The United States engaged enemy forces in Afghanistan earlier than it did in Iraq. Afghanistan was secured (militarily) with a modest, asymmetrical force compose dof special operations units, local nationals and traditional units. The result was a relatively swift victory in a fractured, mostly rural / undeveloped and tribal nation. Afghanistan has no seaport, no major infrastructure, no major exports (save opium) and no real central government. It is a nation of divergent, tribal groups barely linked by the common religion of Islam.
Prior to 2001, it was the training haven for Al Qeada. It afforded numerous secure locations to prepare for global jihad against the forces of the West and internal enemies of a future Caliphate. Our success in Afghanistan hinges solely on our overwhelming ability to delivery lethal force to any part of the nation within minutes. This ability, however, will not convert an eleventh century culture into a modern society.
We are now facing peace talks with the Taliban, as we inevtibaly must and a likely premature exit in 2013. This will result in Afghanistan devolving back into sectarian violence and partitioning. It will also mean our presence wil be limited to a base in Khandahar or one of the -Stans from where SOCOM units will act to kill any coalescing threat which may spread outside the borders of the nation.
Michael Yon has written extensively about our challenges and now we have an Army O5 reporting his frustration with the truth on the ground. The truth on the ground in Afghanistan is the summary of his article.
Let's just hope we can maintain that ability to decisively deliver necessary force to preserve our own security. I fear that the security for the Afghans will remain elusive.
Showing posts with label military. Show all posts
Showing posts with label military. Show all posts
07 February 2012
24 February 2011
Libya, orders, orders...
It is incumbent upon members of themodern military to act with speed and decisiveness in the execution of their orders. Implicit in this requirement is also the necessity to maintain connection with your moral compass. If you are instructed to fire on unarmed civilians, for example, you have the right and obligation to question your superiors and refuse to comply. We spent half a century reviewing the circumstances which led up to the second world war and the damage done by a professional military abandoning their core values.
Right now, Col. Mohamar Ghaddifi has instructed his military to slaughter its own citizens. If there is one sure test of a despot, it is the willingness of a leader to slay their own people. This has been borne out in the examples of Stalin, Mao, Pol Pot, Amin, Amedinijad, Hussein, Allende, Pinochet and a list of smaller nations' leaders. Ghaddifi failed to follow the lead of Hosni Mubarak and give up his 40 year reign with some dignity. The risk to Egypt as a nation to descend into chaos was averted by the discipline exhibited by the military. Despite the quick aspersions cast by some on the left about the support for the Egyptian regime by the United States over the past decades, one of the very positive effects was a positive impact on military relations and support for the development of a professional military.
I am hopeful that the few Libyan officers who retain their sense of morality and justice will act to preserve their nation.
Following orders is not an excuse.
03 February 2010
I like Mike...
Well, it seems that ADM Mike Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, has
set the bar for DADT. He echoes the ethical position supported by many
of my fellow officers. The issue remains with out civilian authority.
We, as a military, will execute these orders and move forward. It's up
to the President and Congress to do the right thing.
set the bar for DADT. He echoes the ethical position supported by many
of my fellow officers. The issue remains with out civilian authority.
We, as a military, will execute these orders and move forward. It's up
to the President and Congress to do the right thing.
________________________________
From: info114@service.govdelivery.com
[mailto:info114@service.govdelivery.com] On Behalf Of American Forces
Press Service
Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 12:24 PM
Subject: Mullen's Blog: My View on 'Don't Ask Don't Tell'
Mullen's Blog: My View on 'Don't Ask Don't Tell'
<http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=57839>
Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:51:00 -0600
Mullen's Blog: My View on 'Don't Ask Don't Tell'
By Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2010 - "Over these last two months, the Chiefs and I
have reviewed the fundamental premises behind 'Don't Ask Don't Tell,' as
well as its application in practice over the last 16 years. We
understand perfectly the President's desire to see the law repealed and
we owe him our best military advice about the impact this change in
policy would have on the military.
"While the Chiefs and I have not developed our advice, we believe that
any implementation plan for a policy permitting homosexuals to serve
openly in the armed forces must be carefully derived, sufficiently
thorough, and thoughtfully executed. The review group to be headed by
Mr. Jeh Johnson and General Carter Ham will no doubt give us that time
and an even deeper level of understanding.
