Reporting The News by Press Release

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Salisbury Mayor deploying to Africa with Maryland National Guard

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

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Categories Just Be Honest, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent

Podcast 6 Fake July 4th Freedom

June 16, 2020 //

May 28, 2020 WMAR

“I am honored to do my part to ensure that the citizens of this community and all Americans remain safe and free.”

Several news sources published this quote. View them here.

The idea that sending hometown troops to Africa would be linked in any way with keeping the people of Salisbury Maryland safe and free calls for more discussion.

Jun 7, 2020 The Free Press

DUTY CALLS: Local National Guard unit heading to Africa

Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns.

Operation Enduring Freedom:

“Both deployments are part of Operation Enduring Freedom, the now-19-year-old attempt to quell terrorism launched in response to the 9/11 attacks.”

Mayor Day,

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.”

Port Angeles, WA

Big July 4th celebration update:

June 15, 2020 Peninsula Daily News

Port Angeles to livestream fireworks July 4

“Fireworks will burst in the air above Port Angeles Harbor on the Fourth of July this year, but the Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce is urging residents to view the show online or from their yards rather than in a large gathering downtown.”

“But this year’s new normal will include a never-before-seen addition: a Heroes Appreciation Wall in front of the shuttered Lincoln Theater at 132 E. First St.”

“However, the committee has found that contingency plans must be invoked to conform to safe practices guidelines and has updated its plans and activities that would have involved large gatherings are cancelled.”

Interesting how different communities plan similar events.

Jonesboro Arkansas

June 15, 2020 KAIT

Freedom Fest fireworks display set for July 4th

“A pandemic will not prevent KAIT and the Jonesboro Radio Group from celebrating our country’s independence.

The annual Freedom Fest Fireworks Display will be held Saturday, July 4, at the Southside Softball Complex in Jonesboro.

The event, according to a news release, has been described as “the biggest free fireworks display in the state” of Arkansas.”

Who are the Patriots on the Fourth?

by Jacob G. Hornberger

“On the Fourth of July, American statists will be praising the troops, glorifying their exploits in foreign countries, thanking them for defending our rights and freedoms, and expressing thanks to federal officials for taking care of them with Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, education grants, farm subsidies, drug laws, and the myriad other programs that come with America’s welfare-warfare state.”

“First, let’s get one thing clear: contrary to popular opinion, the men who signed the Declaration of Independence were not great and courageous Americans. That’s an important fact to keep in mind. The reason? They weren’t Americans. They were British citizens, no different from British citizens today. The only difference was that they were living abroad, much as many American citizens live abroad today.”

“Thus, the people who were fighting in the Revolutionary War were not supporting the troops. They weren’t thanking and glorifying them for defending their rights and freedoms. Instead, they were shooting at them and killing them. They had taken up arms against their very own government.”

More here:

Port Angeles – Stay in your homes and wait for further instructions.

Why Do Americans Celebrate Pretend Freedom and Independence on July 4th?

A Fictional Militarized Version of Freedom

National Guard To Africa

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

The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?

Growing Up In The Cold War Era

Salisbury Mayor deploying to Africa with Maryland National Guard

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

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

Categories Federal Holidays, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Podcast, Restricted Activities

A Fictional Militarized Version of Freedom

June 9, 2020 //

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.

I understand that people are patriotic. I understand that people are proud of their time in uniform. I understand that elected officials want to generate support for overseas military operations.

Making claims that these deployments are linked in any way with American rights and freedoms is fiction.

May 28, 2020 WMAR

“I am honored to do my part to ensure that the citizens of this community and all Americans remain safe and free.”

Several news sources published this quote. View them here.

The idea that sending hometown troops to Africa would be linked in any way with keeping the people of Salisbury Maryland safe and free calls for more discussion.

Mayor Day,

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.”

Local press

Here, in this military town, the local paper seems to go with family friendly and patriotic themes.

A while back, their hometown pride was running high when they posted:

“For the past couple of years, the Whidbey News-Times paid the insurance for the Veterans Day Parade, about $200, because it was a small way of saying thank you to the men and women who sacrificed so that we may have our liberties, including our Freedom of Speech.”

