I have been told from time to time that we Americans are saying the Pledge of Allegiance incorrectly. Every time we say “one Nation under God” we pause between the words “one Nation” and “under God” as if there was a comma after Nation.
If you look at 4 USCS 4, you will find the following:
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: "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.", should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute.
Sure enough, according to this Federal Statute, the phrase is “one Nation under God” without a comma. So, why do we pause? I am not sure of the origin of this tradition. Perhaps it's verbal laziness when having to recite something from memory. Perhaps it was a conscious decision among some early on that believe an impermissible government endorsement of religion, which functions to enforce a religious orthodoxy of monotheism, occurs when we recite this phrase without a pause.
I particularly don't care one way or another how we say “one Nation under God,” as long as we say it. When you start to mess with the Pledge of Allegiance by removing the phrase “under God,” that's a different story. It is interesting to learn that for all of these years we have been reciting the pledge incorrectly. Maybe it's time we make a change... and remove the pause.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Violence in Iraq Drops to its Lowest Levels Since August 2003
The U.S. Military reported yesterday that violence in Iraq has dropped to its lowest levels since August 2003. In Baghdad alone, violence has decreased 90% since the surge of U.S. troops began in 2007. The Iraqi security forces have grown 25% in the last year to 618,000 contributing to the improved security.
Unfortunately, the mainstream media doesn't report good news coming out of Iraq and even if it did, with the economic crisis we are in, the news of improved security in Iraq likely wouldn't make the front page or the nightly news.
It's only a matter of time that Iraq will be able to fully handle its own security allowing U.S. troops to start coming home. A democratic Iraq, in what is still a very unstable region of the world, will go a long way in helping the United States and its allies ensure that Iran remains nuclear-free and is our best bet for long lasting peace in the Middle East.
At the risk of sounding redundant, history will vindicate this war and George W. Bush who chose to wage it. Probably not in our lifetime, but maybe in our kids' lifetime. The Civil War was an unpopular war in the North and early Southern victories made it, along with the President, even more unpopular. Today, President Lincoln is hailed as a hero for his fight to keep the Union together and freeing the slaves. Although the Civil War was a tragedy due the massive life lost, it is viewed by many as a success. That is why it is important to always keep things in perspective.
Source: Department of Defense
Unfortunately, the mainstream media doesn't report good news coming out of Iraq and even if it did, with the economic crisis we are in, the news of improved security in Iraq likely wouldn't make the front page or the nightly news.
It's only a matter of time that Iraq will be able to fully handle its own security allowing U.S. troops to start coming home. A democratic Iraq, in what is still a very unstable region of the world, will go a long way in helping the United States and its allies ensure that Iran remains nuclear-free and is our best bet for long lasting peace in the Middle East.
At the risk of sounding redundant, history will vindicate this war and George W. Bush who chose to wage it. Probably not in our lifetime, but maybe in our kids' lifetime. The Civil War was an unpopular war in the North and early Southern victories made it, along with the President, even more unpopular. Today, President Lincoln is hailed as a hero for his fight to keep the Union together and freeing the slaves. Although the Civil War was a tragedy due the massive life lost, it is viewed by many as a success. That is why it is important to always keep things in perspective.
Source: Department of Defense
Monday, February 23, 2009
Product Review: Camouflage Bandanas
Do you love wearing camouflage clothing? Well, now you can get camouflage bandanas at a super low price of only $1.95 per bandana. At Shining Star Flags & Bandanas, we have everything from the traditional Woodland Camo style to the new Digital Desert Camo style. All of our camouflage bandanas are made 100% in the United States of America.Each bandana is 22”x22” and dyed with brilliant colors. With shipping based on weight of the product, you are able to order up to a dozen bandanas, depending on the style, for a flat $4.80 with delivery in 2 to 3 days from the date the order is processed.
Take a look at the wide variety of Camouflage Bandanas we offer today!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Ready to be Taxed on the Amount of Miles You Drive?
In an Associated Press story today, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said he wants to consider taxing motorists based on the number of miles they drive rather than how much gasoline they burn. Concerned that gasoline taxes will no longer be able to adequately fund infrastructure projects, Mr. LaHood believes a “Vehicle Miles Traveled Tax” may be a long-term solution.