"My personal belief is that allowing homosexuals to serve openly would
be the right thing to do. I cannot escape being troubled by the fact
that we have in place a policy which forces young men and women to lie
about who they are in order to defend their fellow citizens. For me, it
comes down to integrity -- theirs as individuals and ours as an
institution.
"I also believe the great young men and women of our military can and
would accommodate such a change, but I do not know this for a fact. I
will not deny that during a time of two wars, such a major policy change
will cause some disruption in the force. It also seems plausible that
there will be legal, social, and perhaps even infrastructure changes to
be made. These are some of the issues our review will address.
"But we would do well to remember that this is not an issue for the
military leadership to decide. The current law and policy came from the
American people through their elected officials. We will continue to
obey that law, and we will obey whatever legislative and executive
decisions come out of this debate.
"With Afghanistan, Iraq, and significant security commitments around the
globe, our plate is very full. While I believe this is an important
issue, I also believe we need to be mindful as we move forward of other
pressing needs in the military. What our young men and women and their
families want, what they deserve, is that we listen to them and act in
their best interests.
"Balance and thoughtfulness is required. It's what the President has
promised us, and it's what we ask of Congress as this debate moves
forward."
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17 December 2009
MilBlog Silence...
In solidarity with my fellow MilBloggers – HG&U will be dark through 21 DEC. There is a need for the free and open expression of ideas, opinions and accurate news. Our founding fathers demonstrated this adherence to the principle of free speech with aggressive pamphleteering and oratory. We, as a nation, can not stand by (or sit) while restrictions on the rights of humanity are put in place. In my mind the internet reflects the ongoing evolution of our planet’s freedoms.
Wednesday 16 December 2009,
Many if not most, fellow milblogs -- including This Ain't Hell, From My Position, Miss Ladybug, Boston Maggie, Grim's Hall, and those participating in the Wednesday Hero program -- are going silent for the day. Some are choosing to go silent for a longer period of time. This blog will resume operations on Monday December 21, 2009.
The reason for this is two-fold.
First, milblogs are facing an increasingly hostile environment from within the military. While senior leadership has embraced blogging and social media, many field grade officers and senior NCOs do not embrace the concept. From general apathy in not wanting to deal with the issue to outright hostility to it, many commands are not only failing to support such activities, but are aggressively acting against active duty milbloggers, milspouses, and others. The number of such incidents appears to be growing, with milbloggers receiving reprimands, verbal and written, not only for their activities but those of spouses and supporters.
The catalyst has been the treatment of milblogger C.J. Grisham of A Soldier's Perspective. C.J. has earned accolades and respect, from the White House on down for his honest, and sometimes blunt, discussion of issues -- particularly PTSD. In the last few months, C.J. has seen an issue with a local school taken to his command who failed to back him, and has even seen his effort to deal with PTSD, and lead his men in same by example, used against him as a part of this. Ultimately, C.J. has had to sell his blog to help raise funds for his defense in this matter.
An excellent story on the situation with C.J. can be found at Military Times: While there have been new developments, the core problem remains, and C.J. is having to raise funds to cover legal expenses to protect both his good name and his career.
One need only look at the number of blogs by active duty military in combat zones and compare it to just a few years ago to see the chilling effect that is taking place.
Milblogs have been a vital link in getting accurate news and information about the military, and military operations, to the public. They have provided vital context and analysis on issues critical to operations and to the informed electorate critical to the Republic.
On Wednesday 16 December, readers will have the chance to imagine a world without milblogs, and to do something about it. Those participating are urging their readers to contact their elected representatives in Congress, and to let their opinions be known to them and to other leaders in
Some milblogs will remain silent for several days; some just for the day. All have agreed to keep the post about the silence and C.J. at the top of their blogs until Friday 18 December.
The issues go beyond C.J., and deserve careful consideration and discussion. We hope that you will cover this event, and explore the issues that lie at the heart of the matter. Contact the milbloggers in your area or that you know, and hear the story that lies within.
A Partial List of Participating Blogs:
This Ain't Hell
Boston Maggie
Blackfive
Miss Ladybug
Drunken Wisdom
Grim's Hall
From my position
CDR Salamander
LL
Two cartoonists join in!
Private Murphy
Delta Bravo Sierra
Check them out as well...
