know my decision. David? Yes, Eddie did - indeed - write something VERY big. Thank you - again and always. My heart is with you. I ride with you.

Brat

Dear Eddie,

Dear Eddie:

You didn't know me in the 23 years you were here, but I have been thinking a lot about you the last few days. Really, I have. This is not the first time I have thought of you, been aware of you. I remember back when your piece "Hope Rides Alone" became famous all over the internet. I know that piece of fine writing from the sandbox gave insights to many of how amazing all of you are, who are fighting today. I remember. I remember smiling because your words put the lie, yet again, to the notion that all soldiers are just killing machines, ignorant hick Rambos gone wild. And you kept fighting, and you kept writing, as the rest of us went on about our everyday business, doing whatever it is we all do, that is SO (sarcasm here) important.

And now? This last week has seen your work, again, all over the internet, and there has been much weeping and sorrow. I have read a lot of the stuff written about you and I feel as if I know you. I read with great sadness that you had died in Iraq. This human heart was heavy. But, as I have talked to people, re-read your writing, I have been so grateful to have been given a glimpse of you.

I got an email from your dad David, in response to an email I had sent to him, and I KNOW you are smiling down on him. Oh Eddie, I know you know the human dad is struggling with this loss, but you also know that he has faith to sustain him as he continues on his human path. Like you, he knows he is a child of God and he knows, as do I, that 'death' is no finality. I remember a long time ago reading somewhere that a way of looking at 'death' as we know it in our human realm, is that those gone before have just stepped into the next room; never far away. My prayer for your dad and all your family is that they always feel you close by. I know that the love we share, one with another in this classroom called "life", never dies, but lives on forever. I hope your family holds on to this truth in the times ahead..

Over the past few days - and in the times to come - I am sure that some will try to use your passing as a political tool, to further their own agenda. I know that you were well aware of the politicians in America trying for brownie points with this war you have fought valiantly. I only have to read your writings to know this. You have my word that I will stand strong against any who try that.

I came across another comment, on another post about you, these last few days: "words matter." Don't ask me where I found that, but this is a belief I have long held. And I know you have too. These last few days many people have been reading your words. And as I read them, and thought about the importance of words, I remember that the Word, the Bible, has been passed down through the generations as a template for how Christians live our human lives. I know, from all I have read, that you - too - have been raised, and believe in living a life according to the scriptures. I know that your favourite verse is:

“Blessed be the Lord my Strength, who teaches my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.” Psalm 144:1

I know this because I found that on your dad's site. I also know that you believed in what you were doing for the children, the future of Iraq. There are some who may say that talking about God has no place on a milblog. Having read all I have about you these last few days, I know no one can talk of you withOUT talking about God. I KNOW you walked with God, have a close relationship with God.

I also have learned more about you by reading local newspapers. By now, you will already know that your younger sisters and your mom have been interviewed by your local paper.

Tina Kelly holds a photo of her son Eddie Jeffers
who was killed Wednesday in an accident while serving in Iraq.
Jay Hare /photocredit

Sounds to me like you were an awesome big brother to Hannah and Jolene. Your mom tells the world:

..."But my son doesn’t want to be remembered sadly. He would want us all to be smiling, to remember him skateboarding, working at Wendy’s, playing in his band ‘Fighting the Vanna White Influence," she said. "And that he liked beer and hated drinking girls. He loved his wife Stephanie ... And he wanted children - he was going to try to go stateside as a recruiter after his tour was over in January. He was the oldest of six children, and had a stepsister." (source)

These past few days I have also 'met' a Soldiers' Angel who was connected to you, albeit briefly, as she worked to help you and your wife enjoy a short respite together during your last R & R. This Angel also was very sad, struggling with the loss of the human Eddie. Now? She holds on to her faith, just as you always did.

As I have browsed the internet these last few days I also found this comment on a MySpace. You will know which one..lol



That comment was from someone very close to you, who knows you well, who loves you. And for the rest of us? Your words bring us into your heart. Through your writing, we all feel as if we know you. And, 'you shall never be forgotten.'

...At 7am on September 19, 2007 in Ramadi, Iraq, on a sweltering Iraqi summer day, a good friend whom I knew but never met, a true American patriot and a hero died...(source)

And so it is, through the power of the internet, from Freedom Feels Good (here), to The Real Deal in Ramadi (here), you shared your heart with us, and showed us what is really happening for families in a land far, far away from the comforts of your own family and home. I don't know if you were aware then - even as you surely must be by now - how many hearts you opened with your words. Words matter - and your words reach across time and space - will continue to do so - just as those other Words still resonate for a lot of us. Your words remind us all that OUR mission is not over yet, even as you embark on your new mission. Those of us left here get to renew, again, our commitment to this mission which you began. Yes, we do weep that you have gone on ahead, but as your dad says on his blog site:

...Although our personal loss is traumatic, we know he is in a better place....He told me this past summer...You see to Eddie, he was just doing his job and what he believed was his life mission from God....(source)

I also know you are in a far better place, Eddie. I do. And as I have thought about you these last few days, over and over in my mind - unbidden - have come the words:

Do Not Weep For Me Do not weep for me, for I have lived... I have joined my hand with my fellow's hands, to leave the planet better than I found it. Do not weep for me, for I have loved and been loved by my family, by those I love who loved me back. For I never knew a stranger, only friends. Do not weep for me. When you feel the ocean spray upon your face, I am there. When your heart beats faster at the dolphin's leaping grace, I am there. When you reach out to touch another's heart, as now I touch God's face, I am there. Do not weep for me. I am not gone. - Anon (another prolific writer here)

Oh Eddie, so many hearts you have touched and changed. "Your spirit will live forever/it lives in the laughing eyes of children/ who are free from want and oppression." My prayers are for your family, your beloved wife, and including your sister Becky - who also asks you (in an online comment) to always watch out for her and the family as you always did. My prayer is that they all know that you are always close by, and find comfort in your presence. As your dad says on his site, in his post titled Hope Rides Eternal:

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)(source)

Rest well, thy good and faithful servant. Soar through the heavens that are surely richer for your arrival, Sgt. Jeffers. Thank you... ..thank you. With much love and respect:

Brat

Democrat Creed - Any questions?

From my inbox:

22 WAYS TO BE A GOOD DEMOCRAT 1. You have to be against capital punishment, but support abortion on demand. 2. You have to believe that businesses create oppression and governments create prosperity. 3. You have to believe that guns in the hands of law-abiding Americans are more of a threat than U.S. nuclear weapons technology in the hands of Chinese and North Korean communists. 3A. You have to believe that new gun control laws will magically make criminals suddenly start to obey the law and turn in their guns. 4. You have to believe that there was no art before Federal funding. 5. You have to believe that global temperatures are less affected by documented cyclical changes in the earth's climate and more affected by soccer moms driving SUV's. 6. You have to believe that gender roles are artificial but being homosexual is natural. 7. You have to believe that the AIDS virus is spread by a lack of federal funding. 8. You have to believe that th e same teacher who can't teach fourth graders how to read is somehow qualified to teach those same kids about sex. 9. You have to believe that hunters don't care about nature, but loony activists who have never been outside of San Francisco do. 10. You have to believe that self-esteem is more important than actually doing something to earn it. 11. You have to believe that Mel Gibson spent $25 million of his own money to make "The Passion of the Christ" for financial gain only. 12. You have to believe the NRA is bad because it supports certain parts of the Constitution, while the ACLU is good because it supports certain parts of the Constitution. 13. You have to believe that taxes are too low, but ATM fees are too high. 14. You have to believe that Margaret Sanger and Gloria Steinem are more important to American history than Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Edison, and A.G. Bell. 15. You have to believe that standardized tests are raci st, but racial quotas and set-asides are not. 16. You have to believe that Hillary Clinton is normal and is a very nice person. 17. You have to believe that the only reason socialism hasn't worked anywhere it's been tried is because the right people haven't been in charge. 18. You have to believe conservatives telling the truth belong in jail, but a liar and a sex offender belonged in the White House. 19. You have to believe that homosexual parades displaying drag, transvestites, nudity and bestiality should be constitutionally protected, and manger scenes at Christmas should be illegal. 20. You have to believe that illegal Democrat Party funding by the Chinese Government is somehow in the best interest to the United States . 21. You have to believe that this message is a part of a vast, right wing conspiracy. 22. You have to believe that it's okay to give Federal workers the day off on Christmas Day but it's not okay to say "Merry Christmas." Ready to vote?

Any questions? No! I didn't think so.

H/T to Carol

Brat

"...we couldn't make this crap up..."

Who is Code Pink and what is Patriotic Thunder saying about them now? Over at Patriotic Thunder, there is a weekly column/page called Whack Job of the Week. Every week a worthy candidate is highlighted, with an explanation of why they garner such a great accolade. This week the spotlight is on Code Pink. These people:


I must confess, when I saw this during the coverage of the Gathering of Eagles, I hadn't realised that was for real. I thought it was photoshopped. I talked to Rob over at Patriotic Thunder and he confirmed that the pictures above are very real - actual photos. His comment:

"Come on, Brat. You know I don't make this stuff up".

And he doesn't - not ever! He doesn't have to. In the page on Code Pink, there is an advisory:

Please be advised, what you are about to read in this column will be very graphic and harm your thoughts about fellow Americans and the color Pink. All quotes in the color pink were spoken/written by the organization known as Code Pink. ...

And then Patriotic Thunder really rolls! Consider this page a must read in the Dimtwits for Dummies. There are facts, there are figures, there are contact numbers (yes, really) and of course, there are disgusting pictures. And then there is this:

Recent Quotes by this organization "our military men and women are terrorists' " "we need more liberals to join the military so they can stand with us" "Pink Slip Cheney, Impeach Bush" "655,000 Iraqi civilians have been killed" "HealthCare not Warfare, attend a screening of Sicko, support it" "We torment wounded "U.S." Soldiers to get our point across" "We reject the Bush administration's fear-based politics that justify violence" "The war in Iraq and global climate change are two of the greatest threats to our world" "Get your city to pass a resolution for diplomacy with Iran!" "We believe Condoleezza Rice is acting like Israel's Bitch" "I can't believe Freepers are out-numbering us here"

Hey, we didn't say it, they did, besides, we at Patriotic Thunder couldn't make this crap up.

As usual, Patriotic Thunder then tells you "what they don't want you to know". And then it gets even more interesting. To find out what else could possibly be more interesting - need-to-know - than the public information, go read the rest of Patriotic Thunder Whack Job of the Week. It is a must read piece. Because I don't want to leave you with a totally bad taste, this picture is what Patriotic Thunder ends with:


Isn't that better? I won't tell you which of those pictures is my personal favourite..lol....Just go, find out all you never wanted to know, but SHOULD know, about Code Pink here. Another great job, Rob. Thank you!

Brat

50 Years Of SAS

They are the best of our best. I have had the honour of meeting one of them myself, a man with one of the most distinguished military records I have ever seen. Australias SAS (Special Air Service), to many are the best in the world. They have consistently risen to every challenge put before them and come out on top. They are Australias elite and yesterday they celebrated their 50th birthday.

So what does it take to become a member of the SAS??

Story by Cpl Jason Logue Photos by WO2 Noel Gilby and Cpl Jason Logue A GROUP of fit, young Australian soldiers stand silhouetted by the morning sun, their chests heaving with exhaustion, struggling to concentrate on the task at hand. Their uniforms, dark with perspiration, provide a stark contrast to the heat-induced haze rising from baked red earth. From out of the glare, a calm but authoritative voice just loud enough to be heard sends a wave of apprehension down already-fatigued bodies. "Candidate 47, I noticed that on your last set of exercises you did not complete your push-ups to the standard previously explained. To help you all understand how important it is to follow instructions exactly, you can now do another 50." And with that the group of men drop to the pebbled ground and force their aching muscles to push out yet another set. Link

Australia has chosen to commemorate such an occassion with the minting of special coins (which I have my eyes out for) and postage stamps. While this may seem a small token for 50 years of service it does put their sacrifice in the view of each and every Australian.

SAS CELEBRATES ITS 50 TH ANNIVERSARY Hundreds of former members of Australia's Special Air Service Regiment and their families have spent the week at Perth's Campbell Barracks celebrating the unit's 50th Anniversary. Crowds enjoyed a range of capability demonstrations and displays put on by current serving members, including parachuting and rappelling from S-70 Black Hawk helicopters. The week's events even included a golf day, a rugby match and a fashion parade. But it was the chance to meet up with old mates that had these diggers coming to Perth from all over Australia and overseas. In many cases it was the first time ex-members had set foot in Campbell Barracks since their serving days. Pictures of the day here

WHAT makes the Special Air Service elite may not be what you expect, reports Mark Dodd. While the memory of his Vietnam homecoming is unlikely to fade, this week -- the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Australian SAS -- the commander of the Australian Defence Force's Special Operations Command, Major General Mike Hindmarsh, pays Barnby and his fellow Vietnam SAS veterans the ultimate tribute: they were the best in the world. "The SAS Regiment, in an incredibly difficult operating environment in Indochina, quickly stamped itself as probably the finest exponents of clandestine reconnaissance and harassment in the world at that time and perhaps since," Hindmarsh tells Inquirer. "It's record of losing only one soldier to enemy fire in six years of highly effective counter-insurgency operations endures today as a phenomenal record and testament to the skills and professionalism of the soldiers and officers. I remain in awe of their achievements." The origins of the Australian SAS date from 1957, with the raising of two army companies whose role remains virtually unchanged to this day, a parachute-capable force specialising in reconnaissance, surveillance and harassment deep in enemy territory. The unit's humble beginnings derived from a need to replicate the British army's success with a special air service formed in 1941, during World War II, an all-volunteer outfit conducting deep penetration raids behind enemy lines in North Africa and whose the motto was: Who Dares Wins. Link

We only ever hear about the SAS years after their missions are completed. For many a wife or girlfried there are anxious moments when they leave for missions and we are as thankful to them for their sacrifice as we are to the men of the SAS.

Many SAS Soldiers have been lost to us in peacetime accidents and they too will be remembered.

