Saturday, 01 November 2008
 

Semper I
Contributed by Bill Faith

A Russ Vaughn classic in honor of the fact it looks like Mad Jack's really going down this time. Originally posted 2006.07.23.

Semper I
Semper I is an old Marine Corps term applied to those selfish careerists who place their own success ahead of their men and the wellbeing of  the Corps. Congressman John Murtha is a living example of that disgraceful term.

A bugle blows in Arlington,
Lilting notes fill still sad air,
An eagle's tears a globe fall on,
Trail an anchor with despair,
For a man we'd wish had not to die,
Brave youth among the best,
A Marine, he lived for Semper Fi,
And with Semper Fi he'll rest.

So sadly is the contrast,
Between those who talk and fight;
Fat Pols for whom their war's past,
But now can't see the light,
Accusing brave young fighting men,
Of crimes they can't defend,
Disgraceful fat old congressmen,
Who've lost the will to win.

Yes there we see the difference,
Between those who fight to win,
And a congressman with no sense,
Who's committed grievous sin;
He's turned against his Corps,
And no one knows quite why,
Except he loves himself much more:
Classic case of Semper I.

Semper Fi to all Marines everywhere from an old paratrooper who holds Murtha in as much contempt as you do.

Russ Vaughn
327th Parachute Infantry Regiment
101st Airborne Division
Vietnam 65-66

Murtha portrait courtesy of BootMurtha.com. 

Contributed by Bill Faith on November 1, 2008 at 01:15 AM in Mad Jack Murtha, Poetry, Politics, Russ Vaughn, US Marine Corps | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Wednesday, 25 June 2008
 

The Real Command Influence
Contributed by Russ Vaughn

In dismissing the very dubious war crimes charges against Marine LTC Jeffrey Chessani, his trial judge, COL Steven Folsom, said this:

"Unlawful command influence is the mortal enemy of military justice,"

COL Folsom was referring to influence within the Marine Corps command structure, specifically involving two officers of general rank. We should all applaud the colonel’s decision as it would make no sense whatsoever for the Marines to try an officer for failing to investigate crimes that to this point several military courts have failed to establish ever occurred. With one exception, all of the Haditha Marines now have been exonerated. The exception is SSGT Frank Wuterich and if the Marines insist on pursuing his prosecution, they will find themselves in the position of trying to prove homicidal behavior on the part of a non-commissioned officer whose troops apparently killed no one in an unlawful manner according to Marine courts. The only conclusion is that he acted alone, and in the midst of battle, while commanding his troops, somehow single-handedly slaughtered more than twenty innocent Iraqi civilians.

Sounds preposterous, right? Well, that’s apparently what the Navy would have us believe. And make no mistake about it, it is the Navy that controls military prosecutions in the Marine Corps, and the Navy appears willing to pursue this prosecution even though SSGT Wuterich’s subordinates and his two superiors who were charged have all been cleared by military courts. That leads us to speculate that either SSGT Wuterich killed those Iraqi civilians all by himself or Navy JAG is desperately in need of at least one face-saving conviction in this Haditha mess.

Or is there another reason? Perhaps command influence from a higher level? Most civilians are unaware of the tremendous pressure members of Congress are able to bring to bear on military commanders. If a particular senator or congressman doesn’t happen to be on a committee or subcommittee with direct oversight over military budgets or affairs, you can bet one of his cronies does. This congressional pressure is particularly influential with flag rank Navy officers and generals in the other services because their promotions into these lofty ranks require congressional approval.

By now you must have guessed where this is going. Consider…who is the most powerful person in this situation who stands to not only look like the grandstanding, blowhard fool that he is but could perhaps be threatened with defamation lawsuits by the young Marines whose lives he turned into hell by publicly proclaiming them “cold blooded killers.” Ah yes, that would be the reigning Prince of Pork and should-be federal prison inmate, John Murtha. Think about it, with a single conviction of any one of the Marines charged, Murtha can claim vindication and use that conviction as an effective defense against any defamation suits from any of the other defendants.

So the question begging to be asked is whether or not this congressman, who was videotaped by the FBI as indicating he is bribable, is pulling strings behind the Navy/Marine Corps command structure to pursue this phony war crimes prosecution to the bitter end. Murtha claims to be an ex-Marine to which I say, you may have worn the uniform, John, but you are sure as hell no Marine. As I have said before, the Marine Corps motto is Semper Fi, always faithful; John Murtha’s motto is Semper I, always him.

Contributed by Russ Vaughn on June 25, 2008 at 12:11 AM in Iraq, Mad Jack Murtha, Russ Vaughn, US Marine Corps | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Monday, 23 June 2008
 

“They killed innocent civilians in cold blood…”
Contributed by J D

[This post has been bumped by the webmaster to keep it near the top of the site longer.]

J. D. Pendry

Two years ago I wrote an article titled On Your Hands. I wrote it on the same day that I received in my email internet photographs of the mutilated bodies of Private First Class Kristian Menchaca, 23, of Houston and Private First Class Thomas L. Tucker, 25, of Madras, Oregon. I reached the point where I could no longer tolerate the insane babble coming from the mouths of certain politicians who clearly and daily place their politics ahead of the well-being of the men and women the majority of them voted to send to war. Now, the article appears to be making its umpteenth lap around the internet (wish I had a nickel for each time it has been re-posted somewhere) only this time one of the unauthorized editors of it decided it would be better if I was identified as a USMC Sergeant Major.

Read the rest:

Contributed by J D on June 23, 2008 at 01:15 AM in Iraq, J D Pendry, Mad Jack Murtha | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Thursday, 08 November 2007
 

We’ve Established What He Is…
Contributed by Russ Vaughn

Once again, John Murtha demonstrates his infinite capacity for hypocrisy and cynicism by being, to absolutely no one’s surprise, the king of the war profiteers:

“…the Wall Street Journal reported that Murtha, chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, has directed more taxpayers dollars from the 2008 military-spending bill to his congressional district than any member of Congress.” (source)

Of course, the most benign interpretation of this news is that Murtha, who is quickly filling Robert Byrd’s shoes in Congress as the “King of Pork” is merely a cynical, crass opportunist with an attitude of, “Oh, yeah, I’m against the war but what the hell, if we’re going to be there, my district may as well profit from it.” By extension, it is Murtha himself who ultimately profits, as his grateful constituents return him to office where he consolidates his power while circulating his alms plate past all those grateful military contractors, who for some mysterious reason, seem to find Murtha’s congressional district the Silicon Valley of federal contracts.

Please note that I have made no mention of cash-stuffed envelopes or briefcases. Not yet.

