Thursday, December 31, 2009

New scholarship for veterans

American University has just announced a half million dollars in scholarship money for veterans.

American University has degree programs in the financial field, like financial advisers. They offer certificates and masters degrees. You can become a certified financial planner. They do offer classes online.

>>More information on the scholarships for veterans from American University.

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Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Chuck Norris supports it, so...

Normally we don't pass along charity ads, but we just can't resist Chuck Norris. We have not been big fans of the USO in the past, but if Chuck Norris supports it, we'll give them a plug!



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Monday, December 28, 2009

9-11 is all but forgotten.

Since George Bush left office, terrorism has taken a back seat to other issues. Like him or hate him, George Bush relentlessly fought to do everything to keep this country safe. We seem to forget that nothing else matters if we are not safe.

The tragic shootings at Ft. Hood were a wake up call. Big time. And America needs to wake up. Big time. Our military, CIA, FBI, can all do their jobs if we let them have anything and everything in their hands to use. We cannot err on the side of not wanting to offend anyone.

Everything this Nigerian did to get on a plane with explosives was wrong and should have been caught. But we forget. We forget that 9-11 ever happened and that there are still people who want to destroy our way of life.

And then we have a second incident on the same route. Un-called for. Completely uncalled for. Are we so much into apologizing to the world, that we can't do what it takes, even if it ruffles a few feathers, to keep this country safe?

Here is where we really blew it:
This terrorist's father notified authorities. They did nothing.

His visa should have been revoked just to err on the side of caution.

Get this: Britian did. Yup. Great Britain rejected this man's visa. What happened to sharing information? This man was banned from Britain but not the US?

He was under a US watch, so what happened?

This terrorist also paid over $2,000 cash for the ticket. That alone should have been a tip off and alerted authorities to search him with a fine tooth comb.

Oh, that and having no luggage to check. Another hit against him. And nothing happened.

Red flag after red flag, and nothing. Nada. Zip.

One day Homeland Security's Janet Napolitano says the system worked, now today she admits failure. No kidding.

We salute the men and women who each day put their lives on the line, in the military, the CIA, the FBI, local and state police departments. But come on! This hard work is all for naught if the government will not sit up and take notice of real threats!

A man who is banned in Britain, is at least on a terror watch list in the US, pays cash, has no baggage, is STILL allowed to get on a plane with no problems, is pretty scary. And this needs to be one great big wake up call for America. Don't forget September 11, 2001. Ever.

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Thursday, December 24, 2009

Why the military uses NORAD to track Santa Claus

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Colonel Shoup, first CONAD (now NORAD) Santa Tracker!

Have you ever wondered why NORAD, North American Air Defense Command, goes to the trouble of "tracking Santa Claus" ?

Well, here's a little history.

In 1955, a Sears ad in Colorado had a telephone number listed so kids could call Santa. Unfortunately, the number was misprinted. The telephone number in the ad was to the hotline at CONAD (Continental Air Defense Command, predecessor of NORAD). It was a direct line to the Commander-in-Chief, no less.

Colonel Harry Shoup, the commander at the time, knew he could not disappoint the children. He and his staff had a lot of fun giving the children who called in radar updates about Santa's location.

Now remember this was during the height of the nuclear bomb scare between the US and the Russians. Obviously these military personnel were operating under some pretty stressful conditions. But true to their military spirit, they easily handled what could have been a public relations nightmare. They could have taken Sears to task and made a huge commotion. But our military rose to the occasion, as usual!

Three years later, NORAD was formed and took over the operation. For over 50 years now, our military men and women, along with volunteers, have taken countless phone calls from children on Christmas Eve tracking Santa. Of course, now they track Santa with online updates as well.

It is kind of funny and nice at the same time, that news media from all over the world use NORAD to give Santa updates!

He probably did not realize it at the time, but Colonel Shoup was a true American hero, averting a public relations disaster for Sears, and comforting children at the same time. Sadly, the Colonel died this year March.

The First NORAD Santa Tracker!
Colonel Harry Shoup, USAF, September 29, 1917 - March 14, 2009

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Monday, December 21, 2009

News media jumps all over pregnancy issue in Iraq

The news media has jumped all over the medical edict issued by Gen. Anthony Cucolo, who heads about 22,000 US soldiers and civilians. You would think that was what the rule says and that it's only about that. It just shows how anti-military the news media is. Trying to whip anger up over a silly thing that is not really an issue.

The order restricting behavior is a common one. But, to a frenzied media, they don't care. The order actually restricts ALL behavior that is in your control and causes you to be incapacitated for military service in northern Iraq. Yes, this would include pregnancy, but that's only logical, right? It would forbid a whole host of other conditions, but the news media is not looking at that. They come up with pregnancy and run with it without getting the full story.

And that bit about being court martialed is just about what the military does. The military does not try soldiers the way civilian courts do. And the news media hates that. In fact, they seem to be always looking at anything to criticize the military about. This is just the latest.

And Gen. Cucolo has already stated the obvious. That all cases do not get court martial until he says so. He has the duty to scrutinize all cases.

This order is nothing more than what is common in war time. Period. Nothing more, nothing less. There is no nefarious women battle going on in Iraq.

General Cuculo has expressed his true reasons.

"I am responsible and accountable for the fighting ability of this outfit. I am going to do everything I can to keep my combat power -- and in the Army, combat power is the individual soldier," his statement said. "To this end, I made an existing policy stricter. I wanted to encourage my soldiers to think before they acted, and understand their behavior and actions have consequences -- all of their behavior." He further adds, that these are just a few rules in a long list of behaviors that he wants soldiers to not be engaged in.

It also bans gambling. Did you read a headline banning gambling? Of course not.

These orders are common and legal.

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Thursday, December 17, 2009

Heated electric socks - Perfect Christmas gift.

If you are looking for a unique Christmas gift for an outdoorsman, sports fan, outdoor worker, or even someone who is subject to cold feet indoors, electric heated socks make a pretty good gift.

Electric heated socks come in 2 varieties. Either run on batteries, or plugged in if indoors.

If you use the ones indoors, this can be a little cheaper than trying to keep your whole house warm.

Using the battery operated ones outdoors means a little more comfort. You can wrap up with coats and sweaters, but your feet may be left out in the cold.

They even make electric gloves!

Another option is disposable heatpacks that last in shoes and gloves for a few hours.

>>More information on electric heated socks and options.

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Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Moving detainees to Guantánamo bad idea all the way around

Never before in the history of the United States have we ever brought combatants to US soil for trial. It just does not make sense on both sides. President Obama wants to close Guantánamo prison. Yeah. So did Bush. But there lies the problem.

As long as the criminals and war prisoners are held off US soil, the rules remain they can be held as long as we think they are a threat. And, if we release them, we will not release them onto United States ground.

Moving them to a prison here presents problems on both sides.

On the one hand, if they are in US prisons, they will now have more rights, or go to court for more rights, than they have out of the country. A judge could determine whatever rights were deemed warranted by the bench. That's dangerous and that's why they should be kept out of the country. No matter what Obama says, he cannot predict what the courts will do. They are now treated as if they were just common criminals picked up on the streets. Appeals, more appeals, and yet more appeals will make this seem like on big joke.

