Mixed Messages On What Is An Emergency

Post-9/11 Wars Have Cost American Taxpayers $6.4 trillion, Study Finds

A Dept. of Defense that was nowhere to be found on 911.

We haven’t won a war since.

A Dept. of Defense with a truly poor track record for winning wars since DOD was established way back in 1949.

Undeclared/unwon wars that never end.

Nov 14, 2019 Stars and Stripes

More here:

DEA Announces Launch of Methamphetamine Initiative

Billions of dollars spent every 12 months on a US Dept. of Homeland Security that fails to keep cartels from moving product into Hometown, USA.

March 2, 2020 Auburn Examiner

Welcome Home Troops

Thanks for risking your ass in Iraq & Afghanistan-working to keep bad people from coming here to do bad things.

Don’t worry-The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:

Newspeople who have stopped asking questions.

Zero Questions from Puget Sound Area Newspeople – Drug War Press Release

Newspeople who show no curiosity.

Went out on 3/18/20 to check on the sewage drain pipe sign at Monroe Landing:

The sewage drain pipe sign is still posted.

Went out on 3/18/20 to check on the sewage drain pipe sign at Captain Thomas Coupe Park:

I found that the sign is still posted.

Much in the way of voting over the decades since that man landed on the moon.

TV newspeople tell us that we are in a key election season again. Lots of coverage. Another panel of experts, another debate. More voting.

Stay tuned for more of the same.

Being positive is a good thing. Emotions can be based on experience.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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Platoon 3049, MCRD San Diego

Jun-Sep 1979

Categories Armistice Day, Drug War, Glorifying military service, Homeland Security is a scam, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, Meth, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Penn Cove Watershed, Politics is something I no longer take seriously, Questioning Failed Programs, School teachers not asking questions, US Department of Credibility, Veterans Day Propaganda

Newspeople Show Little Curiosity Unless It’s A Sports Story

March 20, 2020 //

Several examples:

March 5, 2020 KCPQ

Body found inside SUV after fire, explosion in Woodinville

Sounds pretty serious. Mob hit? Cartel job?

Any follow up of any kind from newspeople anywhere?

Please post in comments if you have updated info.

Gunfire on the ferry:

January 27, 2020 Kitsap News Group

Man arrested after allegedly firing gun from ferry

“…WSP Vessel and Terminal Security Troopers responded to the MV Kaleetan upon its arrival at Colman Dock. By that time, WSF crews had already secured the suspect, who had boarded the vessel by vehicle.”

WSF Bremerton to Seattle crossing time: ~ 60 min

Not my idea to promote the concept that riding safely on the ferry requires gun boat escorts, SWAT teams and K-9s on the job to detect explosives.

If a guy decides to fire a gun during a 60 minute ferry crossing and WSP waits to respond until the ferry arrives at Colman Dock, how is this security?

Will newspeople follow up and let us know if the guy who purposefully fired his handgun from the ferry had a concealed carry permit?

Did he pass any sort of background check?

Whatever happened to this guy?

A 5th grade book report would require more in the way of asking questions.

Puget Sound area shootings roll on.

WA voters approved enhanced background checks back in 2014:

November 4, 2014 Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Washington voters choose gun control; huge majority in Seattle area

Washington Universal Background Checks for Gun Purchases, Initiative 594 (2014)

“Furthermore, the initiative rendered it illegal to hand off a firearm to people outside a person’s immediate family, though exceptions were mentioned, including situations in which people are at a shooting range or hunting.”

Looks like frequent gun crimes are still with us.

Enhanced background checks approved back in 2014 have had time to take hold.

Any reporting or updates on this?

Your 5th grade teacher just rejected your book report. Try again.

No Word on Enhanced Background Checks – No Comments Allowed

March 13, 2020 Whidbey News-Times

4th grade students publish book on Salish Sea

“Invisible Pollution in the Salish Sea”

School teachers,

Are you teaching your students to look for green colors on the Recreational Shellfish Safety Map?

More here:

Green colors show safe places for recreational shellfish

Another month with an R status update:

Went out on 3/18/2020 to check on Monroe Landing.

Sewage drain pipe sign is still posted:

More here:

Monroe Landing – Site Visit

Out on 3/18/2020 to check on the sewage drain pipe sign at Captain Thomas Coupe Park. I found that the sign is still posted.

More here:

Site Visit – Captain Thomas Coupe Park

One or more sewage treatment plants are sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

Coupeville

Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this:

“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”

Source: WDFW

North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing

“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”

Source: WDFW

Is the sewage treatment plant sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

Reporting on this topic appears to be completely off limits to the press.

I’d be more interested in paying (again) for a local paper subscription if there was more in the way of investigative reporting & newspeople asking questions.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Nordland Transit Center

Categories An eye on the health of local waters, Gun Control, Information Suppression Specialists, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Penn Cove Watershed, School teachers not asking questions, The Business of Keeping People informed

Are Public Assistance Programs Working?

March 13, 2020 //

In the news:

March 13, 2020 The Seattle Times

Inslee expands coronavirus K-12 school closure, 250-person gathering ban, across Washington

“…school districts here have begun planning for ways to get core services, such as food, to families.”

“…looking for ways to get meals to students in need, such as bussing meals to neighborhoods where lots of students live.”

March 13, 2020 WHSV

Schools scramble to feed students after coronavirus closures

“Kiyana Esco needs free school lunches and breakfasts to feed her six children. But with schools shutting down over coronavirus concerns, she’s scrambling to pick up the meals, care for her kids and keep her job.”

Thank you WHSV, for acknowledging that we are talking about a federal free and reduced school breakfast and lunch program. The press often calls it a free lunch program. The average person, who has no kids in school may not realize that breakfast is also part of the program.

March 13, 2020 CNN

The coronavirus pandemic is closing schools. How will kids eat?