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?

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

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.

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.

Why do we pretend that the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization?

Many veterans claim to have served to protect American rights & freedoms.

How does this work?

Black people were still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory.

Voting

Congressman Derek Kilmer:

Wars are for freedom and democracy.

WA Secretary of State:

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.”

“Our right to vote has always been protected by the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces.”

If a right to vote has always been protected by the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces, 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?

Until July of 1971, 18 year old adults did not have full voting rights. Why didn’t US Military operations conducted in the 1940s, 50s & 60s get the job done on this?

One of the nation’s largest, oldest and most respected veterans organizations tells us: Veterans, not politicians, ‘give us the right to vote,’ observers at Amherst Veterans Day ceremonies told

Veterans give rights?

If a right to vote is protected by the US Armed Forces, what becomes of that right when the US leaves Syria, Lebanon, Somalia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc., without a victory?

Men Died For the Right to Vote?

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

Claims about freedoms that cry out for questioning:

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

School teachers and newspeople are OK with promoting this urban legend.

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

There were none.

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.

Each November, school teachers across America host Veterans Day assemblies– and promote the idea to children that The Troops are in distant lands-fighting for American rights and freedoms-as if the US Armed Forces function as some sort of giant civil rights organization.

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?

1967

Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?

Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?

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

The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?

Growing Up In The Cold War Era

National Guard To Africa

Please Dispose of Properly

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Photo-

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

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

We haven’t won a war since.

A symbol of lies told to support undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

A symbol of newspeople not asking questions.

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

National Guard To Africa

June 8, 2020 //

Absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war, the people of Minnesota need services in Africa.

Jun 7, 2020 The Free Press

DUTY CALLS: Local National Guard unit heading to Africa

“Despite their differences in age and experience, Staff Sgt. Truman, 47, and 2nd Lt. Ross, 26, had some common reactions to the yearlong assignment. Both had barely heard of Djibouti, the tiny country that’s home to the only permanent U.S. military base in Africa.”

“If Camp Leonnier and Djibouti sound familiar to Mankatoans, it might be because another Mankato-based military unit is already deployed there. The Army Reserve’s 492nd Engineer Company is scheduled to return this summer.”

Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns.

“Both deployments are part of Operation Enduring Freedom, the now-19-year-old attempt to quell terrorism launched in response to the 9/11 attacks.”

“…active duty pay and benefits and go home every night…”

“Truman won’t be going home every night — or any night — for the next year. He and the other 700 soldiers reported to Camp Ripley on Monday for additional training and will depart for Fort Bliss, Texas, at the end of June.”

May 28, 2020 WMAR

Salisbury Mayor deploying to Africa with Maryland National Guard

“I am honored to do my part to ensure that the citizens of this community and all Americans remain safe and free.”

The idea that sending hometown troops to Africa would be linked in any way with keeping the people of Salisbury Maryland safe and free calls for more discussion.

Mayor Day,

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.”

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.

The US Armed Forces – A Giant Civil Rights Organization?

Some states have worked to keep the National Guard out of undeclared wars in distant lands:

Idaho

Feb 26, 2020 Post Register

Defend the guard

“As lieutenant governor, I support efforts by Rep. Tammy Nichols — backed by former Idaho National Guard Sgt. Dan McKnight and BringOurTroopsHome.US — to enact “Defend the Guard”legislation requiring that Idaho’s Guard personnel shall not be activated for combat duty overseas unless Congress has first declared war.”

West Virginia

Jobs program:

Bill would disrupt West Virginia’s National Guard

February 10, 2020 West Virginia MetroNews Network

“Second, and perhaps more important, the state and the National Guard benefit significantly from the Guard’s federal roles in federal allocations and civilian jobs here. If West Virginia were able to withdraw from its federal role (except in the case of a declared war), it would lose millions of federal dollars, civilian jobs and critical military training and support.”

If small towns all across America had military jobs programs-would they question undeclared/unwon wars that never end?

