Religion and Politics Don't Mix?

Because I am ill, I believe it is alright for me to share this e-mail written by Mark Alexander of PatriotPost.us. Thank you.

"The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time." --Thomas Jefferson

For all of our nation's history, there have been tactical battles between opposing political ideologies -- liberals (leftists) who want to liberate us from constitutional rule of law, and conservatives who strive to conserve rule of law. Great political capital has been, and continues to be, expended by the Left in order to offend our Constitution, and by the Right in order to defend it.

Amid the din and rhetoric of the current lineup of tactical contests, I ask that you venture up to the strategic level and consider a primal issue that transcends all the political noise.

How many times have you heard the rejoinder, "Religion and politics don't mix"?

Most Americans have, for generations now, been inculcated (read: "dumbed down") by the spurious "wall of separation" metaphor and believe that it is a legitimate barrier between government and religion. So effective has been this false indoctrination that even some otherwise erudite conservatives fail to recall that religion and politics not only mix, but are inseparable.

Recall that our Founders affirmed in the Declaration of Independence "that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

In other words, our Creator bestowed the rights enumerated in our Declaration and, by extension, as codified in its subordinate guidance, our Constitution. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are natural rights; they are not gifts from government.

To that end, Alexander Hamilton wrote, "The sacred rights of mankind are not to be rummaged for, among old parchments, or musty records. They are written, as with a sun beam, in the whole volume of human nature, by the hand of the divinity itself; and can never be erased or obscured by mortal power."

But the Left has, for many decades, made its primary objective the eradication of God from every public quarter, and routinely relied on judicial activism to undermine constitutional rule of law and, thus, the natural rights of man.

The intended consequence of this artificial barrier between church and state is to remove knowledge of our Creator from all public forums and, thus, over time, to disabuse belief in a sovereign God and the natural rights He has endowed.

This erosion of knowledge about the origin of our rights has dire implications for the future of liberty.

Thomas Jefferson wrote, "Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with his wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep for ever."

As the author of our Declaration of Independence makes clear, we should all tremble that man has adulterated the gifts of God.

Ironically, it was Jefferson who penned the words "wall of separation between church and state" in an 1802 letter to the Danbury Baptist Association.

Jefferson was responding to a letter the Association wrote to him objecting to Connecticut's establishment of Congregationalism as its state church. Jefferson responded that the First Amendment prohibited the national (federal) government from establishing a "national church."

After all, the controlling language (Amendment I) reads, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..." Jefferson concluded rightly that the Constitution's 10th Amendment federalism provision prohibited the national government from interfering with matters of state governments -- a "wall of separation," if you will, between the federal government and state governments.

Among all our Founders, Jefferson was most adamant in his objection to the construct of the Judicial Branch of government in the proposed Constitution, writing, "The Constitution [would become] a mere thing of wax in the hands of the judiciary which they may twist and shape into any form they please."

Jefferson warned: "The opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide what laws are constitutional and what not, not only for themselves in their own sphere of action but for the Legislature and Executive also in their spheres, would make the Judiciary a despotic branch. ... It has long been my opinion ... that the germ of dissolution of our federal government is in the constitution of the federal judiciary; working like gravity by night and by day, gaining a little today and a little tomorrow, and advancing its noiseless step like a thief, over the field of jurisdiction, until all shall be usurped."

Alexander Hamilton wrote in Federalist No. 81, "[T]here is not a syllable in the [Constitution] which directly empowers the national courts to construe the laws according to the spirit of the Constitution."

But Jefferson was correct in his apprehension about our Constitution being treated as "a mere thing of wax" by what he called the "despotic branch," who would do the bidding of their special-interest constituencies rather than interpret the plain language of the Constitution.

In 1947, Justice Hugo Black perverted Jefferson's words when Black speciously opined in the majority opinion of Everson v. Board of Education that the First Amendment created a "wall of separation" between religion and government, thus opening the floodgates for subsequent opinions abolishing religious education and expression in all public forums.

John Adams wrote, "If men through fear, fraud or mistake, should in terms renounce and give up any essential natural right, the eternal law of reason and the great end of society, would absolutely vacate such renunciation; the right to freedom being the gift of God Almighty, it is not in the power of Man to alienate this gift, and voluntarily become a slave."

It may not be in the power of man to alienate the gift of liberty, but it will certainly take the power of men, guided by our Creator, to defend it. To that end, religion and politics are inseparable.

Semper Vigilo, Fortis, Paratus et Fidelis!

Mark Alexander
Publisher, PatriotPost.US

Quote of the Week
"Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged. When our Founding Fathers passed the First Amendment, they sought to protect churches from government interference. They never intended to construct a wall of hostility between government and the concept of religious belief itself. ... To those who cite the First Amendment as reason for excluding God from more and more of our institutions every day, I say: The First Amendment of the Constitution was not written to protect the people of this country from religious values; it was written to protect religious values from government tyranny." --Ronald Reagan

Related Essays
Judicial Supremacists and the Despotic Branch
patriotpost.us/alexander/edition.asp?id=296.

The "Wall of Separation" myth
patriotpost.us/alexander/edition.asp?id=306.

A "Living Constitution" for a Dying Republic
patriotpost.us/alexander/edition.asp?id=330.

Expelling God from the academy
patriotpost.us/alexander/edition.asp?id=509.

*****

(Please pray for our Patriot Armed Forces standing in harm's way around the world, and for their families -- especially families of those fallen Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, who granted their lives in defense of American liberty.)

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Today I am having an open trackback courtesy of Linkfest. This means you can (track)post your best post here. Remember to link me to your article before you trackback. You don't have trackbacks available? Why not use Wizbang Stand Alone Trackback? Everyone have a nice day.

Here is some good reading material from Linkfest: The Pink Flamingo: Getting Away With Murder Almost, Woman Honor Thyself: Weekend!, Right Truth: The 57 State Solution - not a chance, The World According To Carl: My Wife’s Gastric Bypass Surgery Update, The Pink Flamingo: Lindsey Takes out Nancy Pelosi, third world county: twc Hiatus, and third world county: Testament of Freedom, thanks to Linkfest Haven Deluxe.

Friends who have written posts and want to share them with you:
1. Potbelly Stove: If the facts are against you...
2. Adam's Blog: What Did Pelosi Know?
3. Woman Honor Thyself: Israel: The Truth.
4. Beagle Scout: Calling all Educators: Can the Science of Economic Success be Taught?
5. Woman Honor Thyself: New York: Muslims try to Kill Jews in Synagogue Bombing Plot.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

moan ow groan

i've been taken ill, so i won't be writing too much. as u can tell, i haven't been writing for the last few days. i have, however, been working on my tags. big now, i know. my head is killing me, and i can barely read. my stomach doesn't feel that much better, and by bones are sore. aw, stop whining! ;)

just wanted to let u know i'm still here. have a great weekend, and i'll try to write soon.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 5/11-5/15/09

Monday, May 11, 2009.
"Man, once surrendering his reason, has no remaining guard against absurdities the most monstrous, and like a ship without rudder, is the spot of every wind. With such persons, gullability, which they call faith, takes the helm from the hand of reason and the mind becomes a wreck."

--Thomas Jefferson, letter to James Smith, December 8, 1822

Tue. 5/12/09.
"To cherish and stimulate the activity of the human mind, by multiplying the objects of enterprise, is not among the least considerable of the expedients, by which the wealth of a nation may be promoted."

--Alexander Hamilton, Report on Manufactures, December 1791

Wed. 5/13/09.
"Freedom had been hunted round the globe; reason was considered as rebellion; and the slavery of fear had made men afraid to think. But such is the irresistible nature of truth, that all it asks, and all it wants, is the liberty of appearing."

--Thomas Paine, Rights of Man, 1791

Thu. 5/14/09.
"Men, to act with vigour and effect, must have time to mature measures, and judgment and experience, as to the best method of applying them. They must not be hurried on to their conclusions by the passions, or the fears of the multitude. They must deliberate, as well as resolve."