However, as a cynic myself, and a former warrior, I’m  all too aware that those who exploit war most crassly for personal gain tend to be a pathetic, minuscule minority, like Murtha and John Kerry, who yes, have themselves served, but apparently with a winking eye and a viciously backstabbing hand, to further their future political careers. Shaming the Bard, I refer to this very small group of war opportunists as The Band of Mothers.

Having been born on the eve of one Great War and having lived through several others, one of which I fought in, on the ground, down in the mud and the blood, I’m just jaundiced enough by life and politics to consider that perhaps Murtha’s motives are more self-serving than concerned with merely serving his constituents. As the old joke about the offended hooker goes, “Please, my dear, we’ve established what you are, now we’re simply haggling about price.” From the Abscam investigation the Feds have Murtha on tape acknowledging his willingness to be bribed by Middle Eastern power brokers, but only when it was most convenient for him.

OK, we’ve established what John Murtha is. Perhaps we need to learn more about his going price.

Russ Vaughn
101st Airborne Division
Vietnam 65-66

Contributed by Russ Vaughn on November 8, 2007 at 10:35 PM in Mad Jack Murtha, Russ Vaughn | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack

Friday, 29 June 2007
 

Brace Yourself: Here They Come Again
Contributed by 72nd TCS

Hat Tip: Glenn Reynolds

While the American people are congratulating themselves for their victory over the Bush-Kennedy-McCain National Suicide Act of 2007, a new and tougher fight is on the horizon.  According to The Politico, Harry Reid, along with Mad Jack Murtha and his leader, Nancy Pelosi, plan to set a new deadline for withdrawal from Iraq.  They have already concluded that the surge, which went operational only last week, has failed.  We have lost the war and have no choice but to bug out and leave Iraq to its fate. The Politico article begins like this:

Pelosi, Reid to announce new push to end Iraq war

Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) are expected tomorrow to  announce a new coordinated effort to force votes in July to end the Iraq war, according to Democratic insiders.

Reid has already publicly declared that Senate Democrats will offer four Iraq-related amendments to the upcoming 2008 Defense authorization bill, including a proposal by Reid and Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) to set a firm timetable to withdraw U.S. troops from Iraq by next spring.

Pelosi is planning to announce that the House will also vote on a bill setting a new withdrawal timetable of April 1, 2008, although the details of the proposal were still up in the air at press time, according to Democratic sources. The House will consider this proposal as a freestanding bill, said the sources.

Nancy's choice of deadline date could not be more appropriate--April Fool's Day.

Veterans' groups, loyal military families and others who continue to support the war effort face a daunting task, made harder by the recent defections of important Republican senators and the lamentable loss of prestige incurred by amnesty diehards such as President Bush and Senator McCain.  We have to whip up a firestorm of phone calls, e-mails, faxes, and face-to-face encounters with wavering pols. Above all, we will need to counter the Copperhead hordes, who will be out in full cry from now until September. Not a pleasant prospect, now that Summer is here, but it is now or never.

Contributed by 72nd TCS on June 29, 2007 at 02:02 AM in Dem Perfidy, G W Bush, Iraq, John "72nd TCS" Werntz, Mad Jack Murtha | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Sunday, 29 April 2007
 

2007.04.29 Dem Perfidy // Islamism Delenda Est Roundup
Contributed by Bill Faith

See previous: 2007.04.28 Dem Perfidy // Islamism Delenda Est Roundup

Deadlocked War Funding Bill May Halt Troop Carriers 

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq —  The armored carrier has a grim black slash across its side, burn marks on the door and a web of cracks along the window.

Like most of the Mine Resistant, Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles in Anbar province, this one has been hit as many as three times by enemy fire and bomb blasts. Yet, to date, no American troops have died while riding in one.

But efforts to buy thousands more carriers — each costing about $1 million — could be delayed if the White House and Congress do not resolve their deadlock over a $124.2 billion war spending bill.

About $3 billion for the vehicles is tied up in the legislation. The spending plan has stalled because of a dispute over provisions that would set a timetable for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. ...

Joe Katzman has an excellent related post here.

Bottom line: Replacing HMMWVs with MRAP's saves American lives. The Army and Marines are waiting for money to replace a bunch of 'em. They don't have it yet because the Surrendercrats are playing political games instead of taking care of the troops.

It is my fervent and heartfelt hope that when the jihadis finally manage to nuke DC Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi, and Mad Jack Murtha are just far enough from Ground Zero to see the flash and have a split second to realize what happened before the shock front arrives and liquefies their bodies. Catching the three of them somewhere on the left coast for a moonbat convention would be even better, of course.

Update after a night's sleep and some time to surf the web a little: I don't really want the Three Ratateers to die in the initial blast. I'd much prefer they die slow lingering deaths trapped in the rubble, preferably under the same rubble pile so they have time to congratulate each other on how well they managed the war. (No, Bill isn't "off his meds again." I'm not wishing any worse fate for the Ratateers than will be suffered by thousands of others if they succeed in implementing their proposed policies.)

Below the fold (newest items at the top):

• Rice: 'Slam dunk' comment didn't lead to war
• Officers: Ex-CIA chief Tenet a 'failed' leader
• Scheuer: Don't Buy Tenet
• A Basic Tenet of Public Life...
• Meet the Press: Harry Reid's Plan for America
• Top general: U.S. needs a bigger Army faster
• Video: Murtha suggests impeachment
  if President doesn’t “compromise”
• Good News In Anbar
• Saudi’d Straight
• And then what?
• Terrorists Ecstatic With Democrats' Debate
• 1st Assault Accordians, Advance to Rear!
• "If Osama bin Laden stood up and said 'Here's my timetable for withdrawing from Iraq'...
• "I'm ready for my fatwa"
• US aircrews show Taliban no mercy
• Certified Madness
• Winners And Losers
• Forgive My Unstiff Upper Lip
• Another big fish in Iraq? 

Continue reading "2007.04.29 Dem Perfidy // Islamism Delenda Est Roundup

Contributed by Bill Faith on April 29, 2007 at 01:06 AM in Afghanistan, Caring about our troops, Dem Dumbness, Dem Perfidy, Iran, Iraq, Islamism Delenda Est, Mad Jack Murtha | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Saturday, 17 February 2007
 

Semper I
Contributed by Russ Vaughn

[Webmaster's note: I'm backdating this to keep it near the top of the site for a while. Newer posts will appear below it. Actually posted 2006.07.18.12:30.]

