Yep, sure am. I have yet to make it to a rally, but hope to change that by Nov.
I know some that have. And I know their character. They, nor I, give a rats-ass what color anyone is. DO NOT CARE! I judge a man, or woman, by their acts.
For THIS American, Tea Party supporter or not, Obama has been all, or more, of the loser I feared for our country. He has exceeded all I was worried about, as the liberal his is. But he is an EXTREME liberal, and his agenda is the worse thing for America, than I had imagined.
For those who want to label Tea Party'ers as some sort of kook fringe group of racists, KISS MY BUTT! You don't know us. IF you even met one of us at all, any way you could possibly come away with such an idea, would be because you WANT to. Facts have never gotten in your way before, so I guess with this, facts don't matter either.
Otherwise - I CHALLENGE YOU, or any legitimate media outlet, to PROVE we are racists. PROVE IT! Talk to me. Ask me anything. Ask those who know me. Or ask more than one or two nuts you want to pick out of thousands in any rally.
While REAL racism has existed, and REAL wrongs have been perpetrated on minorities, the Tea Party does not ever support such acts. EVER! And to call any group, or person, racist, does a tremendous dis-service to those who have fallen victim to REAL racism.
I can't stand Obama. It has nothing to do with the fact he is half-white. If he were all white, I still wouldn't have voted for such a liberal. As for his race, what ever that is, the black community should be just as pissed off at squandering their money too! That half-black side sure hasn't help them either! He's hurting ALL OF US! He is killing the America we have known!!
Clean house in November. Then clean out the White House in 2012. The time to take back America is upon us. VOTE the man or woman who will strengthen America, and put the constitution ahead of their own desires for power.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance and the Flag, and what it means to me -
What do those things mean to you? What do they mean to those who come here, legally or not? I don't know those answers, but I can tell you what they mean to me.
Our Pledge of Allegiance is an interesting oath -
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
I see this oath, not one to take precedence over God, or a pledge to obey any "god", but as an oath to keep an allegiance to America over all other nations. "America" and the "Flag" represents ALL citizens of this great nation. It was never meant to me to be loyal to any one political party, President, or other entity. America - What a wonderful and beautiful word - is a word that, to me, stands for freedom. As too does the "Flag of The United State of America".
As for the "under God" part... I've never felt that meant I must believe in "God", or that I must be a Christian follower, but is a simple acknowledgment that America was founded on the Christian beliefs of conduct toward our fellow man. There are many, many quotes from texts and letters of our Founding Fathers that prove this out. It is a FACT that one of the guiding forces behind their drive toward a new nation of freedom, was their Christian beliefs. And, at no time in modern history, has any man, woman, or child, been denied justice and/or freedom, because he or she wasn't a Christian or believed in God, or was a follower of any other religion.
I pass my thoughts on- and forgive me for being so bold to do so and think you might value them - so that anyone, citizen, or wannabe citizen, might consider them. IF you choose to live here (excluding legal visitors), if you want to live here as a free citizen of The United States of America, as an American, then I suggest that you take an allegiance to America above ALL other countries. Otherwise, what ever country anyone wishes to hold some allegiance to, go there and live.
This IS America. The citizens of The United States of America have historically invited people from all over the world to come here and share in our freedoms and opportunities. But hear this, IF anyone's true allegiance is to ANY other country, don't come here, and if you are here already, don't stay. Forget politics. Forget foreign policy when it comes to my point here. Make those changes from within, as active and participating citizens. But to hold ANY allegiance to any other country, is UN-American, and such a person doesn't belong here.
As for flying the Flag - Untold hundreds of thousands of men and women fought, and died, for this country and the flag they fought under. Please, what ever your protest, don't burn our Flag or fly her upside down. Those who served before, those serving now, and those who will serve tomorrow, deserve to have the Flag of their country treated in a respectful way. Burn all the likenesses of elephants and donkeys you want, but not our Flag. Yes, a citizen would be free to do so. But having a "right" to do it, doesn't make it "right" thing to do. It isn't.
This is America, the United States of America. While I won't say, "Like it or leave it", I will say, "Pledge allegiance to the United States of America above all other nations, or leave it." There are things that may need changing. There may be things you don't agree with or don't like. I'm fine with that, so long as you get involved to help make it better. But if anyone holds ANY allegiance to another country over America, LEAVE NOW. If you want to be a free American citizen, then come on in and help us be better, and take the Pledge of Allegiance to The United States of America.
America. I hate the politics, but I love my country. Land of the free. Home of the brave.
Happy 4th of July America!
What do those things mean to you? What do they mean to those who come here, legally or not? I don't know those answers, but I can tell you what they mean to me.
Our Pledge of Allegiance is an interesting oath -
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
I see this oath, not one to take precedence over God, or a pledge to obey any "god", but as an oath to keep an allegiance to America over all other nations. "America" and the "Flag" represents ALL citizens of this great nation. It was never meant to me to be loyal to any one political party, President, or other entity. America - What a wonderful and beautiful word - is a word that, to me, stands for freedom. As too does the "Flag of The United State of America".