SAS role in Iraq revealed

SAS soldier cited for battling 20 Iraqi troops

SAS flew straight into battle

Bracelet of honour

USAF remember Sgt Andrew Russell, SASR

Diggers crash death mystery

It’s time to salute our Special Forces AUSTRALIANS should welcome home the Special Forces soldiers from Afghanistan with gratitude and admiration for the job they did there. Major-General Mike Hindmarsh, the Special Forces commander, has revealed a good deal of what the SAS did in Afghanistan: and it’s clear that they were among the most effective coalition soldiers deployed in the inhospitable former home of the Taliban. The allegation, once again aired on the ABC, that the SAS had needlessly killed civilians is utterly baseless and contemptuous. The allegation is made by the Taliban, which ranks with Al-Qa’ida, the nazis and the communists as one of the most extreme, brutal and inhuman political movements of the past 100 years. What is very disturbing in the SAS’s experience, however, is the ongoing strength of the Taliban in Afghanistan, and its associated drug traffickers and criminals. This makes it clear that Afghanistan will need outside help for some years to come. It is necessary to build effective institutions in Afghanistan which can cope with the security and other challenges which Afghanistan faces today. The experience of the 90s should show that it would be both inhumane and deeply dangerous to abandon Afghanistan before it has a government which can provide basic security and basic services to the civilian population. What is also especially disturbing in this situation is the obvious involvement of forces on the soil of Pakistan in supporting the Taliban. But for the moment we should pause to say thank you to the magnificent Australian soldiers who have done such gallant and outstanding work in Afghanistan, just as their colleagues are doing similarly valuable work in Iraq, East Timor and the Solomon Islands. What do you think?

Verrry interesting, you can read the comments Here

No matter what anybody thinks of our military involvement overseas, there is never an excuse not to give credit where it is due. So to our SAS Soldiers....Congratulations on 50 years of remarkable service. As a nation, we salute you.

AC

2007 National POW/MIA Recognition Day

2007 National POW/MIA Recognition Day

A Pentagon ceremony for National POW/MIA Recognition Day will be held on Friday, Sept. 21, 2007. This ceremony will feature troops from each of the military services. The president will issue a proclamation commemorating the observances and reminding the nation of those Americans who have sacrificed so much for their country.

MISSING MAN TABLE & HONORS CEREMONY meaning of the items on this special table. The table is round -- to show our everlasting concern for our missing men. The tablecloth is white -- symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to duty. The single red rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing, and the[ir] loved ones and friends of these Americans who keep the faith, awaiting answers. The vase is tied with a red ribbon, symbol of our continued determination to account for our missing. A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those captured and missing in a foreign land. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by those missing and their families who seek answers. The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God. The glass is inverted -- to symbolize their inability to share this evening's [morning's/day's] toast. The chairs are empty -- they are missing. (courtesy)

And today is another day when the families of those Missing in Action are officially remembered. I think of them all every day, and my heart aches for them and their families.

Soldiers Not Losing Hope for Missing Comrades Sep 18, 2007 BY Sgt. Chris McCann Soldiers search for three missing comrades near Yusufiyah, Iraq. The Soldiers are assigned to Charlie Company, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry). Photo by Sgt. Tierney Nowland ...four years into the war in Iraq, there are four Soldiers missing. They cannot be listed as "missing in action" until a year after the war is concluded, but their absence hangs heavily over their unit and all Soldiers in Iraq. Until that time, they are listed as "missing/captured," a step up - or down, depending on your viewpoint - from DUSTWUN, or "duty status/whereabouts unknown." Two of the Soldiers still listed as missing/captured are Spc. Ahmed al-Taie, 41, an Army Reservist, kidnapped outside Baghdad's Green Zone on Oct. 23, 2006; and Pfc. Keith "Matt" Maupin who was part of a fuel convoy that was ambushed near Abu Ghraib, Iraq, on April 9, 2004. The two most recent Soldiers to go missing, Spc. Alex Jimenez, 25, of Lawrence, Mass., and Pvt. Byron Fouty, 19, of Waterford, Mich., were both infantrymen assigned to Company D, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) out of Fort Drum, N.Y....[go here to read the rest]

Faith, hope... the greatest of these is love. We will never forget. God bless ALL our troops.

Brat

Help NEEDED NOW!

Yes folks - a HERO veteran needs our help. From time to time, I get notice of a worthy cause - someone who desperately needs help. Today's is a truly worthy cause: a veteran who is in hard times and needs a hand to get back on his feet. I could go on and on, but instead I will just lay out what I know, from my source:

Im not quite sure where to begin with this. They say that things happen for a reason...tonight I believe I have experienced that once again. This afternoon a gentleman decided to stop and go out of his way to help my dad with some stuff...he was a complete stranger. His name...****[I took this out for privacy reasons!.] After talking to him my dad found out that he is a disabled vet. Disabled...and only 28 years old. **** suffers from a severe case of PTSD, as well as a list of other injuries and problems. Now he needs our help.

Thus began the email from a fellow Soldiers' Angel. I know this SA very well, and I know how hard she works - tirelessly - to enfold every hero in her Angel wings.

****was in the Army for 7 years and worked in communications. He did two tours in Iraq, and served his country proudly. He is married and has a beautiful 2 year old son. He was medically retired from the military. After retiring at the end of July **** had to move in with his in-laws here in San Antonio, Tx. His abrupt seperation with the Army left his finances in disarray. His wife has a degree in Fine Arts with a minor in Mathematics. She is having trouble finding a job and has had to take any job offered...currently she will be working at Sears earning only $6.20 an hour. ****has yet to find a job. He has experience in communications, management, as well as construction. Im pleading for your help with this hero. I want to show him that there are people out there that appreciate his sacrifices and that will help him out while he is down. After meeting with **** I have compiled a list of the items he needs help with. Please help in any way you can... **** is looking for a job. If any of you are in the San Antonio, Tx area and can help him out with a job please contact me. He is willing to do any type of work, and his disabilities do not prevent him from working in any situation. . He is having trouble with his vehicle, and needs to get it checked out. He will need about $100 to get a diagnostic check for it. Repairs will probably be needed as well as a rental car while it is being fixed. Donations are welcome for this. He has a $248 car payment that he could use help with. Donations are welcome for this. Donations of gift cards are always welcome for this hero. He could use cards for Walmart to purchase groceries and household goods. Please contact me directly [contact Brat here!] if you can help with this soldier in any way. Cards of support are also always welcome.

Nobody needs me to paint a picture here. I cannot add anything to this, other than to ask that if you CAN help at all, please email me. You can either use my private email addy or the TB addy I have: Tankerbrosbrat@gmail.com

Let's get 'er done - and show some appreciation for this soldier and his family. Thank you.

Brat

Stand By the Mission: Sign the petition!

Over at Victory Caucus:

Petition: Stand by the Mission: The Victory Caucus has joined with a coalition of other pro-victory groups to sponsor the Stand by the Mission petition below. We ask that you add your signature to the petition so that we can demonstrate to Congress and the world that the American public is committed to victory.... Iraq is now the central front in the War on Terrorism - not because Americans want it to be but because America's enemies have said so and made it so. Al-Qaeda and Iranian-backed militias are determined to drive the United States out of Iraq. Al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups would then use that country as a safe haven from which they can mount attacks on the U.S., its interests and allies. We recognize that the U.S. involvement in Iraq has divided Americans and that our leaders have made mistakes. We also recognize the cost of this war, not only in financial terms but, more importantly, in the loss of more than 3,000 of our bravest men and women. The issue, however, is not how or why U.S. forces became engaged in Iraq but, rather, what is happening there now and what would happen if we were to leave too soon. Today, U.S. forces are making real and significant progress. We are driving al-Qaeda out of key strongholds, recruiting Iraqis to join the fight, and training them to defend themselves....

(picture courtesy of Victory Caucus)

Go over there now, and read - then SIGN! You can find that here. While you are there, stay a while, and read one of their own blogger's account of meeting the President.

Written by N.Z. Friday, 14 September 2007 You might wonder whether the President of the United States pays any attention to blogs supporting the war effort. Is he aware of the contribution that milblogs and new media more generally are making to the effort to educate the American public on the war and convince them of the necessity of victory? You can stop wondering. I am here today to happily report that he is indeed aware, and does indeed appreciate the work bloggers are doing....

How cool is THAT??? Loved it - and you can read the rest of that here.

Brat

Gathering of Eagles or Leta and Tracy in DC!

What a weekend!! I’m not even sure where to start!! I think I’ll go through a rundown of the weekend in chronological order and then Leta will share her perspective.

Got into D.C. early afternoon and met up with Leta and Yankeemom. (Follow the link to see her write up of the weekend!) What great ladies~I don’t think we shut up from the time we met until we left Sunday (except when we were sleeping! LOL)

Friends of Leta’s, the Bells (whose, son, Tacobell, writes the blog Sandgram), picked us up at the hotel and took us to Arlington National Cemetery to see the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Wow. That is just an incredible thing to see. So solemn, dignified, and steeped in tradition.

We then picked up some food and went back to the Bell’s to eat. Yum!! After filling our bellies we piled back into the car to go to Walter Reed to show our support of the troops. What a great bunch of people (see a theme here?!). It was so wonderful to see a group of people in total support of our troops. There was a young Soldier there named Eddie that had more energy than anyone I know. He was a joy to watch as he ran around the intersection with a huge American Flag. He is deploying to Iraq in a week. If I were AQI I’d RUN from him!

While there I met CJ from ASP. I also met his beautiful wife and 3 great kids. What a delightful family! CJ was still flying high from meeting President Bush that day!

Yeah, the drowned rat is me. :o)

While standing on the corner I noticed a woman in front of me with a shirt on that said “My husband, My Hero, SSGT Donald C. May” with his KIA date. My mind clicked to Tanker Brothers sidebar!! I couldn’t believe it. I went up to her and introduced myself. We hugged and chatted for awhile. Again, a delightful woman! She is such a force, SST May would be so proud of her!

Saturday we met up with the Bells again to walk over to the Mall for our rally. On the way we met some young men on the way to the rally also. It was so neat to see young people heading over to the rally!! As we walked up I saw a sea of flags and patriotic shirts!

There were many speakers and it was nice to listen to all of them. The ones that impacted me the most were the Gold Star moms, the widows, and a young man who lost his arm and was recovering at Walter Reed. I was able to meet this young man and his mother later. Again, wonderful people!!

After the rally, we headed to our designated street area and waited for the anti-war march to start. And waited, and waited, and waited. Not sure what their deal was but boy were they late getting started. As an aside, I really hate the term “anti-war” b/c really, then that would term me as “PRO-war” Who is pro-war? No one really. Unfortunately, sometimes war is necessary and this is one of those times.

Okay, back to the day. They finally came down the street. No pictures for you b/c my camera battery died. Actually, I think it just refused to take pictures!! I have NEVER seen such a group of angry people before. Wow. The upside down flags just about set me off. I have to admit I started laughing when one protestor went by screaming “9/11 happened after Bush was in office”. He didn’t quite know what to do about my laughing that’s for sure. This post is already too long for me to go into why that statement just made me laugh.

After the march was over we went down to the die-in. Nothing much to see there.

All in all 150-200 of them arrested, us ZERO. That says a lot doesn’t it? At first I thought “wow, all that does is make them look like idiots. Are they stupid?” Then I thought “Nope, they are smart. The day had not really gone as they had wanted it to, so to make sure that the GOE didn’t get much news coverage they got arrested so THAT was the story on the news” Sneaky idiots is what they are.

All in all, a weekend of meeting wonderful people that support our troops with all that is in them!!

Now heeeeeeeeere’s Leta!!!

Thanks Tracy…..

Spending the weekend with Tracy, Yankeemom and the Bells was one of the many highlights. I’ve had the honor of standing with the Freepers. The last time I did so was in March prior to that GOE. March we had snow and ice. This time rain. Both times over 100 people in attendance. This week there were “guestimates” that over the night about 200 people came and went. Standing in the rain, holding flags and signs, waving, shouting support. If you’ve never been to a Freep at WRAMC you just gotta put in on your “to do” list. I saw a lot of old friends, including Concretebob. Here’s a photo of me, Concretebob and Tracy.

AND…drum roll please….I met Michelle Malkin. It was nice not only to meet her but to tell her how much I appreciate all she does in getting the truth out and supporting the troops. I asked her if she was aware of the milblogs Tanker Brothers. She responded that she was. I told her that MG and CT sent their thanks and regards. Now for a photo of Michelle (who was smart enough to have an umbrella) and a drowned rat (me).

I am always amazed at the huge numbers of cars, taxis, buses, big trucks, etc that blast their horns, wave and shout out encouragement as they pass. I am also amazed at how stupid and downright entertaining the Pinkos are. They were in rare form this past weekend. I don’t know how many times the police showed up down the block at where they hold their little “protest.” They were so out numbered this week, as always, that it was pathetic.

Many thanks to the Bells for chauffeuring us to the Freep and back. We all went home and fell in to bed and slept like logs.

Saturday dawned dreary and with a threat of rain. Tracy, Yankeemom and I headed to the metro station near out hotel. As we were standing by the track waiting for the train two females walked by with t shirts that had “Arrest Bush” on them. I made the comment, for their benefit of course, that it was a shame they were so misguided. I wish you could have seen them literally scurry as far down the rail line as they could. Yankeemom was the first to giggle and comment about that. By the time we surfaced from the metro station at the Navy Memorial near the sight for the GOE rally the skies were blue with a scattering of clouds. Hurray! As Tracy mentioned the crowd of Patriots regaled in red white and blue with all of their flags was energizing. The speakers and singers were inspiring. Duncan Hunter (R), Congressman from California, dropped by unexpectedly and spoke for a few minutes.

Once the moonbats finally made it to us on their march up Pennsylvania Ave from the White House to the Capitol the air became very energized. We were MUCH closer to the parade of baboons this time than in March. Not that we did but…we COULD have reached out and touched them if we’d wanted to. Honestly, I wasn’t sure there was enough soap and bleach to make me feel clean if I had. What a truly pathetic looking bunch they were. Sadly they did outnumber us. I know I seen and heard figures putting their crowd at 100,000 and even up to 1 million but it was more like 10,000. We on the other hand only seemed to pull about 2500 or so to DC for this event. I was a bit disappointed by that. BUT…we were LOUD and they knew we were there!

They had their “normal” Soros funded signs as well as several incredibly disgusting ones (language wise). The majority of those I saw in the parade of idiots were walking along gazing about as if they were just waiting to pick up their checks, get back on their buses and wait for the next opportunity for Soros to “invite” them to a march. Whatever!!!!

A lady near where we were standing had been smart and had spray painted some pennies silver. As the moonbats ambled by chanting things like “Stop the war – NOW!” we would occasionally toss a few on the street near their feet (being careful NOT to hit them – well, that’s MY story and I’m sticking to it) and call them Judas. I don’t think they had a clue what was going on. Remember…these aren’t the most intelligent people in the world. One moonbat who appeared to be totally stoned out of his mind saw what we were doing and cut from the middle of the crowd over towards us. He was picking up the pennies. We all laughed wondering if he really thought they were pieces of silver. He must have gotten out of there with close to forty cents. Hilarious!

Another moonbat came near where I was standing and began to yell and chant idiotic things. I took a few of the “pieces of silver” and tossed them on the ground NEAR his feet. There was a policeman standing nearby who saw the whole thing. The moonbat became to admonish the policeman to arrest me for assault. PLEEEEEEEEEEEASE!!!! So…………I tossed a few more on the street near him and offered him a few “kind” words. He wasn’t feeling the love at all. He again called for the policeman. I yelled that I didn’t hit anything other than the street. The policeman looked at me and grinned. The moonbat kept yelling but finally gave up and moved on. I felt so bad. NOT!

