Thursday, June 30, 2005

Up- Up- and Away!!!!!

The kid in me makes me put this Post up.
In less than two weeks, on July 13, 2005… Discovery launches back into space for its 31st flight and would be the 114th Space Shuttle flight to fly. (It’s been 2 ½ years since the tragic flight of Columbia which ended by breaking up over the United States, killing all 7 crew members.) Read more at: “nasa.gov

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 665-05 Jun 30, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Robert E. Hall Jr., 30, of Pittsburgh, Pa., died June 28 in Ad Dujayl, Iraq, when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted position at the gate of his forward operating base. Hall was assigned to the Army Reserve's 467th Engineer Battalion, Greenwood, Miss.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Let the critics scream!!!

I think the President should remind us of 9-11-- Over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over AGAIN... (Let the critics scream!)
My view: No matter what you’re political views might be... One thing is for certain. In these days of fast news and even faster life styles... We all seem to have forgotten those moments in history that so abruptly and tragically changed this beloved Country of ours...
911- How soon we forget.......
AubreyJ
July 2004

Wednesday, June 29, 2005

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

No. 659-05 Jun 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on June 27 near Taji, Iraq, where their AH-64D Apache helicopter crashed. Both soldiers were assigned to the Army's 3rd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
Killed were:
Chief Warrant Officer Keith R. Mariotti, 39, of Texas.
Chief Warrant Officer Steven E. Shepard, 30, of Purcell, Okla.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692- 2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 658-05 Jun 29, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
2nd Lt. Matthew S. Coutu, 23, of North Kingstown, R.I., died June 27 in Baghdad, Iraq, where enemy forces engaged his convoy with small arms fire. Coutu was assigned to the 64th Military Police Company, 720th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Bush spoke and many listened… But not all-

Fort Bragg, N.C. June 28, 2005
Nationally Televised Address


Last night I thought President Bush was on message as he has been since day one of 9-11. Yet so many say they just wanted to throw up when they heard his words. All they wanted from this President was a change of course, a change of message, to give them something new or for him to say he screwed up a few things along the way. Why I ask? It’s not going to happen. It would just give his critics something else to bitch about. It’s not in this President’s being to do such a thing.

This President doesn’t rely on any polls and he doesn’t give a rat what his critics say or think anyway. He doesn’t put his finger to the political winds to make any decision. Thank God... And unlike most, what he says is what you get!!!

After his speech Tuesday night, it was predictable that the critics would be saying he didn’t say anything new and it was just as predicable that all his supporters, (like me) were saying he stayed on message. Nothing new here...

Yet just like clock work, just moments after the speech and with the President still shaking hands with all those brave solders at Fort Bragg… I’ll be damned if most all the major news media were already out tearing into everything the man had just said. I give up!!! I have never seen so many people, (News Media alike,) trying so hard to make a Vietnam out of something that is not, to make a liar out of a man who is not and wanting so bad to put out the peace signs… cut and run from a war that we most certainly can not.

The dangers to Bush and this war on terror are not these critics. Their minds are set and nothing short of a nuclear explosion going off in a major U.S. city, (where most of them live by the way,) will ever wake them up to the realities of this war. These critics are still fighting over what’s mostly yesterday’s OLD NEWS. We had elections, the critics lost, live with it. Yesterday is not going to kill you my critic friends. What’s going on today and tomorrow most certainly will if we let it.

No… What President Bush is in danger of is his political base losing faith in him and this war. Need not worry of this Mr. President. That’s not going to happen either. We understand what is taking place today and how we got up to this point. Like you, no one knows when or exactly how this war will end in the unforeseeable future. We just know we will surely win……….

I’ve said this time and again and I just can’t help myself to say it one more time…. No matter what your opinion is, on how we got to this point on the war in Iraq, is irrelevant at this time. We can not turn and run from the war in Iraq, the war in Afghanistan and the war on terror. At this moment on this day, all these wars are one and the same. These crazies are coming after us no matter where we fight this war. The sooner all the American people understand this simple fact, the sooner all this in-house fighting will stop amongst us. Maybe then we can all reunite again as ONE COUNTRY and get this war behind us. (If you listened, really listened to what the President was saying last night you might just understand these words...) It will take this country as ONE to win this war on terror. If we ever let the terrorist completely divide us, (like they seem to be achieving,) we will lose. That’s a reality that truly scares the hell out of me… and so it should you too………

Tuesday, June 28, 2005

President Bush’s Tuesday Night Speech

Bottom line, it was a very much needed speech for all Americans. Yet, like always… No matter what the man says, it’s just going to be WRONG or a lie in the minds of so many. I for one can not wait to surf the Blogs and check out the News Headlines in the morning and see all the crap so many will come up with. Until then I think I’ll call it a night and get ready for a fun filled morning...
See ya in the Blogs......
AubreyJ......................................................

How Complacent can you get?

When’s the last time you thought about the Homeland Security Advisory System?
Yeah… That’s what I thought………………
How soon we forget that thing going up and down all the time.................

Sec Rumsfeld sets the record straight

Sec Rumsfeld used an interview with radio listeners in Kansas City, Mo., to set the record straight on media reports that had him saying the war could go on another 12 years.

Sec Rumsfeld said… “Well, the statement is not a statement that I made. I was asked about insurgencies generically, and I said insurgencies around the world through history have lasted varying times -- two, four, six, eight, ten, twelve years sometimes. I did not predict a 12-year insurgency in Iraq, and anyone who carried it that way was misinformed."
Above info taken from DoD

World’s First Nuclear Fusion Plant goes to France

A new way to meet our global energy needs has just taken a major step forward.
This is some real cool stuff...... A must read at: "finfacts.com"

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice

“Insurgents in Iraq are very tough and they're very bloody, and they can grab headlines on any given day. Yet there will come a time when American forces and coalition forces are able to turn over to Iraqis responsibility for their security." Read more on what Sec Rice has to say,(Insurgents Will Fail To Stop Iraqi Political Progress) at DoD: "American Forces Press Service"

Insurgencies tend to go on for six, eight, ten, twelve years

Sec. Rumsfeld has remarked that insurgencies tend to go on for six, eight, ten, twelve years… Another good read on IRAQ at: "DEBKAfile’s"

DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

No. 651-05 Jun 27, 2005
DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Petty Officer 1st Class Regina R. Clark, 43, of Centralia, Wash., died June 23 in a convoy that was attacked by a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device in Fallujah. She was a culinary specialist deployed with Naval Construction Region Detachment 30, Port Hueneme, Calif., and was temporarily assigned to II Marine Expeditionary Force.
For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342.