More here:

US Funds The Armed Forces As If We Are A Socialist Country?

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:

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

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

Bill would disrupt West Virginia’s National Guard

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

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

Photo-

The proud eagle as a symbol of the nation. Chosen to represent the country in a time prior to U.S. service members being stationed in 170+ countries overseas.

Prior to the Department of Defense involving itself in decades of undeclared/unwon wars in distant lands.

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

W.Va. National Guard – Zero Questions from Newspeople

March 3, 2020 //

My critique here is directed at the made for TV newspeole who occaisionaly stage tearful reunions featuring military personnel returning from far away lands.

I have solid respect for the people who serve in the National Guard.

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

Some people are working hard to keep the National Guard out of undeclared wars in distant lands:

Idaho

Feb 26, 2020 Post Register

Defend the guard

West Virginia

Jobs program:

February 10, 2020 West Virginia MetroNews Network

Feb 29, 2020 WOWK News video:

West Virginia National Guard Sgt. holds baby girl for first time after deployment

Nowhere in the text of this report is there any hint of where this West Virginia National Guard unit went for nine months, or why they were there.

The news video intro is all smiles and refers to the entire unit as heroes. Nowhere in the video do newspeople reveal the location to which the unit was deployed.

At 2:35, the little girl in the video lets us know that the unit was in Afghanistan.

If calling the West Virginia National Guard away to distant lands is vital to the people of West Virginia, it seems like newspeople would want to make some effort to inform the public on the importance of this mission.

Hero

Military culture is very careful about who is called a hero. The Medal of Honor, Navy Cross, and Silver Star are awarded to heroes.

In mainstream culture, 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.

Reaching for an honest understanding of US foreign policy makes more sense than “Thanks for your service.”

Love to see newspeople show up and ask why the people of West Virginia needed services in Afghanistan, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war.

JFK speaks about the role of the press in a free society:

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:

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

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

R.I. National Guard unit deploys to Middle East

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 TV newspeople playing a show business role, instead of asking questions.

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

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

January 22, 2020 //

Image source/photo credit:

January 21, 2020 SouthCoastToday

“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.”

“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.

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:

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

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

If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms…

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

If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms…

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

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

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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

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:

Both Major Parties & Several Presidents

Fox & Friends Think Tank Update

Indoctrination Levels Are Up

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

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

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

Need more bodies for undeclared/unwon wars that never end update

January 10, 2020 //

January 8, 2020 The Telegraph

“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.’”

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. Giant flag rituals at football games might not be enough to sustain it.

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

Not a chance.

More here:

Fox & Friends Think Tank Update

Both Major Parties & Several Presidents

Indoctrination Levels Are Up

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

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

Photo-

Nordland Transit Center

Categories Armistice Day, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions

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.”

Indoctrination Levels Are Up

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

Gov. Lee visits with National Guard soldiers before deployment

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

How did our freedom and liberties get over to Kosovo?

January 5, 2020 //

The people of Tennessee need services in Kosovo:

Jan 3, 2020 WSMV News4 Nashville

“On behalf of 7.7 million Tennesseans we are forever grateful for your service and sacrifices that you and your families are willing to make for our great state. Thank you for protecting our country, our way of living, our freedom and our liberties that we enjoy every day.” said Lee. “Maria and I will keep you and your families in our daily prayers.”

“They are part of a NATO-led international peacekeeping force known as Kosovo Force (KFOR) that has been serving in the region since 1999.”

As always, the press plays along by not asking any questions.

Sorry,

No newspeople available to ask:

How did our freedom and our liberties that we enjoy every day get over to Kosovo?

Background:

Kosovo

The longest peacekeeping mission in NATO history.

U.S. forces have been there since 1999.

US Army:

“Working again in concert with European allies, U.S. forces entered Kosovo in June 1999 with the primary objective of bringing peace to that troubled land.”

Governor Lee,

Various American freedoms may have come & gone since US troops were sent to Kosovo in 1999.