--Joseph Story, Commentaries on the Constitution, January 6, 1833

Fri. 5/15/09.
"It has been said that all Government is an evil. It would be more proper to say that the necessity of any Government is a misfortune. This necessity however exists; and the problem to be solved is, not what form of Government is perfect, but which of the forms is least imperfect."

--James Madison, to an unidentified correspondent, 1833

Source: PatriotPost.us.

Baghdad maternity hospital back to full capacity

by Pfc. Christina Sinders
Gulf Region Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

BAGHDAD (May 14, 2009) – For engineer Wathiq Abdul Jabbar, the May 9 ribbon-cutting ceremony that capped a $2.4 million renovation of the Alwaiya Maternity hospital here was especially meaningful.

“I feel like I helped rebuild my home,” he said. “I was born and raised just four kilometers from this hospital, so it is a special place for me.”

In 2004, the hospital had a capacity of only 37 beds. Equipment failures and structural damage caused rooms and buildings to remain unused for many years. But that has all changed. The extensive makeover, which Abdul Jabbar described as a “skin off, skin on” renovation, brought the hospital’s capability back to 344 beds.

Abdul Jabbar, chairman of The Muhandis Inbbar Group, directed the project and spoke at the ceremony to officially open the hospital.

“I want to thank the American taxpayer for the help and assistance in making this renovation possible,” he said.

In his remarks, Abdul Jabbar acknowledged the expertise and support of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division in the difficult construction process of a turbulent Baghdad city center. With better security, he said, more projects and improvements in his home area are possible.

Dr. Intisar Hassan al-Tuijari, hospital director, and Dr. Muhammad, a Rusafa-area city councilman, were among the key people who attended the event. Others included Karoly Okolicsanyi, the provincial reconstruction team representative for the U.S. Agency for International Development, hospital staff, Iraqi government officials, representatives from the USACE Gulf Region Central district, and Army Col. Tim McGuire, maneuver area commander of the 82nd Airborne Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team.

During his remarks, McGuire echoed Abdul Jabbar’s comments.

“I congratulate the people of Iraq on the refurbished hospital,” he said. “We are honored to be here and celebrate with you. This is a sign of the friendship of the American people with the Iraqi people, and we look forward to a long-term partnership, ensuring a bright future for the children of Iraq.”

The Alwaiya complex consists of 10 buildings, and it includes operating rooms and theaters, delivery rooms, patient wards and a section for premature infants. The hospital also has an external clinic, pharmacy, emergency rooms, prenatal health center and nursery. Alwaiya serves more than a million women on the east side of the Tigris River.

The scope of work for repairs and renovations expanded the hospital to a 344-bed facility while maintaining full services throughout the project. Renovation work included the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, boilers, electrical, structural, fire alarms, a nurse call system, a data communication network, a TV system and elevators.

Army Capt. Sean Heenan of Gulf Region Central acknowledged the team that was part of the hospital renovation.

“I was fortunate to be here and see this great project across the finish line,” he said. “So many people contributed to the success, but ultimately, the only thing worth remembering is the help this hospital provides the mothers of the Rusafa area of Baghdad.”

Abdul Jabbar credited hospital director Tuijari with keeping the hospital going in spite of the challenges.

“She was available day and night,” Abdul Jabbar said. “I often had to call her at odd hours, even late at night, and she was very helpful every time.”

The officer in charge of GRC’s International Zone Resident Office, Army Capt. Chad Wendolek, put the ceremony in perspective.

“A ribbon cutting is just a small expression of the dedication and hard work all the team members from the IZ Resident Office and central district put into this project,” he said. “I hope the Iraqi mothers and the children born here, cared for here, are told of the personal sacrifice many U.S. citizens made to help their nation and provide a future for generations to come.”

As Iraq strives to build a secure, stable and self-governing nation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division has completed hundreds of projects in the building, health and education sector. GRD projects have increased Iraq’s annual capacity to treat patients to about 6.6 million patients in hospitals and 4.6 million outpatients at the primary health care centers. Since 2004, USACE has completed 44 hospital renovation projects throughout Iraq, and currently has eight ongoing.

An Iraqi grandmother proudly shows off her new grandchild May 9 at the newly renovated Alwaiya Maternity Hospital in Baghdad...

Source: CENTCOM.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Gates: Success in Afghanistan depends on Pakistan's efforts against Taliban

by Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (May 14, 2009) – Without success on the Pakistan side of the border, efforts to rid both it and Afghanistan of the Taliban will be significantly harder, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told the Senate Armed Services Committee today while testifying on the fiscal 2010 defense budget request.

That success will be more difficult if the Pakistani government refuses to take the fight to the militants within its country’s borders, Gates said. But traditional thought may prove hard to overcome.

“For all of Pakistan’s history, India has been the existential threat,” he said. “I think actually it was only with the Taliban’s going too far and moving their operations into Buner, just 60 miles or so from Islamabad, that for the first time they really got the attention of the Pakistani government.”

Recent actions of the Pakistani government and its army have indicated the government now understands the nature of the threat to it and is prepared to take action to deal with the threat, Gates said.

Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also spoke before the committee. He acknowledged increasing support from the Pakistani people to deter the militants’ threat to their country and the government’s stepped-up counterinsurgency operations, but he expressed reservations about sustainability.

“My biggest question about these operations is [the government’s] ability to sustain them over time,” he said. “Right now I’m encouraged by what’s happened, but I certainly withhold any judgment about where it goes, because of the lack … of historic sustainment.”

In addition to the counterinsurgency effort on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, Gates said, success in Afghanistan also relies on turning the country’s agriculture away from the poppy crop that supplies drug traffickers and finances criminal and terrorist activities.

“Before 30 years of war, Afghanistan … had a strong agricultural sector, and in fact exported … a variety of food,” he said. “So the notion of getting them to adopt alternative crops is not fanciful, but we have to figure out a strategy where they get the money and the seeds and the ability to sustain their families before they get rid of their poppy crop.”

The secretary acknowledged Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s concerns about precision coalition airstrikes and their effect on Afghan civilians, but added that the use of airpower can’t be eliminated. Forgoing that capability, he said, would be like trying to fight the war “with one hand tied behind our back.”

“That said,” he continued, “one of the charges, I think, for the new commanders, will be to look at how we can do this in a way that further limits innocent civilian casualties in Afghanistan, but also gets the truth out to the Afghan people about what’s really going on.”

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Petraeus Says Pakistani Leaders Uniting Against Taliban

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2009) – Pakistani leadership is united in opposing the Taliban occupation of the Swat Valley, and the leaders also understand a “whole-of-government” counterinsurgency strategy is necessary in the country, the chief of U.S. Central Command said Sunday.

Army Gen. David H. Petraeus said on “Fox News Sunday” that the Taliban operations in the valley – about 60 miles north of the capital of Islamabad – “seem to have galvanized all of Pakistan.”

He said that not only political leaders of all parties, but also the Pakistani people, realize swift and effective action must be taken against the Taliban in Pakistan. The shift of forces from eastern Pakistan, facing India, to the western border region is an example of this realization, Petraeus said.

The Pakistanis understand this is inherently different from a traditional military campaign, the general said, noting conversations he’s had over the past week with Pakistani leaders. Those talks underscored that the campaign against the Taliban will require a whole-of-government approach.

The effort to defeat the Taliban and other terrorists cannot simply be a military attack, Petraeus said, but rather must involve “all the rest of the elements of the government supporting the military so they can re-establish basic services, fix the damage that is inevitably done by the bombardment of these areas where the Taliban are located, and to take care of the internally displaced persons.”

Calling these times “very important” and “pivotal,” Petraeus said the next few weeks will tell if the Pakistanis can roll back this existential threat to the government and nation.

Petraeus said he is confident that the Pakistanis maintain good security at nuclear weapons sites in the nation.

“We have confidence in their security procedures and elements, and believe that the security at these sites is adequate,” he said.

The general would not say whether the United States would guarantee the weapons’ security. “I should point out that this is not a U.S. fight that Pakistan is carrying out in this effort,” he said. “This is a Pakistani fight, a Pakistani battle with elements that threaten the very existence of the Pakistani state.”