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

No. 647-05 Jun 27, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Ramona M. Valdez, 20, of Bronx, N.Y., died June 23 while traveling in a convoy that was attacked by a suicide, vehicle-borne, improvised explosive device in Fallujah, Iraq. She was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Media with questions about this Marine can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.

Monday, June 27, 2005

$70.00 a barrel for Crude?

Oil futures climbed to a record high today closing out at $60.54 a barrel. Some analysts say highs of over $70.00 a barrel can’t be ruled out. Read more at: “FXSTREET.COM
Just a thought… Is this a Oil BUBBLE or the real deal?

Sec Rumsfeld’s News Conference

Secretary Rumsfeld and General Casey held a News Conference from the Pentagon early this afternoon and this was surely an intro to what President Bush will be talking about Tuesday evening, (June 28, 2005) during Prime Time.

Since 9-11, I have seen most to all of Sec. Rumsfeld's News Briefings and as of late this was by far one of his best. Very powerful and informative were General Casey and Sec Rumsfeld today. If you get a chance to see the Briefing on C-SPAN tonight, (I guess they will rebroadcast it, they usually do) you need to take the time to watch it.
Read more on this News Conference at DoD: “American Forces Press Service”.

Polls- Polls- and more Polls…

All these Polls being thrown around lately don’t mean RAT!!! In other words, no matter what your political point of view is, you can find something in one Poll or another to make you want to run outside and shout--“Told ya so!!!” These Polls of today are just useless. Even Sec. Rumsfeld has a good quote about them… We’ve all seen polls go up and down. If you chase those… you just get seasick!!!

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 646-05 Jun 27, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Charles A. Kaufman, 20, of Fairchild, Wis., died June 26 in Baghdad, Iraq, where a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Kaufman was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry, Arcadia, Wis.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

No. 648-05 Jun 27, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Veashna Muy, 20, of Los Angeles, Calif.
Cpl. Chad W. Powell, 22, of West Monroe, La.
Both Marines died June 23 while traveling in a convoy that was attacked by a suicide, vehicle-borne, improvised explosive device in Fallujah, Iraq. Both Marines were assigned to 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Media with questions about these Marines can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.

Afghanistan and growing violence

Jean Arnault, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), has noted that even with the violence in Afghanistan on the rise, not all of the violence is caused by extremist attacks. Drugs, local rivalries, corruption and common crime are also involved. Yet at the same time, he points out that the current offensive by extremist groups, including the Taliban, is playing a primary role in the ESCALATION.
Read more at: “adnkronosinternational
Just a thought… If the heat (violence) rises too much in Afghanistan, is the UN going to cut and run like they did in Iraq???

Sunday, June 26, 2005

Is the Afghanistan War firing back up?

With the fighting ratcheting up in Afghanistan, concerns seem to be reinforced that the war there is firing back up instead of winding down. With elections coming up in September, Afghanistan and U.S. officials alike are warning that things could start going down hill again. More on this soon I'm sure........

Army General John Abizaid speaks out

A word from Army General John Abizaid, Commander of U.S. Central Command..........
“The insurgents are in a NO-WIN situation. They can cause casualties, they can grab headlines, but as long as the politics move forward, they cannot win.”
Read more of General Abizaid comments made today on CBS’s Face the Nation and CNN’s Late Edition at DoD: "American Forces Press Service"

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 644-05 Jun 26, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. 1st Class Christopher W. Phelps, 39, of Louisville, Ky., died June 23 in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Phelps was assigned to the Army's 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colo.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

President Bush on Prime Time

President Bush to address the Nation Tuesday night during Prime Time…
Main Topic:
The War in Iraq

It’s about time is all I can say. I just hope he lays everything on the line instead of putting a bunch of sunshine up everyone’s skirts. (There is a lot of sunshine going on overthere but there’s a lot of bloodshed going on too.)

This Tuesday night I hope he will talk about all the bad things for once, let everyone know “again” why we have to stay, tell us a little more about his “Two Track Strategy for Victory in Iraq” and how we are coming along with getting the job done overthere. The sooner we can get the job done, the sooner we will see our troops finally coming home…

Saturday, June 25, 2005

Commentary: Support for the Troops Never Stronger

Support for the Troops Never Stronger
This one brought tears to my eyes…
A must read at DoD: “American Forces Press Service”

Two Track Strategy for Victory in Iraq

1) The Military Track is to defeat the terrorists and continue helping the Iraqis take greater responsibility for defending their freedom. To train the Iraqis security forces so they can defend their freedom and protect their peoples.

2) The Political Track is to continue helping the Iraqis build the institutions of a stable democracy. Basically to see the new government completely set up and running completely on its own.

Not until these two strategies are completely achieved will we ever see our troops finally return home with the honor they all so well deserve…

A Few Thoughts: No matter what your opinion is on how we got to this point in our history is irrelevant at this time. We can not turn and run from the war in Iraq, the war in Afghanistan and the war on terror. At this moment on this day, June 25, 2005 all these wars are one and the same. These crazies are coming after us no matter where we fight this war. The sooner all the American people understand this simple fact, the sooner all this in-house fighting will stop amongst us. Maybe then we can all reunite again as ONE COUNTRY and get this war behind us.

It will take this country as One to win this war on terror too. If we ever let the terrorist completely divide us, (like they seem to be achieving,) we will lose. That’s a reality that truly scares the hell out of me… and so it should you too………

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 643-05 Jun 25, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Carlos Pineda, 23, Los Angeles, Calif., died June 24 as a result of wounds sustained from enemy small-arms fire while conducting combat operations in Falluhah, Iraq. He was assigned to 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune,N.C.
Media with questions about this Marine can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033

Friday, June 24, 2005

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 642-05 Jun 24, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Holly A. Charette, 21, from Cranston, R.I., died June 23 from wounds sustained when a suicide, vehicle-borne, improvised explosive device struck her vehicle in Fallujah, Iraq. She was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Media with questions about this Marine can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 641-05 Jun 24, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Joseph M. Tackett, 22, of Whitehouse, Ky., died June 23 in Baghdad, Iraq, of a non-combat related injury. Tackett was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
The incident is under investigation.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 640-05 Jun 24, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Arnold Duplantier II, 26, of Sacramento, Calif., died June 22 in Baghdad, Iraq, where he was providing cordon security, and was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Duplantier was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, Auburn, Calif.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

One Week Later

One week ago today I posted the following Post:
"If President Bush should break the Law"
From then up to now, I have posted the names of 18 Military Casualties from our ongoing Wars. We take a moment to remember these fine people and pray that these posting will soon enough stop all together. With this said I post another DoD Casualty News Release. (It’s the one just above this post…)

Cheney Attributes Spike in Attacks to Insurgents Sensing Defeat

From the lips of Vice President Richard B. Cheney himself...
Another good read at DoD by Sgt. Sara Wood, USA: "American Forces Press Service" Click it out!