Legal marijuana, concealed carry of handguns, semi automatic rifle sales, sports betting, bump stock ban, gay marriage, tobacco sales, open container laws, etc.

Are any of these freedoms linked in any way with The Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Troops, The Dept. of Defense, sending National Guard troops to Kosovo, or the outcome of military operations overseas?

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

Did the advantage of NATO allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented won or shut down?

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.

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:

Political Parties and Personalities – Just Be Honest

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

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

Too Many Lies From The Freedom Promoters

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

If The Troops defend American rights and freedoms…

Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day

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

Please Dispose of Properly

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 elected officials telling lies about freedom and of the press that plays along by not asking any questions.

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

Recurring Themes

December 27, 2019 //

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

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

The mainstream press can help with this, but they mostly aren’t about asking questions.

The press is very good about asking questions and providing thorough reporting whenever a sports story develops:

Dec. 29, 2019 The Seattle Times

Once again, the Seahawks had Marshawn Lynch and the ball at the 1. Once again, their coaches blew it.

Why doesn’t this style of reporting cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, or the Department of Defense track record for winning undeclared wars?

Topics like healthcare, immigration, climate change, impeachment, gun, control, and sports get plenty of coverage.

I tend to be fascinated with topics that are underreported in the news. I wonder why the family friendly, hometown pride-oriented local small town papers, big city papers, and TV news folks seem to have certain topics they stay away from. These are the issues I like to blog 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.

All time favorite urban legend:

The Troops are sent to distant lands to fight for American rights and freedoms.

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

The press will avoid questioning this idea. They may even take time to promote it.

Local paper:

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?

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?

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.

Local water quality

Several Island County beaches are 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

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

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.

Plenty of questions here:

Port Angeles – Post 911 CBP Spending Spree

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

Why are Border Patrol arrest statistics secret at Port Angeles?

March 19, 2014 Sequim Gazette

Agent counters allegations of ‘boredom’

“In March, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Richard Sinks declined to release statistics on apprehensions or detainments made by the Port Angeles station.”

“Disclosure of the arrest statistics from the Port Angeles station would provide those interested in crossing our borders illegally with information that could aid their strategic targeting of potentially vulnerable areas along the border,” he said in an e-mail. “To maintain operational security these numbers will not be provided.”

Go and ask the FBI for Chicago bank robbery statistics. You’ll get the numbers. They won’t tell you that statistics/public records must be withheld because stats would assist bank robbers if they were shared with the public.

What other law enforcement agencies, anywhere in the US maintain secret arrest statistics?

Washington State Patrol shares DUI arrest statistics on social media here:

“Our #WSP District 8 troopers removed 1,429 impaired drivers from the roads in 2018.”

“Here is a breakdown of what it looks like in each of our 7 counties.”

Elsewhere, when CBP has something to brag about-the public is promptly notified:

Border Patrol K-9 Sniffs out Cocaine Hidden in Dashboard

Border Patrol Stops Drug Smuggler on I-8

Border Patrol Agent’s Public Safety Check Turns into Heroin Bust

Puget Sound area newspeople play along by not asking questions.

Local press tells us that the area is drowning in meth:

October 23, 2019, Q13 News video:

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

Still looking like newspeople are forbidden to ask questions related to Homeland Security funding and performance:

Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat

Back in 2014:

Island county to purchase new patrol boat to help with Puget Sound security:

Federal grant money goes to “…gain a better grasp on cross border activity and to prevent illegal crossings.”

“Funding for the boat was issued through the Homeland Security Grant Program under Operation Stonegarden.”

Questions for newspeople:

Has there been any post 911 history of maritime “cross-border activity” on Whidbey Island?

Has the Island County Homeland Security-funded patrol boat been involved in any arrest or seizure related in any way to the US/Canada border?

Any members of the free press available to show up and ask why the people of West Virginia need services in an unknown overseas location absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

Dec 26, 2019 WOWK News video:

West Virginia Army National Guard sings “Country Roads” to boost holiday spirit

Lack of News Reporting Hurts Newspaper Subscriptions?