If you wish to donate to CJ's defense fund, please use the following address, or click the link below. He's in a serious battle against a serious foe. Read the article to find out all about it.
Grisham Legal Fund
c/o Redstone Federal Credit Union
220 Wynn Drive
Huntsville, AL 35893
Please write "Grisham Legal Fund" in the memo line if you use this option.
Milblogs have been a vital link in getting accurate news and information about the military, and military operations, to you. Today, many milblogs are gone and others are under attack from within and without. Today, you have the chance to imagine a world without milblogs, and to do something about it. Make your voice heard by writing your congressional representatives and others, and by making donations as you see fit.
The battle for freedom of speech and the marketplace of ideas is fought on many fronts and in many ways. Without your help, the battle may well be lost.
14 December 2009
30 September 2009
About time...
I am in part of the DoD which deals with acquisition. For any fans of history, the Navy A12 fighter was one of the greatest disasters of DoD acquisition and heralded a wave of reform and reorganization. Now we are seeing aspects of real reform in the field. The M-ATV is a vast improvement over the unwieldy and far too heavy MRAPs in the Iraqi theater. Although the MRAPs were near invulnerable, they lacked maneuverability, could not cross some roads and limited quick response.
The newest and most effective wave of acquisitions are developed from battlefield needs, frequently can be filled with COTS (commercial off the shelf) gear and don't take years to deploy. The news of the entry into the Afghanistan theater of the M-ATV will be welcome news to troops who are seeing a substantial uptick in roadside bombings.
The newest and most effective wave of acquisitions are developed from battlefield needs, frequently can be filled with COTS (commercial off the shelf) gear and don't take years to deploy. The news of the entry into the Afghanistan theater of the M-ATV will be welcome news to troops who are seeing a substantial uptick in roadside bombings.
From: info106@info.govdelivery.com [mailto:info106@info.govdelivery.com] On Behalf Of American Forces Press Service
Sent: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 4:17 PM
Subject: New Protective Vehicles Head to AfghanistanNew Protective Vehicles Head to Afghanistan
Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:11:00 -0500
New Protective Vehicles Head to Afghanistan Overnight
By John J. Kruzel
WASHINGTON, Sept. 30, 2009 - The first parcel of an influx of vehicles designed to protect troops from deadly roadside bombs is expected to arrive overnight in Afghanistan, a Defense Department spokesman said today.
American Forces Press ServiceThe expected delivery comes soon after the department awarded an order for more than 6,600 of the mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehicles -- known as M-ATVs -- to be fielded over the next year.
"That is just the first wave of a massive production and transportation program that will see at least 6,644 of these life-saving vehicles delivered to our forces in Afghanistan over the next year or so, making it one of the fastest and highest-priority acquisition programs in the history of the Defense Department," Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters today.
Three M-ATVs were loaded onto a C-17 and four onto a C-5 at the Charleston Air Force Base, S.C., yesterday and flown to Afghanistan. Morrell characterized the shipment as an "extraordinary achievement" considering that the contract for production of these highly maneuverable armored trucks was awarded to the Oshkosh Corp. just three months ago.
Conventional MRAP vehicles feature a V-shaped hull to deflect roadside bombs, and are proven to be lifesavers on the battlefield. The M-ATV provides troops a smaller and more maneuverable vehicle that can travel off-road and navigate Afghanistan's difficult, mountainous terrain, Marine Corps Systems Command officials said.
Morrell said the department would like the M-ATVs to have an effect in Afghanistan similar to the one that MRAPs had when they were delivered en masse to Iraq, leading to a reduction in casualties resulting from roadside bombs.
"These new vehicles are urgently needed, because improvised explosive devices are claiming the lives of more U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan than ever before," he said. "The hope is that the M-ATVs will have the same impact in Afghanistan as the MRAPs did in Iraq, providing our troops the best counter-IED protection money can buy so that they can defeat the terrorist networks responsible for planting these bombs, and ultimately win the trust and confidence of the Afghan people."
The M-ATV supports small-unit combat operations in highly restricted rural, mountainous and urban environments that include mounted patrols, reconnaissance, security, convoy protection, communications, command and control, and combat service support. It is designed to replace the up-armored Humvee in Afghanistan. The M-ATV will carry up to five personnel: four plus a gunner.