This is not the way to close Guantánamo prison.

The other side says Obama cannot treat them the same as they do on Cuba. One of Obama's arguments is that he will make sure they are not released in the United States. But he can't. Many lawyers are just waiting to contest that. And don't even think about holding them indefinitely. Once they are on US soil they cannot be held indefinitely. And Obama saying they can and will is surely a sticking point with those who will now argue for these prisoners rights.

Bad ideas on both sides. Moving these detainees from one spot to another does nothing to quiet the critics of Gitmo. A change of scenery does not solve the problem. It's not about closing Gitmo, it's about obliterating the military's job of holding combatants. There are those who do not like the military in any way, shape, or form, and think it is an organization that needs to be subjected to regular rules.

It's not. Period.

Never before in the history of the United States have we ever done anything like this. Never.

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Monday, December 14, 2009

Organization for military wives

The National Association of Military Wives and Spouses-http://www.nammas.org/ offers a free email newsletter and video on dealing with the difficulties that come with being a military spouse. They give advice on health and relationships, as well as a way to network with other military spouses. Military families need unusual help due to unusual circumstances. Join http://www.nammas.org/ and add one more tool to the success of your military family.

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Sunday, December 13, 2009

Veterans, Military VA Home Loans, Tax Credits

Mortgage rates have not been this low since the 1940's. It is the perfect time for not only veterans, but military personnel to think about buying a home. Interest rates and home prices will rise soon.

The $8,000 tax credit is available to all first home buyers. But there is a special rule for military personnel who are on active duty overseas. The tax credit was extended until April 2010, but military personnel have an extra year to buy a home and still qualify. They have until April 30, 2011.

The April 30th deadline is for bidding or contract, but you will have until June 30th to close the deal.

There are new rules for the added extension. The tax credit that expired on November 6, was extended to the following April, but new rules apply. For the majority of home purchasers, the new rules will not apply. Here are some examples: House must cost less than $800,000, must be over 18 years of age, max of $225,000 income for joint filers, $125,000 for single. As we said, most of you are not in those categories.

The extra year for military personnel overseas is a pretty good deal. Many are overseas, but will be returning after April 30. Having that extra year will lessen any strain for any must-buy situations. We would love for all our military personnel to come home safe and get into a new house.

Veterans, your VA Home Loan benefit is still the best thing out there. It is one of the few last no-down payment home loans available. There is help for closing costs and other perks available only to veterans and the VA Home Loan program.

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Friday, December 11, 2009

Military Service members and money tips

Being in the military can be hard on families, especially in the pocket book. We at http://military-tributes.com are committed to doing what we can to support military families and veterans. We have a free e-book that you can download. It costs money to purchase this on other websites, so this is a special offer for our readers. No, anyone here can download it. You don't need to be a veteran or military service member. It's free for all. However, feel free to send out this link to other people who are struggling with a budget. Just visit the link: Military families and money to download the free e-book. Scroll down and click on the cover. It is available immediately.

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Thursday, December 10, 2009

The good about Obama's speech

Irony occurred in Oslo, when on the day Obama receives the Peace Prize Russia decides to do a missile test almost directly overhead. Makes you wonder. Missile test failed, appropriately.

President Obama accepted the Peace Prize in Oslo today, giving a conflicting speech. Here are the good parts as it applies to our military.

"But perhaps the most profound issue surrounding my receipt of this prize is the fact that I am the Commander-in-Chief of a nation in the midst of two wars. One of these wars is winding down. The other is a conflict that America did not seek; one in which we are joined by 43 other countries — including Norway — in an effort to defend ourselves and all nations from further attacks."

"But as a head of state sworn to protect and defend my nation, I cannot be guided by their examples alone. I face the world as it is, and cannot stand idle in the face of threats to the American people. For make no mistake: Evil does exist in the world. A nonviolent movement could not have halted Hitler's armies. Negotiations cannot convince al-Qaidas leaders to lay down their arms. To say that force is sometimes necessary is not a call to cynicism — it is a recognition of history, the imperfections of man and the limits of reason."

"Most dangerously, we see it in the way that religion is used to justify the murder of innocents by those who have distorted and defiled the great religion of Islam, and who attacked my country from Afghanistan. These extremists are not the first to kill in the name of God; "

These are the good parts. Of course, Obama had to weave some sort of apologetics to appease the Nobel panel. We don't think he had to do that. The United States does things for us, and for the betterment of the world. Period. Nuff said.

Read the full text of Obama's Peace Prize speech here.

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Monday, December 7, 2009

Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941 a date that will live in infamy...

Early in the afternoon of December 7, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his chief foreign policy aide, Harry Hopkins, were interrupted by a telephone call from Secretary of War Henry Stimson and told that the Japanese had attacked Pearl Harbor. At about 5:00 p.m., following meetings with his military advisers, the President calmly and decisively dictated to his secretary, Grace Tully, a request to Congress for a declaration of war. He had composed the speech in his head after deciding on a brief, uncomplicated appeal to the people of the United States rather than a thorough recitation of Japanese perfidies, as Secretary of State Cordell Hull had urged.

President Roosevelt then revised the typed draft—marking it up, updating military information, and selecting alternative wordings that strengthened the tone of the speech. He made the most significant change in the critical first line, which originally read, "a date which will live in world history." Grace Tully then prepared the final reading copy, which Roosevelt subsequently altered in three more places.

On December 8, at 12:30 p.m., Roosevelt addressed a joint session of Congress and the Nation via radio. The Senate responded with a unanimous vote in support of war; only Montana pacifist Jeanette Rankin dissented in the House. At 4:00 p.m. that same afternoon, President Roosevelt signed the declaration of war.








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Toby Gerhart, a very upstanding young American

Toby Gerhart is a smashing fullback for Stanford University.

Normally we don't like pointing out sports figures as heroes, as we feel military personnel come first in that regard.

But the Heisman Trophy will be awarded soon and Toby Gerhart is what America is all about.

Toby starred for 4 years at Norco High School in football, setting state records, all while becoming valedictorian of his class. That is quite an accomplishment. If you saw the Stanford game this year against Notre Dame, it was Toby who carried the team on his back. Literally. Even though this young man was used and abused the whole game, he still gave 110% in the final minutes, carrying Notre Dame defenders.

Our hat is off to him. He will graduate college in January. Football star and college graduate. You don't here that often.

We wish this amazing young many, Toby Gerhart all the best. He has a great future ahead of him and we wish young people would look up to him.

Read more about Toby Gerhart, his biography and stats here.

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Thursday, December 3, 2009

A Soldier's Silent Night

A Soldier's Silent Night
Written by by Lance Corporal James M. Schmidt in 1987.
The audio was done by Father Ted Berndt and his daughter Ellen.
Enjoy. Pass it along.