As for the "under God" part... I've never felt that meant I must believe in "God", or that I must be a Christian follower, but is a simple acknowledgment that America was founded on the Christian beliefs of conduct toward our fellow man. There are many, many quotes from texts and letters of our Founding Fathers that prove this out. It is a FACT that one of the guiding forces behind their drive toward a new nation of freedom, was their Christian beliefs. And, at no time in modern history, has any man, woman, or child, been denied justice and/or freedom, because he or she wasn't a Christian or believed in God, or was a follower of any other religion.
I pass my thoughts on- and forgive me for being so bold to do so and think you might value them - so that anyone, citizen, or wannabe citizen, might consider them. IF you choose to live here (excluding legal visitors), if you want to live here as a free citizen of The United States of America, as an American, then I suggest that you take an allegiance to America above ALL other countries. Otherwise, what ever country anyone wishes to hold some allegiance to, go there and live.
This IS America. The citizens of The United States of America have historically invited people from all over the world to come here and share in our freedoms and opportunities. But hear this, IF anyone's true allegiance is to ANY other country, don't come here, and if you are here already, don't stay. Forget politics. Forget foreign policy when it comes to my point here. Make those changes from within, as active and participating citizens. But to hold ANY allegiance to any other country, is UN-American, and such a person doesn't belong here.
As for flying the Flag - Untold hundreds of thousands of men and women fought, and died, for this country and the flag they fought under. Please, what ever your protest, don't burn our Flag or fly her upside down. Those who served before, those serving now, and those who will serve tomorrow, deserve to have the Flag of their country treated in a respectful way. Burn all the likenesses of elephants and donkeys you want, but not our Flag. Yes, a citizen would be free to do so. But having a "right" to do it, doesn't make it "right" thing to do. It isn't.
This is America, the United States of America. While I won't say, "Like it or leave it", I will say, "Pledge allegiance to the United States of America above all other nations, or leave it." There are things that may need changing. There may be things you don't agree with or don't like. I'm fine with that, so long as you get involved to help make it better. But if anyone holds ANY allegiance to another country over America, LEAVE NOW. If you want to be a free American citizen, then come on in and help us be better, and take the Pledge of Allegiance to The United States of America.
America. I hate the politics, but I love my country. Land of the free. Home of the brave.
Happy 4th of July America!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Big Brother
In case you haven't read it, or heard about it, there is a new bill introduced by the government, to take control over the Internet, in time of national emergency.
In part, and in essence, here is the jest of it:
The Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs has approved a cybersecurity bill, Protecting Cyberspace as a National Asset Act (PCNAA), that would give the president far-reaching authority over the Internet in the case of emergency.
(also included)
As we wrote here, the bill would also see the creation of a new agency within the Department of Homeland Security, the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications (NCCC). Any private company reliant on "the Internet, the telephone system, or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'" would be "subject to command" by the NCCC, and some would be required to engage in "information sharing" with the agency, says CBS4.
So, in today's growingly bigger government, WHO decides what is a national emergency Let me point out - Any private company reliant on "the Internet, the telephone system, or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'" would be "subject to command" by the NCCC, and some would be required to engage in "information sharing" with the agency, says CBS4.
But, IF we, as a nation, decide that we have had enough of BIG GOVERNMENT, and decide to call for a march on Washington, calling for millions to protest, could THAT be construed by some in government, as a "national emergency"? And to stop such a movement, could they then shut down the Internet to stop the nation-wide spread of communication and organization? And what about the "telephone system", or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'". Does that part of the bill, which states, "subject to command" over private businesses, bother YOU?
One of the major proponents to this bill, is Sen. Joe Lieberman. My question for the Senator, who is Jewish, is this - What IF, Joe was in 1930's Germany, there was today's technology in that day, with the Internet. Would Joe be so quick to give Hitler such sweeping power and authority? And IF they had such technology in 1938, just how many people could have been better prepared, more informed, and how many lives may have been saved in those years that followed?
This is just ONE MORE control mechanism being thrust upon Americans. We are losing what freedoms we have enjoyed as a free nation. BIG BROTHER is already here, so just how much more do we want to surrender to him?
As of this morning, I have called the Senator's office, and wrote him an email. I have also contacted my own Senator on this issue, and ask that you do the same.
In part, and in essence, here is the jest of it:
The Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs has approved a cybersecurity bill, Protecting Cyberspace as a National Asset Act (PCNAA), that would give the president far-reaching authority over the Internet in the case of emergency.
(also included)
As we wrote here, the bill would also see the creation of a new agency within the Department of Homeland Security, the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications (NCCC). Any private company reliant on "the Internet, the telephone system, or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'" would be "subject to command" by the NCCC, and some would be required to engage in "information sharing" with the agency, says CBS4.