“But as other schools deliberate shutting their doors to slow the spread of the coronavirus, some parents may be left to wonder: If schools close, how will my child eat?”

Former Lunch Lady here.

I do not object to public assistance programs. The press should make an effort to keep the public informed on how these programs are working.

Again, I am not against public assistance programs, but did the WWII generation rely heavily on public school districts to feed their kids?

100 years ago, did families rely on school districts to feed their children to such an extent that, if school was shut down, school districts would scramble to fill busses with food and send it out into the neighborhoods?

Voluntary action:

February 25 Fox News

Ohio church pays off lunch debt for students at 11 school districts

Love to see newspeople ask:

If a family’s household income level qualifies for free & reduced breakfast and lunch at school, wouldn’t they also qualify for various other publicly funded food assistance programs?

Do free and reduced breakfast and lunch meals consumed at school reduce what a family receives or qualifies for each month in publicly funded food assistance?

If school shuts down, does the family still qualify for publicly funded food assistance? If food assistance programs remain in place outside of school-why would children be at risk of going hungry?

If the programs aren’t working-let’s hear all about it.

Meaningful Work

Tax money-which some people intend to be used to help others via public assistance programs-also goes for bombing Iraq and Afghanistan.

Helping others by donating to churches or private charities, food banks, etc. can avoid these conflicts.

Donors are free to opt out if a charity misbehaves.

People could keep more of their own money to donate to causes of their choosing if the federal government was not taking it to pay for wasteful programs.

More here:

Helping others by donating

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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Welcome Visitors

Rent yourself a State Parks buoy at Fort Worden

Voted best consumer value in weekend recreation.

Categories Just Be Honest, Lunch Lady, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Questioning Failed Programs

Tulsi Gabbard – Information Suppression Update

March 12, 2020 //

On Twitter

March 6, 2020 W.J. Astore

Tulsi Gabbard Is Invisible!

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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Beach walk – South Indian Island

Categories Information Suppression Specialists, Just don't talk about it, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Voting

The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?

March 4, 2020 //

Political parties and personalities are not as interesting as what stays the same no matter who is elected to office.

Both major political parties continue to promote the idea that The Troops are sent to distant lands to fight for American rights and freedoms.

Congressman Derek Kilmer:

May 26, 2019

Wars are for freedom and democracy.

If wars are fought for democracy-how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?

Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?

March 3, 2020

Congressman Kilmer tells us that wars are waged to defend our freedom.

Congressman Kilmer,

While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.

Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?

December 21st 2019 KOMO News

Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide

“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”

Congressman Kilmer,

If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?

Feb 28, 2020 WPSD Local 6

Second lady Karen Pence visits Fort Campbell

“It is our priority to come alongside you and your children so that our military service members can stay focused on their mission and remain ready to fight and protect our freedom.”

Feb 17, 2020

Honest Promotion of the US Armed Forces in the Puget Sound Area

“This Presidents Day, let us never forget the extraordinary men and women serving our Country. As we remember our founders that formed our great Nation, we also remember our Service Members fiercely defending the freedoms we value every day.”

Why do we speak of the US Armed Forces as if they function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, federal minimum drinking age, sports betting, voting rights, bump stock ban, interracial marriage, gay marriage, tobacco sales, open container laws, etc.

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

More here:

“…ready to fight and protect our freedom…”

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

How did Rhode Island freedoms get over to the Middle East?

Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways

Men Died For the Right to Vote?

Too Many Lies From Veterans – Straight Out of a Land of Make Believe

“When push comes to shove, the only way in which NAS Whidbey can restore the balance and become a good neighbor is by folding up their tent and leaving us be.”

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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Whidbey agriculture – no hurry to change

A view from the Bluff Trail

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, Veterans Day Propaganda

Honest Promotion of the US Armed Forces in the Puget Sound Area

March 2, 2020 //

In parts of the Puget Sound area, there are ongoing concerns related to maintaing a local military presence for training purposes.

Some may feel like more is better.

Some may feel that the Navy should make plans to leave the area:

My take:

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

Not complaining, not trying to get the Navy to leave. Not trying to shut down training.

I am indifferent to jet noise on Whidbey Island. I know it is a larger concern based on where people are situated on Whidbey or elsewhere in the region; Olympic National Park, San Juan Islands, B.C., Port Townsend, etc.

I am not anti-government, anti-military or anti-law enforcement.

The US Armed Forces should be promoted in honest ways.

One of the messages we see goes something like this:

NAS Whidbey has been here since WWII. Navy crews will not be able to operate safely without training operations conducted on Whidbey Island.

Most people are probably not asking for the Navy to leave. Concerns seem to be about adding more flights and jets.

Even if NAS Whidbey was shut down, training would continue at other locations. MCAS El Toro is one example of many bases that have been closed over the years. Training goes on.

The US has vast holdings in the form of bombing ranges, missile test ranges, federal lands appropriate for nuclear weapons testing, etc. War games and military training might be conducted in these areas without bothering anyone.

June 21, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Sound Off: Anti-jet noise activists’ narrative not rooted in reality

“Navy personnel and their young families are among our most committed and vibrant community members. In addition to ensuring a superlative national defense, they perform countless hours of community service and involvement.”

A superlative national defense?

The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

July 30, 2019 The Seattle Times

Navy on Whidbey Island is a matter of ‘national security’

Have NAS Whidbey jets operated in any war won by the US?

March 1, 2020 Peninsula Daily News

Navy eyeing SEALs training at state parks

From comments:

“Small price to pay for your freedom you seem to take for granted…”

Local press and hometown pride:

Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?

Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?

Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?

Military Town – Letter to the Editor:

“Enjoy the sound of freedom, and if that happens to sound like war to you, I suggest you travel to a real war-zone and see how it’s different because I assure you, you aren’t qualified to describe what a war zone is.

The electronic attack community, the Growlers, and men and women of the U.S. Navy make sure of it every day.”