Petraeus said al-Qaida leaders are in the federally administered tribal areas of western Pakistan. “There is no question that al-Qaida’s senior leadership has been there and been in operation for years,” he said. “We had to contend with its reach as it sought to facilitate the flow of foreign fighters, weapons, resources into Iraq through Syria.”

Though he said he agrees with Afghan President Hamid Karzai that al-Qaida no longer operates in Afghanistan, groups affiliated with the terror organization operate there and elsewhere. Al-Qaida’s tentacles connect groups in the Arabian Peninsula, in Somalia and in North Africa, Petraeus said.

“It strives to reach, of course, all the way into Europe and the United States,” he added. Petraeus said he believes al-Qaida’s top leaders, Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri, are in the border region of western Pakistan.

The organization has had significant losses over the past year, “and there is a good deal of disruption that has taken place, but that is transitory in nature, and we’ll have to see how the [Pakistani] security operations in the federally administered tribal areas go,” the general said.

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Soldiers Bolster Iraqi Media On Local Level

by Sgt. Dustin Roberts
1st Infantry Division

BAGHDAD (May 12, 2009) – A partnership among the local government, Iraqi security forces and the 1st Infantry Division’s 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, has given citizens of northwestern Baghdad’s Hurriyah neighborhood an improved community.

In a walk-through of a busy market street yesterday, Iraqi television reporters met with civic, tribal and security leaders, as well as 2nd HBCT leaders, to see a cleaner environment and thriving shops.

“We’re trying to show the people of Hurriyah, the people who live outside of Hurriyah and throughout Baghdad, the security, civic and essential service improvements in Hurriyah,” Army Capt. Nathan Williams, commander of the U.S. battalion’s Company A, said. “There is a lot of misconceptions out there that security is bad and the area hasn’t been prospering recently.”

Many Iraqis who moved away from the neighborhood from 2003 through 2006, when al-Qaida in Iraq and Iranian-backed enemy fighters created an unstable security environment have not had the chance to see that the neighborhood has undergone a continuing makeover, Williams said.

“We’re trying to spread the word that things have improved so people can come back to Hurriyah,” he said. “This is a great opportunity to get the word out to the public.”

Because the word came from the neighborhood’s leaders and the local media, it is likely the people of Iraq will find Hurriyah’s improvements more credible, he added.

“Just like in our country, the message doesn’t always get out. It has some sort of shaded lens on it if it comes from us,” said Army Lt Col. John Vermeesch, commander of the “Vanguard” Battalion. “If it comes from their own people, then it’s more believable and genuine.”

Vermeesch said Hurriyah has turned around because the partnership between the Iraqi and U.S. soldiers means more than manning checkpoints.

“The 1st Battalion, 22nd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army, is an incredibly effective and efficient unit, and they have done great things in partnership with Company A,” he said. “They conduct continuous combined area reconnaissance [and] combined raids against known targets, and they patrol the streets together every day.”

Williams added that the residents of Hurriyah also see street sweepers cleaning up trash, and much of the sewage from the past has been removed.

The Vanguard Battalion works with the local public works department to improve essential services.

“Essential services are good, but they need to get better -- specifically sewage [in one of the areas],” Vermeesch said. “That is something we are working … to try and improve.”

Thanks to the Iraqi media bringing out the views of local residents, Vermeesch said, the people of Baghdad will have a better idea of the situation in Hurriyah.

“Today’s event met our intent,” he said, “and I believe that the right message got out to the people of Iraq that Hurriyah is a safe and stable city. I think the right message got out to Baghdad.”

Sheik Maqmoud al-Falahi, right, a tribal leader in northwestern Baghdad, speaks to attendees of the 'Hurriyah Walkthrough' ceremony in the Kadamiyah district of northwestern Baghdad.

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

This July 4th, Give Thanks

Independence Day is a very special day to Americans. This is the day we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. We have fireworks to remind us of "the bombs bursting in air" that allowed them to see our flag was still there. They had no idea if we were going to win, but they would rather die to remain free than to be enslaved or imprisoned by the British. That is amazing. How many of us are willing to give all for this noble quest today?

We are at war right now, no matter who tries to deny it. Our brave men and women are out there fighting for our very lives, and I think we ought to be very grateful to them. That is why I am asking you to read what a friend of mine e-mailed me.

She collects cards and gift packages for our troops all year long. It only takes a moment, and they deserve these cards and care packages. Please respond. Show our troops they are not forgotten. Thank you so very much.

******************************

4th OF JULY CARD DRIVE FOR DEPLOYED TROOPS

The Mission:

To collect at least 3,000 "thank you" cards for troops serving our country all over the world, to tell them "Thank you for our Freedom!" We are also collecting care package items for troops - please visit our website for more info, and click on the "Items Needed ASAP!" link!

The Reason:

Being away from home, often living in harsh conditions with combat & constant danger is difficult ~ our troops need to know we have not forgotten them!!! Mail from home helps to keep our troops' morale strong, making a very real difference in their lives. It keeps them motivated and focused when they know we care about them!

The Address:

Send your signed, unsealed thank-you cards to the following address:

OPERATION: LOVE FROM HOME
P.O. Box 1660
Loganville, Georgia, 30052

ALL CARDS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 2009.

The Guidelines:

The cards can be handmade or store-bought.

This is a great opportunity to get your Scout troop, school, church and other civic organizations involved in doing something to show support for our troops.

Please do not write the date on your cards

Please, no glitter on the cards. Because of the intended destination of the cards, nothing excessively "shiny" should be sent for safety & security reasons.

*IMPORTANT: This is not a "dating service." Please do not send suggestive or otherwise inappropriate cards or materials. Please also refrain from making political statements of any nature. We will be reading and screening every card received to ensure that the above guidelines are adhered to. Remember: This is strictly to let the troops know that we love them, we are proud of them and that we HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN them!

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.OPERATIONLOVEFROMHOME.ORG, OR EMAIL: KAT@OPERATIONLOVEFROMHOME.ORG. POSTAGE COSTS ARE OUR LARGEST EXPENSE. DONATIONS TOWARDS POSTAGE ARE GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED.
******************************

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Today I am having an open trackback courtesy of Linkfest. This means you can (track)post your best post here. Remember to link me to your article before you trackback. You don't have trackbacks available? Why not use Wizbang Stand Alone Trackback? Everyone have a nice day.

My friends have chosen to share these posts with you:
1. Potbelly Stove: EPA criticized for rule-making effort.
2. Woman Honor Thyself: Greg Pritchard: Britain’s Got Talent..agaiN!
3. Right Truth: The Middle East’s Two-Stall Solution.

Cross-posted @ Talon, TCU, SGP and Rosemary's News and Ideas. Digg!

Special Operations Forces Save Lives After Bomb Attack

Armed Forces Press Service

KABUL, Afghanistan, May 11, 2009 – As soon as they heard the news of the suicide bombers yesterday, a coalition Special Operations team in southern Afghanistan sprang into action.

The team rescued, treated and medically evacuated 19 civilians after two suicide bombers detonated themselves in the Gereshk bazaar in Helmand province, injuring 20 and killing nine. Six of the victims killed by the suicide bombers were Afghan National Policemen and Afghan soldiers.

“Yesterday afternoon, two suicide [improvised explosive devices] were used against the [Afghan National Police] in Gereshk,” said a team leader with Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan. “There was an ambush from a vehicle and motorcycles, coordinated with a suicide IED on the taxi station/ANP checkpoint.”

The initial attack occurred on the outskirts of the Gereshk bazaar, the team leader said. An Afghan police Special Weapons and Tactics unit responded to the suicide attack, secured the area and loaded the wounded into their trucks. They began to move the wounded to a local hospital on the opposite side of the bazaar.

“While they slowed down to move through the bazaar, a second suicide bomber stepped out in the middle of the first and second vehicles in the convoy and detonated,” the team leader said. “The suicide bomber had posted himself in a mosque downtown in the bazaar.”

