Publius Forum

Friday, July 31, 2009

Petraeus: Innovation spurs Marine successes

by John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Va. (July 31, 2009) – The secret to the U.S. Marine Corps’ success is a blending of bedrock principles with innovation, the commander of U.S. Central Command said here last night.

Using two examples from recent history -- the heroism of the last Marine Medal of Honor recipient and the turnaround in Iraq’s Anbar province, -- Army Gen. David H. Petraeus shared his view at an event hosted by the Marine Association Foundation.

“On the one hand, Marines display a stalwart resistance to change in those bedrock values that form the very foundation of what it means to be Marine,” he said. “On the other hand, Marines demonstrate a ready embrace of innovation that allows them to adapt to the environments in which they operate and to the enemies they face.”

Some of those timeless, unchanging truths that describe the Marine Corps include an unflinching devotion to one’s fellow Marines, a ready embrace of hardship and a universal emphasis on the skills and the spirit of the rifleman, he said.

Petraeus said these underlying principles are illustrated in the story of Marine Corps Cpl. Jason Dunham. In 2004, the 22-year-old Marine was killed in action in Karabilah, Iraq, when he used his body to cover a grenade and shield his fellow Marines from the ensuing blast.

Dunham became the 295th Marine to receive the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration, which is bestowed for gallantry in action. The Navy will christen a ship named in the fallen Marine’s honor -- the USS Jason Dunham -- next week during a ceremony at Bath Iron Works, Bath, Maine.

Petraeus said the Marines’ actions in Anbar province illustrate their ability to adapt their strategy to meet unique challenges.

In 2006, Anbar province was one of Iraq’s most contentious regions. It was a society that had collapsed under the weight of an endemic insurgency with an infrastructure dilapidated by years of infighting and neglect. But amid the surge of U.S. forces in 2007, al-Qaida operatives overplayed their hands in Anbar, alienating local residents. Meanwhile, the influx of U.S. Marines helped to tamp down violence and create political breathing room, which in turn allowed the forging of key alliances between local tribal sheiks and coalition operators.

“As a result, sheiks started coming forward to coalition forces to discuss an alliance to throw off al-Qaida,” Petraeus said. “And this was the opening we needed.”

The “Anbar Awakening,” a societal purging of extremism by Anbaris, and formation of a civilian security group known as “Sons of Iraq” ushered in a level of stability unprecedented since U.S. operations in Iraq began.

“It is not an exaggeration to say that the Anbar Awakening helped alter the course of events in Iraq,” Petraeus said. “And I believe that generations from now, historians will continue to view it as a great example of the principled application of long-standing counterinsurgency principles.”

Source: Petraeus: Innovation spurs Marine successes.

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 7/27-31/09

Monday, July 27, 2009.
"In all very numerous assemblies, of whatever character composed, passion never fails to wrest the sceptre from reason. ... Had every Athenian citizen been a Socrates, every Athenian assembly would still have been a mob."

--Federalist No. 55, February 15, 1788

What? A mob? Oh, that would never happen here, right? I seem to remember a peaceful gentleman passing out flags only to people who wanted one when the Obama SEIU THUGS jumped him and beat him. Emotion rules the ignorant, reason rules the civilized.

Tue. 7/28.
"The house of representatives ... can make no law which will not have its full operation on themselves and their friends, as well as the great mass of society. This has always been deemed one of the strongest bonds by which human policy can connect the rulers and the people together. It creates between them that communion of interest, and sympathy of sentiments, of which few governments have furnished examples; but without which every government degenerates into tyranny."

--Federalist No. 57, February 19, 1788

Wed. 7/28.
"As our president bears no resemblance to a king so we shall see the Senate has no similitude to nobles."

--Tench Coxe, An American Citizen, No. 2, 1787

Thu. 7/30.
"If, from the more wretched parts of the old world, we look at those which are in an advanced stage of improvement, we still find the greedy hand of government thrusting itself into every corner and crevice of industry, and grasping the spoil of the multitude. Invention is continually exercised, to furnish new pretenses for revenues and taxation. It watches prosperity as its prey and permits none to escape without tribute."

--Thomas Paine, Rights of Man, 1791

Fri. 7/31.
"If it be asked what is to restrain the House of Representatives from making legal discriminations in favor of themselves and a particular class of the society? I answer, the genius of the whole system, the nature of just and constitutional laws, and above all the vigilant and manly spirit which actuates the people of America, a spirit which nourishes freedom, and in return is nourished by it."

--Federalist No. 57, February 19, 1788

Source: Patriot Post.

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.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

General: Taliban actions speak louder than words

by Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (July 30, 2009) – Although the Taliban recently issued a “code of conduct” booklet aimed at projecting a more positive image to the Afghan people, their actions directly contradict this goal, the spokesman for the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan said Wednesday.

Canadian Brig. Gen. Eric Tremblay told reporters in Afghanistan the Taliban are falling far short of the goals prescribed in their new “Taliban 2009 Rules and Regulations Booklet.”

ISAF forces seized a copy of the booklet, dated May 9 on its blue cover, earlier this month in southern Afghanistan.

Believed to be the first of its kind, the booklet preaches a style of warfare based on Islamic law and aimed at winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people. Among its guidelines, it advises Taliban fighters to avoid civilian casualties, limit suicide attacks to high-value targets and establish good relationships with the local people.

“Designed to be prescriptive in how insurgents are to conduct themselves in waging war against the government of Afghanistan, the Afghan security forces and ISAF, it is very telling to see how the actions taken by the insurgents day after day contradict in every way possible their own ‘Taliban code of conduct booklet,’” Tremblay said.

The booklet makes clear that Taliban forces should “try their best to avoid killing local people,” he noted. “Well, let me tell you that the reality on the ground doesn’t reflect this at all,” Tremblay said, noting that insurgents have killed 450 innocent Afghans and injured more than 1,000 others since January.