The New Democrat Party

Politics is what makes this country so great. I’m with anyone who also thinks this 1000%. Without good strong debate this country would be nothing. But what we have going on in this country these days isn’t politics—IT’S HATRED...

You can not run a country on HATRED!!! Hatred is not a political policy. And I’m sorry but this is ALL most Democrats seem to have in them these days. To the Democrats ANYTHING President Bush has done of past or is trying to do now is just wrong. They just flat out HATE the man. Their Policy is-- JUST SAY NO, BUSH DID IT, (but their best I think is,) BUSH DID NOT DO IT RIGHT!!! Nothing but a “Monday Morning Quarterback Party” is all these Dems have become. Ooops-- I’m sorry, don’t forget “The HATE Party” too...

The drumbeat is already being heard in the winds of the upcoming 2006 Elections. So to all of you voters out there on both sides of the fence, take this country back… FIRE those so full of HATE. We can no longer run this country with all of them HATERS being part of the Political System. They’re blocking everything and getting nothing done in Congress... (I know everything can’t be approvable that moves through the House and Senate but by god I’ll be damned if everything is flat wrong either!) You can’t run a country like this anymore… FIRE THESE PEOPLE in 2006!!!!
Let the Drumbeat start today............
Fire Them-- Fire them-- Fire them………………………………
(Fire Ted Kennedy's fat ass while you’re at it too!!!!!)

Thursday, June 23, 2005

Iraq's 55 Most Wanted


Oh yeah… That famous Deck of cards.
With Saddam Hussein fixing to start Trial in the next few months, you might as well start familiarizing yourself with all the names and faces of all those people who were under him. I think it is going to be a real shocker to some as to what kind of stuff some of these people did over the years... I’d have to say-- Sick, Sad, Mad with just a touch of Horrified thrown in would sum it up best.......
Anyway... Here’s a short slideshow I put together-- (Viewed best with DSL/Cable.) To view click: Deck of Cards now!!!

DoD Identifies Air Force Casualty

No. 638-05 Jun 23, 2005
DoD Identifies Air Force Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of an Air Force pilot who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Maj. Duane W. Dively, 43, of Rancho California, Calif., died June 22 in Southwest Asia, in the crash of a U-2 aircraft. Dively had completed flying a mission and was returning to his base when the crash occurred.
He was assigned to the 1st Reconnaissance Squadron, Beale Air Force Base, Calif.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
For further information, please contact the 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs Office at Beale Air Force Base, (530) 634-8891.

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

No. 636-05 Jun 23, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on June 21 in Ramadi, Iraq, where their unit was conducting combat operations, and were attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Both soldiers were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
Killed were:
Spc. Christopher L. Hoskins, 21, of Danielson, Conn.
Spc. Brian A. Vaughn, 23, of Pell City, Ala.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 637-05 Jun 23, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

Sgt. James D. Stewart, 29, of Chattanooga, Tenn., died June 21 in Ar Rutbah, Iraq, where an improvised explosive device detonated near his military cargo truck. Stewart was assigned to the 57th Transportation Company, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 635-05 Jun 23, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Nicholas R. Idalski, 23, of Crown Point, Ind., died June 21 in Ramadi, Iraq, where his unit was conducting combat operations and were attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire. Idalski was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

Wednesday, June 22, 2005

Shock and Awe

With oil prices at near record highs these days, I’m truly in SHOCK and AWE that the US Economy is still going as strong as it is. That’s good news and no Dem. can argue that point. I take that back… Some of them will find some sort of doomsday scenario out of it-- They always do...

Another thought that comes to mind is this. If it wasn’t for the threat of Hydrogen Cars and of course those darling little Hybrids taking hold and helping in lowering our energy needs in the not to far off future, would Oil Prices have already gone slap through the roof??? Just could be a price hold down factor........

Policing and Politics-- A New Day for Iraq

Public opinion is not on the insurgents’ side these days and the battle of Iraq is no longer one of war, but of policing and politics…
Another good read today at: taemag.com Click it out..............

Fighting in Afghanistan Leaves 40 Insurgents Dead

WASHINGTON, June 22, 2005 –
Afghan and coalition forces killed about 40 enemies June 21 in fighting southwest of Deh Chopan, Afghanistan, after insurgents attacked with small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades, military officials reported today.

One Afghan National Police officer was killed and five U.S. soldiers and two Afghan policemen were wounded in the clash. The injuries were not serious and all were transported for treatment at Kandahar Airfield, officials said.

Coalition and Afghan forces were patrolling the area as part of Operation Catania, which is a search-and-attack operation designed to take away enemy safe havens.

Coalition warplanes and attack helicopters hammered enemy positions throughout the evening.

"This mission is a ongoing effort to take away enemy sanctuaries," said Army Lt. Col. Jerry O'Hara, Combined Joint Task Force 76 spokesman. "We are not letting up on the enemy and will continue to pursue them until the fighting stops. Coalition and Afghan forces will continue to defeat these militants for as long as necessary to ensure the people of Afghanistan remain free of oppression and tyranny."

(The above news release is from DoD- American Forces Press Service from a Combined Forces Command Afghanistan news release.)

My take: I put this post up because more than likely you will not hear much about this or anything else, (as far as that goes,) from the main news media about anything going on in Afghanistan.

Don’t think for one second that the war in Afghanistan is anywhere near over either. It’s not. And as Iraq settles down over the next 6 months or so, you will see Afghanistan ratchet back up again. How bad it will get I have no idea but I think the word “Bad” will sum it up.