Semper I
Semper I is an old Marine Corps term applied to those selfish careerists who place their own success ahead of their men and the  wellbeing of  the Corps. Congressman John Murtha is a living example of that disgraceful term.

A bugle blows in Arlington,
Lilting notes fill still sad air,
An eagle's tears a globe fall on,
Trail an anchor with despair,
For a man we'd wish had not to die,
Brave youth among the best,
A Marine, he lived for Semper Fi,
And with Semper Fi he'll rest.

So sadly is the contrast,
Between those who talk and fight;
Fat Pols for whom their war's past,
But now can't see the light,
Accusing brave young fighting men,
Of crimes they can't defend,
Disgraceful fat old congressmen,
Who've lost the will to win.

Yes there we see the difference,
Between those who fight to win,
And a congressman with no sense,
Who's committed grievous sin;
He's turned against his Corps,
And no one knows quite why,
Except he loves himself much more:
Classic case of Semper I.

Semper Fi to all Marines everywhere from an old paratrooper who holds Murtha in as much contempt as you do.

Russ Vaughn
327th Parachute Infantry Regiment
101st Airborne Division
Vietnam 65-66

[Webmaster's note 2006.07.18.23:30:  Murtha portrait added, courtesy of BootMurtha.com. Click it to see their post, where they have a larger version.  Now's a perfect time to visit Irey.com.]

Contributed by Russ Vaughn on February 17, 2007 at 01:05 PM in Best of Old War Dogs, Mad Jack Murtha, Poetry, Russ Vaughn | Permalink | Comments (12) | TrackBack

Monday, 27 November 2006
 

Making Bets Your Body Can't Cash!
Contributed by The Gray Dog

“I want to make it abundantly clear: if there’s anyone who believes that these youngsters want to fight, as the Pentagon and some generals have said, you can just forget about it. No young, bright individual wants to fight just because of a bonus and just because of educational benefits. And most all of them come from communities of very, very high unemployment. If a young fella has an option of having a decent career or joining the army to fight in Iraq, you can bet your life that he would not be in Iraq.” – Charles Rangel.

My mind shudders at the image of what contortionist position was achieved yesterday to allow John Kerry’s foot to fall out of Charlie Rangel’s mouth.  This feat is perhaps even more stunning due to the fact that Charlie’s head has been on tour of his large intestine since the Democrat House victory earlier this month.  Add Murtha to complete this Capitol Hill ménage à trois of ex-military malcontents and soon our troops will simply be seen as a marauding band of drooling, cross-eyed misfits that cannot be trusted to carry anything sharper onto the battlefield than the crayons they used to mark their “X” on the enlistment papers. 

Yeah, I’m sure the elitist, east coast, blue-blood, trust fund babies are statistically underrepresented in the military.  So what?  I’m not sure I would want to be stuck in a fox hole with someone with a hyphenated last name followed by Roman Numerals.  But, I digress.

Continue reading "Making Bets Your Body Can't Cash!"

Contributed by The Gray Dog on November 27, 2006 at 06:46 PM in Caring about our troops, Current Affairs, Dem Dumbness, Jean Fraud Kerry, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics, The Gray Dog | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack

Thursday, 16 November 2006
 

Murtha to Redeploy From House Leadership Battle
Contributed by Bill Faith

Hoyer Wins House Majority Leader Race,
Giving Pelosi First Setback

WASHINGTON —  Rep. Steny Hoyer emerged victorious Thursday after a bruising battle to win the No. 2 House leadership post in the 110th Congress.

Hoyer defeated Rep. John Murtha, who had the backing of House Speaker-nominee Nancy Pelosi to be her chief deputy when Democrats take back the House in January.

I'll be gloating big time at my place as the day wears on. Come see me.

Semper I, Jack. Semper I.

Contributed by Bill Faith on November 16, 2006 at 11:56 AM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Wednesday, 15 November 2006
 

Murtha Accuses Dems of "Swift Boating" Him
Contributed by Bill Faith

(See previous: Murtha to pro-Hoyer Dems: Stop swift-boating me!)

Murtha “Swiftboated”?
Bruce Kesler

There’s continuing arguments whether the new verb “swiftboating” means a baseless or a well-founded attack on a politician’s purported record. As used by the MSM, it usually infers any attack that liberals disagree with, regardless of facts.

The MSM may have to reconsider its use of the term after John Murtha’s latest use of the term to distract from his trail.

"I thought we were above this type of swift-boating attack," he said… "This is not how we restore integrity and civility to the United States Congress."

John Fund punctures Murtha’s pompous posture with facts as surely as John O’Neill did John Kerry’s. This time, however, with so many of Murtha’s Congressional colleagues being witness to Murtha’s self-awarded earmarks, the MSM must pay closer attention and investigate than their purposeful ignoring of Kerry’s lies when exposed by his fellow Swiftees.

Speaking of which,  ...

You know, if we were talking about anyone but Mad "Semper I" Jack I'd say he's entitled to a trial before we find him guilty of anything. But then, "Once a Marine always a Marine" and Mad Jack doesn't think Marines are entitled to trials.

Continue reading "Murtha Accuses Dems of "Swift Boating" Him"

Contributed by Bill Faith on November 15, 2006 at 03:04 AM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Tuesday, 14 November 2006
 

Murtha to pro-Hoyer Dems: Stop swift-boating me!
Update: Could the GOP make Hoyer Speaker?
Contributed by Bill Faith

Murtha Lashes Out at Dem Leadership Opponent

WASHINGTON —  The race to be the No. 2 House Democratic leader turned nasty Tuesday, with challenger Rep. John Murtha accusing opponents of "swift-boat style attacks" that hark back to his days being investigated in the FBI's 1980 Abscam sting.  ...

... "I am disconcerted that some are making headlines by resorting to unfounded allegations that occurred 26 years ago. I thought we were above this type of swift-boating attack. This is not how we restore integrity and civility to the United States Congress," Murtha said of the ample press coverage of his link to Abscam and more recent negotiations he made as ranking Democrat on the Defense Appropriations Committee.

Squirm you slimy bastard, squirm.  There may not have been a trial but the world knows you're a hell of a lot guiltier than those Marines you're ready to hang.

***

Pelosi Backs Murtha, Cites Ethics Experience

(2006-11-14) — House Speaker-elect Nancy Pelosi today defended her decision to back Rep. Jack Murtha, D-PA, as the next House Majority Leader, citing his extensive ethics experience as crucial to her efforts to “clean up the House.”

“Jack Murtha knows corruption inside and out,” said Rep. Pelosi, D-CA. “If we’re going to purge misconduct from our midst, we need someone intimately familiar with it.” ...