Believe it or not, the move to consider such tax is largely due to the arrival of fuel efficient cars, such as hybrids. These vehicles consume much less gas than their counterparts thus reducing the tax revenue states and the Federal government receive from the sale of gasoline. If instituted, a Vehicle Miles Traveled Tax would essentially cause motorists who drive fuel efficient cars to pay just as much in taxes as motorists who drive gas guzzlers, thereby possibly causing a disincentive to switch to a fuel efficient vehicle. Clearly, such tax would hammer those Americans who drive a lot for their jobs or who have to commute.
Privacy advocates are most concerned that the way to track miles driven would be the requirement that every vehicle be equipped with global satellite positioning technology, a transponder, a clock and other equipment to track the number of miles one drives. To add insult to injury, the devices could be programmed to charge higher tax rates to vehicles that are heavier and therefore place additional stress on roads. Frankly, if a tax like this were implemented a Pandora's box would be opened on how such information could be used by law enforcement since it would be able to track where one drives and at what time. I wouldn't necessarily be opposed to using this technology on convicted felons, parolees, etc., but do we really want every driving American to give up this privacy? Interesting question.
I suppose when people start giving up their vehicles to ride bikes to work, the next thing we'll hear is the government talking about putting GPS devices and transponders on bicycles. Let's just hope that when you decide to walk to work, the government doesn't contemplate slapping such devices on your leg.
Remember the Boston Tea Party? Well, maybe when Americans start pushing their vehicles into the Boston Harbor, the Crown (I mean, the Federal government) will finally get a clue.
Believe it or not, the move to consider such tax is largely due to the arrival of fuel efficient cars, such as hybrids. These vehicles consume much less gas than their counterparts thus reducing the tax revenue states and the Federal government receive from the sale of gasoline. If instituted, a Vehicle Miles Traveled Tax would essentially cause motorists who drive fuel efficient cars to pay just as much in taxes as motorists who drive gas guzzlers, thereby possibly causing a disincentive to switch to a fuel efficient vehicle. Clearly, such tax would hammer those Americans who drive a lot for their jobs or who have to commute.
Privacy advocates are most concerned that the way to track miles driven would be the requirement that every vehicle be equipped with global satellite positioning technology, a transponder, a clock and other equipment to track the number of miles one drives. To add insult to injury, the devices could be programmed to charge higher tax rates to vehicles that are heavier and therefore place additional stress on roads. Frankly, if a tax like this were implemented a Pandora's box would be opened on how such information could be used by law enforcement since it would be able to track where one drives and at what time. I wouldn't necessarily be opposed to using this technology on convicted felons, parolees, etc., but do we really want every driving American to give up this privacy? Interesting question.
I suppose when people start giving up their vehicles to ride bikes to work, the next thing we'll hear is the government talking about putting GPS devices and transponders on bicycles. Let's just hope that when you decide to walk to work, the government doesn't contemplate slapping such devices on your leg.
Remember the Boston Tea Party? Well, maybe when Americans start pushing their vehicles into the Boston Harbor, the Crown (I mean, the Federal government) will finally get a clue.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Product Review - U.S. Air Force Flag
The United States Air Force can trace its roots back to August 1, 1907 when it was formed as an Aeronautical Division of the Army Signal Corps. In 1920, the Air Service (as it was called then) was officially made a combat arm of the U.S. Army and its name was changed to the Air Corps in 1926. The Air Corps remained a part of the U.S. Army until September 18, 1947 when it won its independence and became known as the United States Air Force.
THE AIRMAN'S CREED
This is the Airman's promise to country and colleagues.
I am an American Airman.
I am a warrior.
I have answered my nation's call.
I am an American Airman.
My mission is to fly, fight, and win.
I am faithful to a proud heritage,
a tradition of honor,
and a legacy of valor.
I am an American Airman,
guardian of freedom and justice,
my nation's sword and shield,
its sentry and avenger.
I defend my country with my life.
I am an American Airman:
wingman, leader, warrior.
I will never leave an airman behind,
I will never falter,
and I will not fail.
Shining Star Flags & Bandanas is proud to offer high-quality nylon U.S. Air Force flags made 100% in the United States of America. We have 2'x3', 3'x5' and 4'x6' sizes available. We also offer a yellow fringed indoor crown flag in 3'x5' and 4'x6' sizes only.
Show your support for the U.S. Air Force and fly its flag today!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Is Obama Rethinking His Position on the War on Terror?