So, in today's growingly bigger government, WHO decides what is a national emergency Let me point out - Any private company reliant on "the Internet, the telephone system, or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'" would be "subject to command" by the NCCC, and some would be required to engage in "information sharing" with the agency, says CBS4.
But, IF we, as a nation, decide that we have had enough of BIG GOVERNMENT, and decide to call for a march on Washington, calling for millions to protest, could THAT be construed by some in government, as a "national emergency"? And to stop such a movement, could they then shut down the Internet to stop the nation-wide spread of communication and organization? And what about the "telephone system", or any other component of the U.S. 'information infrastructure'". Does that part of the bill, which states, "subject to command" over private businesses, bother YOU?
One of the major proponents to this bill, is Sen. Joe Lieberman. My question for the Senator, who is Jewish, is this - What IF, Joe was in 1930's Germany, there was today's technology in that day, with the Internet. Would Joe be so quick to give Hitler such sweeping power and authority? And IF they had such technology in 1938, just how many people could have been better prepared, more informed, and how many lives may have been saved in those years that followed?
This is just ONE MORE control mechanism being thrust upon Americans. We are losing what freedoms we have enjoyed as a free nation. BIG BROTHER is already here, so just how much more do we want to surrender to him?
As of this morning, I have called the Senator's office, and wrote him an email. I have also contacted my own Senator on this issue, and ask that you do the same.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Oh....I'm sorry
Can a really "stand-up" public figure...PLEASE STAND UP! I mean, if you believe it, and say it, then stand the heck up and OWN IT!
But after Congressman Joe Barton get a brief feel of having a pair, he cowered down and apologized. Don't get me wrong here. BP has a great deal to answer for. But Barton was right. The heavy hand of Obama didn't work with them (BP) for some "agreement", he and his minions DID shakedown BP. As far as I'm concerned, Barton was right. But with a fear of his political future, which is now exposed as being more important than truth and the American people, he tucked his tail and apologized.
Now, just when I thought someone would stand up to Obama and that administration, General McCrystal made some comments, but then backed down from what he said, and is now groveling for his job at the feet of Obama. Damn man! If you believe it, and said it....then stand the hell up and OWN IT!
No respect intended here, in any way, but the Would-be Times Square bomber Faisal Shahzad, held to his (twisted) convictions, and plead guilty to his crime. Shahzad made this decision on his own without any plea agreement in place. While I hope he never sees daylight again, he at least stood by his convictions, with NO plea agreement to do so, and OWNED IT.
I'm sorry for such a lop-sided comparison, but my point is this: If you have convictions, and you want to be bold enough to speak them out loud, then at least stand up for them afterward. Backing down and saying you're sorry, is pathetic.
If you believe it, but don't think it should be said, for what ever reason, then choose to shut up...keep it inside. We all do that, in one measure or another. But if you have strong convictions, and are willing to speak them openly, then you better be ready to OWN IT, and not grovel afterward.
Obama is a terrible president. And in MY opinion, written for anyone to read right here in a publicly accessible forum, Obama is the single most destructive president we have ever experienced. America IS being "fundamentally changed" - for the worse. (You can step down a bit now Carter, Obama has taken you off top honors!)
But after Congressman Joe Barton get a brief feel of having a pair, he cowered down and apologized. Don't get me wrong here. BP has a great deal to answer for. But Barton was right. The heavy hand of Obama didn't work with them (BP) for some "agreement", he and his minions DID shakedown BP. As far as I'm concerned, Barton was right. But with a fear of his political future, which is now exposed as being more important than truth and the American people, he tucked his tail and apologized.
Now, just when I thought someone would stand up to Obama and that administration, General McCrystal made some comments, but then backed down from what he said, and is now groveling for his job at the feet of Obama. Damn man! If you believe it, and said it....then stand the hell up and OWN IT!
No respect intended here, in any way, but the Would-be Times Square bomber Faisal Shahzad, held to his (twisted) convictions, and plead guilty to his crime. Shahzad made this decision on his own without any plea agreement in place. While I hope he never sees daylight again, he at least stood by his convictions, with NO plea agreement to do so, and OWNED IT.
I'm sorry for such a lop-sided comparison, but my point is this: If you have convictions, and you want to be bold enough to speak them out loud, then at least stand up for them afterward. Backing down and saying you're sorry, is pathetic.
If you believe it, but don't think it should be said, for what ever reason, then choose to shut up...keep it inside. We all do that, in one measure or another. But if you have strong convictions, and are willing to speak them openly, then you better be ready to OWN IT, and not grovel afterward.
Obama is a terrible president. And in MY opinion, written for anyone to read right here in a publicly accessible forum, Obama is the single most destructive president we have ever experienced. America IS being "fundamentally changed" - for the worse. (You can step down a bit now Carter, Obama has taken you off top honors!)
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Happy Father's Day 2010
Happy Father's Day to ALL the dad's out there who take that title seriously and truly LOVE their children. I celebrate this day with love for my children, and I celebrate YOU....the fathers of the world.