Continue reading "Murtha to pro-Hoyer Dems: Stop swift-boating me!
Update: Could the GOP make Hoyer Speaker?"

Contributed by Bill Faith on November 14, 2006 at 02:47 PM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack

Wednesday, 01 November 2006
 

For Zero: Something that isn't about Jean Fraud
Contributed by Bill Faith

Contributed by Bill Faith on November 1, 2006 at 02:52 PM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack

Tuesday, 31 October 2006
 

October Surprise.
Contributed by The Gray Dog

Down to the wire, the October Surprise was unleashed upon the Democrats yesterday.  Surprisingly it wasn’t launched by the Republicans, but instead the liberal’s very own “useful idiot” John Kerry. 

"You know, education - if you make the most of it - you study hard, you do your homework and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well. If you don't, you get stuck in Iraq,"

With that comment the Old War Dogs are pleased to make known their own 11th hour October surprise:

The Old War Dogs Forum is now open for membership at www.oldwardogs.org

This site was to be announced next week, but in light of Kerry’s comment and the importance of next week’s elections we hope you will visit what promises to be an exciting place for discourse on the issues of the day.

Participation does require registration, so don’t be shy.

Contributed by The Gray Dog on October 31, 2006 at 07:57 PM in 9/11, Afghanistan, Bill Faith, Bill's Bites, Bobbie Craig, Caring about our troops, CIA/NSA Treason, Current Affairs, Dem Dumbness, DisUnited Nations, G W Bush, Gene Harrison, George Mellinger, Iran, Iraq, Islamism Delenda Est, Jean Fraud Kerry, Jim Bartimus, Lloyd A. King, Mad Jack Murtha, Open Posts, Patriotism, Politics, Religion, Russ Vaughn, Shane Briscoe, Steve Gardner, The American Warrior, The Gray Dog, US Air Force, US Army, US Coast Guard, US Marine Corps, US Navy, Video, Viet Nam, War? What war?, William "1stCav" Page, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack

Vote or shut the @#$% up!!
Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf

This will be last of my pre-election rants.

The experts, pundits, and wags are still calling the thing a toss-up.

I think voter turnout with be the deciding factor.

If there's any question, I'm gonna be voting anti-Democrats, yet again! I hate it, but it's the Devils choice. Here in WV there's a decent chance at the State level to see a real change. Whether that is an improvement or not, who knows.

I have 3 things to close with.

1 - If you don't vote STFU!!!!!

2 - I'm headed back to PA this weekend (weather permitting) to do a small thing to Boot Murtha. What have you done?

3 - Term limits is a good idea that doesn't go far enough. If we're gonna think of changing the Constitution I'd like to propose we take it several steps further.

We select our congresscritters out of the jury pool. If a jury is wise enough to decide life or death issues they are wise enough to sit in DC. They'd be paid and treated exactly like our military - live in barracks, eat military chow, etc.

VOTE!

[edit] I need to extend my emphasis somewhat. You need to make a real effort to change one mind, or one vote.  Voting and doing nothing else is only a half step.

Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf on October 31, 2006 at 10:44 AM in Current Affairs, Diana Irey, Mad Jack Murtha, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack

Saturday, 21 October 2006
 

Breakin some rules
Contributed by Bill Faith

OK, I know the Chief Operating Dog has dial-up and really doesn't like pictures on the site. What's he gonna do, draft me and send me to Nam?

That's Zero being "Silent No More!" The shirt came from our CafePress shop. He's had the attitude for a good while. Lotta that going around in these parts.

***

I've come to my senses and decided to take mercy on those of you still on dial-up by moving the large version of this picture below the fold. Click the little one to see it.

Contributed by Bill Faith on October 21, 2006 at 06:57 PM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack

Thursday, 12 October 2006
 

Diana Irey: Jack Murtha Is Scared To Debate Me
Contributed by Bill Faith

(JOHNSTOWN, October 12) -- Washington County Commissioner and Pennsylvania 12th district Republican Congressional nominee Diana Irey held a press conference in Johnstown today and released the following statement:

"Jack Murtha is scared to debate me.

"That's the only conclusion one can draw from the news we got two days ago from the League of Women Voters -- Jack Murtha, we were told, refuses to get on a stage here in the 12th District and debate me over the significant issues in this campaign.

"That is a disservice to the voters of the 12th District. It demonstrates once again the callous disregard and disrespect Jack Murtha feels toward anyone who dares to utter a word in opposition to him -- the same kind of disregard and disrespect he showed again yesterday, when, in a fundraising solicitation he wrote on behalf of a radical left-wing organization, he wrote of those who disagree with him, and I quote, 'screw them.'

"Mr. Murtha's refusal to debate the issues in front of those he seeks to represent, I might add, came less than a week after the Johnstown Tribune-Democrat published a lead editorial calling on Mr. Murtha to debate me.

"Here, in part, is what the Trib-Dem said just eight days ago:

It is time for a debate in the 12th Congressional District race. Voters deserve more than the constant Iraq-war rhetoric they have been getting from incumbent John Murtha …? He has spent much more time defending his Iraq war statements and helping other Democrats raise campaign money than actually talking about the issues in his home district … [V]oters deserve more. Let's get these candidates together to talk about the issues … Voters deserve a chance to see these candidates debate the issues face to face.

[Read on here.]

Cross-posted from Bill's Bites.

Contributed by Bill Faith on October 12, 2006 at 03:49 PM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack

Tuesday, 10 October 2006
 

John Murtha and his Deal With The Devil... Smell the Sulphur
Contributed by 1stCav

20 Reasons NOT to vote for John Murtha If you want ot find out more about John Murtha visit HERE.   And if you feel as I do about this turncoat please contribute to his demise Here.

Contributed by 1stCav on October 10, 2006 at 06:35 PM in Mad Jack Murtha, Politics, William "1stCav" Page | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack

Saturday, 07 October 2006
 

Fear Factor
Contributed by The Gray Dog

It has become cliché to say that armies always fight the last war.  That is to say they are unprepared to take on a new enemy with new strategies and objectives.  Just over two years ago, like many veterans and other concerned conservatives, I locked on like a laser to focus my efforts and do anything that would lead to the defeat of John Kerry.  And while the Swift Boat Vets led the charge, the small voice of The Gray Dog was just one of thousands of small BLOGs that ran their ads, displayed their commercials and waged a smarter more sensitive war against the Democratic nominee. The 2004 War against Kerry was a classic frontal assault against a well known and defined enemy.  While many weapons were used, in the end it was brute force that carried the day

Today, one month away from the 2006 mid-term elections, we face a new threat that is no less dangerous than the one we defeated two years ago.  But unlike two years ago, this enemy has four hundred and thirty-five faces, most of which are unknown to the majority of Americans. Analogous to the War on Terror, there is no clearly defined front to wage a classic battle. Instead, the enemy is widely dispersed throughout the nation, campaigning under the protection of Democratic sleeper cells that have been planted within each congressional district.