I am not one who usually recommends reading The New York Times, but when it publishes an article critical of the Democrats, the Democrats are usually doing something right. Yesterday, the front page of The New York Times online edition posted an article entitled “Obama's War on Terror May Resemble Bush's in Some Areas”. Apparently, after a few weeks of sweeping Executive Orders changing the way our country deals with terrorists, it seems that the Obama Administration is coming to the conclusion that the Bush Administration had it right in how it fought the War on Terror.
For instance, in recent confirmation testimony, Obama nominees have endorsed:
This is definitely not what we heard during Obama's first week in office. Perhaps clearer heads have prevailed. Or, better yet, intelligent heads have prevailed. I think that once the people actually responsible for fighting this war took the time to think about it, a stark realization set in that we will not only be unsuccessful in fighting the terrorists if we completely abandon the tactics employed the last seven years, but we'll put our country at a greater risk for an attack. That is the last thing the Obama Administration wants on their watch, especially after seven years of no attacks under the Bush Administration.
However, I caution everyone who holds this issue in high importance to not assume that all is well in the land of Washington. These pronouncements are not a wholesale return to the Bush Administration's stance and it remains to be seen what will actually be done when another attack occurs or a plot is uncovered. Clearly, the Bush Administration's handling of the War on Terror was not perfect. Perfection can never be attained. But George W. Bush did keep us all safe from another attack after September 11th and no one can dispute that. Hopefully, President Obama will be able to claim the same feat.
For instance, in recent confirmation testimony, Obama nominees have endorsed:
- continuing the C.I.A.'s program of transferring terrorist suspects to countries without legal rights;
- indefinitely detaining terrorist suspects without trial even if such suspects are captured far from a war zone;
- the arguments proffered by Bush's legal team to shut down a lawsuit by a former C.I.A. detainee under the “state secrets” doctrine; and
- leaving the door open to resuming the military commission trials.
This is definitely not what we heard during Obama's first week in office. Perhaps clearer heads have prevailed. Or, better yet, intelligent heads have prevailed. I think that once the people actually responsible for fighting this war took the time to think about it, a stark realization set in that we will not only be unsuccessful in fighting the terrorists if we completely abandon the tactics employed the last seven years, but we'll put our country at a greater risk for an attack. That is the last thing the Obama Administration wants on their watch, especially after seven years of no attacks under the Bush Administration.
However, I caution everyone who holds this issue in high importance to not assume that all is well in the land of Washington. These pronouncements are not a wholesale return to the Bush Administration's stance and it remains to be seen what will actually be done when another attack occurs or a plot is uncovered. Clearly, the Bush Administration's handling of the War on Terror was not perfect. Perfection can never be attained. But George W. Bush did keep us all safe from another attack after September 11th and no one can dispute that. Hopefully, President Obama will be able to claim the same feat.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Fly Your Flag on George Washington's Birthday – February 16, 2009
Many of you may be thinking, “I thought today was Presidents Day, not George Washington's birthday.” Well, you're right and you're wrong. According to Federal law, the third Monday in February is the official observation of “George Washington's Birthday,” despite the fact that February 22nd is his actual date of birth. However, states are free to call this Federal holiday whatever they choose. Many states have decided to dub this day as “Presidents Day” in an effort to honor all of our presidents, but most importantly Abraham Lincoln.
Not too long ago, it was common to celebrate both Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays. Washington's birthday has been a Federal holiday since 1885 but Lincoln's birthday has never been officially recognized by the Federal government. Many states (outside of the old Confederacy) celebrated Lincoln's birthday as a legal holiday. In 1968, Congress passed a law which moved the official observation of Washington's birthday from February 22nd to the third Monday in February. Some reformers wanted the day changed to “Presidents Day” but Congress refused. Yet, there is a misconception which still exists today that the day was changed to Presidents Day, a misconception that has been reinforced by the fact that the third Monday of February will always fall between February 15 and 21. This means that the holiday will always be after Lincoln's birthday and before Washington's birthday. When this law passed, some states dropped the observance of Lincoln's birthday altogether assuming that the two presidential birthdays had been combined. As a result, the states use of Presidents Day has gained a strong public foothold, especially with its use on calendars, in advertising and by some government agencies.
So, there you have it. Today is actually George Washington's birthday. Call it what you will, but we will celebrate it as such and honor one of the greatest men to live in our country's history. Fly your flag today to show that you too honor our first President of the United States.