Here are the words to A Soldier's Silent Night

'Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
in a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give,
and to see just who in this home did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents, net even a tree.
No stocking by mantle, just boots filled with sand,
on the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
a sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
not how I pictured a United States Soldier.
Was this the hero of whom I'd just read?
Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed?
I realized the families that I saw this night,
owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world, the children would play,
and grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,
because of the soldiers, like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home.
The very thought brought a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa don't cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more,
my life is my God, my Country, My Corps."
The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still
and we both shivered from the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night,
this guardian of honor so willing to fight.
The the soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure,
whispered, "carry on Santa, it's Christmas day, all is secure."
One look at my watch and I knew he was right.
Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night.
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Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Is Obama right? 10 questions to ask the President

After digesting the Afghan troop surge speech, here is another post.

Here are some questions for President Obama on the Afghan "surge."

10 Questions the President Should Answer:

Is it too late?

Is the problem moved to Pakistan?

If we pull out in 2011, why would the taliban not just wait?

If we pull out in 2011, no matter what, what good are we doing?

Did we do the same thing we were asked to do 2 months ago? If so, why did we wait and lose time?

Is not sending 40,000 troops, but 30,000, a 10,000 gift to a political group?

Should all wars be politicized with a speech?

Did Obama sound just like Bush at various times?

Is the war on terror back on track?

Is it even a "war on terror" once again?

And here's a bonus question: Should we even be in Afghanistan at all?

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Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Obama, finally, commits Afghan troops

President Obama finally decided how many more US troops to send to Afghanistan. Presumably after a much thought out process. We respectfully disagree.

But before we elaborate, we will reiterate that sending troops into harms way is a difficult thing to do. And we never are happy to see our military in danger. But that is what the military is for. To do battle. Like it or not, our military's mission is to fight wars. Many would have you think the military is just a game, another business, a way to spread goodwill and cheer. Those may be by-products at times, but never, ever the reason the military exists.

By President Obama waiting, he has shown that he will make decisions based on political winds. Not on military recommendations. This long process was not to decide what was right. Only to appear to appease certain political factions. The proof of this is what he finally came up with. Basically exactly what General McChrystal asked for weeks ago. The right thing to do, would have been to call an emergency meeting and make the decision, post haste.

The danger was that we had over 60,000 troops in Afghanistan already. Wavering on more troops had to have an effect on the troops already there. Was their danger overlooked by waiting? Were they put in more danger each day more troops were delayed? If you were not going to send more troops, what was the fate of the ones there? Are they going to perform a half-duty, as they might be pulled out at any minute? I can see many troops, and rightfully so, thinking, what am I here for? There was danger in waiting.

The taliban have made gains while this debate has gone on. That in and of itself is bad news for the US and our troops.

We feel a delay put the current troops in danger. And what was accomplished by the delay? Nothing.

There was no need to wait. Either pull out existing troops, or send more. Period. President Obama has made MANY promises about doing the right thing in Afghanistan and not allowing it to fail. But instead of sticking to this promise, he has only delayed any favorable outcome. And there was no need for it.

We know that our military does the best job in the world. But they are human. They must be given the support of all leaders, from the President on down. Or get out.

President Obama had painted himself into a corner. He could not pull out. The only thing left politically to do was wait. And that was a bad idea for our troops.

A taliban-run Afghanistan is not an option. This is Obama's war from the start. And so far he has not done a very good job with it.

The delay in troops has only protracted the problem.

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Friday, November 27, 2009

Military Divorces up

Divorces of military service members is up nearly 1 percentage point since 2001.

There were 27,312 among active duty service personnel in 2009, ending in September.

That puts the divorce rate at 3.6% Women in the military have a much higher percentage of divorce than their male counterparts. 7.7& for women, 3% for men.

What this shows is that military service puts a slight strain on marriages.

It puts more of a strain on womens' marriages than men. As much as people scream for equality in the service and women in combat, we must realize the strain this causes on the normalcy of human lives.

The old saying sued to go that the government didn't issue you a wife.

But because of recent benefits that were almost nonexistent years ago, young people join the service and think of marriage at the same time.

We have made it easy for people to think the military supports marriage. We give benefits for housing, medical, as well as other benefits for spouses and dependents.

This has created a false sense of security. Basically thinking the military is supporting marriage and families. The truth is, it's not.

The mission of the military is to kill people and break things, to put it bluntly. Your family comes second to your duty. Today, young people expect it to be reverse.

Before you join the service and get married, think long and hard about the strain it will put on any relationship you will have with your spouse and children. All will need to make some sort of sacrifice. If you are not able, willing, and ready to make sacrifices, a military marriage will not last.

Divorces for military members decreases morale and readiness. Get help.

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Wednesday, November 25, 2009

VA Veterans Home Loans- Take Advantage Now

If you are a veteran, one of your benefits is a VA Veterans Home Loan.

With home prices rising, if you are a veteran thinking of buying a home, don't wait. Interest rates are still low, but may go higher. Also, the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit is only in effect for a few more months. If you wait too long, you may not qualify.

Here are some advantages to VA Veterans Home Loans:
Low closing costs.
No private mortgage insurance.
No money down.
You don't need a minimum credit score, just qualifying credit.

Learn more about VA Veterans Home Loans Here!
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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Obama finally (?) decides on Afghanistan troop level...

Barack Obama is now ready to "finish the job" in Afghanistan.

We wonder what he has been waiting for. Supposedly he wants to make a well thought out decision. Not really. That's what he has military commanders to do. And they had already assessed the situation and made their recommendations. But Obama's delay is probably due more to political pressure on the left. He wants to at least appear to appease them.

We say "appear," because during the campaign, as well as just a few months ago, Obama promised to get the Afghanistan done and finished. It was the war we must win, in his own words.

Funny how health care does not get the same careful consideration. No, we must act now or the world will collapse. I would not trust senators to craft a health care bill, nor would I trust them to craft any Afghanistan strategy. They are neither doctors, nor military leaders.

It looks like the final tally for extra troops will be around 30,000. This is 15,000 short of the 45,000 Gen. McChrystal asked for.

With that in mind, how much heart does Obama have for actually, "finishing the job" ?

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Monday, November 23, 2009

Never-ending warnings for Iran

We have lost count of the warnings we have given to Iran.

It seems on a daily basis we give yet another warning.

We come up with idle threats like, "soon we will do something" or "they better watch out" or some other schoolyard nonsense.

It is beginning to sound silly. And Iran is loving the attention.

Iran could care less. They will just keep stalling for time until the next ice age.

How long will this banter go back and forth? Like two school kids going at it.

People have criticized George Bush for going into Iraq. But George Bush took action. He went through every channel, including the UN, and when Iraq said NO for one more time, he took action.

Our brave men and women in uniform did a fantastic job of shutting saddam down. Whether you agree or disagree, the threat from Iraq was taken out. Period.

We are not advocating military action at this time. Nor do we ever much encourage military action. But, there are things we can do now to get the ball rolling on Iran.

But we are just giving warnings and allowing them to stall with zero consequences.

Why would Iran play ball when they keep getting a pass, and realize the US is not serious at this time to do a thing.

We think this needs to change now.

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Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Trees for Troops

Get involved and contribute to a group called Trees for Troops.