Morrell added that the vehicle has captured the attention of Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, who previously made it a personal mission to oversee the expedited fielding of the MRAP vehicle in Iraq.
"With so much riding on this program, of course Secretary Gates will be watching it like a hawk in the coming months, just as he did the MRAPs," Morrell said.Related Articles:
First M-ATVs Deploy to Afghanistan
16 September 2009
The greatest sacrifice...
The Medal of Honor, MOH, in its current form represents the highest level of sacrifice a citizen can make. What has always struck me about this award is the simple bravery which was exhibited by a member of the armed forces in the face of overwhelming danger and chaos.
- CD
Obama to Award Medal of Honor to Soldier
Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:31:00 -0500
Obama to Award Medal of Honor to Soldier
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2009 - President Barack Obama is scheduled tomorrow night to award the Medal of Honor to Army Sgt. 1st Class Jared C. Monti at a White House ceremony.
The ceremony will mark Obama's first award of the nation's highest military honor, and the sixth Medal of Honor awarded since Sept. 11, 2001.
Obama will present the award posthumously to Monti's family. His parents, Paul and Janet Monti, are scheduled to accept the award. He also is survived by a brother, sister and niece.
Monti, of Raynham, Mass., was 30 when he was killed June 21, 2006, in a firefight in Gowardesh, Afghanistan, near the Pakistan border. He was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Squadron, 71st Calvary, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, out of Fort Drum, N.Y.
Monti enlisted in March 1993 and attended basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Sill, Okla. His military honors include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, five Army Commendation Medals, four Army Achievement Medals, three Good Conduct Medals and three National Defense Service Medals.
He was posthumously promoted to sergeant first class.
The Medal of Honor is awarded to servicemembers who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in military action against an enemy of the United States.
The award for extraordinary merit has been bestowed on 3,447 men and one woman since President Abraham Lincoln signed it into law Dec. 21, 1861. Five servicemembers have received the Medal of Honor -- all posthumously -- for service since 9/11.Related Sites:
Special Report: Medal of HonorUpdate your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://service.govdelivery.com/service/user.html?code=USDOD. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com.
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13 March 2009
Where's your messiah now...
Make no mistake, I admire and respect our new Commander-in-Chief. I disagree with many of his social policies and am shocked at his inability to rein in a wanton Congress. But he clearly has a grasp of international necessities. So far, his actions seem to be aligned with the continuing ideology of the
Most recently, President Obama dispatched United States Navy warships to the South China Sea to escort the unarmed USNS IMPECCABLE. That ship is being harassed while conducting legitimate surveillance near the main Chinese ballistic missile submarine base. The
The latest moves by
President Obama has found that the harsh realities of the post Cold War world are complex, extremely volatile and can not be handled with verbal diplomacy alone. Iranian drones have been shot down by US aircraft over
This picture paints a precarious one for the
President Obama has continued the necessary work. I am optimistic that my new boss will maintain a healthy pragmatism when deciding on national security issues. He certainly has abandoned that in the financial realm.
23 February 2009
Through a glass darkly...
There are few films which accurately portray the terror, boredom and camaraderie of armed conflict. Many movies, even the documentaries, provide a significant slant or bias on their presentation. We have seen a plethora of movies about soldiers in the last few years, certainly since the start of armed conflict in Afghanistan. HBO's documentary, Generation Kill, has been lauded and lambasted. I have not seen this presentation. I truly enjoyed Gunner Palace, a well made film with little editorializing.
The experience of combat (to which I have only remote experience) is a truly individual experience. The behavior in combat of a nation's armed forces is reflective upon the nation's values and the upbringing of their citizenry. There is widespread agreement, even among strong anti-war / military groups, that the behavior of the United States military has continued to set new standards for behavior, adherence to rules of conflict and protection of innocent citizenry.
It is with this in mind that I share the attached information about an upcoming documentary. At no time in our history have we been able to review the recent past with such clarity. Thousands of hours of recorded video, audio and millions of pages of documents exist chronicling our actions in the current conflicts. It is our responsibility as engaged citizens to examine this record, objectively, to determine the successes and opportunities for our military forces and by extension our foreign policy.