Insurgents killed even more civilians in 2008: 578 by the end of July, he noted.

Almost 50 percent of all casualties resulting from improvised explosive devices in 2008 were innocent civilian Afghans. So far this year, the percentage is 40 percent, the general said.

Tremblay noted another major discrepancy between what the Taliban booklet preaches and how their fighters operate. The booklet specifies that suicide attacks should be limited to “high-ranking people.”

“Again, the hard reality is that since January 2009, the insurgents have used over 90 suicide bombers -- most of them young men, and in many instances just teenagers and children – who, through their actions, have killed more than 200 innocent Afghan civilians,” Tremblay said.

“This is fact,” he continued. “The insurgents use children as suicide bombers. Despite their so-called ‘code of conduct,’ the insurgents have no respect for human life. They buy and sell children as young as 11 to act as suicide bombers and use them against the local population.”

Similarly, the booklet’s recommendations that insurgent fighters behave in a way that wins favor with the local people runs directly contrary to how they operate, Tremblay said. He noted that insurgents have targeted more than 40 schools so far in 2009 and continue to block women’s access to education.

“The insurgents intimidate, destroy, suppress and kill everywhere they go, because they are afraid to lose their control over the population,” he said.

Citing a 2008 International Committee of the Red Cross report of Taliban atrocities against innocent Afghans, Tremblay said 90 percent of the Afghan population doesn’t want the Taliban to regain power.

“For the population, Taliban presence means death and fear, as the insurgents have so many times proven to be ruthless for the people who dare not to cooperate with them or refuse to turn a blind eye to their criminal and brutal activities,” he said.

“Here lies the true nature of the Taliban,” Tremblay said, noting they hide among civilians, don’t hesitate to take hostages and use them as human shields when confronted by ISAF, U.S. or Afghan security forces, or to use children as suicide bombers.

Coalition forces in Afghanistan are working with the Afghans to offer an alternative, he said.

“For that compromising core of insurgents whose only goal is to kill and prevent progress to take place in Afghanistan, we will meet them with our persistent presence, alternative livelihoods, good governance opportunities and force, if necessary,” Tremblay said.

Source: CENTCOM.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Iraq drawdown may accelerate slightly

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

INCIRLIK, Turkey (July 29, 2009) – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said conditions in Iraq have improved to the extent that the U.S. combat brigade drawdown from the country may accelerate. “I think there is at least a chance of a modest acceleration” in the drawdown schedule, Gates said during a news roundtable today.

Gates visited Iraq yesterday and today, and was pleased with the progress being made. As part of the U.S.-Iraqi agreement signed in December, American forces turned over responsibility for security inside all Iraqi cities and villages to Iraqi security forces by June 30.

Gates said the process has gone remarkably well. Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, said yesterday that all trends are positive, and that Iraqi security forces have shouldered the security burden and run with it.

The modest acceleration may mean one additional U.S. brigade comes out before the Iraqi elections in January. Fourteen U.S. brigades are in Iraq. Plans had called for two to redeploy without being replaced by the end of the year. The acceleration may mean a third can return home without being replaced. This means by the end of the year, only 11 American brigades would be in Iraq.

Any drawdown, Gates said, depends on continued security progress. Ultimately, the redeployment decision will be made only after Odierno’s advice, the secretary said, noting that many things still can go wrong. Arab-Kurd tensions, for example, could derail the progress made in Iraq.

“I don’t want to put the general of the spot, because it really depends on circumstances that may or may not happen,” Gates said. “But I mention it only because I think it is an indicator of his view that things are going pretty well following June 30.”

Source: CENTCOM.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Gates visits Iraq to assess advisory brigades

by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

TALIL, Iraq (July 28, 2009) – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates began a previously unannounced visit to Iraq Tuesday with a stop to examine the prototype of the U.S. advisory and assistance brigades.

The new brigade is undergoing testing at this dusty Iraqi air base in the southern part of the country. Gates also will meet with Iraqi political leaders and consult with American commanders.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates talks with Iraqi security personnel July 28 during a site visit on Combined Operating Base Adder in Talil, Iraq.This is the secretary’s first look at the revamped brigades. “By the end of August next year, our change of mission really kicks in, and our presence will be built around a half a dozen advisory and assistance brigades,” a senior defense official said, speaking on background.

The brigade here is a test-bed for the concept. The first brigade trained in the United States under the new set-up --– the 82nd Airborne Division’s 1st Brigade --– will deploy later this year.

The brigades are a reorganization of the Army’s basic brigade combat teams, officials said, noting that after the Iraqi elections at the end of the year, these new brigades will be the mainstay of American presence in Iraq.

The brigades will advise Iraqi units and will have the firepower to aid Iraqi units if necessary.

The meetings in Iraq follow meetings Gates had in Washington with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki last week. In Washington, the prime minister spoke about a possible role for American troops in Iraq after 2011. The Iraqi-U.S. forces agreement calls for all American troops to be out of Iraq by Dec. 31, 2011.

The senior defense official said the secretary will not talk about the role of U.S. forces in Iraq after 2011. “We have a security agreement. It calls for us to be out of Iraq by the end of 2011,” the senior official said. “The secretary did mention that he looks forward to having a normalized security relationship with Iraq.”

Defense Department officials want any security relationship with Iraq to mirror relationships the United States has around the world. Small numbers of U.S. troops are in many countries around the world, training with local forces, teaching new tactics or showing how new equipment can help local militaries, the official said, and the presence of U.S. forces does not typically mean tens of thousands of personnel in bases all over the country.

In the past, Gates has expressed his personal view that “he would see the need for U.S. forces to remain there after 2011,” the official said. “But obviously that is strictly predicated on a new bilateral agreement that would allow for such a thing.”