Trees for Troops is a group that delivers trees to our military service personnel around the world. You can donate money, purchase a tree for troops, or buy your Christmas tree at a tree farm or retailer that supports the program.
Read more on Trees for Troops here.

Be sure and do all you can to show your support for our veterans and military personnel here and overseas during the Holiday Season. Our troops deserve to know that people at home care and support the job they are doing.

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Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Bill for Ft. Hood Victims as Combatants

U.S. Rep. John Carter, R-Round Rock, Texas, is introducing legislation for Ft. Hood victims. It would declare them victims of an act of war.

This would grant the same rights and privileges to those who are wounded or killed in combat. These include maximum life insurance payments, Purple Hearts, and more in disability payments. It would also award civilians the Secretary of Defense Medal for the Defense of Freedom.

Ft. Hood was an act of war. No two ways about it. Support this bill.

Anything extra we can do for our men, women, and civilians in military service should be supported. We cannot do enough. Even this will not be enough.

We also need to be more diligent in terror acts on American soil. There was and is no excuse for this act.

Hopefully, this bill will be supported by all and enacted quickly.

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Monday, November 16, 2009

Why trying Khalid Sheik Mohammed in New York is a very bad idea

Khalid Sheik Mohammed is coming to New York. This is actually what he said when he was captured, basically I'll see you in New York with my lawyer.

Here's a logical look as to why trying terrorist suspects arrested overseas is a bad idea.

First of all, these are war criminals. We did not try the Japanese in a civilian court over Pearl Harbor. Nobody would have even suggested it. Nor the Germans for war crimes in a civilian court.

Keeping these terrorists on a military base, means civilian facilities will not be attacked trying to free them, or for some other extreme reason.

Khalid Sheik Mohammed pleaded GUILTY in a military tribunal. These were deemed legal by the Supreme Court. But the Obama administration put them on hold. Canceled. In short, Khalid Sheik Mohammed would be awaiting execution instead of on his way to New York.

We seem to have the idea that war criminals have the right of United States citizens. They don't. That's where the problem comes from. People associating killing in an act of war, as just another "murder" on the street. It's not. And should not be treated as such.

Our priority is NOT to try these war criminals. Never has been. We hold them as a deterrent, and to get information. While Khalid Sheik Mohammed was being held, we got some pretty good information out of him that saved American lives.

All of this will change if Gitmo is closed, and the terrorists are brought here. Now they are on American soil and some will think that they have United States rights. And many will press for it. Bad idea.

Add these to the fact that city, county, and state facilities DO NOT have jurisdiction over federal prisoners. This could lead to a turn over of these prisoners from federal to state. Bad idea.

We should not be in the business of appeasing terrorists and those that support them.

Keeping this country safe is our utmost duty. A commander-in-chief has to do everything in his power to ensure this. Changing these terrorists to regular prisoners is a bad idea and will not make this country safer.

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75 percent "unfit" for military service

A recent report has come out citing obese statistics that show 75% of Americans between the ages of 17-24 would not qualify for military service under the current weight guidelines.

The military now, however, is meeting its recruitment goals. But some think this may spell trouble for the future.

Other reasons for not being eligible for military service are health related such as asthma, depression, and ADHD.

Young people also do not have good credit ratings, another factor.

In short, the military does not want people who they will have to treat and have members whose creditors will be a burden.

The issue of a high school diploma is also of concern. Many think a GED will work. But if you only have a GED, you need to score high enough on the entrance exam and get a waiver. Not many are getting this waiver.

The good news for now, is that because of the economy, the military can be more selective of its recruits. More young people are looking at military service as a quick, easy job. The pool of prospective service members is large at the moment.

But, that could change in the future. Military service and education leaders are looking at ways to improve health and education readiness for our future armies.

If you or a relative is interested in military service, make sure they are as fit as can be and graduate high school.

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>VA Veterans Home Loans

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Thursday, November 12, 2009

Top Military Friendly Employers

GI Jobs Magazine, just released their top 100 Military Family Friendly Employers.

These companies make a point to hire veterans and be friendly to military and their familes.

Here are the top 10.

1 Union Pacific Railroad Company
2 CSX Corporation
3 USAA
4 Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation
5 ManTech International Corporation
6 Johnson Controls, Inc.
7 Norfolk Southern Corporation
8 Cintas Corporation
9 Southern Company
10 ITT Corporation, Systems Division

You can read the complete list here.

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Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Army Reserve Partners to Create Jobs for Veterans

The Army Reserve is starting a program that will partner employers with Army Reservists. It will covert all 50 states, and get 750 businesses in partnership with veterans returning from the Army Reserve. They will guarantee at least a job interview, and offer this to both men and women who have served. Read more about the employer and Army Reserve partnership here.

Why stop with just Army Reservists? If you run a business or are in charge of hiring, we urge you to take a look at all returning veterans first who apply.

Military veterans, while not only having military skills offer the following:

A track record of working under adversity.
Being able to finish difficult tasks.
Following orders efficiently.
Have discipline.
Will be on time and reliable.
Trustworthy.

What more can you ask for in an employee?

They made the ultimate sacrifice. Let's return a small part of this.

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Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Muslims have no problem killing Muslims

The tragedy in Ft. Hood has brought to light Muslims serving in the military.

We would like to first say that Muslims can and do serve quite honorably in the United States military.

In fact, we would go as far as to say that Muslims in the United States military are doing a service to their faith. They are helping out in many parts of the world already plagued by Muslim on Muslim violence.

On a daily basis, from Iraq to Afghanistan, from Pakistan to even Iran, Muslims bomb, maim, and kill other Muslims. The United States is on the right side and trying to stop this.

Remember, more Muslims die each day in these conflicts, with violence generated by Muslims. Mosques, crowded streets, businesses, and restaurants are popular targets.

It is quite ridiculous for anyone to say that Muslims serving in the US military should quit because they should not be called on to kill other Muslims. In fact, as stated with the examples above, Muslims already kill Muslims on a daily basis. And they are not serving in the US military.

So we must say, that the Ft. Hood tragedy was terrorism. In fact, how could this crazy fool think he would not shoot any Muslims? They are serving in the military.

We dropped the ball. We cannot excuse anyone in the name of political correctness.

And we must reiterate. Muslims do serve quite honorably in the US military.

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Monday, November 9, 2009

Veterans can get a free meal (entree) from Applebee's on Veteran's Day

We have blogged about this before, but wish to announce it again.

Applebee's is offering a free entree to veterans and military service members on Veteran's Day. No, it's not a lot, but we salute businesses like Applebee's for making an effort. We wish more businesses would give free offers or discounts to veterans and military members. And yes we do realize that most of these offers are business ploys, but at least they are in the right direction. A couple of bucks off a dinner tab is a small token, but a Thank You nonetheless! Read more about Applbee's and the free dinner entree for veterans and military here.

Oh and don't forget to fly the flag on Veteran's Day!
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Sunday, November 8, 2009

Ft. Hood was Terrorism

Senator Joe Lieberman made the rounds on the Sunday talk shows today. He emphatically stated that the Ft. Hood shooting IS terrorism. We agree.