Every day except on 911.

Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide

Secretary Esper,

While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.

Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?

December 21st 2019 KOMO News

“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”

Secretary Esper,

If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?

Again, the US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

More here:

“…ready to fight and protect our freedom…”

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

How did Rhode Island freedoms get over to the Middle East?

Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways

Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?

US Navy on Whidbey Island

“There are certainly some odd responses here. The more efficient our defense capabilities are, the greater the deterrent value and savings to the taxpayer.”

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories Armistice Day, More discussion please

B-52 Bomber – Promoted Tweets

March 1, 2020 //

Recently, I have been seeing a few Promoted Tweets relating to the B-52 Bomber:

“There is only one right choice to power the B-52…”

A mixed bag of comments may follow these posts:

“Tell me, in what conflict in the last 59 years has your technology been used to actually protect citizens of our country? Because from where I sit it looks like you’re nothing but merchants of death whose profits depend on how much innocent blood is spilled in foreign lands.”

Reply: “That you’re ignorant of history and sit in your Mom’s basement doesn’t change the fact that the B-52 has been used throughout its lifespan to defend US citizens.”

I make no attempt to mute these tweets. I see them as an opportunity to think about the message.

“The B-52 has been in active service with the USAF since 1955.”

In the news:

Feb 15, 2020 The War Zone

B-52 Bomber Spotted Flying Low Just Off Somali Coast (Updated)

Feb 17, 2020 defenceWeb

US Air Forces flies B-52 over Somalia on East African mission

Has the B-52 been able to strike targets in any war won by the US?

Past DOD Spending

Nov 14, 2019 Stars and Stripes

Post-9/11 Wars Have Cost American Taxpayers $6.4 trillion, Study Finds

Past DOD Results

The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

How did Rhode Island freedoms get over to the Middle East?

Second lady Karen Pence visits Fort Campbell

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Looking towards the Bluff Trail from Hill Road

Categories Armistice Day, More discussion please

“…ready to fight and protect our freedom…”

February 29, 2020 //

Political parties and personalities are not as interesting as what stays the same no matter who is elected to office.

Feb 28, 2020 WPSD Local 6

“It is our priority to come alongside you and your children so that our military service members can stay focused on their mission and remain ready to fight and protect our freedom.”

Not just the Second Lady of the United States

Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide

Secretary Esper,

While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.

Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?

December 21st 2019 KOMO News

“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”

Secretary Esper,

If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?

If undeclared/unwon wars continue over the next 50 years, will Americans still believe these wars are for freedom?

Congressman Kilmer tells us that wars are waged to defend our freedom.

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

More here:

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

How did Rhode Island freedoms get over to the Middle East?

“In consideration of how we voice our opinions in the modern world, we’ve closed comments on our websites. We value the opinions of our readers and we encourage you to keep the conversation going.”

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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Looking down towards Hill Road from the Bluff Trail

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please

Manage it, don’t ban it. Online comment sections

February 27, 2020 //

February 24, 2020 Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber

Fentanyl overdoses keep increasing in King County

Comments are shut down and we encourage you to keep the conversation going?

No hate speech, insults, threats, foul language, attacking other commenters-these are rules that make sense.

Eliminating the opportunity for all to follow some basic rules and comment is information suppression.

Over the years, I’ve seen some really good points brought up in the comments section. Manage it, don’t ban it.

I’d be more interested in paying (again) for a local paper subscription if there was more in the way of investigative reporting & newspeople asking questions. Elimination of reader comments works against the idea of paying for an online subscription.

Newspeople Ask Questions If It’s A Sports Story

Operating A Camera In A Public Place

Newspapers Need Your Help

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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A winter ride on the Keystone ferry

More Keystone:

Town swipes Keystone’s claim to fame — its ferry-route name

Keystone Ferry

Don’t book a bed and breakfast stay in Coupeville and plan to walk from the ferry terminal to your accommodations:

Ferry Traffic Leaving Coupeville Terminal Routed Away From Coupeville

Categories Information Suppression Specialists, More discussion please

Emotion and Misunderstanding

February 25, 2020 //

Random thoughts on American culture and politics.

Our questions appear in bold type.

People are divided, and sometimes it looks like this can be based on emotion and misunderstanding.

Greyhound bus changes policy

The bus company now says “…that it does not consent to unwarranted searches on its buses…”

Emotion and misunderstanding gets in the way of understanding that these suspicionless bus boardings were taking place away from border crossings and ports of entry. If the bus takes you from the US to Canada, you will still stop at the border coming and going to be cleared to enter the other country.

“Spokane is 97 miles — as the crow flies — from an international border. That puts it within the 100-mile interior enforcement zone where Customs and Border Protection, the Border Patrol’s parent agency, claims heightened powers over residents and travelers alike.”

From comments:

“Arrest drivers. Seize their drivers. Fine the company.
@GreyhoundBus needs to obey law enforcement.”

Same country that will make a big deal of celebrating freedom and independence on July 4th.

In 2008, the US Border Patrol came to Jefferson County, WA and set up suspicionless checkpoints and bus boardings- away from border crossings and ports of entry.

At a local Border Patrol forum a lady asked:

“What is the penalty for not identifying oneself to federal agents at an internal, suspicionless checkpoint?”

US Border Patrol said they would call in the Sheriff when a person refused to identify themselves.

Sheriff says they will not respond to a non-emergency situation involving a person peaceably refusing to interact with federal agents.

Question about providing ID is at 0:35

Should Joe Sixpack and the family be stopped and questioned when they drive through Spokane?

Has a more aggressive CBP approach led to any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth anywhere in the US?

No CBP inspection of rail shipments entering the US?

“…methamphetamine was being hidden in new cars built in Mexico that were then transported by rail to Canada.”

“Police say they found 180 kilograms of meth during the investigation.”