From: info106@info.govdelivery.com [mailto:info106@info.govdelivery.com] On Behalf Of American Forces Press Service
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 12:52 PM
Subject: Documentary Depicts Commitment, Sacrifice of Soldiers, FamiliesDocumentary Depicts Commitment, Sacrifice of Soldiers, Families
Mon, 23 Feb 2009 11:47:00 -0600
Documentary Depicts Commitment, Sacrifice of Soldiers, Families
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press ServiceWASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2009 - On location in the Middle of Nowhere, Iraq, filmmaker Jake Rademacher focuses his lens on a unit of young reconnaissance troops with whom he's embedded.
For five days they wait in the desert near Syria, watching idly for smugglers bringing weapons, cash or foreign fighters across the border. Conversation is the only thing that colors the monotony of the blank horizon.
David Scantling, chief executive officer of private equity firm Scantling Technology Ventures; Producer Norman S. Powell; Army Capt. Isaac Rademacher, actor Gary Sinese and filmmaker Jake Rademacher pose for photos after an advance screening of "Brothers at War," a film that documents Jake Rademacher's experience in Iraq as he sought to understand what motivates his two military brothers. The sneak preview took place Feb. 20, 2009, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The film releases at theaters across the country March 13. DoD photo by John J. Kruzel
(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.
One soldier says he joined the ranks to make his father proud. Another is confident his duty will benefit posterity. And a crew-cut junior enlisted troop says through a wad of chewing tobacco he's not sure why wears the uniform.
"If you find out, let me know," he tells Rademacher.
At the heart of Rademacher's documentary "Brothers at War" are the kind of open-ended questions many civilians have about what U.S. servicemembers do and why. Using his own family as a microcosm, Rademacher paints an intimate portrait that seeks to understand the commitment and sacrifice attendant to military service.
The Rademacher clan represents a compelling cross-section, with two of Jake's brothers, Isaac and Joe, serving as active-duty soldiers.
The film follows Jake to Iraq, where he shadows Isaac, a captain in the Army's 82nd Airborne Division, on his second deployment in Mosul. Jakes also walks a mile in the shoes of Joe -- a 23-year-old staff sergeant sniper and Army Ranger also in the 82nd Airborne -- when he joins snipers at "hide sites" in the Sunni Triangle.
The culmination of Rademacher's multiple journeys to Iraq amounted to 35 interviews, 25 missions and 400 hours of tape, which he distilled into a feature-length film. Brothers at War releases nationally on March 13.
"I wanted to dive right into the front lines," Rademacher said at the National Press Club here last week after an advance screening of the film. "And I learned about my brothers through their brothers in arms."
On the home front, the documentary illustrates the effects that repeated deployments have on spouses and children. But the film is far from a social commentary, and there is a distinct absence of a political or moral agenda.
After the Feb. 20 screening, Isaac revealed that Jake's motivation for making the film was two-fold. He wanted to document Isaac's life as a memento for his young daughter, Hunter, in case Isaac didn't return from duty.
Jake also wanted to open the eyes of the American public to the reality of the front lines, Isaac said.
"I've never seen anything that shows so much truth and then steps away," he added.
Gary Sinese, one of the film's executive producers, attended the screening along with a group of soldiers recovering at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. Sinese was eager to sign onto the project after it was screened for him last year, he said.
"Brothers at War presents such a positive depiction of military families," he said. "It's a great American documentary that speaks my language."
Army Sgt. 1st Class Jorge Pineiro, a liaison for wounded troops recovering at Walter Reed, said he could see the emotion worn on the faces of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers with him at the screening.
"Rademacher did an excellent job representing what the soldiers go through while stationed in Iraq," Pineiro said. "And you could see it on the faces of the soldiers over here.
"Some of them you could see some emotion, some of them were reliving what they went through over there," he said. "It was pretty emotional."
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18 February 2009
If nothing else comes from Iraq...
A model of opportunity for women in Iraq is being delivered. In Iran, a burgeoning set of freedoms for women was derailed by the Islamic Revolution. Although women still enjoy some freedoms, in neighboring countries this is not the case. Don't even get me started on the treatment of homosexuals. The culture of many nations under Islamic influence is severely restricted in the category of human rights, equality and freedom. In the case of Pakistan, the Pakistani government agreed to enforce Sharia in order to mitigate the influence of Taliban militants. Let me be clear, any religion, government or system of laws in which a portion of the population is treated unequally due to class, gender, faith, race, personal orientation (providing it's not sociopathy) or other "uncontrollable" aspect is wrong and should be challenged. Proposition 8 in California is a bad example in the United States. However, there is much work to be done in the rest of the world. The UN, not my favorite organization - but better than Sea Shepherd - even codifies these beliefs in their Human Rights charter. It is politically tough to address these issues as a government when we must "play nice" with our neighbors and "respect cultural differences". At times we must stand firm on our principles, while not ignoring our own shortcomings, and place the scrutiny clearly where it belongs.