Coalition personnel acted as a quick reaction force after the second explosion. They moved into the area, secured it and medics began providing emergency care for the injured. The casualties were loaded up and brought to a nearby coalition firebase for treatment and medical evacuation.

At the site of the explosion, 20 people, including civilians, Afghan police and Afghan soldiers were wounded in the attacks. Nine people, including three shoppers at the bazaar, were killed.

Some of the casualties were taken to a British-run hospital in Helmand province, some to Dutch- and U.S.-run hospitals in Oruzgan province, and some were taken for treatment at Kandahar Airfield, according to the doctor.

The status of the wounded is unknown. In accordance with Islamic tradition, the dead were returned to their families for burial as quickly as possible.

“The militants continue to show their total disregard for the lives of the Afghan people,” a coalition spokesperson said. “Thanks to the professionalism and dedication of the Afghan and coalition medical personnel, we were able to save lives, despite this heinous act.”

(From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.)

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Commander: Taliban Forced Civilians To Remain In Targeted Buildings

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2009) – Taliban operatives shaking down villages for money appear to have forced civilians to remain in buildings that were bombed in the course of a long May 4 firefight, the commander of U.S. Central Command said Sunday.

Gen. David H. Petraeus said on “Fox News Sunday” that a joint U.S.-Afghan investigation team looking into the incident addressed the events leading up to the aerial attack targeting Taliban fighters in which an undetermined number of Afghan civilians were killed.

“The Taliban moved into these villages seeking to extort money from them,” Petraeus said. The Taliban killed and beheaded three villagers and then attacked the Afghan police. This, the general said, led to the police asking the provincial governor for help from the Afghan National Army and coalition forces.

“It was in that response that this very significant firefight broke out that ultimately resulted in the dropping of bombs that clearly killed Taliban and some civilians,” he said. “It appears the Taliban forced the civilians to stay in the houses from which they were engaging our forces.”

Preliminary findings by the joint investigation team cite evidence that Taliban fighters may have caused civilian casualties in the villages. According to a statement issued jointly by the Afghan government and U.S. Forces Afghanistan yesterday, investigators interviewed the surgeon and staff of the Farah Hospital and the three doctors on duty the day after the incident. They treated 16 patients -- five police and 11 civilians -- for flash burns and small lacerations. Afghan doctors said the injuries could have resulted from hand grenades or exploding propane tanks.

“The local doctors also confirmed that the Taliban were fighting from the rooftops while forcing the locals to remain in their compounds,” the statement said. “Locals receiving medical treatment repeated this information to the doctors several times. The doctors also received a call, while the investigators where present, indicating that the Taliban extremists had executed another civilian in the same village.”

Petraeus said Centcom will conduct a thorough investigation of the May 4 incident, looking for lessons in how to prevent similar events in the future and ensuring the tactical battle doesn’t impede the strategy.

The Afghan-U.S. statement issued yesterday contained a harsh rebuke of the Taliban’s tactics.

“The joint investigation team strongly condemns the brutality of the Taliban extremists deliberately targeting Afghan civilians and using them as human shields,” the statement said. “Afghan national security forces and coalition forces are committed to [protecting] the lives of Afghan citizens. The Taliban, by contrast, deliberately place civilians in harm’s way and callously and cynically manipulate civilian lives for their political purposes.”

As for the way ahead in Afghanistan, Petraeus said he has received all the troops he has asked for. “That carries all the requests through this calendar year,” he said. “There are requests beyond that, but the decisions don’t need to be made for a number of months, and I’m confident those decisions will be made at that point in time.”

Some U.S. forces have shifted from Iraq to Afghanistan, Petraeus said, because the military is short on “enablers” -- engineers and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets, among other support capabilities -- a condition he said Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is trying to fix. “There are not enough of these in the military,” Petraeus said. “This is why Secretary Gates’ budget addresses these kinds of low-density, high-demand units.”

Turning to Iraq, Petraeus said the Iraqi government is maintaining the progress made to date. He said the overall number of attacks is holding steady. “It has averaged between 10 and 15 attacks per day” for the last six months, Petraeus said. “This equates to a level of violence not seen since the late summer of 2003, before the insurgency and well before the militia activities accumulated that led to … 160 attacks per day.”

What has increased is the number of sensational attacks in Iraq – particularly Baghdad. Iraqi and coalition forces are going after the re-emerging al-Qaida networks in the country. “We should expect al-Qaida will continue to try to re-establish itself in Iraq, even as the focus of al-Qaida senior leadership appears to have shifted away,” Petraeus said.

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Kansas SC To Hear Case Against Planned Parenthood

UPDATE: Let's just make one thing clear. This was written before that abortion doctor was MURDERED. I in NO WAY want to be affiliated with anyone who rejoices in another's misery. I no longer write anything from this group. It's a shame, too. We need someone out there WHO IS NOT A NUT to fight the good fight with WORDS and IDEAS and TRUTH. After all, isn't his life as valuable as anothers? You are not God, and you don't get to make that decision. What if God was working on him to soften his heart? YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU'VE DONE! And I want no part of your organization. Thank you for understanding my rant. Now you can read this post if you still choose to do so.
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It has been 10 months in the coming, but the Supreme Court of Kansas has finally made the announcement that they will hear arguements in the case of the State v. Planned Parenthood. The claim is that planned parenthood has criminally performed abortions and hidden the records, if they kept any at all. They have been performing late-term abortions without checking viability. They have also committed many other crimes. Below please find a press release from Operation Rescue. Thank you.

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After 10 Months of Stalling, KS Supreme Court Will Hear Arguments In Planned Parenthood Criminal Case

Topeka, KS - The Kansas Supreme Court has announced that it will hear oral arguments in the criminal case against a Kansas Planned Parenthood organization on Wednesday, May 13, 2009. The arguments will be related to an appeal filed by former District Attorney Phill Kline of a ruling made by Judge Stephen Tatum rejecting four of Kline's subpoenas and other matters related to the case.

Kline charged Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri with 107 criminal counts, which included 23 felonies, in October, 2007. The charges include illegal late-term abortions, failure to determine viability for late-term abortions, failure to maintain records, and filing false information related to late-term abortions. One brief filed in the case included documents that provided convincing proof that Planned Parenthood violated the law, then lied about it.

Since then, Johnson County has elected a new District Attorney, Steve Howe, who has remained quiet on his plans, if any, for the prosecution. Howe, who claims to be pro-life, is not trusted by much of the pro-life community because of his fierce opposition to Kline and lack of any tangible pro-life record. His close association with former DA and Attorney General Paul Morrison, an ardent abortion supporter who was forced to resign as AG amid a sex and abortion corruption scandal, makes him even more suspect.

This is the first movement on the Planned Parenthood case in ten months. The case had been stalled while the KS Supreme Court pondered the appeals.

"The Kansas Supreme Court has a history of reluctantly upholding subpoenas issued by Kline, and we are expectant that this will be the case now," said Operation Rescue Senior Policy Advisor Cheryl Sullenger. "We monitoring this case closely and are interested to see if Mr. Howe steps up and enforces the law, or follows in Morrison's footsteps and attempts to torpedo Kline's case."

"After ten months of stalling, it is past time for this case to move forward. In the event that Planned Parenthood is guilty of these crimes, it is hard to imagine how many more women have been subjected to illegal acts and how many viable babies have wrongly died while the Courts delay," said Sullenger. "Their lack of a sense of urgency betrays their lack of concern for the lives of the victims."

Operation Rescue plans to attend the hearing.

Read Timeline of Planned Parenthood Legal Cases.
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Operation Rescue is one of the leading pro-life Christian activist organizations in the nation. Operation Rescue recently made headlines when it bought and closed an abortion clinic in Wichita, Kansas and has become the voice of the pro-life activist movement in America. Its activities are on the cutting edge of the abortion issue, taking direct action to restore legal personhood to the pre-born and stop abortion in obedience to biblical mandates. Click here to support Operation Rescue.
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Web site: www.OperationRescue.org.