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

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

US Troops at the border, El Chapo takedown, opioid lawsuits, REAL ID, Homeland Security grant money, CBP social media posts, strict post 911 security protocols and a $40.6 billion US Dept. of Homeland Security fail to keep meth from entering the Puget Sound area:

Drowning in Meth

Newspeople play along by not asking questions.

Making the case for the Army National Guard

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-

The Seal Rock oyster

Check out the water quality over at Seal Rock here.

Compare to various Island County beaches here.

Categories An eye on the health of local waters, Armistice Day, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, More discussion please, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Olympic Peninsula Border Patrol, Penn Cove Watershed

National Guard

September 30, 2019 //

September 29, 2019 The Daily Egyptian

The people of Illinois need services in Afghanistan:

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

The people of Illinois need services in Iraq:

November 5, 2018 RiverBender.com

Chicago-based Illinois National Guard unit mobilizes for Iraq

Any members of the press available to show up and ask why the people of Illinois need services in Iraq and Afghanistan, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

Sep 25, 2019 Coal Valley News

Pat McGeehan: Keep National Guard out of undeclared wars

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

Sep 24, 2019 Military Times

The National Guard’s suicide rate has surpassed the other military components

More here:

National Guard in Afghanistan

Plaquemine National Guard unit deploys to Iraq

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 National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent

Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns

August 3, 2019 //

Same country that celebrated independence from a powerful central government on July 4th.

The people of Louisiana need services in Iraq.

State-run media update:

Aug 1, 2019 Defense Visual Information Distribution Service

Defending this nation in Iraq:

“…you chose to be one of the ones that stepped forward, raised your right hand and swore to defend this nation.”

Any members of the free press available to show up and ask why the people of Louisiana need services in Iraq, absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war?

They did show up. As always, no questions were asked:

Jul 31, 2019 KALB

Louisiana-based National Guard unit to deploy to Iraq

Illinois Army National Guard off to Afghanistan to support Operation Freedom’s Sentinel:

JUL 27, 2019 Chicago Tribune

Family and friends hug area National Guard soldiers deploying to Afghanistan, some for the first time: ‘I am praying for the best’

“Most of these guys probably didn’t think they would get deployed. It’s a good career progression and opportunity for them.”

The open attitude on sports reporting from various news sources does not cross over to stories about the US Dept. of Homeland Security, big drug busts, The Troops, the War on Terror or Island County water quality impacted by sewage treatment plant outfalls.

If The Troops were an NFL team, sports talk radio would feature comments like:

DOD 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.

Sports can be discussed in honest ways in mainstream media.

The Troops:

Richard T. Gromlich, retired rear admiral with the Coast Guard: “Today, our military members around the world continue to put service before self. They proudly serve to ensure the freedoms we enjoy today. I couldn’t be more proud of the men and women who serve today. They are the best of best.”

Possibly of interest:

Navy on Whidbey is a Matter of National Security?

Sound of Freedom?

Jobs Programs For Your Freedoms Update:

US Navy on Whidbey Island

Jet Noise Protects Your Right To Protest?

Let’s Honor The Troops In Honest Ways

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

Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day

U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom

“…we honor the memories of those who died protecting our freedom…”

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, school teachers and newspeople not asking questions and voting to support the political parties and personalities who take turns in power.

Categories Armistice Day, Hometown Pride, Just Be Honest, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, Newspeople Remain Silent, Veterans Day Propaganda

Armistice Day – Six Months Out

May 27, 2019 //

In the news:

May 24, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Letter: Please put ‘Civility First’ Memorial Day weekend

May 24, 2019 WSFA 12 News

‘It’s not about picnics’: A war widow has a message for Americans on Memorial Day

“Now Rachel wants Americans to know that Memorial Day isn’t just a day off work, or a time to party with friends. It’s a solemn day to remember those who have given their lives for our freedom.”

“It’s not a day to have a picnic. It’s the day to remember those who have given their lives so we can have a picnic. I see the flags flying half mast and this is a way we show them we remember,” she says.