Fatherhood - I absolutely love being a father! I am Blessed to have great kids. And in all fairness to my ex-wife, it took both of us to help make that happen. "Dad", is a word that is like music to my ears when it comes from the mouths of my kids. I'm also a step-dad to a great kid too. And while not his "father", I try to be the best (step) dad I can be for him and his development.
Okay - but on to my topic of today - Fatherhood. Calling all fathers....calling all fathers..... Our kids need YOU. Our communities need YOU. Our nation needs YOU.
Even if you are divorced and live in a separate home than your kids, they need YOU in their lives. And they need the very best from you for adult guidance and a good example of manhood and fatherhood.
Throughout my career in the law enforcement field, working on the streets, the jail, and as an investigator, I have seen countless kids, mostly boys, who either did not have an active dad in the picture, or a very bad one serving as an example for behavior. In any case, a REAL "father" was missing, and the kids, and the community, were paying the price. I see kids all the time, where I think to myself, "That one will be in jail soon!" Our children learn more by example, or the lack of one, than by anything else. A "father" can be the strongest example a kid, specially a young boy, can have. (Even daughters need a good "dad", so they can gauge what a " good man" should be like when she chooses a husband.) Boys will more likely, emulate the characteristics of the father, good or bad (not in every case, some kids have other issues that can impair the parenting process).
I once heard somewhere - "Everyone can serve as an example, even if by being a bad one!" It's that way with fathers. If a father treats his wife bad, the likelihood is that his male children will do the same. If a father is a drunk or does drugs, then it is far more likely that his children will too. Who could truly love their children, and want that for them?
MEN - If you don't want to be an active and participating "father", then don't father children! In MY opinion, ANY male (I won't use "man" for such lame a--holes) who fathers children and doesn't participate in raising them, should be castrated! (Actually, I'd also go for any women who help create fatherless children with multiple men, for pleasure, should be sterilized!) Yep... CASTRATE the bastards! No more creation of children by men who don't take responsibility. They are NOT real men, they are just sperm dispensers on legs.
To any male who should read this, who falls into that category of creating children and then NOT participating in raising them....... SHAME ON YOU. You are a spineless scroatbag simpleton with a penis for a brain! And if any such person should father multiple children with multiple women, and take care of none of them, I'm just fine with dumping their worthless body in a swamp for the gators to have! And liars, drunkards, dopers, swindlers, and lazy men, are NOT the examples our kids need.
As a nation, we tolerate far too much. And part of that, is tolerating such people and having the rest of us, saying nothing of the children who have to grow up the best they can, pay for it all. The gators could eat well with all those who commit such acts. Hard? Damn right! Needed? Damn skippy!
I love my kids. I can't imagine this world without them. And I can't relate to those men who don't love their kids and want to be part of their lives, and to do well by them. To all those real dads out their, I salute you! Fatherhood is the greatest job out there.
To my children - I love you. I have made mistakes and I hope you see them for what they are and do better than I did. I hope too that you take all my best parts, and take them with you through your lives. As for the not-so-good qualities, use them as examples of what you don't want to be like. You are already better than I am, and I am so pleased, and Blessed for that. I have always wanted better for you, than what I have and am. Thank you God for my children. They are gifts beyond my deserving.
Happy Father's Day to all the great dads out there!
Fatherhood - I absolutely love being a father! I am Blessed to have great kids. And in all fairness to my ex-wife, it took both of us to help make that happen. "Dad", is a word that is like music to my ears when it comes from the mouths of my kids. I'm also a step-dad to a great kid too. And while not his "father", I try to be the best (step) dad I can be for him and his development.
Okay - but on to my topic of today - Fatherhood. Calling all fathers....calling all fathers..... Our kids need YOU. Our communities need YOU. Our nation needs YOU.
Even if you are divorced and live in a separate home than your kids, they need YOU in their lives. And they need the very best from you for adult guidance and a good example of manhood and fatherhood.
Throughout my career in the law enforcement field, working on the streets, the jail, and as an investigator, I have seen countless kids, mostly boys, who either did not have an active dad in the picture, or a very bad one serving as an example for behavior. In any case, a REAL "father" was missing, and the kids, and the community, were paying the price. I see kids all the time, where I think to myself, "That one will be in jail soon!" Our children learn more by example, or the lack of one, than by anything else. A "father" can be the strongest example a kid, specially a young boy, can have. (Even daughters need a good "dad", so they can gauge what a " good man" should be like when she chooses a husband.) Boys will more likely, emulate the characteristics of the father, good or bad (not in every case, some kids have other issues that can impair the parenting process).
I once heard somewhere - "Everyone can serve as an example, even if by being a bad one!" It's that way with fathers. If a father treats his wife bad, the likelihood is that his male children will do the same. If a father is a drunk or does drugs, then it is far more likely that his children will too. Who could truly love their children, and want that for them?