For now, the official said, the question is moot, because “until the Iraqis come back and say what they need, we don’t even know if this is in the realm of the possible.”

Source: CENTCOM.

Monday, July 27, 2009

RFA, Military, Michael Yon News

Please find below a collection of news articles I am finally getting around to posting. As they are posted, their URL shall be posted here. I hope you will enjoy some of them. Have a good day.

Radio Free Asia.
1. China: Protests? What Protests? 6/2/09.

Military.
1. Brigade leaving southern Iraq a ‘much better place’.
2. Airmen stress dignity, humane treatment for detainees. 5/28/09.
3. Petraeus: Video shows airstrikes aimed at Taliban targets. 5/29/09.
4, U.S. troops preparing to leave Iraqi cities. 6/1/09.

Michael Yon Reports From:
1. Philippines: This Mornings Photos. 6/5/09.

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, and Rosemary's News and Ideas. Digg! Digg!

Friday, July 24, 2009

With training, Iraqi Police becoming self-sufficient

by Sgt. First Class Joe Thompson
41st Fires Brigade

FOB DELTA, Iraq (July 24, 2009) – National police in Iraq’s Wasit province now are capable of sustaining their own training needs after coalition forces leave here, military officials said, thanks to the efforts of a Massachusetts National Guard police company.

The 772nd Military Police Company, attached to the 41st Fires Brigade, worked with Iraqi police advisor teams to establish a mobile police training team. The team will serve at the police’s provincial headquarters and Iraqi police stations in the province along the Iranian border, as well as train other police trainers to train their own.

Capt. Hayder Adnan Ali, Iraqi police liaison to coalition forces explains marksmanship with Sgt. Hayder Sahib Silan at the Iraqi police provincial headquarters in Wasit, Iraq.“It’s most important to me to let the world know that with the support of coalition forces, the 41st Fires Brigade, 772nd [Military Police] Company and the Iraqi police training teams, the creation of this mobile training team not only readies the progress for the future, but we are ready to stand by and stop any kind of enemy,” said Capt. Hayder Adnan Ali, the Iraqi police liaison to coalition forces. “When you get good training and good policemen, you can fight the enemy and protect your community.”

The focus at the provincial headquarters was firearms training, and instructors there said they know the importance of quality training.

“I like to teach my training ideas and training goals to the students because I know that when I stand and fight against terrorism and any enemy against our country or while protecting all our communities, buildings and people’s lives, these recruits will be standing beside me, and I will know that they have been trained right,” said Sgt. Hayder Sahib Silan, Iraqi police instructor in Wasit.

“This is the first province in Iraq to have this mobile training team,” Silan said. “The other provinces rely on their academies and the coalition-led police training teams. But here in Wasit, we have the first independent, fully trained Iraqi mobile training team responsible for professional development and training of the Iraqi police.”

The mobile training team also ensures the police will be able to conduct training, even when they can’t afford to send new recruits to the police academy.

“Sometimes we don’t have the time to send them to the academy or we don’t have the budget to house, feed and put electricity in the academy,” Silan said. “The mobile team can go out to all the units anytime. They are ready to go and train.”

The curriculum for the training was developed by coalition forces and the Iraqi Interior Ministry and combined into a simple, comprehensive training plan encompassing both basic and advanced police training.

“This program has been a complete success with the collaboration of the [Iraqi police], [Iraqi police advisors] and [military police],” said Army Staff Sgt. Elton Dean, headquarters squad leader, 772nd Military Police Company. “We are looking to add more police mobile training teams in each district to ensure adequate instructors for the whole province.

“Every time we visit the instructors and trainees, you can tell they are putting the lessons they learned in the instructor course to use,” Dean continued. “It is apparent in the way they conduct the classes, how professional they look and how the students improve week to week.”

The mobile training team is made up of seven instructors and three officers who handle the administration and mentorship responsibilities. The 772nd will continue to partner with the Iraqi police in Wasit until the unit redeploys, which is scheduled for October.

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.

I'm Back...Kind Of

(This post started on the 22nd.) Hello all. I am back, but I am going to be posting several (over 200) posts that I've been putting off because I was so busy with the Tea Parties. BTW, I have a conference call tonight, and there is an excellent program tonight at PJTV which is going to have doctors, experts, lawmakers, etc., on the show to explain what is happening and cut through the crap they call politics. It will be interactive, so give it a watch at PJTV Healthcare Forum @ 6pm EST Wednesday evening and 7pm EST. Do not mistaken believe that 7pm is the same as 6pm! It is not. Just a heads up. ;)

As I post the articles, I shall post their links here. I know it's a long time ago to some of you younguns. *heh*

1. Gates: Success in Afghanistan depends on Pakistan's efforts against Taliban. 5/14/09.
2. Baghdad maternity hospital back to full capacity. 5/14/09.
3. Afghan army 2 to 4 years from leading operations. 5/17/09.
4. Afghan commandos meet top ANA leaders. 5/18/09.
5. Petraeus applies Iraq lessons to Afghanistan. 4/28/09.
6. President encouraged by Afghan, Pakistani cooperation. 5/7/09.
7. America needs service, Petraeus tells VMI grads. 5/19/09.
8. US sends aid to displaced Pakistanis. 5/20/09.
9. CENTCOM commanders discuss regional security issues in Bahrain. 5/20/09.
10. Emergency Aid Reaches Pakistan Refugees. 5/21/09.

This will conclude the updates for this post. I'm going to start another one so as to keep up with the times. Have a very blessed day, and thank you for stopping by. Remember to keep our brave men and women in your prayers and do what you can to support them. If you need some help as to what you can do, please contact me.

Today, July 23, I received an e-mail with this song included. I hope you enjoy it!


If you are unable to see the video for whatever reason, you may watch it here.