Once all of the marchers cleared us we headed back to the mall and walked up to the Capitol Building in an attempt to thwart the “die in.” Turns out the DC police were already on top of things and didn’t need us. While the rest of our group were milling around I found a nice spot on the grass and made myself at home. Then, well, a bit of a “situation” occurred and, well, I sort of got in the middle of a little “rumble”. Tracy and I had agreed prior to getting to DC that IF a “situation” arose she would grab the backpacks and clear the area. I would, well, NOT clear the area. After the “situation” calmed down I was “invited” by the DC police to hang around for a little while. No bail money needed. For the record – I DID NOT start, cause, or physically participate in the “situation”. I was simply a by stander who got right up in the middle of it with my video camera. Hey, I felt a calling. Tracy is definitely a great team mate!!!

It was a fantastic weekend. While I did get completely disgusted by the ANSWER and Pinko idiots I was so proud to stand with the Free Republic at WRAMC on Friday night, to meet and thank a few Wounded Warriors who came out to the main gate at WRAMC to be with us, to meet Deb May as well as another lady (a former Navy Corpsman) who was with Deb and whose husband (a Navy Corpsman) gave the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq and to stand with the GOE on Saturday. Arlington National Cemetery, of course, is always an honor to visit.

God Bless our deployed military and their families. God Bless those who have given their lives for our freedom. God Bless our leaders. And God Bless this nation and her people.

And if any of that group of young Marines we met near the Capitol (while talking to the injured man) is reading this we HATE that we didn’t get any of your names. Email us please!!!

~Tracy

Wednesday Hero

1st Lt. Forrest P. Ewens
26 years old from Tonasket, Washington
1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry)
June 16, 2006


The love of Megan Ewens's life arrived at Arlington National Cemetery on July 7, 2006. His ashes inside a small wooden box, the box inside a coffin, the coffin draped with an American flag and carried on a caisson pulled by six black horses.

Lt. Forrest P. Ewens had shipped out for Afghanistan in March of that same year. His wife, being the same rank in the Army, understood the risks, telling a colonel at Fort Drum, N.Y., that if anything happened to her husband, she didn't want to hear about it from a stranger.

On June 6, 2006 Lt. Ewens and Sgt. Ian T. Sanchez were killed when ATV struck an IED while on combat operation in Pech River Valley, Afghanistan.

A few weeks before his death, Lt. Ewens called his wife from an Afghan mountain to inform her that his unit had been subsisting on melted snow and rations and that he had been writing his impressions down in a notebook he carried.

"This was the love of her life," Megan Ewens's mother said. "They were so well-matched and made such a good team. We couldn't ask for a better son-in-law."

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your blog, you can go here.

"...liberty is powerful..."

(Picture from Townhall, Mary Katherine Ham)

Snooper from Take Our Country Back :

Breakfast With The President: We assaulted The Hill today, 250+ Vets For Freedom in alliance with nearly 600 of Families United. We spoke with our Representatives and our Senators. Most of them were completely on our side and some of them were receptive. The others were flat-out losers. We had a press conference around 1430 hours. Naturally, the moonbats just felt it a requirement to break the laws...again...and were arrested. I believe 4 or 5 were arrested because we ignored them. However, all 250+ of us diligently observed the Code Wacko Pinko Moonbat Fruit Loops as they unlawfully unfurled their banners.... [...] I find it curious that we, professional warriors, do not feel the need to disrupt moonbat rallies. Yet, the Moonbats in the Fruit Loop Brigades, feel it needful to disrupt ours. Why is that? Oh. Wait. Fruit Loops have no respect for anyone or anything but themselves. I forgot. As we were getting on stage and waiting for many Congress Critters to arrive, the moonbats began to chant something retarded like "healthcare not warfare." They were drowned out by Kansas: Carry on my wayward son There'll be peace when you are done Lay your weary head to rest Don't you cry no more....

And so began the post over at Wake Up America. Isn't that just a wonderful thing to see? Yep - this war is lost - has no support from Americans! NOT!!!! And from Mary Katherine Ham over at TownHall, in a post called Moral Authority here,

In an event planned this summer to coincide with the Petraeus Report, Vets for Freedom brought about 250 pro-war vets to the Hill to meet with representatives and senators and talk about the importance of finishing the mission. Here's a group with Sen. Saxby Chambliss, one of whom had three Purple Hearts pinned to his chest and several of whom were Vietnam vets who don't want to make what they call the "same mistake" in Iraq by leaving precipitously. Pete Hegseth, Vets for Freedom director, called the turnout "more than expected," and the crowd absolutely overwhelmed the counter-protest from mouthy anti-war folks nearby....

On the south lawn of the White House, these fine Americans, along with the families of veterans and deployed heroes, got to schmooze with the president and Mrs Bush and various other dignitaries. The President addressed the crowd, looking out over a sea of red:

Laura and I welcome the families who have got a loved one overseas, whether it be in Iraq or Afghanistan, fighting these extremists and terrorists. The best way to honor your loved one is to make sure that he or she has the full support of the United States government as you accomplish the mission that we have set. (Applause.)...... It's important people hear from you. It's important people hear your voice. And I want to thank you for organizing. I want to thank you not only for the grassroots support of our families, I want to thank you for going up to Capitol Hill. And here's a message I hope you deliver: The Commander-in-Chief wants to succeed -- (applause) -- and the Commander-in-Chief takes seriously the recommendations of our military commanders. General Petraeus came back to the United States to deliver the recommendations he made to me. Inherent in his recommendations is, one, his belief we're succeeding, his belief we will succeed, and I ask the United States Congress to support the troop levels and the strategies I have embraced..... THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. When the history books are finally written about this chapter in the war against extremists and radicals, they will recognize certain truths: one, that we recognize that if we were to retreat from the Middle East the enemy would not be content to remain where they are, but they would follow us here. We recognize that the best way to protect our homeland is to defeat an enemy overseas so we do not have to face them here on the streets of America. And we recognize that liberty is powerful, that liberty will yield the peace that we want for generations to come; that will recognize that this generation of Americans did the hard work now, so that future generations could live in security and peace. And so on this beautiful morning we thank you for your steadfast resolve, we appreciate your support of those brave souls who have volunteered in the face of the danger. We ask for God's blessings on the families and our troop in harm's way. And we thank you from the bottom of our collective hearts. God bless you all. (Applause.)

Spree has the rest of this awesome speech, and coverage of this amazing day here. By now, you all know I am not an American, but this foreigner's heart filled with immense gratitude as I read it. Go read it all! This is what the America I know and love is all about. THIS! I know we all join your President in saying "THANK YOU!" to all our heroes, veterans and ALL the families who were honoured at the White House (the "people's house" as president Bush called it today.)

Brat

Be A Hero

From LETA:

I’d like for you to meet some real American Patriots

Background – Korengal Valley, Afghanistan. The KOP. For more information about life on the KOP read here: http://www.townhall.com/columnists/JerryNewberry/2006/10/11/life_on_the_kop

While that story was written last year by the author who was embedded with the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division not much has changed. Winter is approaching and is just as unforgiving if not more so. The 10^th Mtn has been replaced by 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team.

Through both the www.anysoldier.com web site as well as a network of friends who support our military I became involved in supporting the men of the 10^th Mountain Division when they were in the Korengal. As they were about to leave one of their contacts asked if I would continue to work on supporting their replacements. That was an easy request to grant. To read a bit about some of the 173^rd Airborne men and their “requests” for support go to www.anysoldier.com. Click on “where to send” and look up the sites for Matthew Blaskowski, Michael Chioke and 1LT Neal.

Preparing for winter is essential for these Warriors. In order to help in a small way I enlisted the help of some “friends”. I won’t bore you with all of the details but I met Nancy Rouse, the principal of Lakeland Elementary School. Lakeland Elementary, since 2002, has designated September 11^th as “Be A Hero For A Hero” day. Since 2002 they have chosen different groups such as policemen and firemen, the VA Hospital, a student’s father (and his unit) deployed to Iraq, etc. as their focus for support on this day. This year they chose to support the 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team by collecting and making donations towards the purchase of winter hiking socks. Mrs. Rouse also contacted three other schools – Barrett’s Crossing Elementary, Arlington (TN) Elementary and Arlington (TN) High School who all were happy to participate.

Over the past two days I have spent time at Lakeland Elementary with the students and with Beth Nelson, President of the PTA, collecting socks and money, taking photos and visiting with these AMAZING young people. Because of time constraints I regret I was not able to visit the other schools. Beth has been a God send and I cannot thank her enough for all she has done in a week and a half to make this project such a success. Lakeland Elementary alone collected around 120 pairs of socks and over $1000.00 towards the purchase of more. In all we’ve collected socks and donations totally close to $5000.00 as well as letters and pictures the children wrote and colored.

When Beth and I left the school yesterday we stopped by Boxes and More and Gifts Galore to drop off the socks we had. Vicki and Claire went to work boxing them up while Beth and I set off to purchase socks with the monetary donations. By the time we returned from Bass Pro Shops with the remaining socks Vicki and Claire had finished their “mission” and were waiting for the remaining socks. They dug right in and we finished packing up the remainder of the socks.

Today well over 500 pair of premium warm, wicking, cushioned socks as well as photos of the children, their letters and notes are on their way to the Korengal Valley.

My deepest gratitude to Nancy Rouse, Beth Nelson, the students and staff members at all of the schools that participated, Bass Pro Shop and Vicki and Claire at Boxes and More for making this happen for our amazing Warriors.

Stay tuned for Phase II. Next week I meet with the Mary Kay representatives from around Tennessee who have also been working on a project to support the Warriors in the Korengal Valley!

And now for some photos:

"Ask not what your country can do for you...."

...Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and the success of liberty. ...

This past week I have been sickened by the shenanigans across America, as your flag has been used in the most despicable ways to make anti-troops statements. In Washington DC, dimtwits not only insulted, berated, DISHONOURED the sacrifices of American families, but they also disgraced your flag by flying it upside down in a gesture of disrespect.

I must confess I have been overwhelmed, even as a few bright moments erupted. You know, those moments when the GofE stood together and said "Enough!"; that hour when your President met with bloggers and said 'thank you'; those events where people who understand what is at stake here demanded that all due respect be paid for this moment in history.

But, as I ponder the recent events, I understand that I actually owe a debt of gratitude to the asses who would stand in the way of the children of the world who look to US for help on their march towatds freedom. Why? Because they refocussed my thoghts and my heart. TThey reminded me that what we do now will resonate through the history books for generations to come.

Melanie Morgan:

The brave men and women of the United States military will not come home to an ungrateful nation. There will be no more spitting on our troops, no more harassing of our troops when they wear their military uniforms in public....(source)

We have seen the worst of America this past while, but as I watched from a distance - for some reason John F Kennedy's words kept popping in to my head: Ask not what your country can do for you.

We already know what some of our finest have done for your country, for the cause of freedom around the globe.

Today, at the start of a new week, the dawn of another opportunity to HONOUR these sacrifices, I have decided I am not going to dwell on the disgraceful morons (okay, it is early, pick your own adjective!). Instead I am going to re-read JFK's speech. I am going to remind myself what we are fighting for, and why we must not fail.. In words of Debbie Lee, who has most certainly earned the right to speak, and be heard:

... my words back to the politicians who want to continue to divide the United States, instead of support the United States, is to tell them 'hasta la vista, sayonara, so long, goodbye, and see you later.' Because this is the United States of America -- our red, white and blue -- the land of the free and the home of the brave, and what part of that does Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi, John Kerry and John Murtha not support and do they not get? If they do not want to support the American people and our troops then they should go live somewhere else."...(source)

I am thinking that if mothers like Debbie lee, and all the other Gold Star families can stand tall and proud in the face of the disgraceful slurs and insults this past weekend; if our Generals can be dignified and "on message" in the face of treasonous politicians, then it is again time for us all to reaffirm where we stand. It may be 40 some years since JFK's amazing speech, but it is still revelant for these times we are in:

....In your hands, my fellow citizens, more than in mine, will rest the final success or failure of our course. Since this country was founded, each generation of Americans has been summoned to give testimony to its national loyalty. The graves of young Americans who answered the call to service surround the globe. Now the trumpet summons us again - .... In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility - I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavour will light our country and all who serve it -- and the glow from that fire can truly light the world. ...(source)

So, at this new dawn, this war we are in has not been won in 1,000 days. It is a LONG war. Today, ask yourself:

What can I do for my country? And then? Go do it.

Brat

"...the cradle of the best and the worst..."

Those words above come from a Leonard Cohen song called "Democracy". For those of you who don't know, Leonard Cohen is Canadian, and this song talks about democracy in the USA. Yesterday, from where I sit, I saw the best and the worst of the USA. Really, I did. And for me it was the culmination of a week where the highest and the lowest of what your country shows to the world was on display.

The week started with news of the lowest of the low defacing the Memorial Wall; the wall that honours our Vietnam Veterans. I will not show the pictures of the damage here. I refuse, and I am sure most of us have seen them already. But I share Devildog's emotions when they say:

...Their true colors are showing now. No American who loved this country would deface a memorial tribute to over 50,000 men and women who died for their country. This is especially hideous because most of those troops were drafted. They had no choice. But, they did their duty and they did it valiantly....

There has been commentary all over the internet this week on this despicable, COWARDLY action. Go read Devildog's take on it here. For those of you who don't know, Devildog served the USA during the Vietnam war. In my books, that gives them credibility, unlike the criminals who skulk in the night to do their slimy acts.

Then, we had the disgraceful display of your politicians during General Petraeus' testimony this week. To say I was outraged would be a gross understatement. I don't need to tell regulars here what the fine General said; that, too, has been all over the internet. HE was a class act - speaking to the issues, the mission that he has sworn to complete. Swearing an oath to protect your country against all enemies "foreign and domestic", even I can't believe how low some of the domestic enemies within your borders will stoop.

THIS was gross:


She just couldn't keep her mouth closed as well.

I took that from Freepers here, who have many pictures of the Gathering of Eagles yesterday in Washington. Iif that doesn't make YOU sick, I swear nothing will. I expect she is proud of herself, as her infamy is spread far and wide over the internet. Shame on her. I would like to say I am surprised, but I am not. And you shouldn't be either. Not when your politicians set the tone by their disgraceful behaviour towards the fine General this last week. After their treasonous actions, on YOUR tax dollars, I guess the gloves are really, REALLY off now.