E-mail: info AT OperationRescue DOT org.
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I found this golden nugget over at the Conservative Christian. It was shared by Diane. Thank you, dear!

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Today I am having an open trackback courtesy of Linkfest. This means you can (track)post your best post here. Remember to link me to your article before you trackback. You don't have trackbacks available? Why not use Wizbang Stand Alone Trackback? Everyone have a nice day.

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Friends who want to share their posts with you:
The Pink Flamingo: The Series That Just Won’t Die.

Cross-posted @ TCU, SGP and Rosemary's News and Ideas. Digg!

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 5/4-5/8/09

Monday, May 4, 2009.
"We may with reverence say, that our Creator designed men for society, because otherwise they cannot be happy. They cannot be happy without freedom; nor free without security; that is, without the absence of fear; nor thus secure, without society. The conclusion is strictly syllogistic—that man cannot be free without society. Of course, they cannot be equally free without society, which freedom produces the greatest happiness."

--John Dickinson, Letters of Fabius, 1788

Tue. 5/5/09.
"In the supposed state of nature, all men are equally bound by the laws of nature, or to speak more properly, the laws of the Creator."

--Samuel Adams, letter to the Legislature of Massachusetts, 17 January 1794

Wed. 5/6/09.
"If individuals be not influenced by moral principles; it is in vain to look for public virtue; it is, therefore, the duty of legislators to enforce, both by precept and example, the utility, as well as the necessity of a strict adherence to the rules of distributive justice."

--James Madison in response to Washington's first Inaugural address, 18 May 1789

Thu. 5/7/09.
"[I]t is Religion and Morality alone, which can establish the Principles upon which Freedom can securely stand....The only foundation of a free Constitution, is pure Virtue, and if this cannot be inspired into our People, in a great Measure, than they have it now, They may change their Rulers, and the forms of Government, but they will not obtain a lasting Liberty."

--John Adams, letter to Zabdiel Adams, 21 June 1776

Fri. 5/8/09.
"Since private and publick Vices, are in Reality, though not always apparently, so nearly connected, of how much Importance, how necessary is it, that the utmost Pains be taken by the Publick, to have the Principles of Virtue early inculcated on the Minds even of children, and the moral Sense kept alive, and that the wise institutions of our Ancestors for these great Purposes be encouraged by the Government. For no people will tamely surrender their Liberties, nor can any be easily subdued, when knowledge is diffusd and Virtue is preservd. On the Contrary, when People are universally ignorant, and debauchd in their Manners, they will sink under their own weight without the Aid of foreign Invaders."

--Samuel Adams, letter to James Warren, 4 November 1775

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Gates, Marines Share Lively Q&A Session In Afghanistan

by Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan (May 7, 2009) – The question-and-answer session Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates opened here today with newly deployed Marines started with a pregnant pause, but quickly moved into a lively give-and-take about everything from deployment lengths to current and possible future military operations.

The group, mostly members of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Marine Wing Support Squadron 37 and Marine Combat Logistics Battalion 3, took advantage of the opportunity to ask the defense secretary about issues on their minds.

Asked about security along the Pakistan-Afghan border, Gates credited the Pakistani government with cracking down on Taliban forces that had moved toward Islamabad. Pakistan had always viewed India as its archenemy, and only recently has started to recognize extremists in the western part of the country as “a real threat,” he said.

The Taliban “over-reached” by trying to take over Pakistan’s Bruner district, Gates send, sending a wake-up call to the Pakistani government.

“They are beginning to go after these guys,” he told the Marines. “So the action we have seen over the last couple of weeks has been very encouraging as they come after these bad guys in the border area.”

But Gates reassured one Marine that there’s no truth to any rumor that the U.S. military is considering a humanitarian mission in Pakistan. That, Gates told the questioner, “is fully in the category of rumor.”

“I don’t think you have to worry about a mission in Pakistan,” he reiterated, emphasizing that the United States hopes only for an opportunity to help the Pakistanis increase their capabilities. “We just want to partner with them to enable them to carry the fight in the border area as they have been for the last couple of weeks,” he said.

Another questioner asked Gates about Iranian influence in the region. “First we try to nail them if we catch them in Iraq,” he said. “We have sanctions in place to try to get those guys to change their practices, but Iran is a tough nut.”

Reporting on his visits this week to Saudi Arabia and Egypt, Gates said the United States is working with its partners in the Gulf region to help them develop missile, air and maritime defenses against Iran. He also noted the “significant naval presence” in the region that helps to serve as a deterrent.

“The real hard problem that, frankly, we haven’t solved yet is, ‘How do you get them to walk away from their nuclear weapons program?’” Gates said. “There are a lot of options for dealing with it, but we need a long-term solution.”

The trick, he said, is to get the Iranians to realize that they will be less – not more – secure with nuclear weapons, “because they will probably set off a nuclear arms race in the Middle East.”

Gates also noted the threat the Iranian-sanctioned Hezbollah terrorist organization poses. Many people don’t realize that before the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, Hezbollah had killed more Americans than any other terror group, he said. “They are going to be a problem for us, I think,” he said.

Gates offered another questioner his assessment of progress in promoting interagency contributions toward the mission in Afghanistan.

“A central part of the new administration’s Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy is a significant civilian surge,” he said. Plans call for bringing another 500 civilians with specialized skills in everything from well-digging to building schools to accounting to provincial reconstruction teams to provide support at the provincial and district levels, he said.

But expressing concern that the process likely won’t move as quickly as needed, Gates said the Defense Department may tap into reserve components. These troops potentially could “act as a bridge” until the civilians can be hired through supplemental funding, he said.

“There is clearly an understanding that there is a need for more civilian expertise,” he told the Marines. “You guys can’t do this all by yourselves. We can clear these areas, but we have to hold them, and then we have to build something. And the build part is what the civilians have got to do.”

Gates extended his frustration over the sluggishness of the interagency effort to his own department.

“We’ve had complaining in the Department of Defense that the rest of the government hasn’t been at war,” he said. “One of my complaints has been that there have been significant parts of the Department of Defense that haven’t been at war. So we are trying to get all of the Defense Department into the fight, and at the same time try to get the rest of the government the resources they need to get into the fight.”

After telling the Marines he wants to make sure they have everything they need to succeed, Gates fielded a question about a shortage of communications equipment here.

He expressed confidence that equipment is en route – in a container bound for Camp Leatherneck that hasn’t yet caught up with the newly deployed Marines – and promised to have his staff look into the issue.

In response to another questioner, Gates said there’s no plan to change Marine deployment lengths from the current seven months. What he said he wants to see change is increasing the dwell time at home between deployments.

“Looking at all services, but especially the Army and Marine Corps, that have been redeployed so many times is seeing how we can extend the dwell time,” he said. He recalled not too long ago when Marines were home just seven months after a deployment, only to deploy again for another seven months.

That, he said, is a major reason the military has worked so hard to expand both the Army’s and Marine Corps’ end strengths.

“Both have gotten there two years earlier than expected,” Gates reported. “So I think as we draw down in Iraq, despite the buildup [in Afghanistan], we will be in a position, I hope, by later this year to begin lengthening the dwell time at home for everybody.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates talks to Marines deployed to Field Operating Base Bastion, Afghanistan, during his to southwest Asia.

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Gates: Taliban 'Overreached' In Pakistan Offensive

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (May 7, 2009) – The Taliban “overreached” in their offensive in Pakistan’s Buner district, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said Thursday in Kabul.

The secretary met with leaders and troops in Afghanistan, and then held a news conference. “We are entering a critical period with the deployment of significantly more American forces, as well as the upcoming Afghan presidential election,” Gates said. Afghan reporters asked Gates what the Taliban actions in neighboring Pakistan portended for Afghanistan.

“I think that the Taliban in Pakistan overreached with their offensive in Buner district, coming within dozens of kilometers of Islamabad,” Gates said. “It served as an alarm for the Pakistani government that these violent extremists in the western part of Pakistan are a significant danger to the government of Pakistan.”