US armed forces do amazing things under stress around the world. On a daily basis. They don't shoot 40 people. They don't kill 12 of their own. Never. We need to repeat this. NEVER in the history of the United States has any act of this kind ever been done.

It is an act of terror and needs to be treated as such. It is NOT an excusable act, reasoned away by stress. This shooter did not know what stress was. If anyone, anywhere, tries to reason this away and make excuses, shame on them. This terrorist did not know what stress was. Never spent a day in the armed forces in combat. Or even close to combat. Calling this a "stress" related incident cheapens the work our brave men and women do each an everyday under extremely stressful situations.

Because this person shot military people, instead of civilians, the news media will make it out to be something that it's not. Why are they not referring this as domestic terror? Why is the US government refusing to call it domestic terror?

There is a pattern here. Like it or not, radical Muslims in the military will need to be watched. Just like others are watched. That's nothing new nor is it nefarious or bigoted. It called using common sense.

We need to be angry at this act. So angry that we change the way we do business. 9-11 changed the way we look at the world. This tragic incident in Ft. Hood Texas will also change the way we do things. The government needs to really start looking at what domestic terror really is. It's not Tea Parties. It's not rallies in Washington against a health care bill. It's what happened in Ft. Hood.

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Saturday, November 7, 2009

Names and Faces of Ft. Hood Victims


The AP has done a nice job of profiling the victims of the Ft. Hood tragedy.
Read about these brave men and women who were serving our country here.
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Monday, November 2, 2009

Navy Ship Made of 9-11 Steel Sails Into New York


The USS New York made it's way up the Hudson River this morning. Photo from NY Times.

Not too remarkable for a Navy ship. But this one is different. It was made with steel from the twin towers that were attacked on 9-11. 7.5 tons of steel to be exact. It must have been quite an emotional experience to be a sailor on this ship coming into New York harbor.

The USS New York will be berthed near the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum for a while, until it's commissioning ceremony on November 7, 2009.

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Sunday, November 1, 2009

Obama addresses Marines in Florida

President Obama was in Jacksonville, Florida, recently and spoke the the Marines.

Here is an excerpt from the speech he gave. We are highlighting this to show that words, on both sides of the political aisle, can indeed be used in correct ways.

"We're reminded of this again with today's helicopter crashes in Afghanistan. Fourteen Americans gave their lives. And our prayers are with these service members, their civilian colleagues and the families who loved them.

And while no words can ease the ache in their hearts today, may they find some comfort in knowing this: like all those who give their lives in service to America, they were doing their duty and they were doing this nation proud.

They were willing to risk their lives, in this case, to prevent Afghanistan from once again becoming a safe haven for Al Qaida and its extremist allies. And today, they gave their lives, that last full measure of devotion, to protect ours.

Now it is our duty, as a nation, to keep their memory alive in our hearts and to carry on their work. To take care of their families. To keep our country safe. To stand up for the values we hold dear and the freedom they defended. That's what they dedicated their lives to. And that is what we must do as well."

-President Obama, Oct 26, 2009

We are also reminding people of Veteran's Day coming up on November 11. One of the best and easiest things you can do is to fly a flag. The flag is quite a symbol. Also, go out of your way to thank a veteran, or even do something on a personal basis:

How to thank a veteran and military members.

How to fly the flag.

Create a free website to honor a veteran or service member.

Friday, October 30, 2009

President Obama meets Fallen Soldiers

For the first time in 18 years, a president has opened the press to cover fallen soldiers arriving at Dover. Families can allow the press in to these very private moments. President Obama did have private moments with the families, but it is the showing on television of coffin draped caskets that has some worried.

While we do applaud the president for deciding to personally visit fallen soldier's families, we cannot help but wonder if this is for political gain, or to appease political friends. We hope not.

We do, however, do not support allowing the press to cover these events at anybody's whim. There is too much of a danger of using these photos and videos for political propaganda on both sides.

There was a reason why the first President Bush in 1991 instituted the ban. And these reasons are still valid.

Decisions on war and military action should never be made on the basis of how someone feels after looking at photos or videos.
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Honor a Veteran or Military Member With a Free Website.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Veterans and the Current Housing Market: VA Home Loans

The current housing market has never been better if you are looking to buy a home. Interest rates are still near historic rates, and home prices, new and previously owned, have fallen. These home prices make it quite possible for most people to now buy a home.

If you have a job, money in the bank, a down payment, low bills, chances are you will be approved! But this is not 2006 all over again. Then, people were put in million dollar homes when all they could really afford was a $150,000 home. Nowadays, you qualify for a home worth the average, between $150-200,000. That makes it affordable and low risk for mortgage lenders and buyers!

Add this to the $8,000 tax credit you get for first time home buyers, and veterans who are looking for a first house will find this hard to beat! VA Home loans are still the ONLY home loan without a down payment! Veterans are being urged to take advantage of the VA home loan program that they are entitled too!

Learn more about VA Veterans Home Loans Here!
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009

VA Health Funding, Website for Kids of Military

Last Friday, President Obama signed the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009. It provides funding for VA health care one year in advance. Not the usual piecemeal. It is one of the rare times the VA knows up front when and how much funding they get. VA health care workers do a stellar service, but many times lack the resources to get the best job done. Before the government takes over any civilian health care, they need to get the VA's act together!

The VA has also started a website specifically targeting kids of veterans and military service members. The site also gives resources for all kids to learn what a service the veterans of this country have done. Encouraging kids to be patriotic is one of our goals as well. Supporting kids of military service members needs to be enhanced as well. We don't think kids in this country grow up feeling as patriotic as they used to. It has gotten better over the last 30 years, but is still lacking.
Visit the VA's website for kids at http://www.va.gov/KIDS
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VA Veterans Home Loans

How to be a teacher and get a teaching job, alternate routes for veterans.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Congress passes service dog legislation for veterans

The senate passed a bill to start a program that provides service dogs to veterans.

Al Franken was author of the bill that provides dogs to help with service members who suffer from emotional as well as physical problems stemming from war.

The cost of each dog is about $20,000 plus. The money will be provided by the government and the dogs provided free.

The goal is to provide hundreds of dogs.

Read more on this story at the Star Tribune website.
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Friday, October 23, 2009

Mailing a package to overseas military serviceman?

If you have a loved one in the military overseas, and are thinking of sending them a package for the holidays, be sure you know the deadlines set by the post office.

Instead of trying to list all the dates and options, you can access the information right from the post office here.

There may be other options other than the post office if you are too late. UPS, Fedex, DHL, just to name a few, may be able to deliver as well.

The post office is actually a pretty good deal.

And we hope that everyone who can send a care package over the holidays does so!

It is one of the biggest morale boosters around!