Rob over at Patriotic Thunder has a great smackdown on their antics. Never one to hold back, in his column this week, Rob says(in part!):

Their is some in our Government and amongst us that have the blood of our troops on their hands. Yes, you heard me right, the oxygenated plasma that each one of our soldiers requires for life is showing up on our Politicians' palms. Through pandering for votes, appeasing the far-left, to hearing Osama Bin Laden in his own words, to the lack of any concern or respect of a General leading the charge on the War on Terror, we've heard it all this past week. Instead of going off like a pissed off patriot, I'll let them tell you in their own words. If you ever had a doubt, you won't now. ... This week we heard from an awesome patriot, the man leading the "surge", General David H. Petraeus. These are his words given to Congress about the surge in Iraq. "We have dealt significant blows to Al-Qaeda" "Civilian deaths in Baghdad has declined by 70% and 45% throughout Iraq". "Ethno-Sectarian violence has been decreased by 80% since December". "We have found 4,400 ammunition caches, which is 1,700 more than last year" "We have killed some 2,500 Al-Qaeda fighters". "The most significant development in the past six months likely has been the increasing emergence of tribes and local citizens rejecting Al Qaeda and other extremists. This has, of course, been most visible in Anbar Province. A year ago the province was assessed as "lost" politically. Today, it is a model of what happens when local leaders and citizens decide to oppose Al Qaeda and reject its Taliban-like ideology." Read it Here

In his column, Rob talks about a sporting event where the chant was (and I am now quoting):

...Navy was booed and peppered with "You suck!" chants when they stepped on the field for both halves. Toward the end of the second half, Rutgers students in the new bleacher section began to serenade the adjacent section of Navy fans and uniformed Midshipmen. ''Fuck you, Navy. Fuck you, Navy. Fuck you, Navy."" The Navy Team never responded, the Navy Band just played louder....

WTF???????????? Is this what America has come to? Well, is it? To read Rob's column is to hear HIS outrage in every word. But, in his usual fashion, Rob points the finger right where it belongs:

Your Democrat Leaders

Read the rest of HIS commentary here. Thank YOU Rob! In the middle of all of this? Two of OUR very best stepped back from the blogging arena. While that makes me really sad (and yes, I have shared my personal views with Master Gunner on this), I understand the 'why' of Master Gunner and Cav's decision, and I respect that.

And as the battle was joined here on the home front, I saw evidence of the very best of America. Many pro-troop groups were in Washington yesterday, and there were bloggers at home providing updates as the day progressed. I am sure Leta and Tracy, and our Yankeemom will be posting later, but at Michelle Malkin here,

(photo credit - the George Washington University College Republicans…and yep, that’s MM in the middle):

and this:

As usual, the msm gave their biased reporting ( I won't bore you with that!) but you can be sure that THIS picture figured large in their fairy tales:
(Yahoo! News):

Spree over at Wake Up America, :

A couple pictures from the Victory Caucus link above:


Spree was also providing updates throughout the day. Many sites, most of which I am sure you know, were providing ongoing coverage of events as they unfolded. Last I saw, 150+ of the dimtwits were arrested. The "good" guys arrested? ZIP! There are many videos all over the internet, as - yet again - America is divided. In the middle of all this, I also hear that the anti-war crazies are now paying for ads in Iraqi media. I have not been able to confirm this yet, but ummmmmmmmm, doesn't that constitute treason in a time of war?

As stated, Tracy, Yankeemom and Leta were there. So were a whole lot of Gold Star Families. Here at Tanker Bros, we know a couple that were there. Deborah May was there. And she told me in an email earlier this week that she was determined that no one will use HER husband's name to denegrate HIS service. Deborah, you are one of MY heroes, and certainly the best of America. Thank you.

There were many highs and lows this past week. Many acts of amazing class, and displays of dignity. And yes, of course, there was that momentous "Day at the (Oval) Office" that I posted yesterday.

Over at Wake Up America, Spree also quotes a couple of people who were in DC yesterday:

Pete Hegseth of Vets for Freedom: ...“History will judge us not by when we leave, but by what we leave behind…Tell Congress to have as much courage on Capitol Hill as our soldiers have on the front lines.”... Brad Blakeman of the newly-created Freedom’s Watch now addressing the crowd. “Message to Code Pink: There’s a new sheriff in town and we plan to be around a long time.”...(source)

Those men, and the many thousands like them, are the BEST of America! They stood up when it mattered most, and will continue to do so. People like the soldier whose poem is quoted on Devildog's site:

...Our fight in Iraq is deeper than politics it’s more important than who sits in the president’s chair; It’s more important than one soldier’s death It goes even deeper than your loss and despair!... Don’t let those enemies at home who say they’re antiwar Use your grief and pain to undermine our fight; Burning our flag, mocking our deaths to advance their cause They don’t love America or care what’s wrong or right!...

Go read the rest of this amazing piece here.

There were many high notes this week, where the best of America shone brightly as inspiration to us.

Update 10:35am Eastern. The anti-Cindy Sheehans are here! Blue Star mom Deborah Johns: “Cindy Sheehan doesn’t speak for me. She has never spoken for me. And she will never speak for me! We are winning this war. Now let our troops finish their job!…We are not going to let the domestic enemies at home defeat us like they did [during the Vietnam War.]…No retreat, no surrender. Not now. Not ever!…We are not 50 red states or blue states. We are the United States of America…These colors don’t run.” Debbie Lee, mother of the first Navy SEAL killed in Iraq, Mark A. Lee, speaks. Describing her son’s heroism. “You can’t ‘take’ someone’s life who gives it…and Mark willingly gave his life….God redeployed Mark to heaven.” (source)

Reading those mothers' words, I would recommend that the protestors who had the gall to scream "Fuck you" ( a direct quote) in the faces of the Gold Star Families, take some lessons in class and dignity. Oh, and maybe throw in a lesson or two about patriotism versus treason. THAT was the low point for me this week, and I thank God that those ignorant little S**** are not the true America that I know and love.

So that was MY week - how was yours?

Brat

A day at the (Oval) Office!

Yes! THAT office! As anyone who reads ANY milblogs knows by now, this past week the Oval Office was the site of a historical meeting between the President of the United States and a select group of invited bloggers. There are posts all over the various sites, and CJ of A Soldiers Perspective sent an email out sharing HIS experience. He graciously gave permission for his account to be shared.Now, I'm just a little speck in the blogosphere, BUT from where I sit, the fact that President invited these important people to meet with him, tells me that the milbloggers ARE making a difference in this War we will not lose. A difference that is being noticed - and appreciated - in high places. Read on:

There's been a lot of talk about who the mystery ASP blogger was at the recent meeting with the President. No, it wasn't the President of local chapter of corn growers and spider hunters. The President of the United States. I'm sure to most people, it was pretty obvious who the "representative from A Soldier's Perspective" was. Yes, I was there. Not only was I there, but I was able to take the Texan seat of honor next to the Man himself - Mohammed of Iraq the Model. Oh, I sat next to Mr. George W. Bush as well. A few weeks ago, I was contacted by the Office of Media Liaison and told that I was being invited to the White House for a "special event" with select milbloggers. For the record, CPL M was also invited but unable to attend because he's busy doing to the work of this country to ensure our continued safety and way of life. The meeting was strictly close hold and we weren't to discuss it with anyone outside those with a need to know (in my case - my chain of command). Eight milbloggers were present and two attended via a VTC (video teleconference) from Baghdad - Bill Roggio of the Long War Journal, Bill Ardolino of INDC Journal. Those present and accounted for in the West Wing were The Armorer of Argghhh!, Matt Burden of Blackfive, Mrs. Greyhawk of Mudville Gazette (Greyhawk was also attending to the nation's business and unable to attend), NZ Bear of the TTLB and the Victory Caucus , Steve Schippert of Threats Watch, Ward Carroll of Military.Com (an all-around great guy and pleasure to be around) and, of course, Mohammed of Iraq the Model. We arrived at the White House on time at 0900. After processing through security and getting checked in at the lobby, we were ushered into the Roosevelt Room of the West Wing. For those that aren't aware of White House history, the Roosevelt Room was the original office of the President back when the West Wing was built back in 1902. When the West Wing was expanded and the Oval Office was created, the Roosevelt Room became sort of a waiting room for those meeting with the President. The room is set up to handle secure conferences and also serves as the place the President meets with his National Security team. You can take a 360 degree virtual tour here. The camera is set at the position where the President sits. Anyway, we sat for a few minutes of nervous chatter admiring the fact that any minute we're going to be in the presence of the most powerful man in the world, politically speaking. We had no idea exactly when the President would come in. Each time the door opened our hearts stopped beating only to be greeted by aides, assistants, and other important staff types. Along with the milbloggers present, placards were on the table that read "Kevin Sullivan" (Assistant to the President for Communications), "Tony Snow" (this meeting was taking place on Mr. Snow's final day of work), "Dana Perino" (Mr. Snow's replacement as Press Secretary), "Stephen Hadley" (Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs), "Mark Pfeifle" ( Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications and Global Outreach), and General Lute (the one and only War Czar, officially Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor for Iraq and Afghanistan ). Without waiting on any of his staff, the President entered the room at 0951 - nine minutes ahead of schedule. As he walked in, he personally shook each of our hands, thanking US for being there. One by one we introduced ourselves. The President ordered us (well, he is my Commander in Chief. To everyone else it was probably more of a request) to have a seat and sat down himself. Now, I need to take this opportunity to explain what a down to earth guy we have as President. He made each of feel genuinely welcome. When he sat down he didn't sit in a dominating posture at the end of the table. He got comfortable and was slightly slouched in his comfortable leather chair. As he did so, his tie sort of drooped to his left side, his jacket unbuttoned and open. However, he was also a very Presidential man, obviously aware of his responsibilities and role. He thanked us for being there and gave us an opening statement, unprepared and unwritten. It came from his heart as he spoke about his determination for victory in this global war on terrorism. I was so in awe while he sat there speaking literally inches from me that I didn't think to take any notes. We weren't allowed to have cameras or audio recorders, so we had to rely on our notes. "I looked at my schedule today, and I found it interesting that I would be sitting down with bloggers." That's how it started. It should be noted that this is the first time in history that a sitting President has sat down with a group of military bloggers (probably ANY group of bloggers). There was no other media present and no press releases were given to announce the meeting before or afterwards. After his opening remarks, he opened up the floor to questions from us, beginning with the guys in Iraq. Bill Ardolino recently visited Fallujah to check on progress since his last visit there in January. "The progress in Fallujah especially has been remarkable between January and September," he said. This is going on all over the country as the surge works its magic allowing the government to begin its political reconciliation (a phrase I probably heard more times than my ten fingers can count). The President remarked that over $2.6 billion has been distributed to local governments for reconstruction and jobs. This year alone, over $227 million in oil revenue has been pushed down to local governments. Counter to what the media is reporting, the government has a working budget process that is getting better with each day. They are still trying to figure that piece out. Another interesting tidbit of information that came out during the meeting is that Marine Major General Douglas Stone is managing a predominantly Sunni-occupied prison system in Iraq. This isn't like the prison system you'd probably imagine. Gen Stone has a brilliant plan for rehabilitating the prisoners. Most of the Sunnis jailed in the prisons are accused of crimes of affiliation. Some were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Still others committed their crimes so Al Qaeda terrorists wouldn't kill their families. Gen Stone has instituted a vocational training school into his prison system to teach these young Sunnis valuable skills they can use to earn money and take care of their families. He teaches them alternatives to violence. He also brings in moderate religious leaders to teach them the truly peaceful nature of Islam. The goal is to show them that the extremist religious views they've been taught are incorrect. The other way this is being done is by teaching these young men to read so that they can open up a Koran and see for themselves the way their religion has been bastardized by extremist Imams. While there aren't any metrics to prove the system is working yet, the theory behind it is brilliant as a concept. I can't see how it could fail. I kept my eyes on the President almost the entire time. He made sure that he kept eye contact with us as he spoke. There wasn't a person in that room who wasn't included in his speech. President Bush spoke candidly to us. He didn't speak at us and he didn't speak down to us. He treated us like respectful Americans. When he spoke of his father's WWII service, he literally teared up. Being right next to him, I caught a single tear attempt to roll down his left cheek before he casually wiped it away. No one else seemed to notice. Looking in his eyes as he spoke about the pride he felt in his father, his eyes began to glaze and behind them was a real person who happens to be our 43rd President. George Bush is a man of values and he brought this out. He's also a man of responsibility. When we got on the subject of the despicable behavior by members of Congress (my point, by the way), he made it a point not to talk down about Congress either. I had thanked him and Tony Snow for their recent strong statements against the reality that the media and our elected officials seem to have a problem with acknowledging, even applauding, success by our military. He took ownership of his plan. He made sure we knew that he does not govern this country at the polls. He does what is right. I wrote this quote down immediately after he said because it should be a headline when a book is written about him. In all caps I wrote the word "OWNERSHIP", which was followed by his quote: "This is George Bush's policy. I am a Commander in Chief. I expect to be attacked politically. But, do not attack those Generals!" He went on to talk about the noble profession of military service and the kind of honorable Soldier that Gen David Patraeus is. President Bush is not concerned with his legacy and he has no need to be. I explained to him that after the USS Cole bombing I was so prepared to go to war at that point. I was utterly frustrated that nothing was done, especially after the embassy bombings and the first WTC bombing. I decided to do something about it myself and changed professions to one that would get me closer to the fight if one ever did break out. As it turns out, while I was in training for this new position, September 11th happened. I can't remember exactly what I asked the President because I was choking up having just mentioned my good friend SSG Stevon Booker who died in front of me in Iraq. I just started babbling after that. It was pathetic, you should have seen it. I thanked him for finally taking the fight to the enemy and having the nerves of steel to see it through to the end - whatever that means. Those guys did not die in vain. He mentioned that he recently finished reading a new book about George Washington, the third one he's read. "If they're still talking about the first president, the 43rd has nothing to worry about," Bush said. How right he is. We sat there for an hour and would've stayed longer had Marine One not landed when it did. President Bush was scheduled to be at Quantico, VA for the induction of brand spanking new Marine Corps Second Lieutenants (God help the Corps!). He wrapped everything up and thanked us again and asked if we'd like to see the Oval Office before he takes off. Uh, yeah!! He led us into the brightly lit, surreal room where all the magic happens. "This is the Oval Office. What do you think?" the President asked. "It's alright," piped in someone behind me, probably Blackfive or Steve Shippert!! This is the room where the decision to go to war was made. This is the room where a lot of very difficult decisions are made. This is the room where presidents and diplomats from all over the globe gather to discuss policy. And we were there!! As you walk into the Oval Office you can't help but notice the magnificence of the lighting and decor. The lighting is so well done that you don't even notice the absence of shadows. You half expect to hear angels usher in your entrance to the office. Everything about it is upbeat and positive and warming (and not because of global warming either). We took turns getting individual photos with the President in front of his desk. He gave each of us a coin as we finished. He invited us out to the south lawn to watch him take off in Marine One. He climbed up onto the platform like he has hundreds of times. However, instead of waving to the cameras, he turned towards our "group of eight" and gave a hearty wave BEFORE turning to the cameras so they could get their photo op. I couldn't help but chuckle under my breath at the subtle jab. Marine One took off and we were invited back into the West Wing. As we walked down the sidewalk along the Oval Office, we caught a glimpse of Barney. I think Barney has a blog too come to think of it. He stopped whatever he was doing and watched us walk by, almost as if to say thanks as well. And that was how I spent my morning at the White House. The moral of the story is that it pays to be a Texas boy!!