Not too long ago, it was common to celebrate both Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays. Washington's birthday has been a Federal holiday since 1885 but Lincoln's birthday has never been officially recognized by the Federal government. Many states (outside of the old Confederacy) celebrated Lincoln's birthday as a legal holiday. In 1968, Congress passed a law which moved the official observation of Washington's birthday from February 22nd to the third Monday in February. Some reformers wanted the day changed to “Presidents Day” but Congress refused. Yet, there is a misconception which still exists today that the day was changed to Presidents Day, a misconception that has been reinforced by the fact that the third Monday of February will always fall between February 15 and 21. This means that the holiday will always be after Lincoln's birthday and before Washington's birthday. When this law passed, some states dropped the observance of Lincoln's birthday altogether assuming that the two presidential birthdays had been combined. As a result, the states use of Presidents Day has gained a strong public foothold, especially with its use on calendars, in advertising and by some government agencies.
So, there you have it. Today is actually George Washington's birthday. Call it what you will, but we will celebrate it as such and honor one of the greatest men to live in our country's history. Fly your flag today to show that you too honor our first President of the United States.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Fly Your Flag on Abraham Lincoln's Birthday – February 12, 2009
200 years ago today, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States of America, was born. A man from humble beginnings, he led this nation through what is still considered today as the most tragic war we have ever waged – the Civil War. President Lincoln was assassinated on April 14, 1965 by John Wilkes Booth after Booth attended an April 11th speech in which Lincoln promoted voting rights for blacks.
He is most famously known for giving the Gettysburg Address, a speech that was secondary to others given on that day but now regarded as one of the greatest speeches in American history.
“Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting-place for those who here gave their lives that this nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate...we can not consecrate...we can not hallow...this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us, the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us...that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion; that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
November 18, 1963
President Lincoln's birthday used to signify an important date in our history that was celebrated in schools around the country. Unfortunately, this day has been forever lumped into Presidents Day, which in many school districts has been dropped from the typical holiday schedule altogether.
Continue the celebration and commemoration of this truly heroic figure in American politics and the day of his birth by flying your flag. Show your children, your neighbors, the world, that you honor the memory of this great man.
He is most famously known for giving the Gettysburg Address, a speech that was secondary to others given on that day but now regarded as one of the greatest speeches in American history.
“Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting-place for those who here gave their lives that this nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate...we can not consecrate...we can not hallow...this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us, the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us...that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion; that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
November 18, 1963
President Lincoln's birthday used to signify an important date in our history that was celebrated in schools around the country. Unfortunately, this day has been forever lumped into Presidents Day, which in many school districts has been dropped from the typical holiday schedule altogether.
Continue the celebration and commemoration of this truly heroic figure in American politics and the day of his birth by flying your flag. Show your children, your neighbors, the world, that you honor the memory of this great man.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Why Don't More People Fly the Flag?
In a 2007 survey conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press, 62% of the respondents stated that they fly the flag everyday. I find that hard to believe. I fly the flag everyday and on my street there are about 3 or 4 other houses that do as well. That's not 62% my friends. Okay, to be fair, the question included flying the flag at home, at the office or on the car. However, I don't see many car flags either, so unless there are a slew of flags flying at individual offices around the country, I think these numbers are skewed. They're probably skewed because people don't like to admit to, or show, a lack of patriotism.
The survey had some pretty interesting numbers as to the breakdown of race, age and political affiliation. 67% of Whites say they fly the flag compared to only 41% of African Americans; 71% of Americans 65 and older fly the flag compared to only 51% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 29; and 73% of Republicans say they fly the flag compared to only 55% of Democrats. Hmmm. I find that last statistic very telling. Although, remember, we are not supposed to question any one's patriotism (or so we're told).
I am sure a large part of the reason we don't see more flag flying is that people in general don't find it important enough to go buy a flag and flagpole, put it up and take it down everyday, purchase replacement flags, etc. To them it's more trouble than it's worth. A small percentage (at least I hope) of the people don't fly the flag because they find it offensive or are worried it offends other people. I have first hand knowledge of this fact and find it shocking that in America the sight of a U.S. flag on or near some one's house would be considered offensive. But believe it or not there are cities where this is the case.
Folks, flying the flag is important. Men and women have died for that flag and are still dying today. It conveys the freedoms we have and so to often take for granted – freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom to live without fear that the government will take you, your family or your property away without due process of the law. Should flag flying be mandatory? No. The flag also embodies the freedom to choose not to fly it. Buy why exercise that freedom? It's not the only act to show patriotism, but it's one of the most visible acts. So, if you love this country and the freedoms that have been bestowed upon all of us, then show it by flying the flag.