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. Digg! Digg!

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 7/20-24/09

Monday, July 20, 2009.
"Let justice be done though the heavens should fall."

--John Adams, letter to Elbridge Gerry, December 5, 1777

Tue. 7/21.
"The best and only safe road to honor, glory, and true dignity is justice."

--George Washington letter to Marquis de Lafayette, September 30, 1779

Wed. 7/22.
"Justice is the end of government. It is the end of civil society. It ever has been and ever will be pursued until it be obtained, or until liberty be lost in the pursuit."

--Federalist No. 51, February 8, 1788

Thu. 7/23.
"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, response to Washington's first Inaugural address, 1789

Fri. 7/24.
"It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no distant period, a great Nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a People always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence."

--George Washington, Farewell Address, 1796

Source: Patriot Post.

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.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Pentagon: Afghan citizens drive military success in Afghanistan

by Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (July 23, 2009) – Coalition efforts on the ground in Afghanistan and the Afghan people’s willingness to turn their backs on the insurgency will be the most decisive measures for success there, the Pentagon’s head of special operations said Thursday.

Marine leaders participated in a tribal shura July 19 at the Afghan police compound next to Patrol Base Jaker. The Marines are conducting counter-insurgency operations in southern Afghanistan in partnership with Afghan national security forces.In a roundtable discussion today over breakfast with defense and national security reporters at the Fairmont Hotel here, Michael G. Vickers, assistant secretary of defense for special operations/ low-intensity conflict and interdependent capabilities, discussed an array of topics regarding special operations forces and U.S. endeavors in Afghanistan.

Without experienced troops and local support, the fighting in Afghanistan could continue for decades longer, Vickers said. Completely ousting al-Qaida and Taliban networks there will require the Afghans to eventually defend themselves, he said.

“Ultimately, [the counterinsurgency fight in Afghanistan] will be won and lost on the ground, and it will be won and lost by the Afghan people,” Vickers, a former Army special forces soldier and CIA operations officer, said. “Ultimately, an insurgency is won at the local level.”

Vickers noted al-Qaida’s resilience and ability to overcome setbacks. The group has suffered significantly several times since 2001, but has been able to rebuild, he said.

Throughout the past year, countless al-Qaida leadership and operatives there have been killed or captured. However, al-Qaida still has capabilities and continues to fight aggressively, he said.

“[Al-Qaida] remains a very dangerous organization and threat,” he said. “It would certainly be enormously premature to say that conflict with them is over.”

Over the next few years, Vickers explained, the broad focus of the coalition counterinsurgency strategy in Afghanistan is to bring security to its populace. He stressed the importance to also have measurable, realistic near- and mid-term objectives in regards to governance and Afghan national security forces, too.

“The [goal] is not how many enemy fighters are killed, but really, is how much security you can bring to the country, then legitimacy to the government of that country in support of the population, and obviously prevent incursion by the insurgents,” he said.

Vickers added, “In the immediate term, our objective, [within] one to two years, is really to reverse the momentum the insurgency has been gaining to shift the balance [and] to move it towards a direction of irreversible bounds.”

This objective is being spearheaded by an increase of U.S. forces in southern Afghanistan, Vickers said. Before additional U.S. troops arrived there in the spring, the U.S. footprint was about 30,000 military members. Within the next two months, that number will increase to 68,000. Most of those forces will be operating in the Regional Command South area of operation “to play a significant role in reversing [the insurgent’s] momentum,” he added.

Vickers couldn’t be specific on whether this would be a temporary “surge” similar to the Iraqi surge in 2007, but offered that part of the reason for the U.S. troop increase is because “the Afghan security forces are too small for the challenge they face.”

“[Afghan forces] are very capable in some areas,” he continued, “but it will take some time to build up the Afghan National Security Forces.”

Transitioning security to the Afghans is one of the core objectives of President Barack Obama’s Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy in hopes of lightening the U.S. footprint, he said.

“Our goal is to partner with Afghans in everything that we do, and to progressively transition more and more leads in the operations to the Afghans,” he said.

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.

'I Know A Man' by Waymasters

This is a wonderful group which I have been following, and they have finally come out with their newest song. (Um...I'm a little late on the reporting, so please forgive me.) I like them, I hope you will, too.


Have a wonderful day.

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. Digg! Digg!

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Bill Russel 4 Congress Editorial

EDITORIAL | New York Times (07.19.09) One of the most favored insiders in Representative John Murtha’s rich churn of defense earmarks has pleaded guilty to criminal charges, shedding light on a twisting, pay-to-play money trail. The contractor, Richard Ianieri, admitted taking $200,000 in bribes from another big defense contractor in the Murtha orbit, and is cooperating with investigators.

“What’s that got to do with me?” commented Mr. Murtha, who previously lavished praise and tens of millions of dollars in contracts on the two companies caught up in the criminal investigation.

He asks an ever more urgent question. Investigators have not identified him as a target. But the inquiry is backtracking a trail of hundreds of millions awarded to Pentagon contractors who gratefully requited with tens of millions in political donations to Democrats on the appropriations subcommittee headed by Mr. Murtha.

In just one tangent of the complex inquiry, Mr. Ianieri’s company hired the lobbying firm of Mr. Murtha’s brother Kit. The company soon was blessed with money from an $8.2 million defense earmark. The Capitol newspaper Roll Call reported last month that Representative Murtha, using a 2005 tsunami relief bill, took the $8.2 million from another contractor that had severed ties with his brother’s lobbying firm. The Department of Justice alleges that Mr. Ianieri’s company then illicitly distributed $1.8 million of the money to other companies, some of them represented by Kit Murtha’s firm.