CJ: This non-Texan thanks you for ALL that you do! Thank you.
(NB: I have included the links on all the bloggers, just as CJ had, and a link to the page about CJ's friend, Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker....check them ALL out.)

CJ? I just know that your friend was watching you today, so proud, and smiling. Bless you.
Brat

How Awesome Is This!!!

You could actually own one of the ADF's decommissioned Leo's!!!

Vintage battle tanks to be given away EVER hankered to own a 42-tonne main battle tank powered by a 10 cylinder, 819 horsepower diesel engine? The army is giving away its de-commissioned 1960s vintage Leopard 1 models with priority to local historical groups or military history buffs. The German-made tanks were acquired by the army in the early 1970s but never fired a shot in anger. A squadron of the tanks was loaded in Darwin ready for deployment to East Timor in 1999 but were then unloaded over concerns “they would send the wrong message to Indonesia,” a senior army officer told The Weekend Australian. In service for 23 years with the ADF, the Leopard replaced the British Centurion which did serve on active duty in Vietnam. After pensioning off the Leopard the army decided to acquire an altogether bigger, meaner, brute of a tank, the US-made M1 Abrams. Tipping the scales at 60 tonnes the new behemoth is armed with a 120mm gun and powered by a 1500 hp multi-fuel jet engine. To be eligible for a free tank, interested organisations or individuals should write a proposal to Leopard disposals manager, 256-310 St Kilda Rd, Southbank, VIC 3006 by Friday, October 12.

I (of course) want one, but I don't like my chances of fitting it in the backyard (mainly because my backyard is a 9ft by 6ft balcony), so I did the next best thing....Contacted the boys at the RSL back home about getting one.

Now, for anyone unfamiliar with the Leo's, here are some pics


I was able to get these pics earlier this year when the tanks were being loaded in Port Augusta.

And guess what they're being replaced with?? Come on, long term TB Readers might remember MG mentioning this before.....

Diggers fired up as new tanks roll Andrew McGarry | September 12, 2007 THERE was no red carpet, just a thick layer of dust coating the gibber plain at Cultana Training Area yesterday. One of the new Abrams tanks in action at the Cultana training area, 300km north of Adelaide. Picture: Kelly Barnes But there was a big, excited crowd of soldiers in the hills outside Port Augusta to look on and take a few pictures of an action premiere: the first big hit-out for the Abrams tanks that have recently arrived to bolster Australia's military armoury. For the next few weeks, the crews of 30 Abrams will be part of a huge influx of personnel at Cultana, on the grounds of the ElAlamein army base, 330km from Adelaide. In all, 1000 personnel from the Darwin-based 1Brigade are taking part in Exercise Southern Reach, testing a battle group that is co-ordinating elements of infantry, artillery, combat engineers, signals, service support, cavalry and tanks. Four of the new tanks, which arrived in Australia earlier this year to replace the ageing Leopards, took part in the public display yesterday. A pair of Abrams book-ended a line of 155mm howitzer guns, which began the exercise with a wave of artillery fire aimed at locations a couple of kilometres away. A series of deep blasts echoed around the area as the ordnance was fired, followed by a wait of several seconds for the shots to hit the distant hills. But it was the second half of the morning's proceedings that created the most interest. Down a dusty track came a second pair of Abrams, rushing into position before halting and firing on two groups of stationary targets, one made out of plywood, the other of metal plates. With a bang and a flash of fire from the tanks' 120mm guns, projectiles like orange dots arced across the sky before hitting the targets with deadly effect. Then the Abrams sped towards the targets, shooting accurately on the run, before retreating, using a smoke generator for cover. Once the bangs and flashes were over, the commanding officer of the 1st Armoured Regiment, Duncan Hayward, put it all in perspective. "This was really a stage-managed activity - it was done for the media," Lieutenant Colonel Hayward said. "A week ago, we did this by night using thermal images, night-vision goggles. We advanced over 17km, live-firing as we went. The old tank couldn't see at night ... this is a modern 24-hour battlefield, and this tank supports us on the battlefield." On board the 23 Abrams marked "Brave 300" was crew commander Nick Rutten, co-ordinating a group of four of the new tanks. Lieutenant Rutten was impressed with the Abrams, which has a gas-turbine jet engine instead of the traditional diesel, making it a lot quieter and more powerful than its predecessors. The Abrams differs from older tanks in that it is bigger, with less space but more armour. "An analogy could be that this is like a brand-new Mercedes-Benz, while the old one is like a1975 model," Lieutenant Rutten said.

MG's Abrams!!

AC

Good News Friday (B*N*S*N)

'Highway of Heroes' signs officially unveiled Updated Fri. Sep. 7 2007 9:23 PM ET CTV.ca News Staff The Ontario government has unveiled "Highway of Heroes" signs along a stretch of Highway 401, formally dedicating the route to Canada's fallen soldiers. The 172-kilometre stretch, officially designated as the MacDonald-Cartier Freeway, extends from Toronto to Trenton. It is the route taken to transport the bodies of fallen soldiers to the coroner's office in Toronto once they return to Canada. Large crowds -- including veterans and emergency service personnel -- have routinely gathered on the highway's overpasses to wave flags in support of the troops. (source)

Just listening to a programme on CBC radio about this. A petition was started by Pfc. Forbes, 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2/503rd Infantry, 173rd Brigade (Airborne) to re-name a portion of Highway 401 in Ontario (that's Canada y'all!) in honour of our fallen. This story posted above shows that the petition worked. Last I checked, there was a total of 61,030 signatures on this, and it seems the politicians paid attention.

I have been following this for a while, and there was also a post by a fellow Canadian on the Soldiers' Angels forum a bit ago asking for support. Canadians answered the call and mission was accomplished. It seems, however, that not all Canadians approve of this.

On CBC right now, am listening to Canadians I have never heard of:

..."smacks of nationalism......flag-waving.....well intentioned, but misplaced..."

Blah blah blah. Too bad they didn't interview any of the 61,030 Canadians who signed in support of this move. But no surprise of course. The "experts" are pontificating - as usual - about condoning this "war....invasion". As usual, proving their ignorance about Canada's mission in Afghanistan, and their ignorance about the will of the Canadian people. To the "experts", 'nationalism' and 'flag-waving' may be bad words, concepts, but Canadians proved that they know what this country is built on.

Capt. Mark Bossi, who served in Afghanistan, fought back tears as he rode along the stretch with CTV Toronto. 'Highway of Heroes' signs officially unveiled ... Capt. Mark Bossi, who served in Afghanistan, fought back tears as he rode along the stretch with CTV Toronto. "That's amazing -- it really is," Bossi said when he saw one of the signs. "It's on (Highway) 401 -- people are going to see them everyday." "A lot of guys have wives and children. I think that's one of the reasons Canadians wanted the highway renamed."...

The "experts" may disapprove, but to me, this absolutely qualifies as B*N*S*N. Go read the rest here. "Oh Canada...true patriot love in all thy sons command.."!

Brat

CHANGES AT TANKER BROTHERS

There are some changes here at TB. Changes that I wish I didn’t have to explain. We have a new banner~sans MG and CT’s handsome faces. We have a new graphic when you click on “comments”, again, sans the handsome faces. CT and MG have been removed from the blog. They no longer are owners of this blog and no longer are listed as official writers (their email links are gone too).

Why?

Three words: Scott Thomas Beauchamp.

Remember him? If not, here are a few links regarding STB.

From Blackfive:

Scott Thomas, MFA???

Private Scott Thomas Beauchamp~~Still Wondering about the MFA

Private Scott Thomas Beauchamp. . .

Beauchamp: Silence and the Severity of the Matter

Bleu Beau: Astroturfing. . .

Private Beauchamp and the Bravest Chaplain in the World

Greyhawk Sums Up Scott Thomas Beauchamp

Wiki Entry on STB

Just Google "Scott Thomas Beauchamp" or "Private Scott Thomas Beauchamp" and you will find a ton of hits.

Because of STB and his lies things are much harder for bloggers blogging from the battlefield. Blogs must be registered with the chain of command and monitoring is much more likely.

MG and CT did not want to have to deal with the extra fuss or people “looking over their shoulders” at the blog. So, they are no longer owners or contributors as long as they are in Iraq.

Never fear, the rest of us ARE in contact with the Tanker Brothers. They are reading the blog. I know I will be asking for suggestions on what they want to see here. NO changes will be made without us running it by our “silent partners”.

Know that our Tankers WILL be back~~when they are able.

~Tracy

Wednesday Hero

Staff Sgt. Richard P. Ramey
27 years old from Canton, Ohio
703rd Ordinance Compan, supporting the 82nd Airborne Division
February 8, 2004


Richard Ramey always knew what he was going to be. Once, while in the third grade, his teacher asked him what he wanted to do when he grew up. His response? "I'll go to war and fight" Concerned by his answer, his teacher called his mother, Julie Ramey. She told her "No, that's my son".

SSgt. Ramey was killed when insurgents attacked his and other convoys in Mahmudiyah, Iraq.

"Richard loved to do his job. No matter where it would take him," said his mother. "He really felt deeply that he wanted to protect people that couldn't protect themselves"

In a statement released through Fort Knox, the Ramey family said, "He was adventurous and smart, combining both qualities in what he did for the Army. We knew his work was dangerous but also knew he wouldn’t have wanted to do anything else".

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your blog, you can go here.

"September 11 Message from Chuck"

Friends, On Sept 11th, 2001, then SPC Shuck was one of 11 individuals chosen to represent all the single soldiers in the Army on the DA Staff at a BOSS conference in VA. On that fateful morning, I walked in from a briefing to see that American was under attack. I remember the fear running through me that my little brother was headed to school and I remember running to the phone to call my mom to tell her not to let him out of the house. 6 years later and many years into a war, we have to ask ourselves the question? Are we prepared to deal with 9-11 all over again. I am not going to answer that question, but I do know this. I have spent over 1,000 days of my Army Career in Iraq fighting the fight like President Bush has asked me to do. Am I disgruntled at the President for me still being here? Not at all. This is the job I chose along with many other soldiers and we do it proudly! We the soldier have an obligation to YOU ALL, the American people and that is to protect you from the enemy. I would rather stay in Iraq for as long as it takes rather than watch what I saw on CNN in 2001. So in closing, I ask that you take the time today and tomorrow to reflect on what you were doing that dark day and hold your family members a little closer to you and tell them how much you love them. Also if you see a firefighter, a police officer or an EMT, tell them thank you for their service as they are just as much a hero as a soldier is. Gabe says woof woof Chuck

Thank YOU Chuck - and all who serve our countries (including Gabe and HIS buddies.lol)

Rick Rescorla - 9/11 HERO!

Last week I found a post on BlackFive about this hero of 9/11. I must confess that up until I saw the post on B5 I had never heard of Rick or what he did in his lifetime, or how he died doing what he had done ALL his life: saving lives. I cannot even begin to do as much justice to this amazing hero as B5 has done, but Mudville Gazette also has a post about him, which B5 links to. In the comments at Mudville Gazette I found the following:

Those who would like to know more about Rick can read the recent bestseller, HEART OF A SOLDIER by James B. Stewart. As for me, I've always been partial to the following poem: HERO A little clutch of veterans share a table in a bar, There's a guy off in the corner coaxing tunes from his guitar. They watch the Hudson River as it rolls towards the bend And they talk of Rick Rescorla as a comrade and a friend. While out across the water, many ocean-miles away Within a Cornish Tavern by a sandy Cornish Bay, Another group are gathered, reminiscing as a clan, And their thoughts are all of Tammy, from the schoolboy to the man. And every head among them has a picture in its mind Which time and place and memory have captured and consigned, Now the pictures weld together until only one remains, Of a sturdy, selfless hero guiding others from the flames. It's a picture which unites them in their glory and their grief, More eloquent than eulogies, confirming their belief That theirs had been a privilege to saunter at his side And in the way he'd lived his life had Rick Rescorla died. The veterans recalled him in the killing fields of war As a man whose potent presence would inspire and reassure, Just one among his brothers when the skies began to fall, Yet one whom they regarded as a father to them all. And now their eyes will moisten at the mention of his name And the sources and the substance of the legend he became, When mayhem drove the best of men to crave their mother's love, He'd stand and croon an anthem to the gory gods above. And on that evil morning, so deceptively serene, Amid another carnage, just as callous and obscene Again he took the mantle of the sainted and the strong To save the lives of others with a blessing and a song. Between the Hudson River and the sandy shores of Hayle, Though eyes encompass differences of latitude and scale, All hands are linked together in the testament they bear, They are but Rick Rescorla�s friends, united by a prayer. By David Prowse � 2001 - WESTERN MORNING NEWS � Cornwall UK Posted by Fred McBee at September 9, 2003 11:55 AM

There is much out on the internet about Rick, a native Welshman who served in the British military before he came to the US and then fought heroically in Vietnam in the American military. Right now, BlackFive and Mudville are asking for your help. There is a push on to make sure that this brave hero is given what he so rightly deserves. As B5 says:

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded for "an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors." Please go and sign the petition. Please link, email, and print the petition. And remember Rick and the other heroes we lost on that horrible day...Stand and never yield!

That's right. Your help is needed. Go sign the petition, and let's get this long overdue recognition. You can read Blackfive's story here,
(you need to scroll down to September 6, where you will also find references to previous links on B5 paying homage to this man who defines the title "hero",) and for Mudville Gazette's post go here.

There is a memorial plaque now in place in Wales; in Rick's town - Hayle - you can see:



It has been widely reported that Rick always sang as he led his men on missions. On 9/11, a day which we all remember for our own reasons, Rick could be heard singing this song in the stairwells as he guided people to safety:

"Men of Cornwall stop your dreaming Can't you see their spear points gleaming? See their warriors' pennants streaming To this battlefield. Men of Cornwall stand ye steady It cannot be ever said ye for the battle were not ready. STAND AND NEVER YIELD!" - "Men of Harlech" Sung by Rick Rescorla in the stairway of WTC Tower 2 on September 11, 2001 [courtesy of B5]

Many heroes died that day, and many have given all, since, in this fight against such scourges of terrorism. On Mudville Gazette comments, immediately following the one quoted above, there is this:

There is nothing I can say about this that wouldn't cheapen it. But I will say that all the world should take a look and marvel. This man is a true, deep blue American hero. Posted by James P at September 9, 2003 01:46 PM

Amen to that! Go, read all about this amazing hero, then sign the petition. Please. We would do well to look at all our heroes, and marvel. Let us always remember Rick Rescorla and all the other brave heroes, today and every day. God bless them - and their families.