US foreign policy goals and objectives are mapped out at the very highest levels of government.

Ask yourself- is there someone at the table- in those high level planning sessions- who makes sure that military operations overseas include a mission to protect American rights and freedoms?

Does someone make sure the mission is to defend the constitution?

Is there anyone who verifies that the mission is to protect our physical security?

May 26, 2019, The Associated Press

Mike Pence: West Point grads should expect to see combat

“Vice President Mike Pence told the most diverse graduating class in the history of the U.S. Military Academy on Saturday that the world is “a dangerous place” and they should expect to see combat.”

“Some of you will join the fight against radical Islamic terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq.”

Life wasn’t meant to change after the big Saddam Hussein & Osama bin Laden takedowns:

May 23, 2019 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Wisconsin National Guard soldiers return home from 10-month deployment in time for Memorial Day

The people of Wisconsin needed services in “…15 locations spread across Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Jordan, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.”

U.S. service members are now stationed in 170+ countries overseas.

Same country that will stage a big celebration of smaller/limited government on July 4th.

Congressman Derek Kilmer

Wars are for freedom and democracy.

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?

January 7, 2019 Whidbey News-Times

Boeing reaches out to help military members and their families

Do the folks who reach out to help military members and their families also advocate for phasing out undeclared/unwon wars that never end?

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

“This Memorial Day, spare us the flyover jets, flag-wielding honor guards, and other patriotic mush of 21st-century popular culture. Instead, I’d submit that now—after 18 years of endless, ineffective war—it’s a time for nuance, for a collective national self-assessment.”

Danny Sjursen – A retired U.S. Army Major

“At professional sports events, the once-modest singing of the national anthem has been overshadowed by flyovers from fighter jets, field-sized flags and uniformed troops on parade. Airport loudspeakers blare expressions of gratitude for the troops, and flight attendants call attention to uniformed military members aboard planes.”

The best way America can honor its fallen soldiers is to create fewer of them

Danny Sjursen – A retired U.S. Army Major

May 25, 2019 KDKA-TV News – CBS Pittsburgh

Deals, Discounts And Freebies: Memorial Day Discounts For Veterans

May 24, 2019 USA Today

Free food and Memorial Day deals for active military and veterans Monday

We’re the very best at symbolism.

Possibly of interest:

Armistice Day Is Now Free Chow Day

U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom

Loyalty Day – A little understanding of freedom

Memorial Day- long weekend/BBQ guilt trips

The Best Parking Spots

Glorifying Military Service

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

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

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

Did the Joint Chiefs of Staff send The Troops to safeguard American freedoms?

Was it the Viet Cong that set up laws in 16 US states to prohibit interracial marriage?

Senator Collins Attends 286th Combat Service Battalion Hero Send Off Ceremony

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- Big Driftwood at Fort Ebey

Categories Armistice Day, Federal Holidays, Just Be Honest, National Guard, Veterans Day Propaganda

U.S. Senator Susan Collins – More Lies About Freedom

April 18, 2019 //

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.

Looks like Newspeople didn’t show up to ask any questions before, during, or after the hero send off ceremony, so we’ll ask a few here. Our questions will appear in bold type.

April 14th, 2019 Press Release from the office of U.S. Senator Susan Collins

70 Bangor-based Maine National Guard soldiers are deploying to Poland in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve

“There is no cause more noble than preserving America’s freedom…”

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

Sending the National Guard to Poland is somehow linked to American rights and freedoms?

“Just this week at an Appropriations Committee hearing with the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, Senator Collins praised the Maine National Guard’s role in the State Partnership Program to prepare Montenegro for accession to NATO and discussed the importance of the 286th’s deployment to Europe.”

Senator Collins,

Did the advantage of NATO allow the undeclared wars in Iraq or Afghanistan to be prevented, won or shut down?