If you’ve been keeping up with the bits and pieces of news coming out of Afghanistan of late, you will have seen that this “Ratcheting Up” has already started. It’s sad to say this but no one is reporting on this little piece of news either... Well not YET. It's coming though.......

Tuesday, June 21, 2005

Let the Iraqis speak for themselves

Let’s hear the opinions of the one group who are rarely heard from in the debate on Iraq. How about the Iraqis themselves. Good read on this at: Hawaiireporter.com

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 630-05 Jun 21, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Christopher R. Kilpatrick, 18, of Columbus, Texas, died June 20 in Tal Afar, Iraq, during convoy operations when enemy forces attacked his HMMWV with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. Kilpatrick was assigned to the 603rd Transportation Company, 142nd Corps Support Battalion, Warrior Brigade, Fort Polk, La.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

No. 629-05 Jun 21, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on June 17 in Al Qaim, Iraq, while conducting combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to Headquarters, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C.
Killed were:
Master Sgt. Robert M. Horrigan, 40, of Austin, Texas.
Master Sgt. Michael L. McNulty, 36, of Knoxville, Tenn.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

We need a Energy Bill now!!!

With Oil Prices trying to hit that $60 a Barrel mark, where is the ENERGY BILL at? From what I have read lately, it looks like the Senate has finally gotten their act together, are working together and just might finally get an Energy Bill on the President's Desk by no later than this August. If we don’t get this Bill past and SOON… it’s going to get flat out nasty out there on those oil prices and we the American people will not be forgiving to those holding it up. (We will elect you IN / OUT on this…) Click on your favorite Search Engine, type in-- “Energy Bill” for the latest reads on this topic….....

Monday, June 20, 2005

Those Democrats did it again--

Those Democrats did it again-- FILIBUSTER!!!
With a vote to finally cut off debate at 54 to 38 today, the Democrats again blocked a vote on John Bolton. Drop the boot Mr. Bush… Go around the filibuster and put him in by “Recess Appoint” this coming 4th of July Holiday. Time to stop playing games and get it done..........

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 625-05 Jun 20, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died on June 18 in Baqubah, Iraq, from injuries sustained on June 17 in Buritz, Iraq, when they were conducting a mounted patrol and their HMMWV was attacked by enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades. Both soldiers were assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.
Killed were:
1st Lt. Noah Harris, 23, of Ellijay, Ga.
Cpl. William A. Long, 26, of Lilburn, Ga.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Photo of Torture Room


U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, discover a room being used by insurgents to torture local Iraqi citizens in the city of Karabilah, Iraq, on June 18, 2005. Iraqi and U.S. forces are conducting Operation Spear to destroy strongholds held by insurgents in Karabilah.
DoD photo by Cpl. Neill A. Sevelius, U.S. Marine Corps. (Released) Photo by: CPL NEILL A. SEVELIUS, 2D MARDIV COMBAT CAMERA Record ID No. (VIRIN): 050618-M-2819S-097
(Most likely the same room talked about in my post on Saturday titled “Marines rescue tortured hostages as battle rages in Karabila, near the Syrian Border.” Scroll down a bit to find this Post. It’s a real good read…)

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

No. 624-05 Jun 20, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Adam J. Crumpler, 19, from Charleston,W.Va., died June 18 as a result of small-arms fire while conducting combat operations against enemy forces during Operation Spear in Karabilah, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Media with questions about this Marines can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.

Bolton-- Give him the up or down vote!!!

Today at 6:00pm, a cloture vote is scheduled on Bolton. If the filibuster by the Democrats continues, hopefully President Bush will make a “Recess Appoint” during the Senates planed recess coming up this 4th of July Holiday. (He could do just that too!) I for one hope he does if need be. More read on this at: Foxnews.com

Sunday, June 19, 2005

Happy Fathers Day

Happy Fathers Day to all you old GOATS out there. With this said… I think I’ll spend the rest of the day with the family and enjoy watching some Golf…

15 to 20 militants dead in Afghanistan

The following read from:
American Forces Press Service
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, June 19, 2005

An unprovoked attack on a coalition patrol today left 15 to 20 militants dead in Afghanistan, U.S. officials said. The patrol reported coming under small-arms and rocket-propelled-grenade fire, which pinned the unit down northwest of Gereshk, in Helmand province. U.S. airplanes and attack helicopters engaged the enemy.

Initial battle-damage assessments indicate 15 to 20 enemies died and an enemy vehicle was destroyed, according to a news release from Combined Forces Command Afghanistan.
"When these criminals engage coalition forces, they do so at considerable risk. We will close with and destroy those that stand against Afghan and coalition forces at every opportunity," U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jerry O'Hara, a spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force 76, said.
No coalition personnel were injured in the incident, officials said.

David Toms got himself a Birdie!!!

David Toms got himself a Birdie on the 18th hole yesterday-- not quite the way you are thinking either!!! Click it out at: journalnow.com
(I know it was fun for me to watch…)

Saturday, June 18, 2005

Marines rescue tortured hostages as battle rages in Karabila, near the Syrian Border

You got to read this. This has to be some of the best in the field reporting I’ve seen in a long time. It gets down to the heart of things I think. Hats off to CNN’s senior Baghdad reporter JANE ARRF. Job well done…………………………
Click the read out at: CNN.com
Note: I can not help but think that not to much longer from now, we will be taking a few “BUTT WHIPPING TRIPS” over the Syrian Boarder… (The Bad Guys seem to be staging or running back over there… Lets Go Get Um!!!)