Gates said Pakistan has taken significant military action against the Taliban in Buner over the past week, as the Pakistani government and people realize an agreement between the government and the Taliban in the Swat Valley has failed, Gates said.

“I personally have been very satisfied with the strong response that the Pakistani government and army have taken in response to this,” the secretary said. “I think there is very little chance of the Taliban in Pakistan achieving a level of success that will give them access to Pakistan’s nuclear weapons.” Gates said the reaction of the Pakistani army shows recognition of the danger that exists in the western part of the country.

American troops will not enter Pakistan from Afghanistan to challenge the Taliban, Gates said. “Our goal is to work with Pakistan army and Pakistani government as they deal with this problem, and we are doing all that we can to help them,” he said.

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

President encouraged by Afghan, Pakistani cooperation

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama said Wednesday he is encouraged by the spirit of cooperation between the leaders of Pakistan and Afghanistan as the two nations confront extremists. Obama spoke at the White House at the end of meetings with Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardar.

Obama said the strategy unveiled last month after long consultations with allies in the region calls for denying extremists the space needed to threaten the Afghan, Pakistani or American people. “We must also advance security and opportunity so that Pakistanis and Afghans can pursue the promise of a better life,” the president said.

The strategy in the region reflects a basic truth that the security of Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United States are linked, and the events of the past month reinforce that truth, Obama said. Al-Qaida and the Taliban have killed many people in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and they continue to challenge the democratically elected governments of the region.

“Meanwhile, al-Qaida plots against the American people and people around the world from their safe haven along the border,” Obama said.

The president said Karzai and Zardari fully appreciate the threat and have reaffirmed their commitments to overcoming it. He said the two leaders have pledged to work with each other and the United States. The president called the pledges “unprecedented” and said they will benefit all people.

The White House meeting was the second among the three nations and is designed to coordinate efforts across agencies and international borders. Pakistani and Afghan officials will meet with their U.S. counterparts as part of the process. Obama said the meetings will be held regularly.

“There is much to be done,” the president said. “Along the border where insurgents often move freely, we must work together with a renewed sense of partnership to share intelligence and to coordinate our efforts to isolate, target and take out our common enemy.”

But it is not just force that will win the day in the region, the president said.

“We must meet extremism with a positive program of growth and opportunity,” Obama said. The administration will continue to work with Congress to create opportunity zones to spark development in the region. The president said he is pleased with a landmark trade agreement between Afghanistan and Pakistan that will open both countries to more commerce.

The challenges in both countries are different. “In Afghanistan, we must help grow the economy while developing alternatives to the drug trade by tapping the resilience and the ingenuity of the Afghan people,” Obama said. He also said the United States will work with officials to eliminate corruption.

“I also made it clear that the United States will work with our Afghan and international partners to make every effort to avoid civilian casualties as we help the Afghan government combat our common enemy,” he said.

In Pakistan, the United States must help to shore up democratic institutions “while helping the government confront the insurgents who are the single greatest threat to the Pakistani state,” Obama said.

America also must help the Pakistanis build and develop their own economy and institutions. “That is why I've asked Congress for sustained funding to build schools and roads and hospitals,” he said. “I want the Pakistani people to understand that America is not simply against terrorism. We are on the side of their hopes and their aspirations, because we know that the future of Pakistan must be determined by the talent, innovation and intelligence of its people.”

While the United States is providing funding, it also is sending its greatest treasure – the young men and women of the armed forces and civilian experts. The president reiterated the decision to send 21,000 more servicemembers to Afghanistan. Obama said the challenges will be tough and that there will be more violence and some setbacks, but the United States is in the fight for the long haul.

“The United States has made a lasting commitment to defeat al-Qaida, but also to support the democratically elected sovereign governments of both Pakistan and Afghanistan,” he said. “That commitment will not waver. And that support will be sustained.”

Events around the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan show what life would be like under the Taliban and their al-Qaida allies. “It’s a future filled with violence and despair,” Obama said. “It’s a future without opportunity or hope. That’s not what the people of Pakistan and Afghanistan want, and it’s not what they deserve.”

Obama said it’s in the interest of all three nations to work together. “We have learned time and again that our security is shared,” he said. “It is a lesson that we learned most painfully on 9/11. And it is a lesson that we will not forget.”

No matter the challenges, “we will not be deterred,” Obama said. “And the aspirations of all our people – for security, for opportunity and for justice – are far more powerful than any enemy.”

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Talon and Rosemary's News and Ideas.

We Shant Be Silenced

As true Tea Party Patriots, we must stand together with our brothers and sisters when any and all injustices arise. It has been brought to my attention that one of our own, Steve McQueen, was denied his voice in Quincy, Illinois, by a party-line vote (7 Dems, 6 Reps). This is unacceptable. Here is the Action Alert. Please join me in responding to this unacceptable behavior and show your support for each American citizen who has the right, the duty, to address our city officials. After all, they do work for us. Let us kindly remind them of this.
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Action Alert: Tea Party Organizer Needs Our Help!
Posted: 05 May 2009 06:36 AM PDT

This message was emailed to me this morning. I think it’s worthy of our attention.

-Eric
————————————————-
DATELINE: Quincy, Illinois. Folks, this is just outrageous! Steve McQueen, the organizer of the city’s Tea Party in April, was denied, on a party-line vote (7 Dems, 6 Reps), the ability to address the city council on its recent budget that passed, which included water and sewage tax increases.

According to the story by QuincyNews.org, the motion was passed not to allow him to speak on the issue, and even the mayor chimed in on after he was sworn in to office in Quincy.

So here’s what we need to do as a Tea Party folks. We need to support our own, so do the following:

1) Call the town of Quincy. Demand to speak to the Mayor’s office[, but be polite]. Here’s the info:
Mayor John A. Spring
730 Maine Street
Quincy, IL 62301
(217) 228-4545

2) E-mail the mayor’s office. Here’s the email: mayor AT quincyil DOT gov.

3) Quincy media outlets. Voice your opinion. Here’s a list of media:

A) QuincyNews.org.
P: 217-617-6665
E: QuincyNews.org/contact.

B) Quincy Herald Whig
Managing editor: Don Crim
P: 217-221-3361
E: dcrim AT whig DOT com.

C) WGEM (NBC) (Also their number for the radio affiliate)
P: (217) 228-6655
E: News AT WGEM.com.

Start the calls, start the e-mails… let them know you’re pissed upset and [we demand justice.] the Tea Party’s won’t stand for it!

Share and Save.
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I did a little editing because we must keep our decorum. We do not want to give them a justifiable reason to hang up on us, even though they will. Even though this was a party line vote, also keep those republicans feet to the fire. Let them know we appreciate their vote to allow us our FREE SPEECH, but it should never have been an issue from the beginning. How does it get to the point where these twerps actually get to vote on whether or not they get listen to what we have to say?

Can anyone say, "Tea Party...Big Time!" Thanks.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Cross-posted @ Talon, TCU, SGP and Rosemary's News and Ideas. Digg!

Gates Praises Egypt, Seeks Saudi Support In Pakistan

by Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

CAIRO (May 5, 2009) – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates praised Egypt Tuesday as a key U.S. ally and said progress on a wide range of security issues in the region will require Egypt’s “full participation and leadership.” Speaking with reporters at Egypt’s presidential palace after meeting with President Hosni Mubarek and Defense Minister Mohamed Hussein Tantawi, Gates reported on “very productive meetings” that he said reinforced a longstanding bilateral friendship.

“We discussed a number of security issues, including Iran, the Palestinian-Israeli issue and steps in Iraq, and the opportunities for more cooperation among nations of the Middle East,” he said. “It will take full participation and leadership from Egypt to see progress on these issues, as has always been the case,” the secretary said.

Gates also added that he looks forward to expanding the two countries’ military-to-military relationships in ways that promote regional stability. He noted the Bright Star exercise series as an example of the activities and exchanges he said strengthen the U.S. armed forces as much as Egypt’s.

“Our military has benefitted from the interactions with the Egyptian armed forces – one of the most professional and capable in the region,” he said. “We are always looking for ways to expand these ties through education, training and exercises.”

As he heads for Saudi Arabia, Gates said, he will encourage leaders there to exert their influence to help the Pakistani government stand up to extremists.

“Saudi Arabia clearly has a lot of influence throughout the entire region,” he said, including a longstanding relationship with Pakistan. “I think the key here is all of us doing what we can to help the Pakistani government deal with the emergent threat to its own existence from these violent extremists. And I think the Saudis, along with others, can play a constructive role.”

Gates called recent Taliban attacks that reached within 60 miles of Islamabad “a wake-up call” to many in Pakistan that extremists group there pose “a real danger to the Pakistani government.” Pakistan’s response in dispatching army forces into the Bruner district demonstrates that the government recognizes the threat, he said.

Gates also expressed hope that tomorrow’s Washington summit meeting among the presidents of the United States, Afghanistan and Pakistan will bear fruit.

“My hope is that … there will be a common agreement on the nature of the threat and the importance of Afghanistan and Pakistan working closely together with the United States and other partners to try to deal with that threat,” he said.

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates walks with Air Force Maj. Gen. Paul 'Dutch' Van Sickle and Saudi officials during his arrival into Riyadh, Saudi Arabia May 5..

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

I Am Not Ashamed

It has come to my attention there is another pledge of allegiance that has been suggested by a very young man who sees the fruits of discontent abound in his school. From his words, his broken heart, a poem/pledge he sees as the future.

Is this what we have allowed? Why did we stand by and do nothing? Could we not have at least shouted from the rooftops about the wrongs perpetrated on our society? Don't we hate injustice? Don't we believe in Liberty? Don't we know the difference between right and wrong? Then why has it come to this?

Let us pray that in the future we do not back down because of discomfort or embarrassment. After all, God did not deny or abandon us while we were yet sinners, and we are still only as rags in His sight. It is His Son who cleanses us white as snow. So let us give to God the glory for which He is so abundantly and amazingly deserving. ;)
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Since the Pledge of Allegiance & The Lords Prayer are not allowed in schools anymore because the word 'God' is mentioned...

A 15 year old child in Ohio wrote the following:

NEW School prayer:

Now I sit me down in school
Where praying is against the rule.
For this great nation under God
Finds mention of Him very odd.

If Scripture now the class recites,
It violates the Bill of Rights.
And anytime my head I bow
Becomes a Federal matter now.

Our hair can be purple, orange or green,
That's no offence; it's a freedom scene.
The law is specific, the law is precise.
Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall
Might offend someone with no faith at all.
In silence alone we must meditate,
God's name is prohibited by the state.

We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,
And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks.
They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.
To quote the Good Book makes me liable.

We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,
And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.
It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from wrong,
We're taught that such 'judgments' do not belong.

We can get our condoms and birth controls,
Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles.
But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,
No word of God must reach this crowd.

It's scary here I must confess,
When chaos reigns the school's a mess.
So, Lord, this silent plea I make:
Should I be shot; My soul please take!

Amen

If you aren't ashamed to do this, please pass this on.

Jesus said, 'If you are ashamed of me, I will be ashamed of you before my Father.'

Not ashamed. Pass this on.
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We hear you, son. We are not ashamed. Pass it on.

Hat tip: E-mail from Kenneth K.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Today I am having an open trackback courtesy of Linkfest. This means you can (track)post your best post here. Remember to link me to your article before you trackback. You don't have trackbacks available? Why not use Wizbang Stand Alone Trackback? Everyone have a nice day.

Sharing the love with Nuke's: Obama Declines Iran Offer Of al Qaeda Members, Blog @ MoreWhat.com: Open Trackback Linkfest Haven Weekend, The Pink Flamingo: Ronnie We Have A Problem, third world county: Inspirational Quote for Today, Woman Honor Thyself: Israeli Team punished for fans’ anti-Arab chants, and The World According To Carl: Uncle Jay Explains The News — May 4, 2009, thanks to Linkfest Haven Deluxe.

My friends have shared these posts with you for your reading pleasure:
1. Beagle Scout: Senator Satan leaves Democrats for Revolutionary Communists: Says Democrats too far left.
2. Right Voices: Stimulus oversight left up to taxpayers; 7 of 10 lawmakers skip oversight hearing.
3. Woman Honor Thyself: Obama the Appeaser.
4. The World According To Carl: The Detainees — 9/11 (Watch This Video!).
5. Nuke Gingrich: Obama pwned: DC Voucher program.

Cross-posted @ TCU, SGP and Rosemary's News and Ideas. Digg!

Webster Takes Reins At U.S. Army Central

U.S. Army Central Public Affairs

ATLANTA (May 4, 2009) — Lt. Gen. William G. Webster took command of U.S. Army Central Monday. Though he is new to USARCENT, this will not be his first assignment at the command. “We are thrilled to be back with you in “Patton’s Own” Third Army,” said Webster. Webster served as the deputy commanding general of USARCENT from 2002-2003 when the unit was designated the Combined Forces Land Component for Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Webster commented on how glad he was to be back with the unit and his future plans as the Commander. “We are glad to join a great team with great talent and potential. We will continue to build upon our strengths and meet all challenges to ensure that we remain ready to accomplish all our missions,” said Webster. “We can accomplish anything if we stay focused on our missions; prepare Soldiers and Families for what they must do; and build and maintain the strong bonds of teamwork,” said Webster.

Webster is a 34-year veteran of the Army who has commanded units at every level from platoon through division, and has twice commanded Army installations. A native of Baton Rouge, La. his previous assignment was as the deputy commander of U.S. Northern Command and vice commander of the U.S. Element, NORAD, headquartered at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado.

Webster’s command will mark the end of U.S. Army Central’s 62-year tenure at Fort McPherson , as he transfers the headquarters to Shaw Air Force Base in 2011 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure program.

Gen. George W. Casey Jr.(from left), Gen. David Petraeus, U.S. Central Command commanding general, Lt. Gen. William G. Webster, incoming U.S. Army Central commanding general, and Lt. Gen. James Lovelace, outgoing USARCENT commanding general, stand at attention during a change of command ceremony May 4.

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Gates Reaffirms Ties With Egypt, Saudi Arabia

by Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

EN ROUTE TO CAIRO (May 4, 2009) – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is en route to Egypt and Saudi Arabia for sessions aimed at reaffirming ties with the important regional powers that both have strong military-to-military relationships with the United States.

The visits “clearly are all about strengthening relationships with long-time friends,” Gates told reporters traveling aboard a military aircraft with him.

The secretary, who last visited both countries a year and a half ago, is expected to focus on regional security issues, including the Middle East peace process and operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The trip is Gates’ first overseas visit in almost five months, except for a brief NATO conference in Krakow, Poland, in February. “I felt that it was important to focus on the budget and the strategy relating to the budget,” he explained. “And I also thought it was important to stick around Washington and get to know my new colleagues and establish strong relationships with them, which I think I have been able to do.”

Now back on the road, Gates said, he’ll encourage both Egypt and Saudi Arabia to forge stronger diplomatic ties with Iraq. Recognizing suspicion “about how much influence Iran has in Baghdad,” Gates credited the Egyptians with taking “some serious steps forward to re-engage” with the Iraqi government.

“If the Arab world is concerned about Iranian influence, then the way to deal with that is to have more Arab influence in Baghdad – more ambassadors, more engagement with regional security arrangements that involve the Arab states,” he said. “So I think one way to allay their concerns if for them to reach out and be a counter-influence in Baghdad. I think that is very important.”

Gates said he’ll also offer assurances that any U.S. outreach to Iran “will not be at the expense of our long-term relationships with Saudi Arabia and the other Gulf states that have been our partners and our friends for decades.”

The United States will deal with Iran “in a sensible way, and in a way that hopefully increases the security of everybody in the region, not just us,” he said.

“I just think it is important to reassure our friends and allies in the region that while we are willing to reach out to the Iranians — as the president said, with an open hand -- I think everybody in the administration from the president on down is pretty realistic and will be pretty tough-minded if we still encounter a closed fist,” Gates said.