The survey had some pretty interesting numbers as to the breakdown of race, age and political affiliation. 67% of Whites say they fly the flag compared to only 41% of African Americans; 71% of Americans 65 and older fly the flag compared to only 51% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 29; and 73% of Republicans say they fly the flag compared to only 55% of Democrats. Hmmm. I find that last statistic very telling. Although, remember, we are not supposed to question any one's patriotism (or so we're told).
I am sure a large part of the reason we don't see more flag flying is that people in general don't find it important enough to go buy a flag and flagpole, put it up and take it down everyday, purchase replacement flags, etc. To them it's more trouble than it's worth. A small percentage (at least I hope) of the people don't fly the flag because they find it offensive or are worried it offends other people. I have first hand knowledge of this fact and find it shocking that in America the sight of a U.S. flag on or near some one's house would be considered offensive. But believe it or not there are cities where this is the case.
Folks, flying the flag is important. Men and women have died for that flag and are still dying today. It conveys the freedoms we have and so to often take for granted – freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom to live without fear that the government will take you, your family or your property away without due process of the law. Should flag flying be mandatory? No. The flag also embodies the freedom to choose not to fly it. Buy why exercise that freedom? It's not the only act to show patriotism, but it's one of the most visible acts. So, if you love this country and the freedoms that have been bestowed upon all of us, then show it by flying the flag.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Wheelchairs Distributed in Sadr City by Soldiers and Charity Group
On February 4th, a diverse group of Iraqis, young and old alike, lined up in Sadr City hoping to receive 60 free wheelchairs distributed by WheelchairsforIraqiKids.com and soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team of the 4th Infantry Division.
WheelchairsforIraqiKids.com was started by Brad Blauser, a civilian contractor, in 2005 when he spoke with a U.S. Army surgeon in Mosul, Iraq and was told that their number one need is children's wheelchairs. Knowing that wheelchairs are expensive, Blauser emailed the United States a request and within 30 days 31 wheelchairs were delivered by the U.S. Government.
Today, the chairs are funded entirely by donations and are shipped to Blauser overseas for free by the U.S. Government. The recipients are not limited to children. Men who have fought insurgents and victims of Saddam Hussein's regime can also receive wheelchairs that are specifically designed for rough terrain.
How many stories have we seen about insurgents killing soldiers or civilians in the main stream media? How many have we seen like this story? I don't know about you, but for me, very few to none. Let's face it, people like bad news. It gets them riled up. Wonderful stories like this usually get a response of “Oh, that's nice.” Yes, it is nice and these are just the kind of stories we all need to hear.
Quotes like these sum up what our true mission is and always has been in Iraq: to help the Iraqi people while keeping us safe as well.
“Thank you to the Americans for giving me this wheelchair.... I don't have money to buy this chair.”
“I can walk with this. It hurt my body to walk with [crutches].”
“I am happy now.... I can walk.”
Source: Department of Defense
WheelchairsforIraqiKids.com was started by Brad Blauser, a civilian contractor, in 2005 when he spoke with a U.S. Army surgeon in Mosul, Iraq and was told that their number one need is children's wheelchairs. Knowing that wheelchairs are expensive, Blauser emailed the United States a request and within 30 days 31 wheelchairs were delivered by the U.S. Government.
Today, the chairs are funded entirely by donations and are shipped to Blauser overseas for free by the U.S. Government. The recipients are not limited to children. Men who have fought insurgents and victims of Saddam Hussein's regime can also receive wheelchairs that are specifically designed for rough terrain.
How many stories have we seen about insurgents killing soldiers or civilians in the main stream media? How many have we seen like this story? I don't know about you, but for me, very few to none. Let's face it, people like bad news. It gets them riled up. Wonderful stories like this usually get a response of “Oh, that's nice.” Yes, it is nice and these are just the kind of stories we all need to hear.
Quotes like these sum up what our true mission is and always has been in Iraq: to help the Iraqi people while keeping us safe as well.
“Thank you to the Americans for giving me this wheelchair.... I don't have money to buy this chair.”
“I can walk with this. It hurt my body to walk with [crutches].”
“I am happy now.... I can walk.”