Part of President Bush’s Radio Address - - June 18, 2005

Part of President Bush’s Radio Address - - June 18, 2005

(First part he talks about our economy, Social Security, Oil and such… (Full transcript and Audio at: WhiteHouse.gov.) The following is what I wish he would hammer home to all Americans on a daily basis.……….
"As we work to deliver opportunity at home, we're also keeping you safe from threats from abroad. We went to war because we were attacked, and we are at war today because there are still people out there who want to harm our country and hurt our citizens. Some may disagree with my decision to remove Saddam Hussein from power, but all of us can agree that the world's terrorists have now made Iraq a central front in the war on terror. These foreign terrorists violently oppose the rise of a free and democratic Iraq, because they know that when we replace despair and hatred with liberty and hope, they lose their recruiting grounds for terror.
Our troops are fighting these terrorists in Iraq so you will not have to face them here at home. We mourn every one of these brave men and women who have given his or her life for our liberty. The terrorists know they cannot defeat our troops, so they seek to weaken our nation's resolve. They know there is no room for them in a free and democratic Middle East, so the terrorists and insurgents are trying to get us to retreat. Their goal is to get us to leave before Iraqis have had a chance to show the region what a government that is elected and truly accountable to its citizens can do for its people.
Time and again, the Iraqi people have defied the skeptics who claim they are not up to the job of building a free society. Nearly a year ago, Iraqis showed they were ready to resume sovereignty. A few months ago, Iraqis showed they could hold free elections. This week, Iraqis have worked on an agreement to expand their constitutional drafting committee to ensure that all communities are represented in the process. I am confident that Iraqis will continue to defy the skeptics as they build a new Iraq that represents the diversity of their nation and assumes greater responsibility for their own security. And when they do, our troops can come home with the honor they have earned.
This mission isn't easy, and it will not be accomplished overnight. We're fighting a ruthless enemy that relishes the killing of innocent men, women, and children. By making their stand in Iraq, the terrorists have made Iraq a vital test for the future security of our country and the free world. We will settle for nothing less than victory.
I'll continue to act to keep our people safe from harm and our future bright. Together we will do what Americans have always done: build a better and more peaceful world for our children and grandchildren."

DOD IDENTIFIES MARINE CASUALTY

No. 620-05 Jun 18, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Erik R. Heldt, 26, of Hermann, Mo.
Capt. John W. Maloney, 36, of Chicopee, Mass.
Both Marines died June 16 when their vehicle hit an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Ar Ramadi, Iraq. They were assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. During Operation Iraqi Freedom their unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force. Media with questions about these Marines can call the Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

Friday, June 17, 2005

DOD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 619-05 Jun 17, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Christopher N. Piper, 43, of Marblehead, Mass., died on June 16 at the Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, from injuries sustained on June 3 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle in Orgun-E, Afghanistan. He was assigned the 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

No. 621-05 Jun 17, 2005
DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Anthony S. Cometa, 21, of Las Vegas, Nev., died June 16 in Safwan, Kuwait, when his HMMWV rolled over. He was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1864th Transportation Company, 106th Transportation Battalion, Henderson, Nev.
For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.

DOD IDENTIFIES MARINE CASUALTY

No. 618-05 Jun 17, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Chad B. Maynard, 19, of Montrose, Colo., died June 15 when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Ar Ramadi, Iraq. He was assigned to 1Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was operating with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division of the U.S. Army, which was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).
Media with questions about these Marines can call the Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-504

Three good reads from DoD

Here's three good reads from DoD:
"Operation Spear Begins; Iraqi Farmer Turns In Weapons Cache" , "Citizens Providing More Help to Iraqi, Coalition Forces" and "Insurgency Unpopular; Iraqi Forces Growing More Capable" Click them out..........

Thought of the Day

I ask you this question and I do so because no one else will. If we had not gone to war with Iraq, what would the war on terror look like now, at this moment on this day? I’ll give you a quick look at what I think. Everything would be the same except instead of all this hell going on in Iraq, it would all be back in Afghanistan and much, much worse. With or without Iraq in the mix these crazies were coming after us no matter where we fought this war.
What say you?

DOD IDENTIFIES NAVY CASUALTY

No. 613-05 Jun 16, 2005
DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Cesar O. Baez, 37, of Pomona, Calif., died June 15, as a result of enemy small arms fire while conducting combat operations in al-Anbar province, Iraq. Baez was a Hospital Corpsman assigned to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.

For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342.
For further information about 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), email cepaowo@cemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil

DOD IDENTIFIES MARINE CASUALTY

No. 614-05 Jun 17, 2005
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Nathan B. Clemons, 20, of Winchester, Tenn., died June 14 from wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle while conducting combat operations against enemy forces near Ar Rutbah, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Media with questions about this Marine can call the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033

If President Bush should break the Law

If President Bush wanted to break the Law for any reason, I would have to wish he would do so by doing this… SPAM!!! Yep… I said spam. He should make DoD spam every E-Mail account owned by a US citizen and spam it with-- The Department of Defense News Releases, (that seem to come several a day these days,) on US War Casualties.

Here’s why I would wish this. In the news media today, they seem to be more concerned on the numbers of dead, (to make some point of view,) NOT on the people who just died. I’m sorry but that’s JUST SO WRONG!!! When is the last time you saw a major news company report—“Today____ died on____ Date... from_____.” You haven’t. Some reason that person died for their country protecting us and yet their name will not be mention for nothing. I guess that’s not important enough to bring up these days. Just the numbers, make a point, make the news……

From this day forward-- AubreyJ.org shall post these Dod News Releases for I believe we all should take a moment and remember our dead as we learn about them. Hell-- These are people... NOT NUMBERS.............

With this said I take a moment to shed a tear and post my first DoD Casualty News Release on this site..........
(It’s the one just above this post.)

Thursday, June 16, 2005

DOWNING STREET MEMO

To those who can not let the “DOWNING STREET MEMO” go...
Give it up!!! There is no smoking gun, not even a warm barrel there.
With the major news media starting to report the subject up a little bit more these days, even all of them, (and I say ALL) end their reports by pretty much saying this (and all the other all of a sudden popping up memos,) have no feet. That there is nothing new there.
My thought is if old news is said in another way, over and over and over again, it’s still OLD NEWS!!! Give it up, cut it loose... Let it go.......................

WMD and Iraq

A simple question to run around in your head…
What if WMD shows up in Iraq?
Good question to ask I would think.
Got any answers?

Tuesday, June 14, 2005

John Bolton filibuster

YEP-- It’s a John Bolton filibuster alright

Doesn’t matter what anyone says… The Democrats are filibustering John Bolton. Even my main man Sen. John McCain is starting to get PO’d with them Dems. Go get 'um Sen. McCain... Go get 'um!!!!

Happy Birthday – Today is the US Army’s 230th Birthday

On June 14, 1775 the United States Army was born. That’s over a year before the Declaration of Independence!!! Read more here: “Call To Duty – 230 Years Of Service To Our Nation

Monday, June 13, 2005

Iraq Kurds possibly assisting rebels in Iran

DEBKAfile has a real good write up on what’s going on in Iran these days. Arab guerrillas, bombings for the first time in over 10 years, Iraq Kurds possibly assisting rebels in Iran and more…. Oh yea-- Not to mention Teheran accusing the US and British intelligence for stirring up this unrest from across the Iraqi boarder… Another must read at: “DEBKAfileClick it out...