Republicans, whose intelligence had led them to believe the enemy was merely massing for the scheduled battle on November 7th, were literally caught with their cyber shorts down, as the Democrats launched their “October Surprise Offensive.”  With one well timed strike, the liberals were able to personify the entire Republican congressional caucus with the singular image of Mark Foley.  In response, Republicans, not content to merely lop off Foley’s head, have kept their sabers sharpened while circling House Speaker Denny Hastert and any other house member to whom they pass blame.

Emboldened by this Democratic success and the Republican’s ineffectual response, Nancy Pelosi, The Botox Bitch of the Beltway, is now, for the first time, openly acknowledging her liberal agenda to be enacted upon her ascension to the Speaker’s throne.   Rolling back the Bush Tax Cuts, cutting off military funding, releasing GITMO prisoners, disabling the NSA surveillance program and opening our borders will just be the beginning.  Pelosi and her minions will not likely waste much time scheming up charges in an attempt to impeach George W. Bush and at the current rate of Republican self destruction, there may not be many left around to offer resistance.

Many of you may be thinking the senate is at risk too. Yes, it is and the possibility of having Majority Leader Reid is hateful to imagine.  But we have witnessed over the years how a handful of Democratic senators in the minority can successfully stall all Senate business.  Hopefully a few bright Republican senators have learned something from this experience and could keep the Senate stalemated.  The House is another matter altogether for it alone controls the funding for the War on Terror and it alone can commence impeachment proceedings.  Charles Wrangell has already signaled his intent to bankrupt America’s war effort once he becomes the new Ways and Means Chairman and Nancy Pelosi, power drunk since gaining the party leadership position, will not be satisfied to simply become the first woman Speaker.  She will want to make her mark in the most spectacular way possible by bringing down George Bush.

I know that most of the military bloggers, OWD included, have spent a great deal of effort to bring down Jack Murtha.  He is deserving of all of the attention we have given him.   But however despicable he is and however gratifying his defeat would be, Murtha is just one of four hundred thirty-five battles being fought.  After all of the assaults that have been leveled at Murtha, other Democrats are more vulnerable and it’s high time we look at the bigger picture. 

Pelosi’s Eighth District seat in California is not just safe, it’s an absolute lock.  Nothing short of a felony conviction or compromising pictures with farm animals will change that.  Actually, in San Francisco the pictures might be of benefit to her.  The only way to defeat Pelosi will be by keeping her as the minority leader.  The only way to do that is to defeat Democratic candidates in every vulnerable district possible.  The Republicans must put a face on the Democrats and make this mid-term election a national referendum on Pelosi’s party leadership and agenda.  There is not a scarier face to do this with than Nancy Pelosi’s. 

Republicans have often been accused of using fear and scare tactics to win elections.  Is it so wrong to do so when the fear factor is real? 

Contributed by The Gray Dog on October 7, 2006 at 05:29 PM in Current Affairs, Dem Dumbness, G W Bush, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics, The Gray Dog | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack

Tuesday, 03 October 2006
 

Johnstown rallies - at a glance
Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf

Still in Johnstown, gonna get this started, finish packing, and head back to West Virginia shortly.

Woke up this morning with a clear sort of snap-shot image of the two rallies. Now if I can only get it from the brain to the fingertips.

Set aside the specific political issues for a few minutes, if you will.

A rally on Saturday had around 500-1000 in attendence.
A rally on Sunday had around 500-1000 in attendence.

Sat. - free 100 hour hotdogs (thats dogs boiled for at least 100 hours). Kind of an aquired taste, but couple with being free it was tasty.
Sun. - typical sports venue hot dogs, at $2.50, way over priced.

Sat. - Sound system intermittent. Rain off and on.
Sun. - Sound fine. Indoors.

[Now at home]

Sat. - Press took precedence over attendees. There was a small, roped off, area for VIPs directly in front of the dais, then the press platforms, then the great unwashed.
Sun. - Press was behind the seats. While the stage area was protected by Event Marshalls, folks could take pictures from anywhere else.

[note] the venues WERE quite different so I'm offering only how they appeared to me. The plain fact was that at over 6 feet tall I couldn't see the speakers platform at the pro-Murtha rally except in glimpses.

Sat. - High powered (and probably high paid) speakers who praised Murtha with the zeal of evangelists.
Sun. - Speakers were ordinary folks who were caught in extraordinary times and situations.

I admit it, I was smart enough to get in out of the rain, so I did not hear all of the Pro-Murtha speakers. The first few, though, were a bit frightening (when the PA system worked) in their enthusiasm.

And I admit that as an Event Marshall I did not hear each speaker at our rally either.

Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf on October 3, 2006 at 02:33 AM in Current Affairs, Dem Dumbness, Mad Jack Murtha, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Sunday, 01 October 2006
 

Murtha's critics call for his 'redeployment' out of Congress
Contributed by Bill Faith

1st Cav left part of this as a comment on "Our Rally". I can't risk letting it be overlooked.

Murtha's critics call for his 'redeployment' out of Congress
By Julie Benmatii, The Tribune-Democrat

Nearly 1,000 people, many of them military veterans, blasted U.S. Rep. John Murtha’s stance on the Iraq war and questioned his patriotism during a rally Sunday afternoon at the Cambria County War Memorial Arena.

The “Boot Murtha” event was held just one day after Saturday’s pro-Murtha rally held in Central Park – and featured speakers who all sent the same message.

Using the Johnstown Democrat’s past call for troop redeployment in Iraq, critics called for the longtime congressman and Vietnam veteran to redeploy himself to retirement.

“It’s time for you to redeploy to Johnstown as a private citizen,” said David Beamer, father of Todd Beamer, who led the anti-hijacker group on Flight 93 that crashed near Shanksville on Sept. 11, 2001.

“(Murtha’s) plans are flawed, his positions are divisive, and his current and past activities will catch up with him,” Beamer told the crowd. “I wish (Murtha) peace and security with your family during your retirement.”

“Boot Murtha” supporters accused Murtha using the military and the Iraq war for his own political gain.

Harry Beam, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and decorated Vietnam veteran who lives in Upper Yoder Township, said unlike the speakers who supported Murtha a day earlier, the “Boot Murtha” guests were “ordinary citizens with extraordinary experiences.