The Murtha money trail is far from fully explored but already features a second tangent of Congressional appropriations staff members’ exiting through the golden door to defense lobbying and scoring big contracts from their old bosses. Taxpayers should press the question of what all this has to do with Mr. Murtha (who has also used his gavel to create a luxury supermart of defense contractors in his Pennsylvania district).

Beyond the criminal investigation, a full-scale ethics inquiry should be pressed by House Democrats and Speaker Nancy Pelosi. If not, the Murtha money trail could lead them back to the minority.

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.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Iraqi authority proceeding after initial friction

by John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (July 21, 2009) - Several weeks after American forces in Baghdad handed over security leadership to their Iraqi counterparts, friction is giving way to a smoother transition of power, a top U.S. commander in the Iraqi capital said.

Maj. Gen. Daniel Bolger, commander of Multi-National Division - Baghdad, Tuesday described “hiccups and friction” that followed the American withdrawal from Iraqi cities in accordance with the June 30 deadline.

An Iraqi soldier practices patrolling near Diwaniya. After initial 'hiccups,' according to one American commander, Iraqi authorities are handling the transition of power smoothly.“Despite those initial frustrations, it seems to be going well,” he told reporters at the Pentagon, adding: “I think each day that goes by we get a little bit better at working together.”

A bilateral deal between Washington and Baghdad governing the status of U.S. forces in Iraq called for American troops to withdrawal from Iraqi cities and villages ahead of this month as Iraqi forces assumed authority in these areas. But the legislation also allows for Americans to provide assistance in some situations to Iraqi forces in cities.

While most U.S. facilities have moved outside cities -- drawing down from hundreds of large and small bases around Baghdad at the height of the troop surge in 2007 to a number in the low tens — a residual American force of 1,500 - 3,000 remain in cities, Bolger said.

Some have described instances where the implementation of the so-called Status of Forces Agreement has led to confusion on the ground.

“There have certainly been some scenes where an American or an Iraqi commander have to come out of their vehicles and walk up and figure out what’s going on,” Bolger said, adding that physical confrontations between American and Iraqi counterparts has not occurred.

“What we’ve got is folks on the ground trying to make sense of it as they carry out their tasks,” he added.

During a briefing at the Pentagon yesterday, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he received an optimistic assessment from Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, the top American commander in Iraq.

“He said that the level of cooperation and collaboration with the Iraqi security forces is going much better than is being portrayed publicly and in the media,” Gates said. He added, “It is perhaps a measure of our success in Iraq that politics have come to the country.”

Appearing alongside Gates was Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who said he’s encouraged by the progress American and Iraqi partners have made.

“There clearly are challenges, but I think the leadership is working its way through each one of those challenges,” Mullen said. “So I'm encouraged.”

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.

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Internet Explorer 8

If you have been resisting Internet Explorer 8 as I have, maybe it is time that we have no choice. Do you ever use YouTube? How about Twitter? Facebook? The Internet? Well, they are going to stop allowing me to use my IE 6. Creeps.

I have no choice. They shouldn't make products they are only going to get rid of down the line. What if people like them? Doesn't matter. They don't care. They've got their money, their fancy cars and the such. What about us poor people? What about rich people who don't have the time or desire to relearn everything they learned in the first place using the damn product in the first place? They don't care, and why should they? Makes me wonder about buying American from some companies...

Anyway, I'm going to do the switch, and I will keep you updated on the changes I find. If you are like me and blog, everytime you clean out your temporary files (in Internet Options), you will no longer have the choice of whether or not to keep them. You cannot. It will also clear your history whenever you clear your temp. files.

I've tried it before. That's how I know. That is also the reason I made them give me back my IE 6! Have a nice day.

Update 1: I want to scream! Nothing is where THEY say it is, I hate this friggin crap. I'm thinking about going Apple. Seriously. The way Windows threatens people by having it on every site I go to that if I did not do this, that particular place was going to stop accepting IE 6. Those bastards.

Update 2: I was so lost that I figured I would check out their help. They have an e-mail button, so I clicked on it. You know who the email went to? ME!?! So I figured I would share it with you.
Problem: Technical

I hate it, I hate it, I hate it! It is so frustrating when I have over 300 issues I have to report and you won't allow me to keep IE 6. Why not? I have to learn a whole new application just so I can continue my job? WHY? I don't have the time.

Oh, I've been to your help sites. I've looked for what they've said to look for to fix the situation. IT ISN'T THERE! Then what do I do? This is 1st grade stuff that you make grad school problems out of it. Please stop doing this to your customers, or I'm going APPLE!

My problem? How do I turn off these daggone accelerants that you seem to think are so cute? They block me everywhere I go, EVEN THOUGH I turned them off through the Wizard. Huh? They're still working even though I told them not to? Okay, I have time to figure this out.

Does the Military have time to wait for me to do this or should I get back to work? Where is your location? I'm sure you appreciate if I protected it, wouldn't you? Then please don't make threats such as, "We are going to stop responding to browser that are using IE 6." at YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Yahoo, everywhere I go. (Not a physical threat, no, but a job killing one.)

Please forgive my frustration. I have been so busy and now this. You'll never hear me say, "What could happen next?"!

Have a nice evening.

Sincerely,

Rosemary
Okay, I know I'm not in the military, but I do a lot for them. No, I don't get paid. So what's the talk about losing my job? I was seriously ready to give up ever getting on this computer again. It was a build up of a whole bunch of things that I don't feel like rehashing. The good news is, I'm over it. Have a nice day.

PS. IE 8 is SLOWER than IE 6.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Videos Of Tea Parties USA

BREAKING NEWS: At 5:21 pm today I learned that Walter Konkrite at the age of 92 has gone to meet his maker. Rest in Peace.

Boston Common Tea Party 7/4/09. (3:26 minutes)


If this video cannot seen, you may wacth it at YouTube.

Hat tip: Robert and eyesopen02186.