(With huge thanks to B5 and Mudville Gazette) Brat

Patriot Day~September 11~UPDATED

September 11 is the anniversary of a terrible day in our country. That is the day that terrorists attacked civilians and around 3,000 people died. 3,000 fathers, brothers, husbands, friends, wives, mothers, daughters.

September 11 is now "Patriot Day". A day that we use to remember what happened that day. The horror, the heroism. At 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Time) the President asks that we observe a moment of silence for those that lost their lives that day.

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary September 10, 2004 President Proclaims Patriot Day Three years ago, our country was ruthlessly attacked, and more than 3,000 innocent people lost their lives. We will always remember the victims: sons and daughters, husbands and wives, dads and moms, family members, co-workers, and friends. And we will always be inspired by the heroism and decency of our fellow citizens on that day. Police, firefighters, emergency rescue personnel, doctors, nurses, and many others risked their own lives to save the lives of their fellow citizens. They demonstrated the great character and bravery of our Nation, and they embody the great spirit of America. Since September 11th, America has fought a relentless war on terror around the world. We are staying on the offensive in this war -- striking the terrorists abroad so we do not have to face them here at home. We pray that God watch over our brave men and women in uniform and all who are waging this war and working to keep America safe. And we pray for their families. In the face of danger, America is showing its character. Three years after the attack on our country, Americans remain strong and resolute, patient in a just cause, and confident of the victory to come. By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress has designated September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day." NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2004, as Patriot Day. I call upon the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Patriot Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe Patriot Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services, to display the flag at half-staff from their homes on that day, and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time to honor the innocent victims who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-ninth. GEORGE W. BUSH

My boys school has asked them to dress in Red, White, and Blue on this day. They both will be in red, white, and blue. My oldest will be wearing a shirt that says "America~Flyin' Proud" with a flag on it. My youngest will be wearing a shirt with a flag on it that says "America, Home of the Free and Brave".

I will be taking my morning walk at the 8:46 time, which involves loud fast music, but I will be setting my watch alarm to remind me to turn off the music, stop walking, and show respect for those that died. If you are in a position that you can stop what you are doing, please try.

Check back Tuesday to see pictures of the patriotic boys!

Sorry so late with the picture. Internet connection issues! Here they are~my patriotic boys. It's gotten cold this week so we had to dig out some pants. Ummm, I may need to buy more sweatpants, these are looking a little "floodlike" LOL




~Tracy

Gen. David H. Petraeus - For the Record

HEADQUARTERS MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ BAGHDAD, IRAQ APO AE 09342-1400 7 September 2007 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Civilians of Multi-National Force-Iraq We are now over two-and-a-half months into the surge of offensive operations made possible by the surge of forces, and I want to share with you my view of how I think we’re doing. This letter is a bit longer than previous ones, since I feel you deserve a detailed description of what I believe we have- and have not- accomplished, as Ambassador Crocker and I finalize the assessment we will provide shortly to Congress. Up front, my sense is that we have achieved tactical momentum and wrested the initiative from our enemies in a number of areas of Iraq. The result has been progress in the security arena, although it has, as you know, been uneven. Additionally, as you all appreciate very well, innumerable tasks remain and much hard work lies ahead. We are, in short, a long way from the goal line, but we do have the ball and we are driving down the field. We face a situation that is exceedingly complex. Al Qaeda, associated insurgent groups and militia extremists, some supported by Iran, continue to carry out attacks on us, our Iraqi partners, and the Iraqi civilians we seek to secure. We have to contend with the relentless pace of operations, the crushing heat, and the emotions that we all experience during long deployments and tough combat. And we operate against a backdrop of limited Iraqi governmental capacity, institutions trying to rebuild, and various forms of corruption. All of this takes place in a climate of distrust and fear that stems from the sectarian violence that did so much damage to the fabric of Iraqi society in 2006 and into 2007, not to mention the decades of repression under Saddam’s brutal regime. Tragically, sectarian violence continues to cause death and displacement, to your hard work and sacrifice together with our Iraqi counterparts. In spite of these challenges, our operations- particularly the offensive operations we have conducted since mid-June- have helped produce progress in many areas on the ground. In fact, the number of attacks across the country has declined in 8 of the past 11 weeks, reaching during the last week in August a level not seen since June 2006. This trend is not just a result of greater numbers of Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces; it also reflects your determination and courage, and skill in conducting counterinsurgency operations. By taking the fight to the enemy, you have killed or captured dozens of leaders and thousands of members of Al Qaeda Iraq and extremist militia elements, you have taken many of Al Qaeda’s former sanctuaries away from them, and you have dismantled a number of their car bomb and improvised explosive device networks. By living among the population with our Iraqi partners, you have been holding the areas you have cleared. By helping Iraqis reestablish basic services and local governance, you have helped exploit the security gains, And by partnering closely with Iraqi Security Forces, you have been strengthening Iraqi elements that will one day have sole responsibility for protecting their population. Indeed, while Iraqi forces clearly remain a work in progress, Iraqi soldiers and police are very much in the fight, and they continue to sustain losses that are two to three times our losses. We are also building momentum in an emerging area of considerable importance- local reconciliation. Local Iraqi leaders are coming forward, opposing extremists, and establishing provisional units of neighborhood security volunteers. With growing Government of Iraq support, these volunteers are being integrated into legitimate security institutions to help improve local security. While this concept is playing out differently in various areas across Iraq, it is grounded in a desire shared by increasing numbers of Iraqis- to oppose extremist elements and their ideologies. This is very significant because, as many of you know first- hand, extremists cannot survive without the support of the population. The popular rejection of Al Qaeda and its ideology has, for example, helped transform Anbar Province this year from one of the most dangerous areas of Iraq to one of the safest. The popular rejection of extremists has helped Coalition and Iraqi forces take away other areas from Al Qaeda as well, and we are seeing a spread of this sentiment in an ever-increasing number of Sunni areas. Now, in fact, we are also seeing a desire to reject extremists emerge in many Shi’a areas. The progress has not, to be sure, been uniform across Baghdad or across Iraq. Accomplishments in some areas- for example, in Ramadi and in Anbar Province- has been greater than any of us might have predicted six months ago. The achievements in some other areas- for example, in some particularly challenging Baghdad neighborhoods and in reducing overall civilian casualties, especially those caused by periodic, barbaric Al Qaeda bombings- have not been as dramatic. However, the overall trajectory has been encouraging, especially when compared to the situation at the height of the sectarian violence in late 2006 and early 2007. Many of us had hoped this summer would be a time of tangible political progress at the national level as well. One of the justifications for the surge, after all, was that it would help create the space for Iraqi leaders to tackle the tough questions and agree on key pieces of “national reconciliation” legislation. It has not worked out as we had hoped. All participants, Iraqi and coalition alike, are dissatisfied by the halting progress on major legislative initiatives such as the oil framework, revenue sharing, and de-ba’athification reform.At the same time, however, our appreciation of what this legislation represents for Iraqi leaders has grown. These laws are truly fundamental in nature and will help determine how Iraqis will share power and resources in the new Iraq. While much work remains to be done before these critical issues are resolved, the seriousness with which Iraqi leaders came together at their summit in late August has given hope that they are up to the task before them, even if it is clearly taking more time than we initially expected. In the coming months, our coalition’s countries and all Iraqis will continue to depend on each of you and on our Iraqi counterparts to keep the pressure on the exptremists, to help improve security and strengthen the rule of law for all Iraqis, to work with the Government of Iraq to integrate local volunteers into local security and national institutions, to assist with the restoration and improvement of basic services, and to continue the development of conditions that foster reconciliation. For our part, Ambassador Crocker and I will continue to do everything in our power to help the Prime Minister and the Government of Iraq achieve the meaningful results that will ensure that your sacrifices and those of your comrades help produce sustainable security for Iraq over the long term. a stable and secure Iraq that denies extremists a safe haven and has a government that is representative of and responsive to all Iraq’s citizens and Iraq’s neighbors alike, bringing calm to a region full of challenges and employing Iraq’s human capital and natural resource blessings for the benfit of all. As I noted at the outset of this letter, over the next few days, Ambassador Crocker and I will share with the U.S. Congress and the American people our assessment of the situation in Iraq. I will also describe the recommendations I have provided to my chain of command. I will go before Congress conscious of the strain on our forces, the sacrifices that you and your families are making, the gains we have made in Iraq, the challenges that remain, and the importance of building on what we and our Iraqi counterparts have fought so hard to achieve. Thanks once again for what each of you continues to do. Our Nations have asked much of you and your families. It remains the greatest of honors to serve with you. Sincerely, (Signature of David H. Petraeus) David H. Petraeus General, United States Army Commanding

Thank YOU! Brat

"he is there, he knows..."

Rangers Up! If you do nothing else today, PLEASE watch the video in this post.. It is the words of a Ranger, a veteran. I have just watched it - twice - and I can't get this man's words out of my brain or my heart. The words of this Ranger should be rammed down the throat of EVERY politician in the land, especially at this time when we all know the defeatist jackals are circling. Circling and willing to desecrate everything that our military is fighting for, no matter the evidence which shows that we ARE winning, progress is being made.

This Ranger, calling in to a radio show, says: "All I ask is they believe me"...The people of Iraq show daily that THEY believe. What is it going to take for the politicians here to believe, and act?

The Ranger Creed speaks to the heart of this Ranger's words:

Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession. I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor and high "esprit de corps" of my Ranger Regiment. Acknowledging the fact that a Ranger is a more elite soldier who arrives at the cutting edge of battle by land, sea, or air. I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster and fight harder than any other soldier. Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong and morally straight and I will shoulder more than my share of the task whatever it may be. One hundred percent and then some Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well trained soldier. My courtesy to superior officers, neatness of dress and care of equipment shall set the example for others to follow. Energetically will I meet the enemies of my country. I shall defeat them on the field of battle for I am better trained and will fight with all my might. Surrender is not a Ranger word. I will never leave a fallen comrade to fall into the hands of the enemy and under no circumstances will I ever embarrass my country. Readily will I display the intestinal fortitude required to fight on to the Ranger objective and complete the mission, though I be the lone survivor.

To hear THIS Ranger speak in this video is to know the truth. If the dimtwits, the defeatists have their way, this brave Ranger's words will come back through history to haunt us all. I ask you, can WE let that happen? Today, YES, NOW! Take this video and make sure that every politician watches it, actually HEARS what this man says. The time for them to ignore the facts, the absolute truth from our boots on the ground, is long past. We have to make them listen. The price for their continued ignorance is far too high; too high for the Iraqis - their children of the future - and far too high for our troops, us, and OUR children. We owe it to all of them to act now.

The Ranger pleads: "Let me do my job". So I now plead with each of you: We have enemies to defeat here at home. Let us do OUR job. Are you with me? Go! Brat (with thanks to RangerWife!)

“...we will not falter, we will not fail...”

That is a phrase in a post that CJ has up over on the VAMortgage site. That is the message CJ says we need to send to the insurgents intent on driving Coalition forces out before the job is done.

Misunderstood September 6th, 2007 (11:43 am) by CJ- There’s a lot of talk about pulling out of Iraq from both sides of the aisle (one side more so than the other). And let’s face it, the American people are growing tired of the war as well. I believe that is because of one of three reasons: they have no personal stake in success/failure (or FEEL they don’t); the media spends a lot of their time covering the negative aspects of our efforts; and our politicians are undercutting us as much as possible. The fact is that a complete story isn’t being told. All the negativity coming from within our own country is fueling the insurgency. They have constantly pointed to the “American attitude” in their propaganda as a cause celebre. They are using the same tactics used during Vietnam....

As always, CJ very clearly and simply outlines explains the issues. He IS qualified to do that, ya know...lol. One paragraph - in particular - stood out for me among all the excellent points CJ makes:

...True success on the Iraqi battlefield starts here at home. The first thing we need to do is openly and boisterously support our troops and their mission. It’s too late to pretend it didn’t happen. This isn’t a bumper sticker war where we can “Support Our Troops - Bring Them Home Now”. The solution is much more complicated than that. As we reduce troop levels under the current threat more Americans will be needlessly slaughtered because the support structure won’t be there...[Brat emphasis by the way..lol]

I keep shaking my head, because I really REALLY don't understand what the dimtwits are not getting. Maybe CJ's piece should be required reading for them all. Go here and the read the whole post. Then maybe send it to all you know (and we all know some) who need a little 'help' coming to grips with reality.

As always: Thank YOU, CJ.

Brat

Duh! You think so?

I am on the mailing list of the Media Research Council, and get weekly updates called "The Weekly Slant." Mostly, of course, it is stuff we already are well aware of, but this week's was right up there on the "Duh!" scale. So much so, I have to share it. Read on:

A Sampling of Media Bias Highlights From the Media Research Center Morning Networks’ Candidate Favortism Proven The MRC has just published a special report proving bias in favor of Democratic Presidential Candidates on morning network news shows. Highlights of the report, compiled by Rich Noyes, MRC’s director of research, reveal: Democrats got twice as much coverage and three times the airtime as Republicans. Most of the questions posed to Democrats are softballs reflecting the liberal agenda. Three Democrat frontrunners -- especially Hillary Clinton -- received more coverage than all the top Republicans “Not only are the network morning shows overwhelmingly focused on Democrats,” Noyes writes, “they are actively promoting the Democrats’ liberal agenda.” Conclusion? the network morning shows are derelict in their responsibility to the American people to provide balanced coverage and un-biased questioning during a political campaign. -- From “Rise and Shine on Democrats -- How the ABC, CBS and NBC Morning Shows Are Promoting Democrats On the Road to the White House,” a special MRC report published August 29.

Now there's a shocker...NOT!! The link for this, and others, is here.

Brat

'The Solution'

However, there are two solutions for stopping it. The first is from our side, and it is to continue to escalate the killing and fighting against you. This is our duty, and our brothers are carrying it out, and I ask Allah to grant them resolve and victory. And the second solution is from your side. It has now become clear to you and the entire world the impotence of the democratic system and how it plays with the interests of the peoples and their blood by sacrificing soldiers and populations to achieve the interests of the major corporations. Link

Maybe Osama has read 'The Secret' and thought it was time he shared 'The Solution'??

After reading Osama's 'Solution' a thought occured to me so I looked up a single word....Fanaticism. Here are the meaning I found..

excessive intolerance of opposing views wordnet.princeton.edu/perl/webwn

Fanaticism, from French fanatique or Latin fanaticus 'of a temple, inspired by a god'. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanaticism

According to Adherents.com there are 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide. Unfortunately they were unable to determine how many of them were Islamic Extremists and how many were Peaceful Muslims but the startling fact remains that with 2.1 billion Christians in the world, why are they feeling so confident??