MEN - If you don't want to be an active and participating "father", then don't father children! In MY opinion, ANY male (I won't use "man" for such lame a--holes) who fathers children and doesn't participate in raising them, should be castrated! (Actually, I'd also go for any women who help create fatherless children with multiple men, for pleasure, should be sterilized!) Yep... CASTRATE the bastards! No more creation of children by men who don't take responsibility. They are NOT real men, they are just sperm dispensers on legs.
To any male who should read this, who falls into that category of creating children and then NOT participating in raising them....... SHAME ON YOU. You are a spineless scroatbag simpleton with a penis for a brain! And if any such person should father multiple children with multiple women, and take care of none of them, I'm just fine with dumping their worthless body in a swamp for the gators to have! And liars, drunkards, dopers, swindlers, and lazy men, are NOT the examples our kids need.
As a nation, we tolerate far too much. And part of that, is tolerating such people and having the rest of us, saying nothing of the children who have to grow up the best they can, pay for it all. The gators could eat well with all those who commit such acts. Hard? Damn right! Needed? Damn skippy!
I love my kids. I can't imagine this world without them. And I can't relate to those men who don't love their kids and want to be part of their lives, and to do well by them. To all those real dads out their, I salute you! Fatherhood is the greatest job out there.
To my children - I love you. I have made mistakes and I hope you see them for what they are and do better than I did. I hope too that you take all my best parts, and take them with you through your lives. As for the not-so-good qualities, use them as examples of what you don't want to be like. You are already better than I am, and I am so pleased, and Blessed for that. I have always wanted better for you, than what I have and am. Thank you God for my children. They are gifts beyond my deserving.
Happy Father's Day to all the great dads out there!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Korean War Vets - YOU are NOT forgotten
I am writing this Memorial Day Weekend, and while I wrote in memory of ALL of our fallen from all wars, past and present, I wanted to add an entry in respect of those who are sometimes passed up in reflections. To our Korean War Veterans, YOU are not forgotten!
While the attention on the Korean War, and those Veterans, are often over-looked, I think it may be important to reflect on those days and costs. Korea, as we know, is still in the news and North Korean is STILL a threat to any lasting peace and security for that region of the world. We maintain a force there, to help our South Korean friends keep North Korea in check. Tensions still run high between the two nations, and our involvement is that of security forces at the 38th parallel, and at sea.
Our participation in the Korean War, was officially from June 25, 1950, to the Armistice on July 27, 1953. The official combat actions ended, but PEACE was never really declared.
During that war, South Korea was joined by the US, and some 15 other UN nations. For the US, we lost 23,615 in combat actions. Another 2,847 died while in POW camps. Our South Korean friends, lost 137,899. Like all wars, it was ugly, and left long lasting scars for those who served. And in case you don't remember, North Korea was joined by China!
I think it's important to remember those costs. And many of the families of those South Korean lost, came to America and became citizens. And too, many of our soldiers brought Korean brides home with them.
Over the years, those soldiers (I use the term to be all inclusive of those in all branches who served in Korea), had come back home to a lack-luster welcoming. In the years that followed, they were caught between the WWII ending (using the surrender by Japan on Sept. 2, 1945), with that great jubilation for all those who served, and the anti-war welcoming of those who served in Vietnam.
But our veterans and fathers of that day, served OUR nation, just as much so as did any other war veteran. Not that no one remembers that, but those Vets don't get the same attention. To ALL those who served in that war, I want to say THANK YOU. I do appreciate YOUR service, as well as the sacrifices of those who died in their service. I think that we sometimes, get so caught up in trying to set things right with the Vietnam Vets (and I am one), that our Korean War Vets get ignored, or slighted.
If you see one of our Vets wearing a Korea War emblem or cap, tell them thanks. By the way, a good many of them, served in WWII and Korea, and some, even served in WWII, Korea, AND Vietnam! Those guys ROCK!
Remember ALL our Veterans, and honor ALL our lost today. And to our Korean War Veterans, THANK YOU!
Dan
3/187th Inf.
101st Airborne Div.
RVN 1969-70
While the attention on the Korean War, and those Veterans, are often over-looked, I think it may be important to reflect on those days and costs. Korea, as we know, is still in the news and North Korean is STILL a threat to any lasting peace and security for that region of the world. We maintain a force there, to help our South Korean friends keep North Korea in check. Tensions still run high between the two nations, and our involvement is that of security forces at the 38th parallel, and at sea.
Our participation in the Korean War, was officially from June 25, 1950, to the Armistice on July 27, 1953. The official combat actions ended, but PEACE was never really declared.
During that war, South Korea was joined by the US, and some 15 other UN nations. For the US, we lost 23,615 in combat actions. Another 2,847 died while in POW camps. Our South Korean friends, lost 137,899. Like all wars, it was ugly, and left long lasting scars for those who served. And in case you don't remember, North Korea was joined by China!