Send a little Christmas all over the world!
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Thursday, October 22, 2009

Some Military Service members from 9/11 eligible for money

9/11 is still etched in our memories. None more than military members who were affected. Some had their enlistments involuntarily extended. We are not making judgments on whether this was right or wrong. We always like to think that we do things for the good of the world and country. A bill passed over the summer allows service members who had their enlistment extended are now eligible for $500 a month. You get it through the Department of Defense and it's called Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay. If you are eligible, be sure and collect. A very small monetary "gift" from all of us.
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Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Do you hunt, fish, go to outdoor sporting events?

Keeping warm in the fall and winter while hunting, fishing, or even attending a football game can be tough. Have you heard of something cool to help? Electric socks! These electric socks (and even electric gloves) can keep you toasty for a few hours.

They do run on batteries and can only last for about 4 to 5 hours, but can sure be a lifesaver if you don't want to get bundled up from head to toe!

Click here for more information on electric socks.
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Create a free webpage to honor a veteran or military service member.

Military Members Discounts and Car Insurance Concerns.

VA Veterans Home Loans

Monday, October 19, 2009

Applebee's offering free food to veterans and service members.

Applebee's restaurants are offering a limited menu for free to veterans and service members. Show up on Veterans Day, November 11, and show proof of being a veteran or service member, and the free entree is on its way! Granted, it is not everything on the menu, and just a gimmick, but what the heck. It is a small token for honoring military service. Of course you pay for drinks, tips, and other expenses. At least Applebee's takes notice. Read more about Applebee's free food offer for veterans here.

If you own a business, we wish you would offer some type of discount or freebie to veterans or service members. And not just one day a year, but all year.

More easy ways to thank a veteran.

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Thursday, October 15, 2009

More Vietnam Veterans Eligible for Agent Orange Exposure

The Veterans Administration has now made about 200,000 Vietnam veterans eligibile for agent orange related benefits. There were a couple of diseases that the VA had agreed to pay benefits for related to the exposure to agent orange. Under current rules, things like Hodgkin's disease and type 2 diabetes were covered. The new proposal also will contain diseases like Parkinson's, certain heart diseases, and leukemia.

There is some debate, of course, as to whether there really is evidence that agent orange is related to any of the diseases being proposed. However, we will always urge to err on the side of veterans. In fact, anyone who was exposed to agent orange should be automatically qualified to receive certain benefits. In fact, there would be nothing but praise for new benefits for ALL Vietnam vets.

Just a side note on VA health care. We all know the VA health care system has problems. This is a snapshot of how any government run health care plan will be. Instead of overhauling the whole system, we need to fix the VA system first.

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Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Two ways that everybody can help the United States

There are two easy ways that people in the United States can be patriotic and help the country at the same time.

First, buy American. Simple. Even if you have to switch stores, buy American. Why send dollars overseas? This does not include most "foreign" cars. Those are made and sold here, creating American jobs.

Second, hire an American citizen. Put America first. On Fox News, they were saying how ski resorts were now actively going to reduce the number of jobs for foreign workers. Good Job!

Visit: http://www.madeinusa.com

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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

US Military Recruiters Meet All Goals for first time in 35 years.

The economy is bad. People need jobs. Young people especially. So, the military is a good looking option for many.

The US military has met all recruiting goals for the first time in 35 years. Actually, the first time since the draft was stopped.

We need to warn young people, however, that the United States military is not just a job. And it's not an adventure. It's serious business. Many kids join and don't realize they are asked to kill people and break things. And get killed themselves. But contrary to popular belief, the military is rather safe for most enlistees. But it is a dangerous business nonetheless.

There are wrong reasons to join the military. One is thinking it's just a great way to get a job. Wrong. It really does not prepare you for a great job on the outside. Unless you cherry-pick what job you get in the military. There isn't quite a demand for tank mechanics in the civilian world. Mechanics yes, not tank mechanics. Experience counts, true enough. Plus, you have just spent four years getting experience in a military setting. Not exactly real world experience for the working world. Some may disagree, but if you really want a great civilian job, then go find out what that great civilian job needs. And go and get it. Probably the military is not a prerequisite.

The only reason to join the military should be that you want to do your patriotic duty for the betterment of your country and the world. The other reasons are secondary.

Joining the military will not make a man (or woman) out of you if you are not already one.

Joining the military will not get you a great civilian job. In fact, that idea is just plain stupid, but it is a popular recruiting line.

Joining the military is not a great way to escape your parents and get out on your own.

Joining the military is a hardship. Especially if you are married

Joining the military is not a great way of going to college. Think about it. You'll be four years older and four years behind your career goals.

BUT...
Joining the military for honorable service is one of the BEST things you can do.

Joining the military is a great career in and of itself.

The military needs military minded men and women. Not civilian job seekers.

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Obama silenty agrees to 15,000 more troops in Afghanistan

President Obama walked a fine line, and did it almost without noise.

He has authorized up to 15,000 more troops for Afghanistan. Albeit these are mostly support personnel like medical, engineering, logistics, etc., it is a step in the right direction.

But does the way President Obama did this in any way connected to the Nobel Peace Prize farce? We hope not.

We also know that Obama needs to do the right thing. If he must do things like this to eventually finish the job, well, let's get to it.

Whether President Obama shouts it out, does it in a second, we don't care. Just in a timely basis, send the troops that will make a difference.

As usual, we urge you to write your congressman either way, but wish you would support a surge in troops.

President Obama has repeatedly said in the past that Afghanistan is THE WAR we must win. Let's hope he has the stomach to keep doing what is right, no matter what some members of his own party beg him to.
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Want a political forum to rant in? Sound of in the Sarah Palin Forum!

Monday, October 12, 2009

California Senator Calls Obama Indecisive on Afghanistan

Diane Feinstein, D-CA, is not exactly someone who you would think would be on the war side of Afghanistan. She has said that Obama should listen to people he chose. Namely General Stanley McCrystal, who has called for more troops. Senator Feinstein implies that Obama is doing nothing, not listening to the left or the right. And she cannot understand why.

Senator Feinstein paints a grim picture, “I’ll tell you what I said. I reviewed all of the intelligence and looked at the situation, and it was pretty clear to me that violence was up 100 percent; 950 attacks in August. The Taliban now controls 37 percent of the people in the areas where these people are. Attrition in police is running 67 percent, either killed or leaving the service.”

Hard to believe, but it does seem at least one key senator is leaning toward more troops. But really, this should not come as a great surprise. President Obama himself has repeatedly in the past called the war in Afghanistan the war that we must wage and win. His stalling and do-nothing approach is obviously in respect to his needing to appease some on the left.

Appeasing the left has nothing to do with it. Appeasing the right has nothing to do with it.

We applaud Senator Feinstein and hope more people come forward. This is not the time to waffle and stall. It is time for action. Keep your promise, President Obama!

Send the troops!

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Friday, October 9, 2009

Obama and the Nobel Peace Prize

Barack Obama should never allow a political statement from a foreign organization to dictate what the policies of the United States should be.

The United States must always continue to do what is best for the United States first.

If this means making some countries disappointed, so be it. Giving President Obama the Nobel Peace prize is just the kind of political statement we should not allow.

How can it not affect Obama's policies now, especially in Afghanistan? Will he be looking at that prize and thinking, "I cannot do more..." or will he listen to the generals? Listening to the generals is what Nancy Pelosi said Bush should do. But now she seems to have a different take when her side is in the White House.