REAL ID

Get ready to enjoy your $6.4 trillion worth of War on Terror freedom over at the airport with your REAL ID card:

REAL ID deadline is approaching.

If REAL ID is critical to the safety of America, have travelers out at the airport been less safe since 911? The new REAL ID requirement for domestic air travel does not kick in until October 1, 2020.

Love to see newspeople schedule an interview with the US Dept. of Homeland Security & ask:

Are passports/enhanced/Real IDs effective in keeping cartel-sourced heroin and meth out of the US?

Standard driver’s licenses have not been accepted at the border since 2009.

Border Wall

February 20, 2020 KTVZ

DEA launches major meth crackdown as record amounts flood Northwest

What will change after spending big cash on a wall?

Will a US border wall keep cartels from moving product into New Zealand?

Feb 23, 2020 Newshub

Mexican drug cartels Sinaloa and CJNG could try to corrupt NZ Customs and police – report

“The New Zealand Drug Intelligence Bureau has warned two of the world’s biggest drug cartels could be trying to infiltrate our police and Customs services to corrupt their staff.”

“Now there is confirmation that the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) Mexican crime groups are supplying drugs to New Zealand, and police say they even have members working in Aotearoa as go-betweens with local gangs.”

Operating A Camera In A Public Place

Emotion and misunderstanding often gets in the way when people approach the camera and say “You do not have permission to film me.” People standing on a public sidewalk will also be told that they may not film whatever they can see.

Told to stop filming at 3:13

6:50 recording without my consent is against the law:

The family friendly, hometown pride-oriented local small town papers and TV news folks are more welcome to do interviews related to public policy. Unfortunately, they seem to have moved away from asking questions.

More here: Operating A Camera In A Public Place

A country that probably brags about freedom more than anywhere else on the globe.

A society that can’t stop bragging about freedom, thanking the troops for freedoms, fighting wars for freedoms, staging military jet flyovers at sporting events for freedom, etc.

Paid spokesperson update-

Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide

Secretary Esper,

While the troops were deployed, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.

Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?

December 21st 2019 KOMO News

“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”

Secretary Esper,

If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms, what becomes of those freedoms when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.

More here:

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Men Died For the Right to Vote?

Too Many Lies From Veterans – Straight Out of a Land of Make Believe

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Should You Say “Thank You for Your Service”?

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

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A view of Point Wilson to the north.

Categories Armistice Day, Homeland Security is a scam, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Veterans Day Propaganda

Thanks For Your Service

February 12, 2020 //

The thanks for your service slogan is now being used in banking and retail settings. People are trained to repeat this phrase on the job.

Filling out some sort of application online may generate the phrase.

Nov 09, 2017 Psychology Today

“Acknowledge Veterans for their service by saying a simple: “Thank you for your service.” Whether that’s on Facebook, a text message, a phone call, a letter, or an in-person greeting, a basic acknowledgment can go a long way.”

My take:

I respond in an outwardly pleasant way when I am presented with this phrase.

I would much rather that people reach for an honest understanding of US foreign policy, and skip the phrase. To me, the phrase is a reminder, that as a culture, we do not question undeclared/unwon wars that never end.

When do we get to vote on all this? The Psychology Today article avoids these questions and doesn’t show any hint of an Armistice Day vibe.

The Armed Forces are overemphasized in American culture.

Each November, school teachers across America host Veterans Day assemblies– and promote the idea that The Troops are in distant lands-fighting for American rights and freedoms.

Growing up in the 60s & 70s-veterans were all around-church, school, Boy Scout leaders, family, the neighborhood, etc. It was all just an average thing. These folks weren’t seen as a separate part of American society.

People weren’t stepping over to say “Thanks for your service” to my Dad-who did time in the Navy in the 50s-but looked just like anyone else out in public.

These guys weren’t lining up for free dinner promotions marketed by major restaurant chains, discounts, head of the line privileges at the airport, etc.

New traditions

Both major parties take turns in the White House. When it’s their turn to stage a State of the Union address, both parties will have veterans as guests at SOTU events. When did this tradition begin? Were WWII veterans invited as special guests to SOTU events in the 60s and 70s?

In the 60s and 70s, were WWII veterans invited to be honored at pregame ceremonies out at the ball park?

These days, WWII veterans are sought out to be guests of honor at ball games, parades, etc.

Some of these events seem to go off pretty well. In some cases, rather than honoring veterans, it looks like these guys are being used for marketing and promotional events, staged to benefit something other than veterans.

0:12 the man is barely conscious when greeted by team owner Jerry Jones:

Love to see the press get out & away from the special occasions and marketing events to interview WWII veterans on what they think of undeclared/unwon wars that never end.

The Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars goes back to 1949.

Militarized parking lots are another new tradition.

This may all be some sort of post-Vietnam guilt at work. The guilt doesn’t seem to work towards shutting down failed wars that never end.

Sort of looks like dividing people up into groups. No such thing related to veterans and special parking spots when I was a kid.

Back in those days, there were probably enough veterans around to remove most of the mystique, or maybe those veterans thought it was all just an average thing and did not want to be seen as a separate part of American society, or get head of the line parking spots over at the grocery store.

Now this:

January 05, 2020 WDTV 5 News

New reserved parking spots for veterans

“The parking spaces are being called, “superhero parking” and are reserved for veterans, active duty members, and
first respondents.”

“Mall management was unable to give any comment as to why this new trend has begun.”

Well, thanks mall management. Your business and marketing efforts attract the attention of the local news media. It’s your chance to deliver a statement that would create a free advertisement for your retail location. You are caught completely off guard. You have nothing to say.

We’re back into a major election season.

The Dept. of Defense was nowhere to be found on 911. We haven’t won a war since.

It will take more than a thanks for your service for things to change.

Port Townsend and the Sound of Freedom

What Stays The Same

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

How did Rhode Island freedoms get over to the Middle East?