Iraqi people want Iraq to be a safer place for everyone

Reading stuff like this always makes me feel a little better about how the war in Iraq is going. Not enough Stateside Press on this kind of news these days…. Good read at: “DoD-- American Forces Press ServiceClick it out……

Not Guilty

I'll be Damn......
Jackson Verdict--
Not Guilty on all counts............

Saddam’s ugly self

All over the news today I’ve seen nothing more than a video of Saddam Hussein’s dyed hair, half and half black/gray mustache and beard, baggy eyed, pale ugly face. With these video feeds one gets captions like, “Saddam questioned by Iraqi Judge about Shiite murders,” or “New video of Saddam Hussein being questioned by Iraqi Judge.” And that’s pretty much it. No sound, no nothing… I don’t want to see Saddam’s ugly face and Captions!!!! I want to hear and see transcripts of what was going on in full and what was being said!!!!!!! That’s not asking too much is it???
Read more at… “Google News.”

Sunday, June 12, 2005

POST 9-11

Do you Remember???

-We had anthrax attacks in the U.S. in December of 2001.

-Richard Reid tried to blow up a U.S. airliner with a shoe bomb.

-During the spring and summer, there were deadly attacks in Tunisia and Pakistan.

-In October 2002 al-Qaida leader Ayman Zawahiri released a tape recording stating “God willing, we will continue targeting the keys of the American economy.”

-In September and October, the FBI broke up the Lackawana Six cell in New York.

-On October 6, 2002, al-Qaida attacked a French oil tanker off the coast of Yemen, an attack that harkened back to the killing of 17 service members on the USS Cole.

-On October 8, 2002, al-Qaida gunmen shot and killed a US Marine in Kuwait.

-On October 12, 2002, al-Qaida affiliate Jemaah Islamiya bombed a nightclub in Bali, Indonesia, killing more than 200 and injuring about 300.

-On November 28, 2002, al-Qaida fired two anti aircraft missiles at a Boeing 757 aircraft flying from Mombassa, Kenya to Israel; suicide bombers also attacked the Paradise Hotel in Mombassa, Kenya killing 15 and injuring 40.

-On December 30, 2002, three U.S. citizens were killed in Yemen during an attack on Baptist Missionary Hospital.

And the list keeps going on and on and on……………………
But HEY… We aren’t at War, so many will say. Let’s bring everyone home and close down Guantanamo Bay. Let’s just tell the world it was just one great big mistake on our part and we have now seen the light and will return to the days as it was before September 11, 2001. That should make everyone in the world and at home like us again… RIGHT??????
Than What??????????
You and I both know the answer to that one and it is not a pretty one either………
I’ve said it once and I will say it over and over again………
9-11… How soon we forget.
AubreyJ
(Above stats taken from DoD news release)

Operation Lighting

Update… Operation Lighting-- Baghdad Iraq

It has been two weeks now and the Iraqi Government counterinsurgency operation seems to be working. Yes… Operation Lighting which is made up of nearly 40,000 Iraqi forces some say and backed by another 7,000 to 10,000 US Troops seems to have been a huge success in combating local insurgents and al- Qaida terriost in and around the Baghdad area of Iraq.

Government officials have said that Operation Lighting has so far led to the arrests of at least 1,318 and many other combatants have been killed. This latest crackdown is showing success in drastically reducing the number of car bombings in and around Baghdad. If I’m correct they were having around 12 car bombings a day in Baghdad before the beginning of Operation Lighting. Those numbers are down to more like two a day now.

Yes the bombings and killings are still going on over there and the news media is most certainly not going to let us forget it either. Yet it isn’t as bad as it was and all hopes are on the facts and for things to get better and soon…

Anyway… With the success of late, Iraqi officials feel confident that the Iraqi government will have their country back under control and within the next six months too. We can only wish them all the best……

Saturday, June 11, 2005

Painkillers could kill ya...

Oh my… If I eat too many Whoppers or Big Macs-- I’m going to die… If I eat too many of those good old French Fries-- I’m going to die… God forbid if I try to enjoy a great big cold chocolate malted shack… I’m sure to die then… I’m getting a headache over all of this… Think I’ll take one of them over the counter Painkillers… Oh Hell Know!!! Don’t do that either…. You’re Going to DIE!!!!!!

New study shows that Painkillers including ibuprofen can significantly increase the risk of having a heart attack….. Read more on this wonderful bit of news at: “The Telegraph.”

Faith Based Follies

First let me say that “Pardon My English” is a very good Blog to visit and I for one have enjoyed most all of their reads-- But...............
There is a post today at “pardonmyenglish.com” titled “Faith Based Follies in the Bible Belt” that just doesn’t cut mustard with me. Click it out and then read my views and let me know what you think on all of this. (Maybe I just read it the wrong way, but I don't think so…)

MY VIEW:
Not a fair shake on the Bible belt.
A handful of nuts make not the whole all bad.
And those numbers on higher divorce and out of wedlock birth rates in the south, I would have to question those numbers too. Who made up this survey and why did they do so. What did these numbers mean in the overall view of the survey??? Was there a much larger number of minorities, poor peoples and under educated in one place compared to the other and so on. These kinds of questions will find the truths of such a survey-- Not just saying, “Hey it’s all about those dumb country Hicks in the Religious belt!!!!”
Try getting it right the next time my friend......
AubreyJ...................

Friday, June 10, 2005

For you Mom

This post is in memory of my Mother.
She past 8 years today.........

Follow-up on-- Zarqawi was wounded

Two weeks have past and now it does seem that Zarqawi was wounded during a multi-day battle, somewhere near al-Qaim which is near the Syrian boarder in Iraq. It is still not clear to me as to just how bad he was actually wounded, with what are what part of his body took the injury. Now I for one would still like to know what plans Zarqawi was waiting approval for from bin Laden. Some say it was nothing more than an attempt to mislead us and this he is surely well known for doing. Yet I for one just can not go along with that line of reasoning right now. More to come I’m sure.....................