I think it's important to remember those costs. And many of the families of those South Korean lost, came to America and became citizens. And too, many of our soldiers brought Korean brides home with them.
Over the years, those soldiers (I use the term to be all inclusive of those in all branches who served in Korea), had come back home to a lack-luster welcoming. In the years that followed, they were caught between the WWII ending (using the surrender by Japan on Sept. 2, 1945), with that great jubilation for all those who served, and the anti-war welcoming of those who served in Vietnam.
But our veterans and fathers of that day, served OUR nation, just as much so as did any other war veteran. Not that no one remembers that, but those Vets don't get the same attention. To ALL those who served in that war, I want to say THANK YOU. I do appreciate YOUR service, as well as the sacrifices of those who died in their service. I think that we sometimes, get so caught up in trying to set things right with the Vietnam Vets (and I am one), that our Korean War Vets get ignored, or slighted.
If you see one of our Vets wearing a Korea War emblem or cap, tell them thanks. By the way, a good many of them, served in WWII and Korea, and some, even served in WWII, Korea, AND Vietnam! Those guys ROCK!
Remember ALL our Veterans, and honor ALL our lost today. And to our Korean War Veterans, THANK YOU!
Dan
3/187th Inf.
101st Airborne Div.
RVN 1969-70
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Memorial Day 2010
Since the first recognition of our fallen soldiers, by proclamation by General John Logan in 1868, the Nation first set aside May 30th as the day we would lay flags and flowers on the graves of our fallen, to commemorate those sacrifices. Today, we use the last Monday of May as Memorial Day. This May 31st is that day in which we remember all those who have given all in the name of freedom.
Today, we are still engaged in combat activities, in the name of freedom. While many may argue one side or the other, it is MY belief that the struggle of today, are for the freedom of those oppressed in the area of the Mid-East, specifically, Iraq and Afghanistan, and to also keep back any progress by our enemies to regain a renewed strength and weaponry to again launch an attack on our soil. With our daily engagements, they bring about the sacrifices, in the fullest, of those who fight. Sadly, we add to the numbers of those in cemeteries all across our lands.
During my day, in that Vietnam War time, most of who I fought beside were drafted. Many did not want to be there, and would not have been there, had it not been for the draft. But, they knew that we could not refuse our duties because we didn't agree, or understand that war effort. We served, because our country called on us to do so. We understood that our country, not just one man in office, approved our involvement, and we answered that call. (This is not the time to address those who ran from that call, but I have very strong views on those ....people.)
Today however, there is no draft. The news is daily on the dangers of being "over there". Yet, the ranks are full of those who signed on, voluntarily. These courageous men and women "volunteer" to join the fight, knowing that they could end up in one of our Nation's cemeteries. I am humbled by their willingness to serve in such a difficult war.
We will have our time to honor all those, before and present, who have fought and who fight today, on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11th. But, May 31st is our day to honor those who will never fight again, those who have given all, for the freedom we all too often take for granted.
I honor them, those who have given all for me and my country. By their blood, I am free. May we all remember the price they paid. Freedom IS NOT free, and those we honor, paid that heavy price for all of us.
I ask that all of you, fly OUR nation's flag, in honor of those who paid for that privilege to do so. God Bless Our Troops, and God Bless America.
Dan
Today, we are still engaged in combat activities, in the name of freedom. While many may argue one side or the other, it is MY belief that the struggle of today, are for the freedom of those oppressed in the area of the Mid-East, specifically, Iraq and Afghanistan, and to also keep back any progress by our enemies to regain a renewed strength and weaponry to again launch an attack on our soil. With our daily engagements, they bring about the sacrifices, in the fullest, of those who fight. Sadly, we add to the numbers of those in cemeteries all across our lands.
During my day, in that Vietnam War time, most of who I fought beside were drafted. Many did not want to be there, and would not have been there, had it not been for the draft. But, they knew that we could not refuse our duties because we didn't agree, or understand that war effort. We served, because our country called on us to do so. We understood that our country, not just one man in office, approved our involvement, and we answered that call. (This is not the time to address those who ran from that call, but I have very strong views on those ....people.)
Today however, there is no draft. The news is daily on the dangers of being "over there". Yet, the ranks are full of those who signed on, voluntarily. These courageous men and women "volunteer" to join the fight, knowing that they could end up in one of our Nation's cemeteries. I am humbled by their willingness to serve in such a difficult war.
We will have our time to honor all those, before and present, who have fought and who fight today, on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11th. But, May 31st is our day to honor those who will never fight again, those who have given all, for the freedom we all too often take for granted.
I honor them, those who have given all for me and my country. By their blood, I am free. May we all remember the price they paid. Freedom IS NOT free, and those we honor, paid that heavy price for all of us.
I ask that all of you, fly OUR nation's flag, in honor of those who paid for that privilege to do so. God Bless Our Troops, and God Bless America.