Initiative Improves Iraqi Women's Quality of Life
Wed, 18 Feb 2009 10:14:00 -0600
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Initiative Improves Iraqi Women's Quality of Life
By Army Spc. Debralee P. Crankshaw
Special to American Forces Press ServiceCAMP VICTORY, Iraq, Feb. 18, 2009 - A rash of suicide bombings by women in Iraq in 2008 led officials to create a program to empower Iraqi women by fostering equality and the ensuring their basic human rights are met.
The first component of the three-part Women's Initiative Program is to reverse the trend in female suicide bombings, which increased from seven in 2007 to 38 last year, officials said.
Army Capt. Jennifer Glossinger, Women's Initiative program coordinator, speaks with a woman about issues Iraqi women face near Baghdad, Feb. 16, 2009. Courtesy photo
(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.
"The thought behind it is that the women have lost so many of the men in their families -- fathers, brothers, husbands, friends," said Army Capt. Jennifer Glossinger, Women's Initiative coordinator for the 10th Mountain Division's 413th Civil Affairs Battalion. "What happens to so many is they become very vulnerable, because they don't have many resources. A lot of times they're left with many [children] to take care of. They may not be able to read or write.
"The Women's Initiative looks to fill in the gaps and provide some of those basic needs to mitigate some of those female suicide bombings," she said.
The second part of the initiative is economic development. "Eighty percent of employment comes from the agricultural sector in [the Multinational Division Center area of operations]," Glossinger said. "Seventy percent of that work force is composed of women. Women do just about all of the work."
The initiative works with provincial reconstruction teams and agriculture teams, which can include women's programs at extension centers.
"The extension center's main goal is to create a place where people can come and learn about new technology," Glossinger said. "They can come together and pool their money to buy equipment or work as a team and help strengthen each other."
Glossinger said she also would like to see youth programs and a promotion of literacy at the extension center.
While rural areas are the main focus of the program, the initiative also encourages women in urban areas to obtain grants to start businesses.
The initiative's third area of focus is human rights. One way to ensure these rights is to encourage women to help other women.
"In Dhi Qar there are 12 women lawyers, and they are talking about opening a women's center there and providing legal services to women," Glossinger said.
The initiative's goal is to provide information and support to better assist Iraqi women.
"Our main goal is not to change the culture, but to strengthen what they have in terms of employment and education," Glossinger said. "I think it's important to be realistic in what you focus on. Most of the women in the [Multinational Division Center] area are rural and need the most basic things like jobs and education."
(Army Spc. Debralee P. Crankshaw serves in Multinational Division Center.)Related Sites:
Multinational Corps Iraq
16 January 2009
An ill wind...
I get a lot if ideas for posts, and then something comes along to distract me, like my real job. I enjoy blogging, it’s a one sided conversation that I feel like I win every time I post. For those few readers who know me in “meatspace”, I am a bit argumentative. I have been known to take an opposing view just for the sake of the argument.
Yes, I was a debater in high school. It is an extracurricular activity which would benefit every young person, in my opinion. But I want to talk about an extracurricular activity which would be a detriment to the nation as a whole. That is Rep. Charlie Rangel idiotic legislation to reinstate the draft.
Rangel is a leading Democrat from
The American public has become used to a no risk, push button military able to deliver stunning victories with almost zero loss of life. The conflict in
The American military is the second largest in the world. It is the most professional and sophisticated. It is the most honest and able of ANY military service. A recent GAO report put forth the following;
The active duty force has undergone several demographic changes since
the end of the draft and the advent of an all-volunteer force in 1973. It
has become older and better educated, it has experienced increases in
the representation of minority and female service members, and a greater
proportion of its service members are married and have children.
Recognizing that a family’s satisfaction with military life can influence
retention, Congress and DOD have responded by establishing and
increasing support services for military families. However, opportunities
exist to further improve benefits in this area.