During the first stop of his trip, in Cairo, Gates said, he plans to discuss Egypt’s role in the Middle East peace process.

“The Egyptians have played a huge role in terms of the Israeli-Palestinian problem in trying to be a go-between and help move that process forward,” he said. “The Egyptians have played a critical role in the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations for a long time.”

The U.S.-Egyptian bilateral military relationship will be another major agenda item. “We also undoubtedly will talk about smuggling in the Gaza and the programs we are working on together to try and limit that kind of smuggling,” Gates said.

A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers team in Egypt is testing advanced tunnel detection systems to be used to stem Palestinian weapons smuggling along Egypt’s border with the Gaza Strip. The team also will teach Egyptian security forces how to operate the system, purchased through the military sales program.

During the next leg of the trip, in Saudi Arabia, Gates is likely to discuss its possible role in helping Afghanistan’s democratically elected government reconcile with the Taliban. Gates said he’ll also encourage continued efforts to influence events in Pakistan.“Whatever they can do to help bring the Pakistanis together in a broader sense to deal with the challenge for the government in Islamabad obviously would be welcomed,” he said.

Gates said he expects the discussions to extend to the deposition of Yemeni detainees now at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. “The Saudis have perhaps the most successful repatriation [and] reeducation program of any country at this point,” he said. “So clearly there will be an interest in pursuing that with them.”

The secretary turned reminiscent as he anticipated returning to Egypt. He recalled the exact date of his first meeting with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarek – Aug. 4, 1990 – as the United States was preparing to send troops into Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Shield.

He also remembered his first visit to Egypt 30 years ago, accompanying then-President Jimmy Carter during the final stages of the Camp David peace talks. “So I always look forward to visiting Egypt and rekindling old friendships,” he said. “It is basically all about strengthening relationships.”

Similarly, Gates said he has made several return visits to Saudi Arabia. “It is good to go back and renew these relationships,” he said.

Source: CENTCOM.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

World News From Michael Yon

20 April 2009.
From Borneo Island
Thailand continues to simmer. Though the immediate violence appears to have abated, the divisions are deep. The problems are not over and appear to be growing.

Meanwhile, down in Borneo, I took this photo last evening.

This audio is of historical interest.

As always, every move in/on Iraq is subject to endless debate.

I’ll be out in the jungle today with indigenous Borneo people whose ancestors were headhunters. They still hunt with blowguns and poison darts. In other Borneo news, there were reports last week that scientists just located a previously undiscovered group of orangutans, numbering perhaps 2,000 members. Borneo is wild country.

24 April 2009
Greetings from Borneo,

I am with the British Army in Brunei going through a combat tracking course. The course goes 7 days/week for 21 days. This is day 5. Very good training so far, and plenty of sweat. This is great prep for Afghanistan.

I've got 30,000 copies of my book "Moment of Truth in Iraq." The inventory is in pristine condition and still packed in crates. I am considering having the books destroyed (expensive to store), but before they go to pulp they are going to auction. If you want 30,000 copies, please make your best offer. Shipping costs go to buyer and should be on order of $2,000 for just about anywhere in the U.S. For a particularly generous offer, I'll come by for a day of signing books. This can be a great way to help fund operations. Please send any offers to Rich at: Rich. Will soon post some dispatches about this excellent tracking course. Meanwhile, the torture issue is becoming worse by the day.

April 25, 2009.
Keep Tracking

The British Army tracking school on Borneo Island is outstanding. Please see the latest.

April 26, 2009.
Track On. Borneo tracking.

April 27, 2009.
Are You Tracking? We just finished Day 8 of tracking school in Borneo. Have you heard of Gobar Gas?

April 28, 2009.
Ambush. More on tracking in Borneo.

April 29, 2009.
Incredible. You've got to read this.

April 30, 2009.
The Swamp of Death. Tracking in Borneo got interesting today!

May 2, 2009.
Keeping Track

Good Morning America,

The soldiers improve at tracking with each passing day. It's 0500 here in Borneo. Today we'll helicopter deep into the jungle for a tracking "mission" to test the new skills. Fingers are crossed that they'll pass the first test.

More when we return from the jungle. Until then, two more dispatches are up: MAYDAY and MYSTERIOUS PLACES.

Your Writer,

Michael

Update from Michael:
May 4, 2009.
Greetings from Borneo,

Would you know how to tell if someone left footprints at daytime vs. at nighttime?

Very Respectfully.

Update II.
May 5, 2009.
Day 16.
The sun is not yet up this Wednesday morning. The helicopter will soon take us deep into the jungle. After it roars away, we'll track our prey. This from yesterday.

Your Writer.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Obama To Release 17 Jihadis In USA

President Obama has chosen to disregard the advice from the inter-agency panel he created from all the national security agencies to review all the cases of the Guantanamo Bay prisoners. He has decided that American citizens do not have the right to live as long as there are jihadis in Gitmo willing to kill us, apparently. They will be released sometime next week. Have a good weekend. It may be one of our precious few left.

Hat tip: Jed Babbin. (Read about it there.)

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Today I am having an open trackback courtesy of Linkfest. This means you can (track)post your best post here. Remember to link me to your article before you trackback. You don't have trackbacks available? Why not use Wizbang Stand Alone Trackback? Everyone have a nice day.

Sharing this with a new site and other friends: Links And Toons, Stop the ACLU: Hope and Change: Suddenly Military Commissions for Gitmo Detainees Doesn’t Look So Bad.

Here are some posts my friends would like to share with you for your reading pleasure:
1. Beagle Scout: Tea Parties and Federalism Amendments.
2. The World According To Carl: Uncle Jay Explains The News — May 4, 2009.

Cross-posted @ Talon, TCU, SGP and Rosemary's News and Ideas. Digg!

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 4/27-5/1/09

Monday, April 27, 2009.
"History affords us many instances of the ruin of states, by the prosecution of measures ill suited to the temper and genius of their people. The ordaining of laws in favor of one part of the nation, to the prejudice and oppression of another, is certainly the most erroneous and mistaken policy. An equal dispensation of protection, rights, privileges, and advantages, is what every part is entitled to, and ought to enjoy... These measures never fail to create great and violent jealousies and animosities between the people favored and the people oppressed; whence a total separation of affections, interests, political obligations, and all manner of connections, by which the whole state is weakened."

--Benjamin Franklin, Emblematical Representations.

Be it ordained.

Tue. 4/28/09.
"It is a misfortune, inseparable from human affairs, that public measures are rarely investigated with that spirit of moderation which is essential to a just estimate of their real tendency to advance or obstruct the public good; and that this spirit is more apt to be diminished than prompted, by those occasions which require an unusual exercise of it."

--James Madison, Federalist No. 37

Wed. 4/29/09.
"As riches increase and accumulate in few hands, as luxury prevails in society, virtue will be in a greater degree considered as only a graceful appendage of wealth, and the tendency of things will be to depart from the republican standard. This is the real disposition of human nature."

--Alexander Hamilton, speech to the New York Ratifying Convention, June 1788

Such a wise man. What shall we do except take back the education system to prevent the demise of patriotism and virtue. Yes, indeed.

Thu. 4/30/09.
"Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the Spirit of Party generally. ... A fire not to be quenched, it demands a uniform vigilance to prevent its bursting into a flame, lest, instead of warming, it should consume."

--George Washington, Farewell Address, 19 September 1796

Fri. 5/1/09.
"We have heard of the impious doctrine in the old world, that the people were made for kings, not kings for the people. Is the same doctrine to be revived in the new, in another shape -- that the solid happiness of the people is to be sacrificed to the views of political institutions of a different form? It is too early for politicians to presume on our forgetting that the public good, the real welfare of the great body of the people, is the supreme object to be pursued; and that no form of government whatever has any other value than as it may be fitted for the attainment of this object."

--James Madison, Federalist No. 45

Source: PatriotPost.us.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's Thoughts. Rosemary's News and Ideas.