Dan
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Good Bye Ol' Friend
I don't know the origin of the saying, "A dog is man's best friend", but I have bought into that for many years now.
For those who have dogs for companions, that live in your homes, ride in your cars, snuggle with you on the couch, and greet you with a happy disposition every day, you will know of what I speak.
But, as hard it has been for me, I had to say good-bye to my Irish setter. After about 14 years of life, she just could no longer maintain a quality of life. She was nearly blind, lost a lot of weight, and just couldn't get up or down without difficulty. And still, she loved us up every day, with licks and a wagging tail.
I am just past that 60 mark. I've never been a Rambo, and certainly no war "hero", but I've been around. I've seen war, close up and very personal. I've been in Law Enforcement for more than 15 years, having seen the dead in many settings, by many means. In all my years, two things get to me the most. Dead and/or harmed children. And dead dogs. In many ways, except for children, I like dogs more than most people.
Today, my wife and I said our good-byes our sweet Cali. She was family to us. She was a good dog, and always wanted to see us when we came home. Dogs ARE man's best friend. We'll be seeing you someday Cali.
PS.
We highly recommend pet, particularly dog, adoption. Cali, and her sisters, have all been adopted.
For those who have dogs for companions, that live in your homes, ride in your cars, snuggle with you on the couch, and greet you with a happy disposition every day, you will know of what I speak.
But, as hard it has been for me, I had to say good-bye to my Irish setter. After about 14 years of life, she just could no longer maintain a quality of life. She was nearly blind, lost a lot of weight, and just couldn't get up or down without difficulty. And still, she loved us up every day, with licks and a wagging tail.
I am just past that 60 mark. I've never been a Rambo, and certainly no war "hero", but I've been around. I've seen war, close up and very personal. I've been in Law Enforcement for more than 15 years, having seen the dead in many settings, by many means. In all my years, two things get to me the most. Dead and/or harmed children. And dead dogs. In many ways, except for children, I like dogs more than most people.
Today, my wife and I said our good-byes our sweet Cali. She was family to us. She was a good dog, and always wanted to see us when we came home. Dogs ARE man's best friend. We'll be seeing you someday Cali.
PS.
We highly recommend pet, particularly dog, adoption. Cali, and her sisters, have all been adopted.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Diversions - Part 2
Well, I just can't stop with the feeling that THIS, the Obama, Administration, is over-the-top in extreme stupid. And Lord help them, if for a minute, they let facts and figures and information, be a DISTRACTION or DIVERSION and get in the way of having their WAY!
THIS administration is an administration of, "Don't confuse me with the facts, we've made up our minds."
And with that, they don't even wait for facts, they make opinions and allegations, BEFORE they even know what the hell they're talking about!
Eric Holder has just PROVED this point. In his latest testimony to The House Judiciary Committee, he confessed to not have even READ Arizona's new immigration law, yet have drawn an opinion on it. The president has also made comments against the law, and he hasn't read it either. And these dumb-asses are LAWYERS!
(Need legal advise? Want a competent attorney? Want an attorney to help you through all the "fine print", before you sign ANY legal document? Then ABSOLUTELY avoid ANY Washington attorney, congressman, senator, who voted for that POS health-care reform bill. They signed it and never read the damn thing!)
Remember the pres, being quick to espouse an opinion on the professor Gates and the Police Officer's ordeal? Right or wrong, shouldn't THEY wait to hear ALL the facts, before making public statements? How presidential is all this? It isn't.
And while ALL Presidents do a lot to stand with their party, I feel like this president, is ALL about HIS agenda, and that of the Democratic party, and NONE about the other half of the nation. WHEN will Obama, be the President of ALL Americans?
People, we need to get out the vote in November. The Tea Party folks have it right, if ANY politician (of ANY party) is not a Constitutionalist, throw their butts out. It's time for "the people" to take back Washington!
BTW - Mr. Holder ... try READING Arizona's new law BEFORE you draw a breath of opinion!
Dan
THIS administration is an administration of, "Don't confuse me with the facts, we've made up our minds."
And with that, they don't even wait for facts, they make opinions and allegations, BEFORE they even know what the hell they're talking about!
Eric Holder has just PROVED this point. In his latest testimony to The House Judiciary Committee, he confessed to not have even READ Arizona's new immigration law, yet have drawn an opinion on it. The president has also made comments against the law, and he hasn't read it either. And these dumb-asses are LAWYERS!
(Need legal advise? Want a competent attorney? Want an attorney to help you through all the "fine print", before you sign ANY legal document? Then ABSOLUTELY avoid ANY Washington attorney, congressman, senator, who voted for that POS health-care reform bill. They signed it and never read the damn thing!)
Remember the pres, being quick to espouse an opinion on the professor Gates and the Police Officer's ordeal? Right or wrong, shouldn't THEY wait to hear ALL the facts, before making public statements? How presidential is all this? It isn't.