The military has grown, improved and continues to shape itself to meet the needs of the changing world. I do not believe any serving member, when asked directly, would want to serve alongside someone who is there against their will. We, as Americans, value individual liberty (rightly, I believe) above all other rights. It was Milton Friedman, President Nixon’s economist, who correctly labeled the draft as "slavery". Rarely will you find a direct link to an antiwar site, however, the point is critical.
Rangel, a descendant of slaves would have our nation burdened with a slave class again.
Be sure to let him know how you feel.
11 November 2008
Valour-IT...
The Valour-IT Veterans Day fundraiser, a friendly competition among blogs, will run through November 27, 2008 (Thanksgiving). At the urging of Boston Maggie, I am signing up on the Navy team!
You may go to the fundraiser site (Fundraiser Home) to donate on behalf of your favorite service. Connectivity is critical to the morale of the troops and families who support them in theater.
Go Navy!
05 November 2008
This is Sparta...
UNCLASSIFIED//
NAVADMIN 318/08
MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N00/NOV//
SUBJ/NAVY ETHOS//
1. IN THE 2007-2008 CNO GUIDANCE, I DIRECTED THE
DEVELOPMENT OF A NAVY ETHOS THAT WOULD REFLECT THE VALUES INTEGRAL TO
MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR ACTIVE AND RESERVE SAILORS AND NAVY CIVILIANS, NO
MATTER THE ASSIGNED UNIT, COMMAND, OR COMMUNITY.2. AFTER GATHERING INPUT ACROSS THE NAVY FOR THE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS, THE
NAVY ETHOS HAS BEEN APPROVED. THE FINAL PRODUCT IS THE RESULT OF COMMENTS
FROM THOUSANDS OF ACTIVE AND RESERVE SAILORS AND NAVY CIVILIANS FROM AROUND
THE GLOBE ON THE FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES AND VALUES THE NAVY EMPLOYS DAILY TO
WIN WARS AND BUILD AND MAINTAIN SECURITY AND STABILITY.3. AN ETHOS IDENTIFIES DISTINGUISHING CHARACTER, CULTURE, OR BELIEFS OF A
GROUP OR INSTITUTION. NAVY ETHOS IS DESIGNED TO COMMUNICATE A SET OF
BELIEFS APPROPRIATE AND IMPORTANT TO THE MORE THAN 400,000 MILITARY AND
180,000 CIVILIAN PERSONNEL WHO SHARE A COMMON BOND OF SERVICE IN THE NAVY,
REGARDLESS OF BACKGROUND, PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, OR POSITION.
4. THE NAVY ETHOS:
-- WE ARE THE UNITED STATES NAVY, OUR NATION'S SEA POWER - READY GUARDIANS
OF PEACE, VICTORIOUS IN WAR.
-- WE ARE PROFESSIONAL SAILORS AND CIVILIANS - A DIVERSE AND AGILE FORCE
EXEMPLIFYING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF SERVICE TO OUR NATION, AT HOME AND
ABROAD, AT SEA AND ASHORE.
-- INTEGRITY IS THE FOUNDATION OF OUR CONDUCT; RESPECT FOR OTHERS IS
FUNDAMENTAL TO OUR CHARACTER; DECISIVE LEADERSHIP IS CRUCIAL TO OUR SUCCESS.
-- WE ARE A TEAM, DISCIPLINED AND WELL-PREPARED, COMMITTED TO MISSION
ACCOMPLISHMENT. WE DO NOT WAVER IN OUR DEDICATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY TO OUR
SHIPMATES AND FAMILIES.
-- WE ARE PATRIOTS, FORGED BY THE NAVY'S CORE VALUES OF HONOR, COURAGE AND
COMMITMENT. IN TIMES OF WAR AND PEACE, OUR ACTIONS REFLECT OUR PROUD
HERITAGE AND TRADITION.
-- WE DEFEND OUR NATION AND PREVAIL IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY WITH STRENGTH,
DETERMINATION, AND DIGNITY.
-- WE ARE THE UNITED STATES NAVY.5. RELEASED BY ADMIRAL G. ROUGHEAD, CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS.//
14 October 2008
Remembrances...