In sheer numbers alone, the Fanatical Muslims should not be able to maintain their fight, so is it that their belief in their religion and purpose is so much stronger than ours or are we simply drowning in complacency??

I was talking to a deployed Digger about it yesterday and an interesting thought occured to me. Osama specifically mentioned that all Americans must submit to the rule of Islam. I have to wonder how many Aussies and Brits and every other country in the world thought 'Phew, we're safe'. Interestingly, I came across a site yesterday that actually outlines why Australia should be supporting America and I have to tell you, it made a whole lot of sense to me. The site is by a group called 'Aussies for ANZUS'. These are the people who hold the huge banners to support Americas Leaders when they visit Australia. They brave huge crowds of protestors to carry these banners of support and are often attacked. Yet they do it because they too share an important message. One of solidarity between Western Countries.

It would appear that Osama has touched on the one thing that could eventually cause a downfall for the Western world. While the Terrorists work for one goal as one group, we in the Western World fight and squabble amongst ourselves, each convinced that we have the answer and that our own personal agendas should be met. Despite what anyone might think, Osama was 100% correct in his statement as it refers to the Democrats. They did win an election based on ending the war and they have done nothing but make grand gestures then back pedal furiously since they were elected. Perhaps Osama was berating his little puppets for not towing the political line and bringing about the downfall of the glue holding the Coalition together. However, our nations as we know them today are built on the foundation of trust in our democratically elected Leaders. We are nations who choose their governments and I for one am not willing to forgo that right to be led by the person who elects themselves by being the biggest Lunatic, Terrorist or Murderer.

Many have analysed the footage, they speak of Osamas beard being dyed like this is an important part of the message. They have tried to ascertain his physical wellbeing and whether he is still mentally astute (almost certainly after claims Osama had contracted Syphillis) like that is the fundamental issue here. How many have read and truly considered his words. Osama is inviting the West to embrace Islam and making barely veiled threats that there will be consequences if his 'requests' are not met. He is scorning the West because we were unprepared for their attacks that have resulted in the deaths of countless innocents. He is perhaps overlooking the ever important fact that as civilised nations we do not engage in and therefore can not predict random acts of terrorism.

Probably the most startling factor in this message is the sheer arrogance involved. While in the West we are taught we must embrace multi culturalism and religious diversity their intent is to make us all clones. We will all follow one religion, one lifestyle and one culture.

President Bush has indicated that the war in Iraq will not end on his watch. The President who follows will need to well consider the stand he has taken. While President Bush's stand has been unpopular it has well served it's purpose. It has kept the wolves from our doors.

The following is long and I would be suprised if you have not all seen it before but it is as true today as it was when it began making the rounds....

The other day, my nine year old son wanted to know why we were at war...My husband looked at our son and then looked at me. My husband and were in the Army during the Gulf War and we would be honored to serve and defend our Country again today. I knew that my husband would give him a good explanation. My husband thought for a few minutes and then told my son to go stand in our front living room window. He said "Son, stand there and tell me what you see?" "I see trees and cars and our neighbor's houses." he replied. "OK, now I want you to pretend that our house and our yard is the United States of America and you are President Bush." Our son giggled and said "OK." "Now son, I want you to look out the window and pretend that every house and yard on this block is a different country" my husband said. "OK Dad, I'm pretending." "Now I want you to stand there and look out the window and pretend you see Saddam come out of his house with his wife, he has her by the hair and is hitting her. You see her bleeding and crying. He hits her in the face, he throws her on the ground, then he starts to kick her to death. Their children run out and are afraid to stop him, they are screaming and crying, they are watching this but do nothing because they are kids and they are afraid of their father. You see all of this, son....what do you do?" "Dad?" "What do you do son?" "I'd call the police, Dad." "OK. Pretend that the police are the United Nations. They take your call. They listen to what you know and saw but they refuse to help. What do you do then son?" "Dad.......... but the police are supposed to help!" My son starts to whine. "They don't want to son, because they say that it is not their place or your place to get involved and that you should stay out of it, " my husband says. "But Dad...he killed her!!" my son exclaims. "I know he did...but the police tell you to stay out of it. Now I want you to look out that window and pretend you see our neighbor who you're pretending is Saddam turn around and do the same thing to his children." "Daddy...he kills them?" "Yes son, he does. What do you do?" "Well, if the police don't want to help, I will go and ask my next door neighbor to help me stop him." our son says. "Son, our next door neighbor sees what is happening and refuses to get involved as well. He refuses to open the door and help you stop him, " my husband says. "But Dad, I NEED help!!! I can't stop him by myself!!" "WHAT DO YOU DO SON?" Our son starts to cry. "OK, no one wants to help you, the man across the street saw you ask for help and saw that no one would help you stop him. He stands taller and puffs out his chest. Guess what he does next son?" "What Daddy?" "He walks across the street to the old ladies house and breaks down her door and drags her out, steals all her stuff and sets her house on fire and then...he kills her. He turns around and sees you standing in the window and laughs at you. WHAT DO YOU DO?" "Daddy..." "WHAT DO YOU DO?" Our son is crying and he looks down and he whispers, "I'd close the blinds, Daddy." My husband looks at our son with tears in his eyes and asks him. "Why?" "Because Daddy.....the police are supposed to help people who needs them...and they won't help.... You always say that neighbors are supposed to HELP neighbors, but they won't help either...they won't help me stop him...I'm afraid....I can't do it by myself Daddy.....I can't look out my window and just watch him do all these terrible things and...and.....do nothing...so....I'm just going to close the blinds.... so I can't see what he's doing........and I'm going to pretend that it is not happening." I start to cry. My husband looks at our nine year old son standing in the window, looking pitiful and ashamed at his answers to my husband's questions and he says... "Son" "Yes, Daddy." "Open the blinds because that man.... he's at your front door... "WHAT DO YOU DO?" My son looks at his father, anger and defiance in his eyes. He balls up his tiny fists and looks his father square in the eyes, without hesitation he says: "I DEFEND MY FAMILY DAD!! I'M NOT GONNA LET HIM HURT MOMMY OR MY SISTER, DAD!!! I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM, DAD, I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM!!!!!" I see a tear roll down my husband's cheek and he grabs our son to his chest and hugs him tight, and says... "It's too late to fight him, he's too strong and he's already at YOUR front door son.....you should have stopped him BEFORE he killed his wife, and his children and the old lady across the way. You have to do what's right, even if you have to do it alone, before its too late." My husband whispers. THAT scenario I just gave you is WHY we are at war with Iraq. When good men stand by and let evil happen, son, THAT is the greatest atrocities in the world. "YOU MUST NEVER BE AFRAID TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT! EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO DO IT ALONE!" BE PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN! BE PROUD OF OUR TROOPS!! SUPPORT THEM!!! SUPPORT AMERICA SO THAT IN THE FUTURE OUR CHILDREN WILL NEVER HAVE TO CLOSE THEIR BLINDS..."

AC

Coalition Country - Lithuania

Since 2003 Lithuania has provided a total of 685 troops to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Lithuania contingent is deployed to Camp Echo in Ad Diwaniyah with an infantry platoon stationed in Basrah, Iraq and staff officers assigned to Multi-National Force – Iraq in Baghdad, Iraq. In addition to conducting combat patrols, QRF missions and manning checkpoints, the Lithuanian forces have initiated three CIMIC projects and provide medical assistance to the local Iraqi civilians. In addition to being part of the Coalition, Lithuania also provides personnel to the NATO Training Mission – Iraq. Litunania has an open mandate and rotates their forces every February and August......(source MNF)

Lithuania is a neighbour of Latvia. You all remember the profile I did on that country a few weeks ago? Of course you do..lol

Slightly larger than West Virginia, Lithuania sits between Latvia and Russia. With a population of 3.5 million, Lithuania also has a history of 'ties' to the old Soviet Union, but was the first to declare independance from the old empire in 1990. Russia, of course, did not initially recognize this declaration and it wasn't until 1993 that the last Russian troops left Lithuania. (usual source!)

There is an absolutely amazing article on Russia and Germany during WW2 here.
There is way too much information in that for me to even excerpt, and it IS a long article with some black and white pictures. Take the time to go read it, and you will leave with a far deeper appreciation of what countries like Lithuania went through under the boots of the Soviet empire.

Lithuanian soldiers secure the area where a car bomb exploded near a multination division base in Hilla, 100 kms south of Baghdad in 2004. Photo credit: Ahmad al-Rubaye, AFP(source)

In this predominantly Roman Catholic country (79%), of approx 3.5million, there is a reported 99.6% literacy rate. The Republic of Lithuania is based on civil law.

So what of the Lithuania economy? According to World Fact Book, Lithuania's main industries are:

metal-cutting machine tools, electric motors, television sets, refrigerators and freezers, petroleum refining, shipbuilding (small ships), furniture making, textiles, food processing, fertilizers, agricultural machinery, optical equipment, electronic components, computers, amber jewelry...

Lithuania's main export is "mineral products 23%, textiles and clothing 16%, machinery and equipment 11%, chemicals 6%, wood and wood products 5%, foodstuffs 5% (2001)".(source)

No surprise, their main export partner is Russia, (12.8%), closely followed by Latvia (11+%).
What I found interesting here is that their main Import is also mineral products, followed by machinery and equipment., and yes, their main Import partner is Russia (24+%).

With a registered unemployment rate of 5.7% (2006), the majority of those who ARE employed are in the service industry (56%) followed by industry with 28+%.

Lithuania owes much to the rich cultural currents of central Europe: it once shared an empire with neighbouring Poland that stretched from the Baltic Sea almost to the Black Sea. Its capital Vilnius boasts a Baroque Old Town that is the largest in Eastern Europe and praised as the 'New Prague'. (source)

(source)

Lithuania's military is alive and well, and very active. With four distinct branches: "Ground Forces, Naval Force, Lithuanian Military Air Forces, National Defense Volunteer Forces (2005)", Lithuania's military accounts for 1.23% of the GDP. Military service is comprised of both compulsory ( for 19 to 45 year olds) and consists of 12 month conscript obligations, and a voluntary enlistment from 18 years old. A couple of interesting numbers I found: under "Manpower available for military service" was this:- 'males age 19-49: 830,368
females age 19-49: 830,524 (2005 est.)', BUT "Manpower FIT for military service"????, this: 'males age 19-49: 590,606 females age 19-49: 676,102 (2005 est.)'. Who knew? lol.. Oh, I know we can all read stats any way we like, to say anything we like, but that was interesting to me...

So what IS the Lithuanian military doing as a coalition partner? Am glad you asked. ;)

Support to the Global War on Terror Since September 11 there were several very concrete steps taken by the Lithuanian authorities in the aftermath of the attacks. Lithuania immediately expressed its support to the statements of the North Atlantic Council (NAC) and the decision to apply Article 5 of the Washington Treaty in regard to the terrorist attack against the United States. Soon thereafter, authorization has been issued for the US Governmental and military aircraft to use the Lithuanian air space and land in the Lithuanian airports until the antiterrorist action is terminated. Immediately after the attacks enhanced security measures have been taken to protect state's critical strategic sites (including Ignalina Nuclear Power Station, Mažeikiai Oil Refinery) and foreign Embassies. In December 2001, Lithuania has also adopted the National Program against Terrorism and has allocated additional 7 000 000 Litas (2 000 000 USD) in 2002 years’ state budget for the fight against terrorism....(CENTCOM here) [That is a very interesting article - go read!]

I also found a really, REALLY neat site on a Lithuanian military museum. This site tracks the history from the 18th century to the present day.

Graduation Graduation Medal of Military School (source)medal of Military School

I have no idea if the cutline shows on that - it became an exercise in invisible writing - truly! Love these tech challenges.

(As an aside, there is a very cool index of blogs based in Lithuania, here.
Just a fast look at some of the article titles gives an interesting insight into all things Lithuanian.)

On the US Mission to NATO page entitled "Allied Contributions to the Global War on Terror", there is this:

Lithuania Following Sept. 11, Lithuania declared its national support for the Global War on Terrorism. Approved use of airspace, airfields and ports for GWOT. Offered 10 cargo handlers as part of Danish contingent deployed to Manas, Kyrgyzstan. Scheduled to deploy an ambulance with medics as part of a Czech Republic contingent. Offered SOF platoon, military divers, translators, minesweeper, aircraft and maintenance support to SFOR/KFOR.(source)

And then I find lots more on Lithuania's contribution to the ISAF in Afghanistan:

LITHUANIA TO LEAD NATO UNIT IN AFGHANISTAN By Vladimir Socor Wednesday, February 16, 2005 Speaking at the high-level NATO conference in Munich on February 12-13, U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld singled out for praise Lithuania's contribution to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer had similarly commended Lithuania's contribution to ISAF during a January 21 NATO meeting in Brussels, as a "laudable example" to some other, larger member countries: "If Lithuania can do it, others can do it too." (ELTA, January 24, February 12). The latter remark was alluding to the alliance's force-generation difficulties in the process of expanding ISAF. Lithuania has decided to increase its contribution to force-generation for ISAF by offering to become the lead country in establishing a Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT). ISAF, with an overall strength of 8,000 from some 30 countries, operates in Kabul and in several northern Afghan provinces. PRTs, with an average strength of 200 to 300, constitute ISAF's operating format in the countryside. NATO has decided to extend ISAF from northern to western Afghanistan in order to provide security in anticipation of the parliamentary elections and to buttress stability afterward. The alliance is about to add four PRTs in the west to the five it already operates in the north. Of the additional four, two already exist as American PRTs and are being handed over to ISAF, which operates separately from U.S. forces. Thus, ISAF's net addition consists of two PRTs, to be led by Lithuania and Spain, respectively. .. (lots more interesting stuff in this article, go read it here!)

And then there was this on the ISAF page:

"Photographic exhibition of children’s lives in Ghowr

GHOWR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – ISAF soldiers from Lithuanian-led Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) in Chaghcharan distributed 30 disposable cameras between three schools on March 20, the eve of Now Ruz. The children within the schools were encouraged to take photographs for an exhibition in Lithuania to show the humanitarian initiatives taking place inside Afghanistan.

This initiative was supported by the Director of the Education Department in Lithuania, Eid Gul Aazim, and the cameras were distributed by PRT Chaghcharan Civilian-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Team.

The chaplain of PRT Chaghcharan Captain Virginijus Veilentas, Sergeant Julija Misinaite, of the CIMIC Team and a doctor from the Chaghcharan hospital, Juma Gul Jaqubi (who has previously working in Lithuania), visited two boy-schools and one girls school in Chaghcharan. There pupils were introduced to the basic concepts of photography and were shown images of Afghanistan to give them some ideas on what they could photograph. They then had 24 hours to take their photographs, after which the cameras were collected and sent to Lithuania for developing. The participating pupils and their teachers were also given souvenirs from the visiting Lithuanian troops. "(Found that here!)