Various states have recently sent National Guard troops to distant lands. Each one claims that military operations overseas are somehow linked to American rights and freedoms:

Maryland Freedoms Found In The Middle East?

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Exhibits, parade mark 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo- Nordland Transit Center

Categories Armistice Day, More discussion please

Right To Vote Linked To Military Operations/US Troops in Distant Lands?

February 5, 2020 //

In the news:

February 4, 2020 South Whidbey Record

February 4, 2020 CNN Female lawmakers wear white to continue State of the Union tradition

“Many female Democratic lawmakers arrived at Tuesday’s State of the Union address dressed in white to commemorate the 100th anniversary of women first having the right to vote.”

19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Women’s Right to Vote (1920)

“Passed by Congress June 4, 1919, and ratified on August 18, 1920, the 19th amendment granted women the right to vote.”

World War I

“World War I began in 1914 after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and lasted until 1918.”

Promoting the idea-

Congressman Derek Kilmer:

Wars are for freedom and democracy.

WA Secretary of State:

“Our right to vote is protected by the extraordinary men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.”

Page 7 of the Washington State Elections Voters Pamphlet for the November 5th, 2019 General Election:

“Our right to vote is protected by the members of the U.S. Armed Forces.”

One of the nation’s largest, oldest and most respected veterans organizations:

Veterans, not politicians, ‘give us the right to vote,’ observers at Amherst Veterans Day ceremonies told

Any newspeople available to ask:

Congressman Kilmer,

If wars are fought for democracy-how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?

Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?

Veterans give rights?

It turns out The Troops were in no hurry to enable all adults to act on their right to vote.

US Military operations conducted in the 1940s, 50s & 60s didn’t get the job done.

It wasn’t until July of 1971 that 18 year old adults could take delivery on one of the freedoms we hear so much about.

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

More here:

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Americans have a much more honest relationship with sports teams than they do with the US Armed Forces

Men Died For the Right to Vote?

Too Many Lies From Veterans – Straight Out of a Land of Make Believe

Right To Vote is Protected by the U.S. Armed Forces?

Less than 24 hours after shooting, it’s ‘business as usual’ in downtown Seattle

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Looking north towards the Bluff Trail

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, School teachers not asking questions, Veterans Day Propaganda, Voting

News Reporting by Press Release

January 23, 2020 //

Voting is highly emphasized in American culture. Asking questions related to public policy takes a lower priority.

Looks like newspeople have made a commitment not to show any sense of curiosity.

A 5th grade book report would require more in the way of asking questions.

Examples:

Gun Control

January 22, 2020 KUOW

“It was the third shooting in two days in the same area of downtown Seattle. Seattle Police Chief Carmen Best said that there is nothing to suggest that the three incidents are related.”

January 22nd 2020 KOMO News

‘It was sheer panic’: 1 dead, 7 wounded in downtown Seattle shootout

“Two 24-year-old men with criminal records later were identified as suspects by police. Both were still at large as of Thursday morning. Both were considered armed and dangerous.”

Jan. 10, 2020 The Seattle Times

Seattle shootings rise 6% in 2019 over 2018, with the greatest increases in south and north, police say

WA voters approved enhanced background checks back in 2014:

November 4, 2014 Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Washington voters choose gun control; huge majority in Seattle area

Washington Universal Background Checks for Gun Purchases, Initiative 594 (2014)

Looks like frequent gun crimes roll on.

Enhanced background checks approved back in 2014 have had time to take hold.

Any reporting or updates on this?

Your 5th grade teacher just rejected your book report. Try again.

No Word on Enhanced Background Checks – No Comments Allowed

Lies about freedom

State Representative Julie Casimiro says troops are sent to distant lands to protect American rights and freedoms.

As if the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization.

January 21, 2020 GoLocalProv

RI National Guard Head to the Middle East – They Deserve Our Gratitude

State Representative Julie Casimiro:

“They left on Monday, January 20th for an 11-month assignment in the Middle East at a time of international uncertainty and unrest. They left to protect our freedoms and our country.”

“These Citizen Soldiers sacrifice so much for their love of country and for that we owe them a lifelong debt of gratitude. They will miss many “firsts” in their families, holidays, birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations and Thanksgiving to protect our rights, freedoms and international security.”

Protecting our rights and freedoms?

More discussion please.

Any members of the press available to show up and ask why the people of Rhode Island need services in the Middle East, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

Congressman Derek Kilmer tells us:

Wars are for freedom and democracy.

Any newspeople available to ask:

Congressman Kilmer,

If wars are fought for democracy-how come women were not allowed full voting rights at the end of WWI?

Why the need for a 1965 Voting Rights Act if overseas military operations somehow secured voting rights?

If the troops are fighting for American rights and freedoms-why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?

Meth in the Puget Sound area

January 21, 2020 KIRO7

50 pounds of meth seized during Bellingham traffic stop

October 23, 2019, Q13 News video:

‘The Pacific Northwest is drowning in methamphetamine:’ 17 arrested in major drug trafficking operation

Is Port Angeles CBP at all relevant in keeping heroin and meth from entering the Puget Sound area?

US Border Patrol, Port Angeles, WA

An upgrade in staff requiring a new, $11.9 million, 50 agent facility. Secret arrest statistics, denied FOIA requests, heroin and meth in the community, no cross-border USBP arrest in more than 9 years, fraudulent overtime claims, 1,200-horsepower interceptor boats and zero questions from the press.

Are newspeople forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance?

Your 5th grade teacher just rejected your book report. Try again.

The press is good with the Drug War

December 8th, 2018 The Daily World

Five county bust hits Mexican drug cartel

Drug pipeline ‘has been shut down:’ Statewide bust nets 29 arrests, guns, drugs

More than a year later, is there any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or meth anywhere in the US?