Jordan Court Tells Al-Zarqawi to Surrender

Jordan Court Tells Al-Zarqawi to Surrender.
Yea right-- Like that's going to happen.......
Read more on this at: newsday.com

Dr Howard Dean's Strategy

Dr. Howard Dean’s strategy of late seems to be nothing more than inserting his foot into his big fat mouth. Let’s see now… According to Dr. Dean, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, a lot of Republicans have never made an honest living in their lives and the Republican Party is now pretty much a white Christian Party. Oh hell no… He can’t get away with THAT!!!

If I’m correct and I think I am, there are now more minorities in the position of leadership in the US Government, (under the Bush Administration I might add,) than during any other time in History. I’d go down the list of names of these fine people but you know them all and you know them well…

Click it out: A good read I found today from-- magic-city-news.com
Democrats: The Anti-American Party
By Matt McDonald (It’s a good read)

Ownership Society

A Ownership Society-- I propose this………
From this day forward we should never let our government insist on taking care of us. We need to move forward and away from being a Welfare State, like so many Democrats would still like us to be. To move forward into a new and better ownership society that we already, however so slowly, are trying to be. We must continue to move forward and independently face our new challenges and opportunities in life without the interference of Big Government. Yes… These things need to happen yet at their own pace and in their own time. And finally I’ll say this-- Behold… The new Ownership Society has begun and can not be turned back by no one or any Political Party…… “Ownership Society,” Damn that sounds good...…

Note: We should always; I repeat ALWAYS take care of our old, the sick and the needy… Help the ones that can no longer take care of themselves must we. It’s taking care of the ones who will not take care of themselves-- That’s what I have a major problem with!!! A good read and debate today at "The Yellow Line." Click it out.........

Thanks America

A very good read from an Australian Blogger-- Click it out at: Anti-Subjugator

Thursday, June 09, 2005

Reflections

“Great harm has been done to us. We have suffered great loss. And in our grief and anger we have found our mission and our moment. Freedom and fear are at war. The advance of human freedom-- the great achievement of our time, and the great hope of every time-- now depends on us. Our nation, this generation, will lift a dark threat of violence from our people and our future. We will rally the world to this cause by our efforts, by our courage. We will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail.”
President George W. Bush
September 20, 2001


We have tried to live up to our words... It’s the rest of the world that continues to lie and spit into the eye of their very best friend……...
AubreyJ.........................................

Wednesday, June 08, 2005

Palestinian terrorists

I do not know about you but I for one can not see the peace lasting to much longer between Israel and the Palestinians. If the US and the world do not step in and try to do a better job at getting these two together and working on the same page, it’s going to be hell to pay the whole world over. And that time is not too far off my friends. At this very moment there is still no stopping of the Palestinian terrorists who continue firing at the IDF and civilians. In return the IDF has had to return fire and on and on it goes. Yes… Some are still dying over there and there’s no reason in it anymore. It’s got to STOP!!!

Governor Rick Perry signs Parental Consent Bill at a Christian Academy

This past Sunday, Texas Governor Rick Perry (a republican) signed into law a Parental Consent Bill (read more here) and also did a ceremonial signing of a Constitutional Amendment Defining Marriage, (voters still have to approve this ban in the upcoming November election,) inside the Gymnasium of a Christian Academy. NOT A CHURCH like so many News Headlines are sounding off with. I repeat-- NOT IN A CHURCH. Many would lead you to believe that he signed the above into law from the church podium but this just isn’t so.
Now there is a big difference between a Gymnasium and a Church wouldn’t you say? Even if said gymnasium is on the property of a religious campus, it’s still not a church… Period!!! Yet I know what many of you are going to say. What’s the difference? Is this Politics or Principles here???
The way I see it, it’s both at its best. For one the signing was done at Calvary Christian Academy, Fort Worth Texas. I might be wrong on this one but if I’m correct, isn’t Fort Worth still part of the so called “Religious Belt.?” And for two, election time is right around the corner and the religious base in Texas will be all behind this man for Governor again. Sorry Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison. Being elected to Governor this coming election just isn’t going to happen. (Don’t get me wrong though, I like Senator Hutchison very much. She’s been a damn good senator for Texas and has done a great service for that state and for our country. That’s just a fact, yet getting off topic.)
Anyway… All of this to me has meant nothing more than a stick in the eye to all of those religious-liberty watchdog groups in Washington DC. (It was most likely meant to be just that too.) Yep… Just a tad-bit close to crossing the line on Religion and Government was he but just within the laws of Texas and this good old USA of ours. Now I know all of this just had to PO a lot of those watchdog groups and a few others too but you know what? They’ll get over it... Good for you Governor Perry. You done good!!!
More reads at: “The Yellow Line” and at “The Moderate Republican.” Can’t say they agree with me on this but that’s what makes this country so great…

Tuesday, June 07, 2005

Two Insurgent groups ready to talk

An Iraqi politician disclosed that two insurgent groups, (the Islamic Army in Iraq and the Army of Mujahideen, or holy warriors,) were ready to open talks with the government and eventually lay down their arms and join the political process. Even though this could not be confirmed by the Iraqi government, one way or the other it at least sounds like something just might be going on here. And if this is so… Boy would that be good news. Just maybe-- “Operation Lighting,” that was started a little over a week ago, is doing some good after all… For more, read at “THE DAILY STAR” and at “GUARDIAN UNLIMITED.”

On A Mission

I’m on a mission and I ask for your help. My mission is to do a write-up on the following-- As of now, how many gas mask / protective gear and WMD Test Kits have we rounded up in Iraq? When, where, how many and from whom did we get them from? What Armed Forces were in charge at the time of the round-ups and what did they think about them being there in the first place? How much has been found of late and last but least, what was finally done with these items??? These are fair questions to ask and I hope to be able to do so with your help. All help is welcome and will be noted in the write-up. Let the quest begin!!!!!!!!!!

Monday, June 06, 2005

Has John Kerry Flip-Flopped AGAIN???

After all was said and done over his thoughts on President Bush and The Downing Street Memo, about him going to confront Congress today and bring up all those dead dogs… Well… It never happened!!! It looks as if John Kerry again put his finger to the political winds and changed his mind… If this is so… I would have to say that it was one of his better Flip-Flops of yet. What I think he was about to do would have been one of his sadder days in his public career. Good go Mr. Kerry. You made the RIGHT call on this one. (If anyone has found out anything more on this, please let us know.)

Amnesty International

Amnesty International backs down
Good read today at: suntimes.com Click it out......