I was lucky enough to have some free time in
If you ever get the chance, take a foreign tourist through
The capital takes on a whole new meaning when viewed through the eyes of a foreign visitor. I was particularly honored to hijack one mf my friends from
I did not, however, spend all my time as tour guide. Being on my own in DC gave me a rare opportunity. I went to visit the Holocaust Museum. Perched one block back from the Mall, the museum has a Victorian fortress like feel to it. It is one of the newer national museums in
I entered the building through the now ubiquitous security screening foyer. I was wanded, patted and scrutinized by several “special police”, essentially armed security guards – they are thick as flies in
I picked from the male pile. My chosen card reflected the story of a young Jehovah’s Witness from
Moving slowly through the exhibits, the visitor is immersed in the events. Beset by photographs, first person testimonials and video, I could imagine the tightening circumstances for Jews within
I will not burden you with the details of the museum; suffice to say that it is comprehensive and relentless. The facility was also hosting an examination of propaganda, as exemplified in the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, and a look at
What I found most intriguing were the patrons of the museum. There were older people (folks who may have lived through the conflict that was World War II), there were younger groups (some clearly Jewish by virtue of their yarmulke) and then the most interesting of all, young military men. These young men were outfitted in what I would describe as typical off duty wear of American soldiers everywhere. Short cargo pants, polo shirts, running shoes and a gi-normous backpack (typically with a water bladder inside). These men moved quietly and reverently through the museum. They seemed most taken by the discussions and displays of the American military’s role in liberating the camps and the decision not to bomb the camps. It was in this persona, more than any other, that I felt compelled to visit this museum.
At the conclusion of the tour is a large hall of remembrance. There the names of the primary places of lass were inscribed on the wall. Votive candles flickered in alcoves along the six sided room. An eternal flame burned along one side of the stone room. As I set alight one of the candles, I reflected on what role we have played as a military and a nation in the face of events like these. In almost every instance it seems like we have not done enough.
And yet, I also take some heart in knowing that we have always done something. As a nation, we have struggled with the expenditure of our blood and treasure in service to the defenseless. But when unleashed, we have expended every ounce of each.
The visit was sad and difficult. It was also necessary and uplifting. It buoyed me to know that humanity could act to save itself. That it can learn from its mistakes and that sacrifices made for one’s fellow human are never in vain.
03 October 2008
Fear and whining on the campaign trail.
Joe Biden may be lying about his son’s deployment to
Joe Biden is a whiner.
His mediocre performance in the vice presidential debates established him as the bloviating do nothing he has been in the senate for nearly four decades. One may infer from the debate that either he is far less capable than Obama paints him to be (if you subscribe to the school of thought that Sarah Palin is a rank amateur) or Sarah Palin is as capable as Joe.
Fending off the obvious disdain from moderator Gwen Ifill (an avowed Obama fan), Governor Palin stood her ground well with Joe’s rhetoric and demonstrated that hey, she is as capable as the politician from
But there is one area of concern that I feel especially critical of with regard to Joe Biden. His son, Joseph Robinette Biden “Beau” III, is likely to deploy to
Let me cite a few critical differences between his son’s deployment and that of Sarah Palin’s (and by extension John McCain’s youngest sons two tours as an enlisted Marine) son Track Palin. Beau, who is a captain in the Delaware National Guard, will be assigned as a JAG officer (Judge Advocate General) with the unit (261st Signal Brigade) when (and if) it deploys to
Beau joined the National Guard after a visit to Kosovo and (as near as I can tell) prior to September 11th. Beau joined at 34, just shy of the cut off date for enlistment. There were likely many reasons for his joining, some of them were likely political. I took on my own commission late in life for my own reasons, none of which were political!
Beau and Track differed in age by 17 years. Beau, the present Attorney General of Delaware, may or may not deploy. He will serve in a potentially dangerous area, but his decisions were made with the full cognizance of an adult. Track will be serving in a combat zone, on the front lines of the conflict. His decisions were made with the zeal of youthful patriotism and conviction.
I respect Capt. Biden’s service and commitment. He is juggling a lot of responsibilities and reflects the best of our nation. That small percentage who elects to serve the public good. I am sure his father’s concerns are real – no parent ever truly let’s go of their children, no matter how old they are.
But to call a thirty-nine year old father of two, who is the Attorney General of Delaware, a “child” is beyond pandering to the American public.
Get a grip Joe, your whining is simply pathetic.
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