“The dangerous pills containing fentanyl flowing through this pipeline operated by this Western Washington distribution network has been shut down,” Keith Weis, a Drug Enforcement Administration special agent, said in a statement.

Next time the DEA tells the press that a drug pipeline has been shut down, will reporters ask questions, or simply put out another press release?

Puget Sound area newspeople play along by not asking questions:

Drowning in Meth

Zero questions from newspeople:

Local meth news stories here.

Local heroin news stories here.

Plenty of questions here:

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

More here:

Port Angeles Drug War Covered By Press Release

Press Plays The Role of Armed Forces & Homeland Security Public Affairs Staff

Homeland Security Meth/Heroin Racket Rolls On

Local water quality

Back in 2017, Island County Public Health posted a sign at the Coupeville Wharf about restrictions on recreational shellfish harvesting.

Several Island County beaches are now closed for recreational shellfish harvest because of sewage treatment outfall.

This appears to be a routine/ongoing situation.

View the Washington State Department of Health beach list here.

One or more sewage treatment plants sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

Coupeville

Love to see newspeople provide updated reporting on this:

“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”

Source: WDFW

North side of Penn Cove at Monroe Landing

“This beach is within the closure area for a sewage treatment plant outfall and is unsafe for recreational shellfish harvesting.”

Source: WDFW

Sounds like the sewage treatment plant is sending unsafe product into Penn Cove?

Stewardship is a priority:

Sign below educates the public on local waters.

Saratoga Passage Marine Stewardship Area

Went out to take a look

I saw no warning signs on 5/21/19 at Monroe Landing.

Image below taken on a March 24, 2019 Penn Cove site visit.

WDFW has posted a permanent sign indicating a dark shaded area in the eastern part of Penn Cove:

I’d be more interested in paying (again) for a local paper subscription if there was more in the way of investigative reporting & newspeople asking questions.

Lack of News Reporting Hurts Newspaper Subscriptions?

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

A symbol of the press asking questions.

Categories An eye on the health of local waters, Armistice Day, Gun Control, Homeland Security is a scam, Hometown Pride, Meth, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, Veterans Day Propaganda

How did Rhode Island freedoms get over to the Middle East?

January 22, 2020 //

Image source/photo credit:

January 21, 2020 SouthCoastToday

R.I. National Guard unit deploys to Middle East

“The deployment of the 115th is part of a scheduled rotation of deployments overseas, according to the Guard’s news release.”

“They will be conducting routine military police missions in support of Operation Spartan Shield throughout southwest Asia.”

“Spartan Shield is U.S. Central Command’s means to deter regional aggression and stabilize countries within the region. From Egypt to Pakistan, Kazakhstan to Yemen, the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility is strategically important as well as volatile.”

As always, looks like members of the press were not available to show up and ask why the people of Rhode Island need services in the Middle East, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war.

January 21, 2020 GoLocalProv

RI National Guard Head to the Middle East – They Deserve Our Gratitude

State Representative Julie Casimiro:

“They left on Monday, January 20th for an 11-month assignment in the Middle East at a time of international uncertainty and unrest. They left to protect our freedoms and our country.”

Protecting our rights and freedoms?

More discussion please.

If the troops are fighting for American rights and freedoms-why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

Various other states have recently sent National Guard troops to distant lands:

Maryland Freedoms Found In The Middle East?

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Gov. Larry Hogan welcomes home Maryland National Guard at BWI Airport

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories Armistice Day, More discussion please, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent

Maryland Freedoms Found In The Middle East?

January 17, 2020 //

January 15, 2020 Capital Gazette

“Gov. Larry Hogan and Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford welcomed 150 soldiers from the Army National Guard’s 244th vertical construction company Wednesday after being deployed for almost one year to the Middle East in support of Operation Spartan Shield.”

“They have been deployed for over 300 days and protecting our freedoms, so I just want to thank them,” Rutherford said. “They are making sure we are safe here in America. These soldiers are Marylanders that we can be very proud, and it is important that we are here to welcome them home.”

Protecting our freedoms?

More discussion please.

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

Any members of the press available to show up and ask why the people of Maryland needed services in the Middle East, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

Love to see newspeople ask:

Lt. Gov. Rutherford,

While the troops were away, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.

Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?

December 21st 2019 KOMO News

Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide

“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Welcome Visitors

Rent yourself a State Parks buoy at Fort Worden

Voted best consumer value in weekend recreation.

Categories Armistice Day, More discussion please, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent

Mainstream Vs. Alternative Media – A Formal Congressional Declaration of War

January 11, 2020 //

Alternative media

OK with asking questions:

January 8, 2020 Cato Institute

Trump the Decider

“The Suleimani killing was something new under the sun. It marked the first time an American president has publicly ordered the assassination of a top government official for a country we’re not legally at war with.”

Mainstream media

Newspeople interviewing newspeople:

Will reverting to WWII uniforms help to smooth things out?

Another hard-hitting news segment:

More here:

30 years later – newspeople still not asking questions: 1990 Desert Shield All Over Again

Fox & Friends Think Tank Update

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Veterans near Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base reflect on rising tensions with Iran

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

A symbol of freedom, federal government credibility and of the press that plays along by not asking any questions.

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent

1990 Desert Shield All Over Again

January 11, 2020 //

The local press is out to sample the can-do attitude maintained by VFW members in Oregon and the new airlift wing commander at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Out to the VFW to see what local members have to say:

January 8th 2020 KTVL News 10

“…Karen Johnson a retired U.S. Army Colonel who served in Operation Desert Storm…”

Johnson said the threat of an attack on U.S. soil is always looming and said: “this is what we train for.”

“It’s an ever-present danger, not just for what happened yesterday, look at the world trade centers, I was there before it was bombed, so it’s been ongoing, they tried to attack that years ago, I believe it was in the 1980s and we intercepted that,” she said.

“Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base is the home base of the Oregon Air National Guard’s 173d Fighter Wing which is a part of the air education and training command that supports training for F-15 jets for the air national guard and the u-s air force.”

A training base:

Though they do occasionally deploy individuals in support of combat operations around the globe, Jennifer D Shirar, a spokeswoman for the base, said there are no current plans to deploy pilots or any support personnel. She added that the base is currently focused on “their F-15 training mission.”

“Duane Whitehead, a former Combat Engineer who served in the Vietnam War, and is quartermaster at the V.F.W. Post 1383 and V.F.W. District 5, said he also feels that Kingsley Field provides security for all in the area.”

“I feel Klamath Falls is secure because of the 173rd Air force, they’re always on their striker training sessions, they always keep training in everything incase we do go to war,” he said.

Over to Joint Base Lewis–McChord:

January 10th 2020 KOMO News

JBLM’s new airlift wing commander preps troops for Middle East

Troop movements are highlighted:

“A few days ago, the Pentagon ordered 3,500 members of the Army’s 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, North Carolina to head to the Middle East as tensions continue to boil with Iran and Iraq. Many of the C-17s based at McChord were directly involved.”

Away from the VFW halls, change of command ceremonies and TV news studios, regular people may reflect on what has changed since 1990.

There has been much Dept. of Defense action in the Middle East since 1990.

Desert Storm did not serve to prevent 911.

National Guard units are doing multiple tours in distant lands, absent any military emergency, draft, or declaration of war:

Typical state governors will say that their national guard troops are overseas defending American rights and freedoms:

January 4th 2020 WCHS

West Virginia National Guard members return home

“The 821st Horizontal Construction Company returned home after a nine-month deployment to the Middle East.”

“During their deployment, the soldiers carried out various missions and tasks in Kuwait, Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia.”

“West Virginia Governor Jim Justice was on hand to greet the soldiers as they returned.”

“On behalf of all West Virginians, Cathy and I want to welcome home all the brave men and women who have been overseas defending freedom,” Justice said in a news release.

Defending Freedom?

More discussion please.

Any members of the press available to show up and ask why the people of West Virginia needed services in the Middle East, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

Love to see newspeople ask:

Governor Justice,

While the troops were away, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.

Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?

December 21st 2019 KOMO News

Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide

“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”

An early memory of TV news hype

I was at Camp Pendleton in 1990 when the Desert Shield buildup began to develop.

One day after work, I went home and watched the local TV news.

A TV news reporter was on the beach at Camp Pendleton where things were loud & noisy. He spoke loudly into the microphone and announced:

“These Marines are training for The Gulf!”

This sort of routine training had been going on at Camp Pendleton for decades. It had nothing to do with recent developments overseas.

Now, it’s 2020

Regular people might have their own concerns, related to:

A Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars that goes back to 1949.

A Dept. of Defense that was nowhere to be found on 911.

We haven’t won a war since.

The National Guard needs more people to stay:

January 8, 2020 The Telegraph

National Guard offering $20K bonus to soldiers and lump sum salary payouts for re-enlistments

“But while the Illinois National Guard is enjoying success in recruiting and retention, the Army National Guard as a whole is struggling to reach that same success, according to Donald.”

Unlike active duty folks, these guys need to have a regular job and place to live back home when not helping DOD squander credibility in distant lands:

July 26, 2019 Chicago Tribune

Hundreds of Illinois National Guard members set to deploy this weekend for Afghanistan — the largest call-up in a decade

“’Daddy, are you going to send me things from Afghanistan?’” O’Neill said his son asked. “And I’m like, ‘Of course, bud. I’ll send you stuff.’”

“O’Neill, a father of four who lives in suburban La Grange, is among an estimated 400 members of the Illinois Army National Guard who will be leaving this weekend to begin a more than yearlong deployment to Afghanistan…”

“O’Neill’s family sold their home in Chicago’s western suburbs to downsize to a one-bedroom apartment to be closer to relatives who can provide support to his wife and children while he is away.”

“While the troops should be credited for fulfilling a patriotic duty, they face a daunting task because of how few American servicemen and women are serving in a country with a population of more than 34 million, Pape said.”

Sign up to serve the people of Illinois, then head for Afghanistan. Can’t blame people for questioning this scenario. Might want to validate the use of National Guard troops in distant lands.

Regular people might ask:

Are giant flag rituals at football games enough to sustain all this?

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms- The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

More here:

Fox & Friends Think Tank Update

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Fox & Friends Think Tank Update

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Near Point Partridge

Categories Armistice Day, More discussion please, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions

Leveraging Leading-Edge Technology

January 9, 2020 //

Did the advantage of leveraging leading-edge technology or Department of Defense social media posts allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?

Also: The Strategic Depth of the Joint Force

More here:

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Port Hadlock Transit Center

Categories Armistice Day, Department of Defense advantage, More discussion please

Fox & Friends Think Tank Update

January 9, 2020 //

Constitutional limitations on government discussed at 1:03

More here:

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Watching the storms at Keystone

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please

Both Major Parties & Several Presidents

January 9, 2020 //

What were they saying back in October?

President Trump 14:30

The Middle East is less safe, less stable, less secure:

Professor Emeritus and retired Colonel Andrew Bacevich 19:45

The mess that is the Middle East today has been created by both parties and several Presidential administrations:

More here:

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

New reserved parking spots for veterans

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Photo-

Port Hadlock Transit Center

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please

Superhero Marketing Update

January 8, 2020 //

People weren’t stepping over to say “Thanks for your service” to my Dad-who did time in the Navy in the 50s-but looked just like anyone else out in public.

These guys weren’t lining up for free dinner promotions marketed by major restaurant chains.

Meet a veteran who isn’t shy about going out & grabbing a couple free meals-it’s a proud thing:

In the 60s & 70s I never attended a Veterans Day assembly at school.