San Diego Tea Party Protest Independence Day July 4, 2009 (Mission Bay Park) (7:29 minutes)


If you cannot view this video, you may view it at YouTube.

Hat tip: max1media.

I don't want to load up my computer with too many more videos, so I will give their URL's and their authors. (Right after this one.)

Protestors hold July 4th Tea Party in New Mexico. (1:39 minutes)


Again, if the video isn't working proprly, you may it at YouTube.

Hat tip: KRQE.

PITTSBURGH TEA PARTY, JULY 4 2009 SCHENLEY PARK #1 9:35 minutes.

Hat tip: chadpitt83.

New York City July 4th Independence Day Tea Party Protest [FOX News] .

Hat tip: ConservativeNewMedia.

There are many more videos of this topic on this page, Tea Party Independence Day OR Tea Party July 4. Enjoy! I know I did. ;)

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.

Linkfest Haven, the Blogger's Oasis

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.

Spreading the fun all over the country with Adam's Blog: Ullman Running for GovernorUllman Running for Governor, The Conservative UAW Guy: That Pretty Much Sums It Up, Gulf Coast Hurricane Tracker: Carlos weakens, Another storm develops, Leaning Straight Up: LSU on the road again, Mark My Words: Sarah Palin – the other shoe drops, Potbelly Stove: President fires IGs. Questions remain, Right Truth: "The Fall of Capitalism and the Rise of Islam", Right Voices: The New Administration’s First Six Months: A Pictorial Overview, The Pink Flamingo: The Era of Barack Capone, The Virtuous Republic: Ohio, How’s the Obama/Biden Stimulus Program Working for You?, The World According To Carl: Happy Birthday To Me!!!, third world county: Benefits of The Holy Brew (#1 :-)), Walls of the City: but was he wearing a white hat?, Woman Honor Thyself: Weight Loss Tips, thanks to Linkfest Haven Oasis.

Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 7/13-17/09

Monday, July 13, 2009.
"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."

--John Adams, Rights of the Colonists, 1772

John, is there someway YOU could address the Congress?

Tue. 7/14.
"Government, in my humble opinion, should be formed to secure and to enlarge the exercise of the natural rights of its members; and every government, which has not this in view, as its principal object, is not a government of the legitimate kind."

--James Wilson, Lectures on Law, 1791

Wed. 7/15.
"It is sufficiently obvious, that persons and property are the two great subjects on which Governments are to act; and that the rights of persons, and the rights of property, are the objects, for the protection of which Government was instituted. These rights cannot well be separated."

--James Madison, Speech at the Virginia Convention, December 2, 1829

He ought to know. He is the father of our Constitution!

Thu. 7/16.
"All eyes are opened, or opening, to the rights of man. The general spread of the light of science has already laid open to every view the palpable truth, that the mass of mankind has not been born with saddles on their backs, nor a favored few booted and spurred, ready to ride legitimately, by the grace of God."

--Thomas Jefferson, letter to Roger C. Weightman, June 24, 1826

Amen.

Fri. 7/17.
"As a man is said to have a right to his property, he may be equally said to have a property in his rights. Where an excess of power prevails, property of no sort is duly respected. No man is safe in his opinions, his person, his faculties, or his possessions."

--James Madison, National Gazette Essay, March 27, 1792

ARE YOU LISTENING, PRESIDENT OBAMA???

Source: Patrioit Post.

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.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 7/6-10/09

Monday, July 6, 2009.
"When occasions present themselves, in which the interests of the people are at variance with their inclinations, it is the duty of the persons whom they have appointed to be the guardians of those interests, to withstand the temporary delusion, in order to give them time and opportunity for more cool and sedate reflection."

--Alexander Hamilton, Federalist No. 71

If only...

Tue. 7/7.
"It behooves you, therefore, to think and act for yourself and your people. The great principles of right and wrong are legible to every reader; to pursue them requires not the aid of many counselors. The whole art of government consists in the art of being honest. Only aim to do your duty, and mankind will give you credit where you fail."

--Thomas Jefferson, A Summary View of the Rights of British America, 1775

Wed. 7/8.
"If men of wisdom and knowledge, of moderation and temperance, of patience, fortitude and perseverance, of sobriety and true republican simplicity of manners, of zeal for the honour of the Supreme Being and the welfare of the commonwealth; if men possessed of these other excellent qualities are chosen to fill the seats of government, we may expect that our affairs will rest on a solid and permanent foundation."

--Samuel Adams, letter to Elbridge Gerry, November 27, 1780

Thu. 7/9.
"Nothing so strongly impels a man to regard the interest of his constituents, as the certainty of returning to the general mass of the people, from whence he was taken, where he must participate in their burdens."

--George Mason, speech in the Virginia Ratifying Convention, June 17, 1788

Fri. 7/10.
"We have duties, for the discharge of which we are accountable to our Creator and benefactor, which no human power can cancel. What those duties are, is determinable by right reason, which may be, and is called, a well informed conscience."

--Theophilus Parsons, the Essex Result, 1778

Source: Patriot Post.

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.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

LB, CA Tea Party Pics 7/4/09

Richard Oliveri was kind enough to be our impromptu photographer who was kind enough to send me a disc full of some great pics. I thank God he was there, because I do not have a camera and he’s such a nice, happy man. I’d like to share them with you. The title of this Tea Party is, “America’s Freedom-Long Beach (CA) Tea Party”. I hope you enjoy them. Have a nice day.

(Left) These are two of my favorite posters!

(Right) This is a very nice lady and a very friendly dog. She even let me pet him. I love animals.


(Left) Great college student with a blow-away speech standing with an American Hero.

(Right) This is the man who read the Declaration of Independence before Diane spoke, and he talked about the Fair Tax after her speech.


(Left) This is what the shirt Jamie was wearing says.