WABI News video

Send-off ceremony held for Maine National Guard unit deploying to Poland

1:27

“…Preserving America’s freedom…”

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

Not just Senator Collins:

Jan 1st 2019 Military.com

New Acting SecDef Shanahan Pledges to Carry Out Trump’s Policy Agenda

Acting Secretary of Defense:

“The Department of Defense continues to be one of our nation’s bedrock institutions,” Shanahan said, and “our foundational strength lies in the remarkable men and women who volunteer to serve our country and protect our freedoms, while making immense personal sacrifice.”

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

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.

Protect Our Freedoms?

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.

Hey school teachers–

If veterans fought for our right to vote- 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 “Men died for your right to vote!”, how did we manage to elect politicians after the Fall of Saigon in 1975?”

If The Troops fight for American rights and freedoms- why were black people still riding at the back of the bus after the big WWII victory?

With all this talk of freedom- would it be OK to grow a marijuana plant in the back yard?

Can I take my 20 year old girlfriend (a responsible adult) down to the bar to order up a few beers for freedom?

Should we check with the Joint Chiefs of Staff first?

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

More here:

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

Glorifying Military Service

Role Models & Lies About Freedom

A Land of Make Believe

Hero?

US Navy on Whidbey Island

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

National Guard in Afghanistan

Military Messaging

Air National Guard, Reserve pensions delayed for months due to backlog

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, school teachers and newspeople not asking questions.

Categories Armistice Day, Just Be Honest, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, School teachers not asking questions, Sound of Freedom, Veterans Day Propaganda

Military Messaging

April 8, 2019 //

Mom’s expression at 1:05

Back home:

April 11, 2019 NBC News

Apr 6, 2019 Leavenworth Times

Kansas National Guard captain submits resignation in wake of suicides

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:

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

Freedoms Completely Unrelated To Jet Noise Over Coupeville

What Do Conservatives Believe In?

US Navy on Whidbey Island

Dept. of Defense Lies About Freedom

South Dakota Army National Guard receives award for Environmental Security

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, National Guard, Veterans Day Propaganda

South Dakota Army National Guard PFAS & Environmental Awards

February 28, 2019 //

Feb 26, 2019 KNBN-TV

“The SDARNG has saved over $15,000 in tipping fees by diverting solid waste from the landfill,” said Emily Beck, SDARNG environmental compliance and conservation manager.

It’s hard to tell who is making the award here. Is SDARNG presenting themselves with an award?

Elsewhere in South Dakota Air National Guard news:

Nov 4, 2018 Rapid City Journal

Firefighting foam contaminates millions of gallons of Sioux Falls water

“Today, 19 municipal wells sit dormant. Chemicals linked to cancer and other health maladies have contaminated 15 of those wells, including 10 with concentrations above what the Environmental Protection Agency deems safe. Foam use by the South Dakota Air National Guard and Sioux Falls Fire Department is the cause.”

Nov 4, 2018 Rapid City Journal

The toxic legacy of firefighting foam

“In Sioux Falls, 19 city wells have been shut down at Sioux Falls Regional Airport due to contamination from foam use by the South Dakota National Air Guard and Sioux Falls Fire Department.”

Nov. 9, 2018 Argus Leader

50 years later, Sioux Falls manages contaminated water from toxic firefighting foam

“The South Dakota Air National Guard and the Sioux Falls Fire Department both used the toxic firefighting foam for many years near the airport, which led to the contamination of the city’s drinking water.”

Dec 16, 2015 The Intercept

POISONING THE WELL
Toxic Firefighting Foam Has Contaminated U.S. Drinking Water

Possibly of interest:

National Guard Fighting Drugs At Home & Wars In Iraq & Afghanistan

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

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

Categories National Guard

National Guard Fighting Drugs At Home & Wars In Iraq & Afghanistan

February 26, 2019 //

State-run media lets us know that a National Guard Counterdrug program has been in place in all 50 states since the mid 1990s.

The program started as an effort to eradicate marijuana grows.

At 4:06 we learn that the US Dept. of Homeland Security made a request that the National Guard fill capability gaps in key areas of the US:

When the news is created by people in uniform, there’s no need to deal with any awkward/real questions from the press. It looks like newspeople aren’t showing up to ask questions, so we’ll ask a few here. Our questions will appear in bold type.