President George W. Bush and President Valdas Adamkus of Lithuania meet Monday, Feb. 12, 2007, in the Oval Office of the White House. White House photo by Eric Draper

PRESIDENT BUSH: It's my honor to welcome a personal friend and a friend of freedom and peace to the Oval Office. Mr. President, I respect you, I respect your country. Lithuania has been a country whose history has been one of great tragedy. You, yourself, have lived through that tragedy. And it's so refreshing for a person like me to talk to somebody and to strategize with somebody who knows the great blessings of living in a free society. The example of your country is an important example for the world, and that is that freedom is universal, that those of us who have the benefits of living in a free society must prevent a country such as yours from ever again being subjected to the tyranny of a few. You know full well the suffering that your relatives went through. And, therefore, I find it -- I'm not surprised that in a struggling democracy like Afghanistan, your country has stood up bravely to support the Karzai government and the people of Afghanistan. And I thank you. And I thank the citizens of your country for your willingness to contribute to peace by helping a young democracy survive. I thank you very much for your support for the people of Iraq. It's hard work in Iraq. But, nevertheless, it is inspiring to know that Lithuania has said, we want to help the people realize the blessings of a free society. (source)

"Achu", Lithuania, "Achu"!

Brat

NEW BANNER!!

MG created a new banner!

We hope you like it. Explanation on why the banner change will be coming soon to a blog near you. . . . . . . .

~Tracy

"The Best of us......." A Video tribute

Deb Tainsh sent me this. She says:

Below is the link to a new song and video to honor our military. Dave and I and other families we know contributed photos for this piece that will provide proceeds to an organization to help our wounded...

I will remember their faces. Will you? Thanks Deb and Dave. Brat

Wednesday Hero

Sgt. Willard T. Partridge
35 years old from Ferriday, Louisiana
170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade
August 20, 2005


Sgt. Partridge was killed by an IED that exploded near his vehicle in Baghdad, Iraq.

There isn't that much information about Sgt. Partridge so I though I would share some of the memories that his friends and family have of him.

"I remember Partridge from basic training and AIT. He was a very quiet guy who had a good sense of humor. I remember asking him why he joined, and he told me it was so he could take care of his family and give them a better life. I would have deployed with him any day, he was one of the good guys I graduated with. He will not be forgotten. God Bless."

"Todd was one of the best men I have ever met and I will always have great memories and admiration for him! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family!"

"I will never forget you and those awful eighteen weeks at Fort Leonard Wood. You are in every sense of the term, 'A HERO'"

"Todd was such a quite, solid person. He never demanded the attention of those around him. I remember him always just smiling while everyone else at our LARGE FAMILY get togethers made noise. I could get a hug from him, but I had to ask for it. He never assumed anything. I loved making him hug me.

Todd was a solid, faithful husband, father and man in every respect. He did what had to be done in all areas of his life. He died doing what he knew to be his job in this life. Not that he wanted to die but he wanted to serve whatever the cost might be. He knew that freedom is not free and wanted to pay his part for that freedom for himself, his wife and girls.

I have nothing but love and respect for Todd's memory and will always proudly and thankfully count him among my nephews that adore. His memory will always be honored. I thank God that He brought Todd into our family. He left his mark on it just as he did everywhere he went."


These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your blog, you can go here.

Patriotic Thunder - New and Improved!

I was going to call this piece B*N*S*N1! You did all notice that last Friday there was only B*N*S*N2? Of course you did. Whatever. lol.....I am calling the Patriotic Thunder site 'new and improved', but really that is a misnomer.

Those who know Rob know that his service to his country did not stop once he 'left' the USMC (yes, I know - no such thing as an ex-Marine!) Over at Patriotic Thunder Rob and Darby continue to take stabs at anyone who is a threat to America. Some have tried to dismiss their site as the rambling rants of a know-nothing. Go spend some time over there, and you willlsee that these ardent troop supporters know a LOT. Every single column over there is well researched, well thought out, and then clearly articulated. The evidence is right there for anyone who wants to inform themselves. None escape the sharp analysis of Patriotic Thunder.

There are the usual suspects: Democrats, tree huggers et al, and that's only on the America's War page. That page alone is worth looking at just for some of the cartoons. I DID try and post them here, but my tech skills were absent today, so you'll have to go over and look for yourself. While on that page, read all the analysis that is offered, based on FACTS ( I know, novel concept today!) and maybe learn a thing or two. I did.

Apart from a few new columns, Rob also has some of the Patriotic Thunder standards: Darby's Soapbox, Troop of the Week, Current Project(which just happens to be the SA K9 teams this time. Good job on that Rob! lol), and Guest Column. The current Guest Column is one that regular Tanker Bros readers will recognise...;). There is Rob's column on Conscientious Objectors, that he starts with a story which gives insights into some of his military service. There are also new columns. Rob has always been very upfront in his views, never pulling his punches. One of his new sections? Our little friends the muslims.

نحن تبول في كل شبر الحمامات

To find out what means, you'll have to go read! Rob and the site has been the target of some radical muslims in America, but that doesn't stop the Patriotic Thunder rolling right along. They really do cover many bases on the site. I do not agree with all the conclusions they come to, but have to respect the obvious rational thought that goes into every column over there. Immigration, global warming have their own sections at the site, and there are forums and blogs. In my opinion, Patriotic Thunder is an important voice in the current debates in America. Go check it out here.

Thanks Rob and Darby! Semper Fi.

Brat

Where's Harry?

It seems that Harry Reid has been AWOL a lot lately. According to one of his constituents, Harry has not been seen by anyone in his neighbourhood for so long, nobody remembers when they last saw him! Imagine that. The cartoon above would be funny if it wasn't so serious, BUT I have come to a conclusion. Not only is Harry Reid politically lost, but he is physically lost! 'Tis true.

Last night Harry was a no-show at a big 'Welcome Home' party for the 593rd MTC Nevada National Guard. Honestly he was. It seems that Harry sent his assistant (Susan Lisagore...now there's an irony!) in his place. Yes, it is true that no other invited politician was in attendance, but my sources tell me that Susan gave the longest speech of all on Harry's behalf. The Governor - also a no-show - sent his assistant who followed orders from her boss and briefly welcomed the troops home after their 14 months in Iraq, then she "shut up" and sat down. This affair all took place at the Senator Harry Reid Armory. (Doncha just love these ironies of life? lol) Maybe Harry thought that was enough of him? Could be that his consituents agree, but it seems Harry is forgetting who pays his fat salary. You know, people like the troops who made it home to loving arms. Probably just as well Harry didnt attend.







However - because I am SURE he was lost somewhere Saturday night, I am sending him the following information. This is about an event taking place today right outside Harry's office. We could assume that Harry wouldn't get lost on his way to his office, but I do hear that even that is proving too great a challenge for him these days. According to one of my sources, it seems Harry's office door has been locked tight for months now, and nobody answers the phone willing to be even pseudo engaged. Methinks someone, somewhere, should put a stop to Harry's paycheque, since he apparently isn't serving his constituents. So I am sending the following information to Harry, so he can attend this important event, and show his support for our troops. I s'pose it is too much to hope that he would stand there and say he supports the mission - he may get booed even louder than his assistant did the other night if he DID dare to say that, but hey, conversions can happen. ;)

So - because I care that Harry be informed about what is going on in his constituency:

The National "Fight for Victory Tour" Kickoff Event Carson City, Nevada - Sept. 3, 2007 - 9:00 AM Join Move America Forward and a coalition of other pro-troop groups as we launch the national "Fight for Victory Tour" (a patriotic pro-troop caravan that crosses the nation) for our first Pro-Troop Rally. The "Fight for Victory Tour" kicks off on Monday September 3rd with this 9:00 AM rally in Carson City then crosses the nation before concluding with "The Gathering of Eagles" and a giant pro-troop rally in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, September 15th. The rally takes place at Mills Park, which is located at intersection of East Williams & North Roop St. It's adjacent to Senator Harry Reid's office. Bring your American flags, and also bring notes and cards with messages of support & appreciation for U.S. troops who have been injured in the war on terrorism. We'll collect your notes and cards and deliver them to our wounded warriors who are recovering from their injuries at Walter Reed Medical Center (in Washington, D.C.) and other military medical facilities at the completion of this national pro-troop caravan. For more information, email Mary Pearson at: fightforvictorytour@yahoo.com Be sure to pass on word to others about this big event! You can also find the complete itinerary/schedule for the "Fight for Victory Tour" online here: www.MoveAmericaForward.org .AOLWebSuite .AOLPicturesFullSizeLink {height:1px;width:1px;overflow:hidden;} P.J. Degross Web of support.Com Soldier Adoption Program Freedom Team Salute Ambassador Freedomteamsalute.com

You can run, but you cannot hide, Harry. I WILL be talking to you soon. Count on it.

(H/T to my pal Don) Brat

"Is Chivalry dead?"

CJ has another great post up at VA Mortgage series "You Served." It talks of his meeting with a WW2 veteran and then includes a story which embodies a principle we could emulate more often, and which I try and live by.

Almost, but I think the military (along with other service oriented organizations) are the last of a dying breed. Today, I went to the PX to see if they had a Wii in stock. For Christmas this year, we’re buying the family a Wii with a couple of games. We did a big Christmas last year and since we’re moving this year, we decided to save a little money and just get something for the whole family. They did have ONE Wii in stock, but I’m not ready to spend $249, especially with an upcoming move and the uncertainty of not having found a house yet. VAMC came through with an approved loan in record time and shipped me out all the paperwork expeditiously. I just need to fill out all the paperwork and return it. So, purchasing a game system right now is not on my list of priorities. While I was there an elderly man rolled in on his scooter looking at different accessories in the computer section of the Power Zone (the electronics department of the PX). The gentleman was a WWII vet, as evidenced by the hat he proudly wore as he rolled through the aisle....

To see what happened next, and to read the story within CJ's column, go here.

Thank you, CJ - as always!

brat

"Soon to be gone..."

The following is going the 'rounds' right now, and because of what it says, I feel the need to share it with you in its entirety. THIS is what we should all remember. Please take the time this holiday weekend to think about what this doctor says. I don't know who he is. I did 'google' him, and found this piece everywhere. It doesn't matter to me if this actual man does exist. The truths of what he says here are universal, timeless; the people he mentions should matter to each and every one of us. No matter the author name on this piece, the stories he relates are replayed over and over every day in our countries. We should NEVER forget! My prayers and thanks to ALL our medics, both in the sandbox and here at home, as I add my thanks to ALL our veterans. Lest we forget. God bless you all. (tech note: because of tech issues, I was unable to use the pictures included in the post - so sorry! But I urge you to look into the faces and see the heart, tenacity, the HONOUR of our veterans. They matter - now and always.)

Words of Appreciation From an Active Duty Military Doctor By Cpt. Stephen R. Ellison, M.D. I am a doctor specializing in Emergency Medicine in the Emergency Departments of the only two military Level One-trauma centers. They are both in San Antonio, TX and they care for civilian Emergencies as well as military personnel. San Antonio has the largest military retiree population in the world living here, because of the location of these two large military medical centers. As a military doctor in training for my specialty, I work long hours and the pay is less than glamorous. One tends to become jaded by the long hours, lack of sleep, food, family contact and the endless parade of human suffering passing before you. The arrival of another ambulance does not mean more pay, only more work. Most often, it is a victim from a motor vehicle crash. Often it is a person of dubious character who has been shot or stabbed. With our large military retiree population, it is often a nursing home patient. Even with my enlisted service and minimal combat experience in Panama, prior to medical school, I have caught myself groaning when the ambulance brought in yet another sick, elderly person from one of the local retirement centers that cater to military retirees. I had not stopped to think of what citizens of this age group represented. I saw "Saving Private Ryan." I was touched deeply. Not so much by the carnage in the first 30 minutes, but by the sacrifices of so many. I was touched most by the scene of the elderly survivor at the graveside, asking his wife if he'd been a good man. I realized that I had seen these same men and women coming through my Emergency Dept. and had not realized what magnificent sacrifices they had made. The things they did for me and everyone else that has lived on this planet since the end of that conflict are priceless. Situation permitting, I now try to ask my patients about their experiences. They would never bring up the subject without the inquiry. I have been privileged to an amazing array of experiences, recounted in the brief minutes allowed in an Emergency Dept. encounter. These experiences have revealed the incredible individuals I have had the honor of serving in a medical capacity, many on their last admission to the hospital. There was a frail, elderly woman who reassured my young enlisted medic, trying to start an IV line in her arm. She remained calm and poised, despite her illness and the multiple needle-sticks into her fragile veins. She was what we call a "hard stick." As the medic made another attempt, I noticed a number tattooed across her forearm. I touched it with one finger and looked into her eyes. She simply said "Auschwitz." Many of later generations would have loudly and openly berated the young medic in his many attempts. How different was the response from this person who'd seen unspeakable suffering. Also, there was this long retired Colonel, who as a young officer had parachuted from his burning plane over a Pacific Island held by the Japanese. Now an octogenarian, his head cut in a fall at home where he lived alone. His CT scan and suturing had been delayed until after midnight by the usual parade of high priority ambulance patients. Still spry for his age, he asked to use the phone to call a taxi, to take him home, then he realized his ambulance had brought him without his wallet. He asked if he could use the phone to make a long distance call to his daughter who lived 7 miles away. With great pride we told him that he could not, as he'd done enough for his country and the least we could do was get him a taxi home, even if we had to pay for it ourselves. My only regret was that my shift wouldn't end for several hours, and I couldn't drive him myself. I was there the night MSgt. Roy Benavidez came through the Emergency Dept. for the last time. He was very sick. I was not the doctor taking care of him, but I walked to his bedside and took his hand. I said nothing. He was so sick, he didn't know I was there. I'd read his Congressional Medal of Honor citation and wanted to shake his hand. He died a few days later. The gentleman who served with Merrill's Marauders, the survivor of the Baatan Death March, the survivor of Omaha Beach, the 101 year old World War I veteran, the former POW held in frozen North Korea, the former Special Forces medic - now with non-operable liver cancer, the former Viet Nam Corps Commander. I remember these citizens. I may still groan when yet another ambulance comes in, but now I am much more aware of what an honor it is to serve these particular men and women. I am angered at the cut backs, implemented and proposed, that will continue to decay their meager retirement benefits. I see the President and Congress who would turn their back on these individuals, who've sacrificed so much to protect our liberty. I see later generations that seem to be totally engrossed in abusing these same liberties, won with such sacrifice. It has become my personal endeavor, to make the nurses and young enlisted medics aware of these amazing individuals when I encounter them in our Emergency Dept. Their response to these particular citizens has made me think that perhaps all is not lost in the next generation. My experiences have solidified my belief that we are losing an incredible generation, and this nation knows not what it is losing. Our uncaring government and ungrateful civilian populace should all take note. We should all remember that we must "Earn this." Cpt. Stephen R. Ellison, M.D.

(h/t to Michelle) Brat