Sunday, June 05, 2005

If the World Only Knew


Above photo Courtesy of DoD. "If the World Only Knew" I made this slideshow because I believe we all need to be reminded about the good side of the United States Armed Forces from time to time. (DSL/Cable needed to view these slides.) Click here to view: “If the World Only Knew” --------- Followup.... Hats off to Spc. Aaron Pace: Read more here: "Soldier Shot During Ambush Re-enlists While Recovering"

Saddam to only face 12 Charges

The spokesman for the Prime Minister of Iraq said today that Saddam Hussein would only be tried on 12 well documented charges when he finally goes to court within the next two months. Saddam could face up to 500 charges but the spokesman said that trying him on all of these charges would be a waste of time. These are largely the same 12 charges set forth from a year ago which included humanity and war crimes. If he's found guilty, he would most likely face being executed. More on Saddam at: WCCO.com or type into you favorite Search Engine: "Saddam faces 12 charges"

Saturday, June 04, 2005

DEBKAfile

Here is one of my favorite websites overseas. The DEBKAfile. Giora Shamis is Chief Editor and CEO; Diane Shalem is English Editor and Head of Research. Both have long records as international correspondents with mainstream media before opening the DEBKAfile in the summer of 2000. They’re located in Jerusalem, Israel and are supported by half a dozen full and part-time correspondents and contributors. If you want to get a heads-up on what’s up on their side of the world, visit this site often.

Here’s a good read from them-- Syrian Scud Test… Click it out HERE.

Kerry is at it again

John Kerry says he intends to confront Congress this Monday with a document, (The Downing Street Memo) hailed by critics of Bush as evidence that he did commit impeachable crimes by falsifying evidence of WMD in Iraq.

The Downing Street Memo, first reported on May 1 by the London Times, is said to be the minutes of a July 2002 meeting where Blair allegedly admitted that the Bush administration fixed Iraq intelligence to manufacture a rationale for war. The British memo, however, contains no quotes from either Bush or Blair, and is notably slim on evidence implicating Bush in a WMD cover-up.

When will these guys ever learn???? The 2006 elections are right around the corner and most sane Americans are sick and tired of this kind of CRAP!!!!! Keep digging a hole my Democratic friends. It’s just keeps getting deeper and deeper…. Read more at NewsMax.Com and csmonitor.com. Now if you realy want to have some fun just type in "The Downing Street Memo" into your favorite search engine and let the BS begain!!!!

Hood Inquiry released on Koran Mishandling

Statement released last evening by Pentagon Spokesman Lawrence Di Rita on BG Hood Inquiry stated.........
In 31,000 documents covering 28,000 interrogations and countless thousands interactions with detainees, having issued 1,600 Korans, Southcom found 5 incidents of apparent mishandling by guards or interrogators and 15 incidents of mishandling and outright DESECRATION BY DETAINEES. Further more the inquiry into the allegations of mishandling of the Koran by U.S. personnel at Guantanamo Bay, reveals a consistent documented policy of respectful handling of the Koran. Read more HERE....

Friday, June 03, 2005

Sheikh says Zarqawi died on Friday

WHEN WILL IT END????? A Fallujah Sheikh has said in an interview that Zarqawi did die this past Friday and is buried in Fallujah. Read more HERE...

Thursday, June 02, 2005

Follow-up on “Waiting for your Direction”

Follow-up on “Waiting for your Direction

Zarqawi’s latest Audio tape issued on Sunday May 30, not only indicated that he is still alive and doing well, (maybe) but that a major operation is now in the making and waiting for approval from the Worlds #1 Most Wanted, Osama bin Laden… Just what kind of operation does Zarqawi need clearance for???

Now I for one started to get bad vibes, “again” on WMD back during the Fallujah Operation last November. I remember reading somewhere that our Marines were using wheelchairs as wheelbarrows to move out containers of ammunition, GAS MASK and some mines for destruction. Not to mention all the news about a suitcase filled with cannisters labeled “sarin nerve gas” also being found in Fallujah during this time. (Not sure what came of that but I believe it turned out to be a “saren nerve gas test kit” instead. Yet this makes one wonder what the heck the insurgents needed a test kit for in the first place.)

Anyway… As time has gone by I keep getting tid-bits of information saying that more and more of these Gas Mask are being rounded up in many of these raids we’ve been having of late. WHY GAS MASK I ask??? That’s a fair question to ask… Isn’t it?????
Read more here: “Al-Qaeda, Zarqawi and WMD.”

Amnesty International

Over the last few days my good friends at the "Yellow Line" have been having some real good conversations over the comments made by Amnesty International as to Guantanamo Bay being the "gulag" of our time.
My view boils down to this... There will always be people who abuse others and that’s a simple fact. That’s not the issue here. The real issue is if the ABUSERS are punished, and if this kind of BEHAVIOR is allowed. Well guess what??? Abusers are punished and as far as this kind of behavior being allowed, IT’S NOT… PERIOD!!!!!!!!!! What does Amnesty International have to say on all of this??? Click it out at: The Yellow Line- (Amnesty International Ruins Their Credibility)

Wednesday, June 01, 2005

Rumsfeld Defends Servicemembers

Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld defends Servicemembers accused of running a “Gulag” at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The secretary spoke earlier today during a Pentagon press conference. During the press conference, Rumsfeld asked people to remember that the detainees at Guantanamo Bay are in custody for a reason. "Remember too that the people being detained at Guantanamo are suspected terrorists," Rumsfeld said. "Many have been trained to lie and claim torture." He also went on to say that our U.S. forces have caught at least 12 detainees released from Guantanamo Bay back on the battlefield and involved in the efforts to kidnap and kill Americans.
I could be wrong but I don’t think we’ve heard any information like this out of Amnesty International… More on Press Conference at: American Forces Press Service.

Happy Birthday CNN

Happy Birthday to CNN, 25 years old today.
Ted Turner founded CNN and signed on the air on June 1, 1980, as the world's first 24-hour news network. CNN journalism has truely changed the way the world receives its news and information today....
Read more at: INDYSTAR.com and What's Happening at CNN .

The Canadian Red Cross Pleads Guilty

The Canadian Red Cross has pleaded guilty to supplying contaminated blood which infected thousands of Canadians with HIV and hepatitis C. It's reported that more than 3,000 people have died since getting the tainted blood back in the '80s. Read More Here...