Source: Department of Defense
Monday, February 9, 2009
Product Review: Patriotic Bandanas
At Shining Star Flags & Bandanas, we have a wide variety of bandanas to choose from. Have you seen our collection of patriotic bandanas? Made 100% in the United States of America, these bandanas exude pride in our country and are great for everyday uses.
Each bandana is 22”x22” and dyed with brilliant colors. We now offer new low pricing of only $1.95 per bandana. With shipping based on weight of the product, you are able to order a good number of bandanas for a flat $4.80 with delivery in 2 to 3 days from the date the order is processed.
Come and and see the Patriotic Bandanas we are selling today!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Abandoning the Phrase or the War?
In a Newsweek article the other day, Michael Isikoff and Mark Hosenball, describe the Obama Administration's efforts to find an alternative to the phrase “War on Terror.” When asked about this phrase, President Obama stated, “Well you know, I think it is very important for us to recognize that we have a battle or a war against some terrorist organizations....” Only some, Mr. President? You mean, the are some other terrorist organizations which we have no issue with? Who would that be? Hamas, maybe? But, I digress.
Critics have long argued that “terror” is a tactic, not an identifiable enemy. We fight wars against our enemies, not their tactics. While that may be grammatically true, the American people have no problem understanding what the phrase “War on Terror” means. We all remember September 11, 2001 very clearly, how we felt fear, sadness, anger and a desire for justice. Referring to a tactic does not change the fact that America is fighting Islamic extremists, an enemy who wishes each and every one of us dead.
I believe the abandonment of this phrase is one of many steps the Obama Administration has taken and will take in ending the War on Terror itself. Let's look at what has already taken place:
Critics have long argued that “terror” is a tactic, not an identifiable enemy. We fight wars against our enemies, not their tactics. While that may be grammatically true, the American people have no problem understanding what the phrase “War on Terror” means. We all remember September 11, 2001 very clearly, how we felt fear, sadness, anger and a desire for justice. Referring to a tactic does not change the fact that America is fighting Islamic extremists, an enemy who wishes each and every one of us dead.
I believe the abandonment of this phrase is one of many steps the Obama Administration has taken and will take in ending the War on Terror itself. Let's look at what has already taken place:
- Gitmo has been ordered closed (with no other alternative location proposed)
- All terror trials have been halted (with no alternative proceedings decided on)
- No aggressive interrogation techniques can be used against suspected terrorists (given their penchant for martyrdom, less actionable intelligence will be forthcoming)
- No secret locations can be used to interrogate suspected terrorists captured abroad (potentially jeopardizing undercover operations to stop future attacks)
And this is just the beginning. Future decisions may include moving detainees to U.S. prisons, granting detainees (i.e., non-U.S. Citizens) full constitutional rights, requiring Miranda rights to be read to suspected terrorists prior to questioning, and the list goes on.
To me, it is clear that the current administration is undoing everything America has done to fight this war, not in an effort to fight it more efficiently or successfully, but to stop fighting it altogether. Concerned about what Europe, the Middle East and others think about us, President Obama is turning the clock back to September 10, 2001 and requiring our country to treat terrorism as a law enforcement matter. If that happens, we will never win this war.
As I stated in an earlier post, the War on Terror is over. Not the use of the phrase but the war itself. Perhaps another devastating attack on America's homeland will swing the pendulum back to a more aggressive stance; and if that does occur, it's a shame that more Americans have to die for us to maintain the resolve necessary to successfully fight what is literally a struggle of life and death.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Thank the Troops
In the past, I've posted items that informed readers how they can help the troops directly. Such help usually was in the form of money donations or volunteer opportunities.
However, today, I am going to tell you how you can do something very simple that will not cost you a dime. Thank the troops by sending them an electronic message. Yes, it's that easy.
Go to America Supports You – Thank the Troops, type in your name, location and a message and it will be delivered to our troops by the Department of Defense. A simple message of thanks, prayers or “we're thinking of you” goes a long way in lifting the spirits and morale of our servicemen and women who have been away from home for such a long time. Words have impact. Send a message today to show your thanks and support.
However, today, I am going to tell you how you can do something very simple that will not cost you a dime. Thank the troops by sending them an electronic message. Yes, it's that easy.
Go to America Supports You – Thank the Troops, type in your name, location and a message and it will be delivered to our troops by the Department of Defense. A simple message of thanks, prayers or “we're thinking of you” goes a long way in lifting the spirits and morale of our servicemen and women who have been away from home for such a long time. Words have impact. Send a message today to show your thanks and support.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Mesothelioma: A Disease You Should Know About
Today, I am going to take a break from my traditional post commenting on some political or newsworthy topic and instead mention a subject that more Americans should know about – Mesothelioma.