Afghanistan needs to be cleaned up and now is the time to do it.

President Obama promised. Will he back off his promise now that he has a Peace prize?

We hope not. He cannot. He should not. For the good of the United States.

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Wednesday, October 7, 2009

US Soldiers helping Afghan people, military, and police

US soldiers in Afghanistan are doing a remarkable job at training an Afghan army that was nonexistent. They are also training police, and giving medical care to the Afghan people at no cost to them. It is time to really salute these troops in Afghanistan.

Here is a video of just what they are doing:

Supreme Court Hears Arguments on War Memorial Cross

The Supreme Court is hearing arguments about a war memorial that happens to be a cross.

Please support this effort. You can read more at:
http://militaryandveterans.blogspot.com/2009/09/veterans-are-fighting-to-keep-memorial.html

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Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Sarah Palin's Facebook Comments on Afghanistan

The war in Afghanistan has been called by Obama as THE war to fight. President Obama needs to pick up the pace and do something now.

In case you are interested, Sarah Plain weighed in on Facebook today concerning the Afghan war:

For two years as a candidate, Senator Obama called for more resources for the war in Afghanistan and warned about the consequences of failure. As President, he announced a comprehensive new counterinsurgency strategy and handpicked the right general to execute it. Now General McChrystal is asking for additional troops to implement the strategy announced by President Obama in March. Hundreds of thousands of Americans have sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers in harm's way in Afghanistan right now. We owe it to all those brave Americans serving in uniform to give them the tools they need to complete their mission.

We can win in Afghanistan by helping the Afghans build a stable representative state able to defend itself. And we must do what it takes to prevail. The stakes are very high. The 9/11 attacks were planned in Afghanistan, and if we are not successful there, al Qaeda will once again find a safe haven, the Taliban will impose its cruelty on the Afghan people, and Pakistan will be less stable.

Our allies and our adversaries are watching to see if we have the staying power to protect our interests in Afghanistan. I recently joined a group of Americans in urging President Obama to devote the resources necessary in Afghanistan and pledged to support him if he made the right decision. Now is not the time for cold feet, second thoughts, or indecision -- it is the time to act as commander-in-chief and approve the troops so clearly needed in Afghanistan.

- Sarah Palin

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Sunday, October 4, 2009

8 Americans Killed in Afghanistan

The largest loss of life of American soldiers in a year.

People who support this war are often thought of as heartless or some other words.
Veterans are not. When we hear news like this, our hearts ache. We think of the soldier who lost his life. We think of the family that lost a loved one. We think of his comrades who had to fight on. We think of the bravery of our soldiers. we think of the bravery of this young man. We think of the bravery and goodness of Americans. We think of the loss of past soldiers in winning freedom for this country. We think of the loss of life in winning freedom for other countries and other peoples. We think again of the loss of a brave soldier who gave the ultimate sacrifice. We think again of the loss of an American family.

We also think the useless and needless body counts being splashed across the news.

We also think of how dead or dying soldiers become political pieces for news papers and television.

And we think about how this country can promote such things.

The very people screaming for freedom of the press are the very ones who would not have it if it were not for Americans sacrificing their lives.

We salute the brave men and women, who are called upon each and every day to to extraordinary things each and every day, and are willing to be put in harm's way for us. They are not fearless, mindless people. They face fear with a knowledge that they are being called upon to make this country and the world better.

Stop the body counts. It is never a time to keep score with American lives.

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Tuesday, September 29, 2009

VA Veterans Home Loans

Eligible veterans should take advantage of a VA Veterans Home Loan before the cost of home ownership goes up. Interest rates and home prices will not stay low. Get in on a VA Home Loan now.

As a veteran, you do not need to put money down on a home loan. This is the LAST home loan currently available with no down payment! Why would you not take advantage of this?

Also, the governments tax credit of $8,000 is up in November. The fall is a perfect time to buy a home. It is a buyers market.

Your eligibility for a VA home loan depends on when you served, whether your service was in peacetime or wartime, and the length of your service. Generally, active service of 90 days in wartime and 181 days in peacetime meets the minimum requirement to qualify if your service was before September 7, 1980. After this date, you may have to meet a 24-month requirement of continuous active service. There are exceptions to this, such as injury, troop reductions, and certain medical conditions.

If you are the spouse of someone who has died in active military duty or as a result of a disability suffered in active duty, you may also be eligible for a VA loan. Thanks to the Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act of 1994, those who serve at least six years in the National Guard or Selected Reserve have become eligible as well.

More information on VA Veterans Home Loans

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Sunday, September 27, 2009

Veterans under new GI Bill are complaining about slow or lack if money

More than a quarter of a million veterans have signed up to collect the New GI Bill education benefits as of August 1, 2009. Unfortunately, it seems as if the checks are not in the mail. Many veterans across the country are scrambling to stay in school as a result of missing money.

According to Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki on Friday, veterans have a right to complain. The way the bill was written, it can take weeks to get the money approved and in the mail.

Many colleges have delayed fees and tuition for veterans until the education aid comes. But, what about living expenses? This is what the money is in dire need of at the moment. Veterans returning to college are not getting the money they need for living expenses.

Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki stated as well that emergency funds are being sent. These emergency funds can be as much as $3,000 per veteran. The Secretary has promised that next year, things will be different and faster.

If you are a veteran struggling to stay in school, contact your local veterans affairs office. The emergency money is being sent to them. By all means, do this as soon as possible!

Now, how many of you think this is the way our veterans should be treated? How long does it take to cut a check and get funds out? This is the computer age. How long? A few minutes? Why does America still year after year, war after war, great service after great service, STILL dishonor it veterans this way?

Whatever your feelings are health care. Stop and think. Does the government run any kind of program the way it should? Not when it comes to veterans. We cannot fathom why the process for getting education money cannot be automatic and quick. After World War II, millions of veterans went back to school with NO problems. What have we done since? Screwed most programs up, that's what.

We salute the colleges and universities that have delayed fees and tuition for veterans. How about some landlords and mortgage companies doing the same?

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Friday, September 25, 2009

Listen to the Afghanistan's Ambassador

We Americans pride ourselves on doing the right thing. No, things do not always work out the way we wish, but we always do things that we feel are in the best interests of the United States first, then the world.

The subject here is Afghanistan. Our President, Barack Obama made a pledge to ramp up the "true" war and defeat terrorism. His campaign was all for it, even slamming George Bush for not doing more in Afghanistan but concentrating on Iraq. Okay. Let's take him at his word.

Now comes the time for President Obama to suck it up and do the right thing.

Afghanistan sent an envoy to Washington to ask for more troops. Let's be clear. They are not coming out of the blue. They are not coming on a dream. They are coming because of what was promised. Are we going to let our promises slip away like we did the promises to Poland and the Czechs? We hope not.

Here is a quote from Ambassador Said Jawad, “Wavering will cause confusion among our allies and partners in Europe and frustration among the Afghan people.” "target=_new" Exactly.