There were none.

Now this:

January 05, 2020 WDTV 5 News

“The parking spaces are being called, “superhero parking” and are reserved for veterans, active duty members, and
first respondents.”

“Mall management was unable to give any comment as to why this new trend has begun.”

November 5, 2019 DOGOnews

Veterans Day Celebrates Our Real-Life Superheroes

“Always wanted to meet a real-life superhero? Then you are in luck for November 11 is Veterans Day, an opportunity to thank the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces, who often risk their lives to protect our freedom.”

Protect freedom?

More discussion please.

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

Most people do no time in the military-they don’t want to.

There seems to be a quiet guilt about this, so American popular and political culture almost worships those who do.

You don’t have to look too far to find comments that refer to the troops as “heroes.”

Some are.

No one who has done time in an average military unit would be comfortable with everyone present being called a hero. Some units would be the exception, but for most people who have done time over the years, calling everyone a hero would have no connection to reality.

Reality, and an honest understanding of why we send The Troops to far away places isn’t what we’re about though.

Hero?

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

American culture is good for dividing adults up into groups of first and second-class citizens: Federal Prohibition Of Tobacco Sales To Adults Age 18-20

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom

West Virginia National Guard members return home

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, Newspeople not asking questions, School teachers not asking questions, Veterans Day Propaganda

West Virginia Freedom Found In The Middle East?

January 7, 2020 //

January 4th 2020 WCHS

“The 821st Horizontal Construction Company returned home after a nine-month deployment to the Middle East.”

“During their deployment, the soldiers carried out various missions and tasks in Kuwait, Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia.”

“West Virginia Governor Jim Justice was on hand to greet the soldiers as they returned.”

“On behalf of all West Virginians, Cathy and I want to welcome home all the brave men and women who have been overseas defending freedom,” Justice said in a news release.

Defending Freedom?

More discussion please.

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

None of these are linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense or the outcome of military operations overseas.

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

Just Be Honest.

Stop with the glorification of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

Love to see newspeople ask:

Governor Justice,

While the troops were away, federal law was signed prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to adults age 18-20.

Can you help us to understand the militarized version of freedom here?

December 21st 2019 KOMO News

Legal age to buy cigarettes, vapes raised to 21 nationwide

“Signed into law by President Donald Trump Friday as part of the new $1.4 trillion spending bill, a new measure prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21.”

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part

American culture is good for dividing adults up into groups of first and second-class citizens: Federal Prohibition Of Tobacco Sales To Adults Age 18-20

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Not Invited To The Made For TV Debates

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Not asking about the oath of enlistment. Asking about what happens after the oath has been taken.

Don’t miss our companion blog-found here: Old Man Blog

Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yeomalt

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Veterans Day Propaganda

Indoctrination Levels Are Up

January 6, 2020 //

It was this way prior to Donald Trump.

The idea is to live in a free and honest society.

School teachers and the mainstream press can help with this, but they mostly aren’t about asking questions.

The Press

Veterans Day was established in 1954, after Armistice Day was tossed out. The DOD track record for winning undeclared wars has been lousy since the Dept. of Defense was established in 1949.

Local press:

Were US troops sent to Vietnam so that Americans could be free to send letters to the editor?

Is there any case in which the US Armed Forces have been sent to distant lands on a mission to protect freedom of speech?

Is protecting freedom of speech even part of training scenarios?

As the decades of undeclared/unwon wars stack up (The Department of Defense track record goes back to 1949.) the greater the cultural urge to glorify people who do, or did time in uniform.

If there is an honest reason to send people away into decades of undeclared/unwon wars overseas let’s hear all about it.

School Teachers

What about school teachers? Do they have a part in teaching students about government structure and the honest role of the US Armed Forces?

In Washington State, these assemblies are mandatory.

The VA tells teachers that The Troops are Defending Liberty and Freedom.

Love to see a student ask: If The Troops fight for your right to sit, stand, kneel, etc.-why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?

Love to see a student ask: If the wars aren’t won-how can they protect our freedom?

Love to see a student ask: Whatever happened to lessons about Armistice Day?

Veterans like to get in on the act:

April 28, 2019 Peninsula Daily News

Hands on hearts: Loyalty Day Parade celebrates patriotism in Brinnon

“Ernie Muir, a lifetime member of the Brinnon VFW Post who served in the Army in Vietnam in 1967-68, said the event is mostly for the kids.”

“It’s good for the kids to get to know some of the local veterans they see around,” Hough said. “It gives them a little understanding of freedom.”

Pledge of Allegiance

Making small children recite a loyalty oath indicating Liberty and Justice for all.

When they get a little older, they will see that they are pledging allegiance to a system where adults are divided into groups of first and second-class citizens.

Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco and firearms restrictions are in place for 18-20 year old adults. Is there any state where recreational marijuana laws remove prohibition for adults at age 18?

Are veteran’s organizations working to restore these freedoms?

A giant flag ritual at the next ball game will make it all good. Will the press ask questions? Will school teachers ask questions? Will traditional veterans groups ask questions?

The US should maintain strong and ready military forces.

In some cases, the US Armed Forces provide for our physical security. That’s as good as it gets.

In terms of American rights and freedoms-The Dept. of Defense has no more say than the Dept. of Agriculture.

Growing up in the 60s & 70s I never attended a Veterans Day assembly at school.

There were none.

Not Invited To The Made For TV Debates

Questions We’d Love To See In The Made For TV Debates

Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom

American culture is good for dividing adults up into groups of first and second-class citizens: Federal Prohibition Of Tobacco Sales To Adults Age 18-20

Four star whistleblowers unavailable to correct generals who lie about undeclared/unwon wars for your freedoms: Lies And Propaganda For Your Freedoms

Too Many Lies From The Freedom Promoters

Freedom Comes And Goes – Joint Chiefs of Staff Play No Part