And while ALL Presidents do a lot to stand with their party, I feel like this president, is ALL about HIS agenda, and that of the Democratic party, and NONE about the other half of the nation. WHEN will Obama, be the President of ALL Americans?
People, we need to get out the vote in November. The Tea Party folks have it right, if ANY politician (of ANY party) is not a Constitutionalist, throw their butts out. It's time for "the people" to take back Washington!
BTW - Mr. Holder ... try READING Arizona's new law BEFORE you draw a breath of opinion!
Dan
Monday, May 10, 2010
Am I a diversion?
I'm sorry, but I am a diversion? Or, are too many electronic outlets for news and blogs, a diversion?
In an Obama commencement speech, he said, "With iPods and iPads and Xboxes and PlayStations, -- none of which I know how to work -- information becomes a distraction, a diversion, a form of entertainment, rather than a tool of empowerment, rather than the means of emancipation."
For a man who used the Internet and on-line releases during his campaign, he now is feeling the heat of those who will question him, those who will disagree with him, those who write about is every move and decision.
A "distraction"? A "diversion"? Oh ... wait ... let not the public be distracted and diverted with news, information, and critical debate....Just believe any ol' thing the great Obama tells you!
Awww...bt some pweple disagwee wit da pwesidwnet....
Well if information is becoming a distraction, then maybe someone needs to ask the real question, "Why?" And "distracting" to whom? This president, more than ANY OTHER president I can remember in my 60 years, has done nothing but push HIS agenda, and campaign for those agendas, since he took office.
EXCUSE me pres....but aren't you suppose to be president of ALL Americans? Yet, you totally ignore at least HALF the country! (The health care reform bill polling averages were more than 54% against!)
And HEY! MEDIA!! Wake the hell up!!! Where are YOU? Why is it that bloggers and on-line story outlets have to report on what YOU WON'T? Where are YOU? The so-called major media has failed America, by giving this president (and Clinton too, for the most part) a pass on almost everything? Is he really THAT perfect to you? You can't find ANY fault to shine a light on?
But THAT is why bloggers, and other on-line sources of news and commentary, have grown. They (dare I add, me?) at least bring debate to the forefront. They at least bring a magnifying glass to the abundance of crap coming out of Washington.
But, because they generally DON'T agree with Obama, Obama has targeted them and wants people to stop reading, listening, and writing about HIM. Obama means to squash any opposing views, by what ever means he can get away with. Demonize the Tea Partiers. Demonize objective, or at least critical, media outlets. Demonize talk radio. Demonize ANYONE who would dare be critical of the great Obama. How dare they!
Thank God for the 1st amendment, and our forefathers who feared this type of growing government, or Obama would surely shut us all up!
Well I will NOT go silently into the night. I'll keep writing, if for no other reason, than to at least speak up! Ask questions. Raise a debate. Be critical.
Dan
In an Obama commencement speech, he said, "With iPods and iPads and Xboxes and PlayStations, -- none of which I know how to work -- information becomes a distraction, a diversion, a form of entertainment, rather than a tool of empowerment, rather than the means of emancipation."
For a man who used the Internet and on-line releases during his campaign, he now is feeling the heat of those who will question him, those who will disagree with him, those who write about is every move and decision.
A "distraction"? A "diversion"? Oh ... wait ... let not the public be distracted and diverted with news, information, and critical debate....Just believe any ol' thing the great Obama tells you!
Awww...bt some pweple disagwee wit da pwesidwnet....
Well if information is becoming a distraction, then maybe someone needs to ask the real question, "Why?" And "distracting" to whom? This president, more than ANY OTHER president I can remember in my 60 years, has done nothing but push HIS agenda, and campaign for those agendas, since he took office.
EXCUSE me pres....but aren't you suppose to be president of ALL Americans? Yet, you totally ignore at least HALF the country! (The health care reform bill polling averages were more than 54% against!)
And HEY! MEDIA!! Wake the hell up!!! Where are YOU? Why is it that bloggers and on-line story outlets have to report on what YOU WON'T? Where are YOU? The so-called major media has failed America, by giving this president (and Clinton too, for the most part) a pass on almost everything? Is he really THAT perfect to you? You can't find ANY fault to shine a light on?
But THAT is why bloggers, and other on-line sources of news and commentary, have grown. They (dare I add, me?) at least bring debate to the forefront. They at least bring a magnifying glass to the abundance of crap coming out of Washington.
But, because they generally DON'T agree with Obama, Obama has targeted them and wants people to stop reading, listening, and writing about HIM. Obama means to squash any opposing views, by what ever means he can get away with. Demonize the Tea Partiers. Demonize objective, or at least critical, media outlets. Demonize talk radio. Demonize ANYONE who would dare be critical of the great Obama. How dare they!
Thank God for the 1st amendment, and our forefathers who feared this type of growing government, or Obama would surely shut us all up!
Well I will NOT go silently into the night. I'll keep writing, if for no other reason, than to at least speak up! Ask questions. Raise a debate. Be critical.
Dan
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