[...]

Contributed by Bill Faith on October 1, 2006 at 07:59 PM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics, William "1stCav" Page | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

"Our Rally"
Contributed by Bill Faith

The latest mail from Zero:

three pix of the competition, use any you choose.

Camera is broke, whenever I used the flash the pix was dark, as shown in the 4th , when I didn't use the flash the pix was blurred.

Stood still tooooo long and got volunteered to be an Event Marshall, there was genuine concern the protesters would be disruptive. Kinda of an honor and I got a neat t-shirt, but that means The OWD shirt was covered, and my back is killing me.

I have about 100 or so pictures, when I get home I'll go through it more detail, and see if any are worth salvaging.

Also a longer post in more detail about the whole weekend.

Oh yeah, I do believe we had more people than Murtha did yesterday.

zero

I didn't think the "too dark" picture zero sent looked bad like it was but I let my photo editing program do an "autobalance" on it and thought it looked better after I did. If it's too bright now it's my fault, not Zero's.

Since Zero took pics of the moonbats I guess I'll post 'em. Poor pathetic ignorant things. Kindest thing'd be to just step on 'em.

Contributed by Bill Faith on October 1, 2006 at 06:10 PM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack

name dropping?
Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf

Met some interesting folks this evening, Check out BootMurta.com for many. And heard stories that I really can't share. But Google Ted Sampley for one.

A few pix will follow, but camera may be broke.

There was one poignant moment. I was getting some change from the front desk when I noticed this fellow and his wife checking in, hearing that he was using 'a' veterans rate I asked if he was Pro or Anti.  He said he'd had some trouble getting here... he is David Beamer, father of Todd Beamer, leader of the anti-hijacker group on Flight 93 (the man who said, "Let's roll!"), and our Keynote speaker.

Shook his hand and said good night.

Either tomorrow or monday I will be visiting the Flight 93 site. Pictures will follow if the camera cooperates.

Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf on October 1, 2006 at 12:52 AM in Caring about our troops, Current Affairs, Mad Jack Murtha, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Saturday, 30 September 2006
 

Behind Enemy Lines
Contributed by Bill Faith

Got a Dog in Johnstown, PA for the Boot Murtha rally tomorrow. Since he got there a little early he decided to drop by and see what the enemy's up to. Hope this won't be the last pics I get from him. At least he's in uniform so they can't hang him for spying. Click the pics to see them bigger.

Contributed by Bill Faith on September 30, 2006 at 01:00 PM in Bill Faith, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack

Pro Murtha Rally
Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf

Made it to Johnstown. It's cool and rainy.

Pro Murtha rally started with a break in the weather, the sun came out, but the rains came back. They were also having sound problems, but what speeches I could hear were what you would expect,

Talked to several people (including Larry Bailey) - best guess 500 to 1000.

Forwarding pictures to Bill, but I couldn't get close enough for anything particularly good.

Ate a free Murtha hotdog.

Ran into Larry and we headed down to 'our' venue and I got a few more pictures.

I'll get a bunch tonite and tomorrow.

I'll be updating this post later.

[update] Ist Cav reminded me. If there were 'ringers' and folk from 'code pink', et al I did not see them. There were some buses there when I got to town, but they were gone when I got back with the camera.

Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf on September 30, 2006 at 12:02 PM in Mad Jack Murtha, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack

Friday, 29 September 2006
 

Murtha - the Big Fish that Got Away
Contributed by George Mellinger

Everyone is focusing attention on Jack Murtha's current anti-war raging. And a few vets are going back even further to question the reality of his claimed military record and supposed heroism in Viet Nam. But what about all those years in between? Hasn't he been a good congressman in the interim? Decide for yourselves. But first remember Abscam. The story of Murtha and the FBI is here.

So one thing we must give Murtha credit for... he's a lot more crafty than a lot of his fellow DEMOcrats.

-Rurik

***  22:11

Bill Faith adds: See also YouDontKnowJack.org.

Contributed by George Mellinger on September 29, 2006 at 10:04 AM in Dem Dumbness, Diana Irey, George Mellinger, Mad Jack Murtha | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack

Wednesday, 27 September 2006
 

Pre-rally SITREP
Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf

Needed to write this down for myself and figured to lay it out in case someone sees something I've missed.

Hotel reservations with confirmation number -done.

Cameras - video and still. Spare batteries, cables, manuals, tripod, spare recording media. A bag to carry all (except the folding tripod) in.

Laptop with Wi-Fi ready. If feasible I will 'live' blog if anyone is interested, otherwise I will post from the room as I can.

Some OWD togs and pins - new PVA stuff is supposed to be here by Friday. Hat, sweatshirt, t-shirt, and pins.

Folding chair.

Saturday weather is mostly sunny - mid 50's, sunday is showing 60% chance of rain - around 60.

The Saturday thing is looking HUGE, Several new speakers have been added. Rather than trying to outdo the major press I will be focusing only on who and why. With 1st Cavs recent post the OWD clothing may draw some attention.

Saturday nights meet and greet I will cover as best I can.

The rally Sunday will be indoors, if there substantial protests outdoors I will cover what strikes me as most interesting.

Any thoughts, comments or warnings?

Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf on September 27, 2006 at 01:03 PM in Caring about our troops, Current Affairs, Dem Dumbness, Mad Jack Murtha, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack

Tuesday, 26 September 2006
 

MURTHA in Trouble?
Contributed by 1stCav

Murtha is now in a hellava fight for his seat in PA district 12. Some of our pack of Old War Dogs are helping to make a difference. Keep up the good work this weekend Dogs!. Wish I could be there. Two active duty Marine nephews are telling me that their respective units totally despise Murtha. That fits with the overwhelming majority of veterans and other active duty troops informally polled. Article is HERE. Diana Irey is pulling very close to defeating the once thought well entrenched and funded Murtha.

This is gonna get real interesting especially with losers Max Cleland and sissy Wes Clark trying to counter the Veterans For The Truth (VFTT), the Boot Murtha rally, and the Operation Street Corner grassroots campaign against Murtha. How dare Murtha say our troops "killed innocent civilians in cold blood" even before a final investigation is complete. A little support to the VFTT/Boot Murtha would go a long way to help retire the traitorous Murtha.