Why is Barack Obama wavering? Because he is beholden to special interest groups who are pressuring him to get out of Afghanistan. But he needs to stand his ground. He needs to do the right thing. He needs to reiterate why Afghanistan IS the right thing. What will he be trusted for if he backs out on this?

Toss your friends aside and appease your enemies. That's the wrong thing. We urge you to write to President Obama and tell him to keep his promise to the Afghan people.

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Thursday, September 24, 2009

Sarah Palin supports troops in Afghanistan, disagrees with McCain on F-22

Here are excerpts from Sarah Palin's speech in Hong Kong yesterday tha affect the United States military in some way.

Sarah Palin's thoughts on Afghanistan, C-17, F-22:

Though we are engaged in two wars and face a diverse array of threats, it is the defense budget that has seen significant program cuts and has actually been reduced from current levels!

Despite the need to move men and material by air into theaters like Afghanistan, the Obama Administration sought to end production of our C-17s, the work horse of our ability to project long range power. Despite the Air Force saying it would increase future risk, the Obama Administration successfully sought to end F-22 production – at a time when both Russia and China are acquiring large numbers of next generation fighter aircraft. It strikes me as odd that Defense Secretary Gates is the only member of the Cabinet to be tasked with tightening his belt.

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Vietnam Veterans Day in California

After vetoing the first bill, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger will sign the new Vietnam Veterans Day into law on Friday. He had vetoed the first for purely political reasons to make a point, which is pretty shameful.

The Governor will sign the bill at the Twentynine Palms Marine Combat Center.

The official name for the day is, "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day," and will be celebrated every March 30th in the state of California.

Our thanks to the Vietnam veterans and their families who still suffer old wounds, politically, physically, and mentally.

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Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Black Female Soldier Becomes First Female Top Drill Sergeant

Sgt. Maj. Teresa King will be in charge of all drill instructors.
Here are some quick facts:

First female to hold this position.
She is African-American.
Has 28 years in the military.
Daughter of a sharecropper with 11 other siblings.

We salute this woman to the utmost! Sgt. Maj. King is an asset to this country.
Sgt. Maj. King is the epitome of service to this country. We know she will make a fine Commandant. The 48 year old woman might not be big in stature. But she is big in heart, desire, patriotism, and desire to be the best she can be, and instill this in others.

Sgt. Maj. King is what the United States is all about!

Sgt. Maj. King is an inspiration and a true leader. We wish her all the best!


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Monday, September 21, 2009

Obama, fund the war in Afghanistan now.

President Obama has still not made up his mind to either increase troops or increase funding. We urge him to stick to his promises. Obama has chided George Bush about going to Iraq and not Afghansitan. And, if he were president, he would step up the efforts in Afghanistan and root out the taliban and al qaeda. He needs to be held to his promises.

This is not a time to be iffy or wishy washy. Barack Obama's problem stems from the fact that the anti-"war" effort helped him get elected. But these people fully ignored his promise to step it up in Afghanistan.

This Afghanistan effort needs to be continued and continued hard. Increase troop levels and increase funding. There is no need to waiver.

Obama lost his backbone on the missile shield and abandoned allies in Poland and the Czech Republic. He cannot afford to lose anymore support here at home, too.

We urge you to contact your congressmen and women and get them to keep up the good work our brave men and women have started!

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Thursday, September 17, 2009

Veterans are Fighting to Keep Memorial Cross Up

The Supreme court is hearing arguments on this today. Thought I would redo it.

Please support this cause. If the Supreme Court knocks it down, congress can and should step in.

There is (was?) a cross put up on a hill of rocks in 1934. It was put there by veterans of World War I in 1934 to be a memorial for those soldiers that died.

Over the course of years, no problem. But then somehow the ACLU came to think of the cross as a religious display. And they want it down. A judge agreed and now it is covered with wooden boxes. Is that crazy? The supreme court has agreed to hear the case. That alone is a victory for what is right. The supreme court does not take many matters like this.

The ACLU is quite a brainless organization. The cross is not a religious sympbol in this case, no more than naming a city Los Angeles is. Los Angeles as you know means the angels in Spanish. Many cities have religious names, especially the ones with Saints in them. St. Louis? Is that promoting Catholicism? We think not.

A degree of common sense must be had in cases like this. Religion is a cornerstone of what this country was founded on. A cross as a memorial is not promoting religion.

To support the effort of keeping a cross up that has been up for 70 plus years, go to http://www.donttearmedown.com/

The ACLU certainly has better things to do than tie up courts with useless litigation. Please write your congressman to do something about this court case. Your liberties may be at stake one day.

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Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Schwarzenegger to Sign Vietnam Veterans Day

In California, a bill to make each March 30th a "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day," is going to finally be signed into law.

The first bill introduced by Assemblyman Paul Cook (R-Yucca Valley), was vetoed by Governor Schwarzenegger to make a political statement. The governor wanted to show that the congress cared more about trivial matters than getting things done that mattered.

While we agree that the bill was not top priority, it certainly was not trivial. And it certainly did not warrant a side show veto.

Nothing that has to do with veterans should be considered trivial.

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Monday, September 14, 2009

Top Senators Call for Increased Troops in Afghanistan

The Wall Street Journal has an opinion article posted by John McCain, Lindsey Graham and Joseph Lieberman. The Senators call the war winnable and ask for more troops.

The opinion piece goes on to say how we should not be "muddling" through. We cannot and should not allow a safe haven for the taliban and al qaeda. These are the people who concocted and acted out 9-11.

President Obama promised in his campaign to defeat these enemies and kill bin laden. We are holding him to his word.

We cannot allow Pakistan and Afghanistan to fall back into these terrorist's hands. But as the Senators point out, this war has waning popularity among the American people.

That's why we are urging you to write your congressmen and demand the war on terror being fought in Afghanistan be allowed to continue under a larger military presence. If you think this will be expensive, how much damage would another 9-11 do to our economy?

Before health care, before bank bailouts, before buying auto companies, the United States MUST demand safety first!

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Friday, September 11, 2009

Vietnam Veterans Day Veto

California Governor Arnold vetoed a bill introduced by California assembly member Paul Cook (R-Yucca Valley)that would have created a day to honor Vietnam War Veterans. Sadly, Arnold decided to make a political statement by saying that people want petty bills pushed through instead of major ones, like the budget.

We could not agree with Arnold less. Small bills are very easy to get through. This one has a lot of support. Eventually the veto will be overturned, we hope. If you live in California, or even across the country, write to California lawmakers and express outrage over this veto.

This day would cost the state zero. It would show an albeit token support for veterans, but support nonetheless. It would have given a little goodwill towards lawmakers and constituents as well. No reason to veto it to make a political statement.

We think Vietnam veterans are due a huge bit of support. They still matter. Any and all veterans matter. The governator should be making friends, not enemies. What does a small gesture of a Vietnam Veterans Day have to do with politics?

That's the trouble with people doing the right thing. Politics gets in the way.

Yes, we agree that lawmakers should be concentrating on the big things. But the simple things sometimes are best!

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