What is mesothelioma? It is a cancer which mesothelium (the protective membrane of innards) becomes cancerous (normally dividing). These cells affect and damage nearby cells, tissues and organs. And they spread from one part of the body to another quite fast. Mesothelioma is primarily caused by the inhalation of tiny fibers of asbestos, the construction material now largely banned.
I urge you to visit http://mesotheliomainformation.org/. It's a blog that brings you the latest news and introductory articles on various aspects of this disease, as well as what you need to do in order to get effective litigation if you have been affected by this disease at any point of your life.
If you think that you may have been exposed to asbestos at any time in your life, you need to read this blog.
What is mesothelioma? It is a cancer which mesothelium (the protective membrane of innards) becomes cancerous (normally dividing). These cells affect and damage nearby cells, tissues and organs. And they spread from one part of the body to another quite fast. Mesothelioma is primarily caused by the inhalation of tiny fibers of asbestos, the construction material now largely banned.
I urge you to visit http://mesotheliomainformation.org/. It's a blog that brings you the latest news and introductory articles on various aspects of this disease, as well as what you need to do in order to get effective litigation if you have been affected by this disease at any point of your life.
If you think that you may have been exposed to asbestos at any time in your life, you need to read this blog.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Iraqi Elections Safe and Successful
Iraqi security forces, with the support of the U.S. military, successfully protected millions of Iraqis as they headed to the polls on January 31st. Over 14,400 candidates vied for 440 seats in 14 of Iraq's 18 provinces. There were no reports of deaths or major violence on election day.
This is continuing proof that not only did the Surge work, but that Iraq is fully on the path to complete self-determination as well as being solely responsible for its own security.
Army General David H. Petraeus, Commander of the U.S. Central Command issued a statement in which he said,
“Congratulations to the Iraqi Government, the Iraqi Security Forces, the Iraqi people, the United Nations, the international observers, and Coalition elements for their concerted efforts in making today’s provincial elections an event of which all Iraqis should be proud and an effort the world should applaud . . . . [The] elections are a cause for celebration as we salute the millions of Iraqi citizens who took to the streets to exercise their fundamental right to self-determination . . . . As we honor the courage and resolve of the Iraqi people who walked miles to a polling station and braved long lines and security concerns, I know that I can speak for all those who have been privileged to work with our Iraqi partners in the ‘Land of the Two Rivers’ in saying to the people of Iraq: ‘Mabruk.’”
Mabruk is Iraqi for congratulations. We all should congratulate the Iraqi people and the U.S. military for the outstanding job it has done over the last eight plus years.
This is continuing proof that not only did the Surge work, but that Iraq is fully on the path to complete self-determination as well as being solely responsible for its own security.
Army General David H. Petraeus, Commander of the U.S. Central Command issued a statement in which he said,
“Congratulations to the Iraqi Government, the Iraqi Security Forces, the Iraqi people, the United Nations, the international observers, and Coalition elements for their concerted efforts in making today’s provincial elections an event of which all Iraqis should be proud and an effort the world should applaud . . . . [The] elections are a cause for celebration as we salute the millions of Iraqi citizens who took to the streets to exercise their fundamental right to self-determination . . . . As we honor the courage and resolve of the Iraqi people who walked miles to a polling station and braved long lines and security concerns, I know that I can speak for all those who have been privileged to work with our Iraqi partners in the ‘Land of the Two Rivers’ in saying to the people of Iraq: ‘Mabruk.’”
Mabruk is Iraqi for congratulations. We all should congratulate the Iraqi people and the U.S. military for the outstanding job it has done over the last eight plus years.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Product Review - U.S. Army Flag
In 1775, the United States Army was born. Created to fight British occupation and tyranny from the King of England, this fine institution is as strong as ever today continuing the fight for freedom and democracy around the world.
The Army's motto, THIS WE'LL DEFEND, is the embodiment of honor, duty and country. Shining Star Flags & Bandanas offers high-quality U.S. Army flags made of 100% nylon right here in the United States of America.
We have 2'x3', 3'x5' and 4'x6' sizes available. We also offer a yellow fringed indoor crown flag in 3'x5' and 4'x6' sizes only.
Support the U.S. Army and fly its flag today!
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