IREY ADVISORY: DIANA IREY TO CALL FOR FEDERAL INVESTIGATION INTO MURTHA FUNDRAISING PRACTICES
Diana Irey for Congress ^ | 9/26/06 | Press Release

Posted on 09/26/2006 7:13:20 AM PDT by smoothsailing

IREY ADVISORY: DIANA IREY TO CALL FOR FEDERAL INVESTIGATION INTO MURTHA FUNDRAISING PRACTICES

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

(PITTSBURGH, September 26) -- Washington County Commissioner and Pennsylvania 12th district Republican Congressional nominee Diana Irey -- the woman standing up to U.S. Rep. Jack Murtha -- will hold a press availability today, Tuesday, September 26, on the sidewalk outside the office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, at 700 Grant Street, in Pittsburgh, at 11 AM.

Irey will release a letter she is delivering today to U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan requesting an investigation into Rep. Murtha's fundraising activities.

Based on news reports, lobbying disclosure reports, Federal Election Commission Records, and a study released last week by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, there is reason to believe Rep. Murtha may have violated federal law.

WHO: PA-12 nominee Diana Irey

WHAT: Press availability

WHERE: Sidewalk in front of the office of the U.S. Attorney

700 Grant Street

Pittsburgh, PA

WHEN: 11 AM

Note: Author corrected exact statement of Murtha to "killed innocent civilians in cold blood" ...a technicality IMHO.

Author: 1st Cav combat Veteran of Vietnam

=======================

UPDATE

IREY ASKS U.S. ATTORNEY TO INVESTIGATE JACK MURTHA

(PITTSBURGH, September 26) -- Washington County Commissioner and Pennsylvania 12th district Republican Congressional nominee Diana Irey -- after delivering a letter to Mary Beth Buchanan, the United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, requesting an investigation into the activities of U.S. Rep. Jack Murtha to determine whether or not he violated federal law -- today released the following statement:

"Today I delivered a letter to Mary Beth Buchanan, the United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, asking her to open an investigation to determine whether or not Congressman Jack Murtha violated the Ethics Reform Act of 1989 by accepting campaign contributions in exchange for placing earmarked appropriations into legislation he is largely responsible for drafting and pushing to passage.

"You will find a copy of the letter in the packet you've just been handed....

Read on Here.

Contributed by 1stCav on September 26, 2006 at 11:20 AM in Diana Irey, Mad Jack Murtha, Politics, William "1stCav" Page | Permalink | Comments (9) | TrackBack

Wednesday, 06 September 2006
 

Veterans as an Ethnic Minority
Contributed by George Mellinger

[Webmaster's note: Please see first: Defensive Misgivings, which inspired this post.]

For at least fifty years now ethnic identity has been at the head of the American agenda. African-American, Hispanic-American or Mexican-American, Asian-American, and gradually Jewish-American, Polish-, Italian-, Irish-, and other Hyphenated-Americans. The rule is, we must never notice these differences, while remaining always carefully aware of them. We must remember which group is the "group of the month" and appreciate its unique contributions and specialness, while simultaneously denying that it is in any way different, or that its members can even be detected by appearance, accent, or name. More recently we have discovered Gay-Americans, and even deaf-mutes, and others with congenital disabilities are demanding to be treated as hyphenated minorities. Even women. Women who are neither "disabled" nor in any sense a minority often demand their Hyphenated recognition. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the desire of everyone for a special identity, and to have it recognized, just so long as it does not become self-satirizing.

But what is an ethic group? It is not race or skin color, nor is it language, though these features may form a significant part of the formula. Essentially it is a uniquely defining background and shared experience which sets the members of the group apart. Frequently a part of this experience involves being stigmatized. Essential is a sense of self-identity.

Gradually, I came to realize that I am a Veteran-American. Am I kidding? Veterans as an ethnic group? How can that be, when they’re all sorts of colors, have all sorts of weird accents? True. But there is something else. For over half a century, we have been singled out by society, and while once upon a time we were not a minority, but the majority, like the American Indian we have gone from being a majority to a minority in our own land.

Special bond and experience? Of course. Its called war, though even those who served in peacetime share the experiences of training and barracks life. We have our own special language. Even if our language has dialects special to the World War, Korean, Viet Nam, and Gulf generations, we still understand each other as civilians cannot. We can understand military terms and make sense out of news reports as even the reporters cannot. And we have an understanding of what war is all about, and what is at stake in politics. There is a mindset which seems to be peculiar to Veterans, characterized by greater sense of self-discipline, and duty, of attention to detail and thoroughness, more attention to old-timey virtues.

Like a number of the acknowledged minorities we have seen our members mistreated because of our identity. And called ethnic names. "Dago"? "Nigger"? "Kike"? Use those names at your peril. But "Babykiller", "Warmonger", "Fascist", they seem to be socially quite acceptable.

Veterans are scorned, both by society and by government. Government budgets for caring for wounded and disabled Veterans is always limited, but budgets for the needs of other, civilian ethnics always seem to be limitless. And what company would deny a contribution to an Aids project or to a Rainbow Coalition shakedown? But when Military Veteran and Family Asistance came begging a few corporate contributions for programs to help our newest veterans readjust, the CEOs of major companies such as IBM, EDS (Ross Perot) [See editor's note below], Raytheon and many others lined up to give us the doorknob up the butt. AIDS, self-inflicted in the line of hedonism, is more worthy than wounds inflicted in the line of duty by the enemy. [/sarcasm]

And now I hear about the National Guardsman in Pierce County, Wa., attacked by a gang of civilians for being military. and other incidents also have happened in the recent past.

Other ethnics have sometimes tried to conceal their identities, changing their accents, and sometimes even trying to modify their skin color or hair. And then, every so often a few will try to emphasize their ethnic identity for political purposes. For how many decades have Veterans been concealing their status, not mentioning that of which they are most proud, trying to explain "two missing years" on their resumes, as if it were time spent in prison. And if Blacks have Rev’run Al and Jessie, we’ve got Kerry, McCain, and Murtha. Blacks hear "I don’t date outside my race", we hear "I don’t date babykillers". And yes, we also have Veterans whom we consider traitors to our ethnicity. See the above list for a few examples. The big difference is, we tend to disown those who would self-anoint themselves as our spokesmen. So of course, I am not speaking for you, I am speaking to you, urging you, us all, to stand up and demand our own share of recognition.

I’ve got a case of the ass. A big one. I’m not impressed with "Thank you for your service" which is becoming almost a cliche as "Have a nice day", or "welcome home" about forty years too late. It is appropriate for greeting someone at the airport dressed in DCUs. But to an old guy who’s been called a babykiller for forty years, its just rubbing in the salt. In January 1977, Jimmie Carter amnestied all the draft dodgers, deserters and other swine, proclaimed them my, our equals. That is a whistle which, like an ex-president, cannot be unblown. Then they elected a draft-dodger as president. Twice! Now they wish to honor us, equally with those who spat upon us?! No, not really. They’re willing, finally, not to honor, but to to forgive us for our service, forty years after the fact. And only if we become penitents and supplicants, meekly standing in line to beg a pittance from some bureaucrat who "served" in Canada from 1968 to 1977.