(Right) Jamie is a wonderful young lady who read a letter for mother called, “I am the Nation”. Great job, Jamie!


(Left) I just had to include this picture of Jeane’s husband, Jamie father. He is one of America’s Heroes! A man of very few words but many smiles. God bless you, Sir.

(Right) Jamie’s Mom, Jeane, then spoke. She read “The Letter” which was an open letter sent by a Democrat turned Republican turned someone without a party (which is how many of us feel) wrote to each public official including Pres. Obama and the press. She hit many things right on the mark, and Jeane did a beautifully passionate job reading it. Great job, Jeane! Thank you.

(Left) Beautiful family.

(Right) The park.






(Left) This 20 year old college student was just a total crowd pleaser! If yuo come upon this site or anything else I write, please e-mail me. I'd really like to get your name and e-mail so you can speak at our 9-12 Tea Party.

(Right) This is Diane Lenning, she is running for Superintendant of Schools in 2010. She did well with her speech. The part that impressed me was when she asked everyone to honor those in our families who’ve served this magnicant country. She is related to George Washington!

(Left) Now for the signs. This is the sign my brother made so people would know where to find us. Great job, Bro!

(Right) So True!



(Left) This is a T-shirt of the stickers that were being passed around and what it says.

(Right) Another AMERICAN TEA party sign.


(Left) I love these posters!

(Right) The Spice and Spirit of America!





(Left) Oh my. I didn’t realize this is the back of me. That’s California’s bear telling our State to LISTEN to us. It is not just the US Congress and President we’re targeting for unemployment! BTW, what’s up with ‘compassionate’ Conservatism? When and where have you known of a gov’t being kind to anyone? Is it kind to take money that you’ve worked hard for to give it to someone who hasn’t worked (if they’re able) that didn’t? We have a word (and many laws!) for that. ROBBERY!

(Right) I almost forgot myself! I wouldn’t have been able to pull this off without the help of my brother. Thank you, Brother. I became politically active because I’m fed up with politicians. I don’t care which party their from, they do not listen. Well, now it’s your turn to shut up and listen to what we have to say. WE’RE FED UP with your taxes, pork, trips you take on our dimes, and the bs you expect us to swallow as fact. No, we don’t believe you anymore (if we ever did). So go home and think about that! Remember, there's an unemployment line waiting for you, too.

See? I’m fair. I think I disagree, but everyone should have a voice. (Except for violent and perverted people.)

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, TownHall, TCU, SGP and Rosemary's News and Ideas. Digg! Digg!

Sunday, July 5, 2009

'Tops' Tea Party!

This Independence Day we had another Tea Party, America's Freedom-Long Beach Tea Party, and it was the tops. I learned many thing from the April 15th Tea Party, and I tried to fix those mistakes. Well, on paper I did, but in really things just flowed smoothly even though I was disorganized. I forgot to plan for people not showing up on time.

The Tea Party was scheduled for Independence Day, 12-3pm at 130 Cherry Ave, Bixby Park, Long Beach, California 90802, and it lasted about 2 hours at its peak, 3 hours altogether. Here is the schedule of events as they really happened, not the one I had planned. Although it was pretty close.

It was marvelous to see 110 people come to our Tea Party in liberal Long Beach, California. Everyone was so thoughtful and helpful. Roxanna bought a helium pump for the balloons which worked perfectly. If you could have been there to see the expressions on the children's faces as we freely gave them balloons! No, they were not part of the Tea Party but being the Conservatives that we are, we love children. Of course we did ask their parents first if we could give them to their children. They were so happy.

Most of the people signed in this time, however many people came as the Tea Party was in progress. My brother counted 50, and 60 people signed in. They were energetic, patriotic, helpful in many ways, cheerful, and it was a very pleasant experience. They were also tired and fed-up with being overtaxed, paying for other people's bailouts, this enormous health care boondoggle which threatens our very good system and will make the fraud in Medicare and Medicaid look like chump-change. Yes, there was much to discuss.

We began with Barbee singing "God Bless America" and everyone joined in. It was beautiful. She has a delightful voice. Then we said the Pledge of Allegiance, and we even dared to use the words IN GOD. Oh my. Then the Declaration of Independence was read by a very nice gentleman (whose name I forgot to get). Then I read a few verses of the NIV version of the Bible with the theme being, "Healing Our Land": 2Co 4:8, 16, 17 and 2Ch 7:14. It was graciously accepted by all.

After that, we had quite a bit of time before our guest speaker was to arrive, so we kind of went off schedule. I'll try my best to recall the events as they occurred. There was a daughter, Jamie, who wanted to read something for her mother who was to speak after Jamie. What she read was awesome. It was "I Am The Nation" (I think that's the name of it). Excellent job, Jamie.

Then her mother, Jeanne, read "The Letter" written by a life-time Democrat turned Republican turned without a party. It is an open letter sent to our officials in all offices and the press. Glen Beck read it on the air (I do not get him on my radio), and Jeanne just had to read it. I don't blame her. It is quite remarkable letter, and you did an excellent job Jeanne.

At 1pm, we had our special guest speak. She is running for Superintendent of Schools and her name is Diane Lenning. She was remarkable. Her ancestry includes General and President of the United States George Washington. She is interested in changing the curriculum to include the true history of this great country. There were many things said, but I was impressed the most when so many answered her call to give homage to those who fought before and/or are still fighting so we could have this day. There were too many for me to keep track of while counting. I was so very proud of everyone there.

There was one young man who absolutely amazed me. He brought hope to everyone there. How did he do that? He is young, in college, well spoken, an American who happens to be black, yet people have called him a racist. Huh? Yes. This is because he believes the rule of law should apply to everyone equally or no one equally. So do I. He also believes in a free market system and wonders where are the supposed free market politicians? Twenty years old and smarter than some of the people I know. He just blew me away. So much, in fact, that I forgot to get his name of all things. I surely hope he signed in. At least I can find him through email.

On the subject of Americans who happen to be black being called racist. It occurs most of the time when it comes to illegal aliens. How is it fair that if you're here in our country illegally that the rule of law bends over backwards for you, yet does not give two hoots about her own citizens? Everyone at the Tea Party agreed. By the way, there were Democrats and Republicans there. This was truly a nonpartisan event.

Then the man who read the Declaration spoke about the Fair Tax. After him, many people spoke their minds. There were some very good ideas bantered about. It was a breath of fresh air to hear citizens and not politicians speak. They came up with simple ways to solve our economic, social, and spiritual problems.

Some of the policies promoted were as follows:
  • 1. July 17th: Flood the 89 offices of the elected officials to let them know we do not want their health care insurance boondoggle.
  • 2. Make our elected officials aware of the consequences of their cap-and-tax...er...trade will have on every community. This was brought home by our guest, Ken, from Detroit, who has had to move here while his wife stays in Detroit for 9 years because Chrysler closed. He made us aware that only Germans were allowed to work in the jobs that were lost to union workers, and they were not permitted to join a union. This is information we are not hearing from the press. Gee, I don't wonder why.
  • 3. There was one person there, I'm sorry I did not get his name, who brought up the idea of the Fair Tax. I do not agree with this, but I allowed him to speak. After all, what if he's right? I certainly wouldn't disagree with shutting down the IRS!
  • 4. Our very handsome College student wants more freedom of thought in the schools. He also wants fairness. It is not okay that Liberals can rewrite history and do whatever they want, but Conservatives are held back from telling the truth and doing as they please. He just wants EQUAL freedom.
  • 5. This one is closest to my heart. This is the one which we all agreed. This day was available due to those who are in harms way to this day. We honored the Revolutionary War with their daughters and sons in attendance, we honored the War of 1812 with one of their descendants, we honored WWI with their descendants, we also honored WWII, Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq with their descendants and loved ones.
We were actually not just protesting these policies, we were there to bring alternative policies which seem to be lacking in Congress and our state of California. Some were very good, some I disagree with, but I allowed them to be discussed. Who am I to censor free speech? (I did censor any cussing and way off common sense such as name calling which gets us nowhere. Fortunately, I did not have to use it.)

If you are interested in helping us stop the movement in California by going to these 89 officials offices in person, please contact me. I am going to need much help, and this is to happen on July 17. So I do not have that much time to get ready! Especially since my next Tea Party is going to be September 12, 2009. All are welcome.

PS. IF YOU WERE THERE AND SPOKE, please e-mail me and let me know your name, what you spoke about and when you spoke. Please, for the people who's names I forgot, let me know who you are. Also, please forgive me for this. I am truly sorry I forgot your name. How embarrassing. Mr. Video man, please let me know your name also. Sounds like I was really in charge of everything doesn't it? NOT! D'oh!

Update: Please be advised there is more to come. A kind man, Frank Oliveri, who took pictures is sending them to me through snail-mail as soon as they are ready. Thank you.

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

Today I am having an open trackback. 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 of country with third world county: "Go ahead. Tread on me…", Adam's Blog: First Congressional District Update, Big Dog's Weblog: Monday Morning Buffet, Dumb Ox Daily News: Who Signed the Declaration of Independence, and What Became of Them?, and The World According To Carl: Godly Wisdom — July 7, 2009.

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

Friday, July 3, 2009

Citizen Journalists Wanted For Tea Parties

Hi everyone. Would you like a great opportunity to show off your writing skills? This online newspaper published my work back in April, so they'll publish just about anyone's. lol. Here are some details:
Hello fellow Patriot,

It’s Independence Day and The Voice magazine is seeking citizen journalists to help us report on the TEA Parties across the U.S.

You know the media is not going to cover these events like they should, or they'll spin the reports to suit their agenda. We pledge to get the truth out and to help inform, inspire and empower Americans from coast to coast to stand up, speak out, and take our country back!

You can read about it here: The Voice magazine is Seeking Citizen Journalists for TEA Party Coverage.

Please let us know if you're willing to report on the event in your city, and spread the word to others you know who are attending TEA Parties.

For the future of our country,

Melanie Madon
Managing Editor | THE VOICE
The Voice Magazine (e-mail).
Please think about it. It is a great thing to do for our cause.

A side note. PJTV is also looking for Citizen Journalists. They would like pictures, videos, reports, whatever details we can offer them. The link to sign-up to be Citizen Reporter at PJTV (new media TV) is right here to register. This is very fne organization. I do watch it often. Have a great Independence Day!

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 @ TCU, SGP and Rosemary's News and Ideas.

Founders' Daily Quote(s): 6/29-7/3/09

Monday, June 29, 2009.
"Where liberty dwells, there is my country."

--Benjamin Franklin (attributed), letter to Benjamin Vaughn, March 14, 1783

Here, here, and Amen!

Tue. 6/30.
"Liberty must at all hazards be supported. We have a right to it, derived from our Maker. But if we had not, our fathers have earned and bought it for us, at the expense of their ease, their estates, their pleasure, and their blood."

--John Adams, A Dissertation on the Canon and Feudal Law, 1765

Yes, Obama, how many drops of blood have you spilled for America?

Wed. 7/1.
"Our cause is noble; it is the cause of mankind!"

--George Washington, letter to James Warren, March 31, 1779

Thu. 7/2.
"The Sun never shined on a cause of greater worth."

--Thomas Paine, Common Sense, 1776

Fri. 7/3.
"Proclaim liberty throughout the land unto all the inhabitants thereof."

--Leviticus 25:10 Inscription on the Liberty Bell.

Source: Patriot Post.

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.