More news from people in uniform:

Wyoming National Guard partners with police in drug fight

“…the National Guard Bureau operates five counterdrug schools that provide training in drug interdiction and counter-drug activities. These schools trained more than 41,400 law enforcement officers, community-based organization members, and military personnel in the fiscal year 2017.”

“The Guard members are limited to analyzing evidence collected by law enforcement agencies, but once warrants and evidence are secured, the analysts provide a valuable service with the collected data.”

“Additionally, Smith said the Guard’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and crews may be called upon to support law enforcement from the air. When President Ronald Reagan started the program, military aircraft were often used to eradicate crops of marijuana.”

Feb. 25, 2019 The News Journal

Delaware National Guard has behind-the-scenes role in fight against drugs

“…11 full-time airmen and soldiers are embedded in various law enforcement agencies around the state, including the DEA, Customs and the Delaware State Police.”

February 22, 2019 WHYY

Delaware National Guard steps in to help fight drug trafficking, addiction

“A drunken driver steps out of his vehicle after being pulled over. He says he has a weapon, reaches in his pocket and pretends to pull out a gun.”

What does this scenario have to do with drug control policy or the National Guard?

We were told earlier that the National Guard role is limited to analyzing evidence and air support?

“In 2017, 345 people died of overdoses in Delaware. The health department expects last year’s number, which has not yet been finalized, to surpass that due to the increase in drugs laced with the potent synthetic drug fentanyl.”

Another state-run media update:

Prescription Drug Take Back:

0:28 “…collected more than 9,600 pounds of prescription medications…”

A huge success for the legal drug dealers- they sold more than 9,600 pounds of prescription medications to people who did not need them.

Have National Guard counterdrug efforts resulted in any shortage of cartel-sourced heroin, cocaine, meth or fentanyl anywhere in the US?

What does the US Dept. of Homeland Security do with the $40.6 billion they get every 12 months?

Don’t worry-

The Super Bowl and public affairs will be safe:

Welcome Home Troops

Montana – Homeland Security Meth Racket Rolls On

Port Angeles Heroin – Newspeople Remain Silent

Wars In Iraq & Afghanistan:

Army National Guard trains Iraqi engineers

The people of Iowa needed services in Iraq:

“He requested support from the 248th Aviation Support Battalion, Iowa Army National Guard, who had similar equipment.”

The people of Missouri needed services in Iraq:

“As the 248th ASB’s deployment was ending, the partnership passed onto the 935th Aviation Support Battalion, 35th Combat Aviation Brigade, Missouri Army National Guard.”

The people of Illinois needed services in Iraq:

“To me at least, it felt like it was something that has a lasting effect here,” said Illinois Army National Guard Staff Sgt. David Johnson, B. Company powertrain shop chief.

Feb 25th, 2019 Fox News

Father, son deployed to Afghanistan with Arizona Army National Guard

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

Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?

This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.

Feb. 25, 2019 The Wall Street Journal

“The U.S. war in Afghanistan has been going on for so long that the newest recruits weren’t alive when it started”

More here: National Guard in Afghanistan

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Photo- On watch at Fort Ebey

Categories Armistice Day, Heroin, Homeland Security is a scam, Just Be Honest, Meth, National Guard, Newspeople not asking questions, The Business of Keeping People informed

National Guard in Afghanistan

November 5, 2018 //

Absent any military emergency, national emergency, draft, or declaration of war:

Georgia National Guard

Dec 24, 2018 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Georgia National Guard’s deployment to Afghanistan is a family affair

North Carolina Army National Guard

October 06, 2018 The News & Observer

National Guard soldier from North Carolina dies in Afghanistan

Utah Army National Guard

November 5, 2018 CBS This Morning

Days before being killed in Afghanistan insider attack, Utah mayor urged Americans to vote

Whatever happened to the formal congressional declaration of war?

This would be the time to hear from elected leaders and top generals on all the issues that have doomed the Department of Defense track record for winning wars since DOD was established in 1949.

Voting?