Then I observe the hedonistic slackers around me, those who do not, and will not serve. Those with no self-discipline or any willingness even to wipe their own lardbutts. Who demand, but do not give, who seek to cash in on the colors of their hides or their choice of sexual oddity, who worship only the Eternal ME. I say to myself, these are NOT my people.

I do not care what the color of your skin, or of your uniform. If you served honorably, you are my brother or sister. By the Grace of God and the US Congress, I am a Veteran-American. And proud. And you WILL NOT make me hide in the closet.

-Rurik

Webmaster's notes:

Check out http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1696722/posts and http://www.bootmurtha.com/MurthaUpdates/SEP2006/09-06-06.htm! BZs, Rurik.

It's going to take a few days to make it happen but as soon as we can we'll start selling Veteran-American bumper stickers, tees, etc in our CafePress shop. (Click the hat on the sidebar to learn about our shop.)

Ross Perot sold EDS to GM years ago and has, in fact, been very supportive of Military Veteran and Family Assistance and The Phoenix Project. It's the current management of EDS that sucks.

Contributed by George Mellinger on September 6, 2006 at 12:48 PM in Best of Old War Dogs, Caring about our troops, George Mellinger, Jean Fraud Kerry, Mad Jack Murtha, Patriotism, Peacenik Stupidity, Politics, Viet Nam, War? What war? | Permalink | Comments (25) | TrackBack

Wednesday, 30 August 2006
 

Boot Murtha Rally
Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf

Those interested in or planning to attend should note this:

Hotel Wars in Johnstown, PA!

         Congressman John Murtha is gearing up on all fronts. Not only has he got Max Cleland coming back to Johnstown to stage an Anti-War Rally the day before our Boot Murtha Rally (announced by Cleland on the HBO Bill Maher Show" last Friday night)... But he's also laying siege to the hotel and motel rooms in Johnstown.          

          We have tried to get more rooms blocked out for us, but have been refused.

                 DON'T WAIT – BOOK YOUR ROOM NOW!

from Boot Murtha

Contributed by Zero Ponsdorf on August 30, 2006 at 06:46 PM in Current Affairs, Mad Jack Murtha, Zero Ponsdorf | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Thursday, 17 August 2006
 

Re: Is it Time for Alan Schlesinger to do the right thing? (Comments)
Contributed by The Gray Dog

No time for allegorical whimsy today.  I just read a comment posted to the above titled submission by Bill Faith.  This comment was written by a self-professed Conservative Republican by the name of Aakash Raut.  In his comment Mr. Raut makes the observations that “Ned Lamont is no more liberal than Sen. Lieberman.” and “I see you have anti-Murtha links… Congressman Murtha is actually more conservative than Senator Lieberman.”  Mr. Raut concludes his comment with, “The ‘right thing’ in this case, for Mr. Schlesinger to do, would be to take advantage of the Democrat divide (addressed in my recent entry) and WIN THIS SEAT for our party!”

Well, I took the bait and followed one of his many links back to his BLOG.  It was there that I discovered Mr. Raut is a conservative activist and student at a University in Illinois.  As I read Mr. Raut’s BLOG  I was absolutely floored to discover that I and other conservatives and Republicans have been duped – “due to a misunderstanding of the intricacies of political science and [even-recent] history – into thinking that these people (Zell Miller, Tony Blair and Joe Lieberman) are not liberal, or even that they are ‘conservatives’.”

That Mr. Raut is a conservative activist shows that he started out on the “right” foot in his academic pursuits, so I am left to assume that it is his “left” foot that fell out of his mouth.  Aakash, you are so wrong in so many ways, I don’t know where to begin, but I will try to categorize them for you.

Pragmatism:  While I do not live in Connecticut and must admit that I have no personal knowledge of Alan Schlesinger, I will accept from your right wing zealousness that he is by your definition a true conservative Republican.   On the other hand, I have read the polls.  In a poll of “likely voters” just released today, Joe Lieberman leads Ned Lamont 53% - 41%.  If you studied math between political rallies and blogging, you should come to the conclusion that there may be better battles to fight ahead. 

Murtha:  This is an issue you are not equipped to understand or address.  The anti-Murtha movement has nothing to do with liberal vs. conservative, or for taking an anti-war position.  This movement is about the disgraceful, slanderous libel that this “Gentleman from Pennsylvania” has vomited from his bloated face upon military personnel both past and present.  Perhaps after you grab an M-16 and stand post for a while, you might begin to grasp the intricacies of this situation. The bile in my stomach is rising, so enough said on this topic.

Party Line:  Aakash, first I would direct you to one of my posts on why a conservative might choose to support Lieberman.  You can find it at  "It's the Party Stupid" I would then contend that no one has been duped into thinking that Joe isn’t liberal or is in fact conservative.  Any conservative support for Lieberman will not result from a misunderstanding of the intricacies of political science and history.  It will more likely be founded in a very real understanding of American and World history that transcend beyond the dew meager years of your existence and will have nothing to do with conservatism or liberalism. 

Choosing candidates strictly on their party affiliation or their adherence to some narrowly defined concept of conservatism is no less folly than that practiced by the liberals.  There are some defining issues that should and do rise above partisanship.  Defending and protecting America is one of them.  I’ll take 99 more Liebermans in the Senate right now to ensure a strong and united front against a foreign threat that needs to be eliminated.  I’ll worry about their liberal and conservative views after we have taken care of the first order of business.

Finally, I read with concern your statement “the true conservative and ‘republican’ position is against the war.”  That you are anti-war, is your prerogative and that there are other individuals that consider themselves conservative who agree with you is fine as well.  However, it is your use of the phrase “true conservative” that is frightening. The use of words such as “true” or “pure” within this context sounds eerily like other historical party stalwarts.  Mao, Lenin, Stalin and Hitler come to mind. 

I am sorry to take such an opposing view against someone else that claims to be a conservative.  I would caution you to learn to discern the difference between a conservative philosophy and a party dogma.  Being a Kool-Aid drinker is still the same, no matter what the flavor.

Contributed by The Gray Dog on August 17, 2006 at 12:27 PM in Current Affairs, Joe Lieberman, Mad Jack Murtha, Ned Lamont, Politics, The Gray Dog | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack