I put my money where my mouth is- and I hope you do, too.
WS
Full Version: Better than a yellow ribbon magnet...
Common Ground Common Sense > Issues that Affect Our Lives > U.S. Military Issues > U.S. Military Issues Archive
The Wounded Warrior Project is worth looking in to. It sure does a lot more for our returning wounded that a ribbon magnet.
I put my money where my mouth is- and I hope you do, too.
WS
I put my money where my mouth is- and I hope you do, too.
WS
IN MEMORY OF GENERAL LOUIS H. WILSON, JR., USMC
Chairman Steve Buyer:
Yesterday, America lost a great patriot and a brave Marine. General Louis H. Wilson, Jr., U.S. Marine Corps, Retired, was the 26th Commandant of the Marine Corps. He received the Medal of Honor for heroism during the battle of Guam in July 1944. He passed on June 21, 2005.
General Wilson, beloved of his fellow Marines, also served in combat in Vietnam, in the 1st Marine Division. General Wilson assumed the office of Commandant of the Marine Corps on July 1, 1975. He was instrumental in leading his Marine Corps through the transition from Vietnam into its present-day capabilities as an integrated, fast-moving, hard-hitting expeditionary force that has the full confidence and admiration of America. His legacy is most plainly visible in the convincing, decisive success of the liberation of Fallujah in November 2004.
We are eternally grateful for General Wilson’s service, sacrifice, and valor. In tribute to his service to country and freedom itself, we are privileged to offer below the full citation from his Medal of Honor.
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to
CAPTAIN LOUIS H. WILSON, JR.
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Fonte Hill, Guam, Marianas Islands, 25 and 26 July 1944. Ordered to take that portion of the hill within his zone of action, Captain Wilson initiated his attack in midafternoon, pushed up the rugged, open terrain against terrific machine-gun and rifle fire for 300 yards and successfully captured the objective. Promptly assuming command of other disorganized units and motorized equipment in addition to his own company and one reinforcing platoon, he organized his night defenses in the face of continuous hostile fire and, although wounded three times during this five-hour period, completed his disposition of men and guns before retiring to the company command post for medical attention.
Shortly thereafter, when the enemy launched the first of a series of savage counterattacks lasting all night, he voluntarily rejoined his besieged units and repeatedly exposed himself to the merciless hail of shrapnel and bullets, dashing fifty yards into the open on one occasion to rescue a wounded Marine lying helpless beyond the front lines. Fighting fiercely in hand-to-hand encounters, he led his men in furiously waged battle for approximately ten hours, tenaciously holding his line and repelling the fanatically renewed counterthrusts until he succeeded in crushing the last efforts of the hard-pressed Japanese early the following morning. Then, organizing a seventeen-man patrol, he immediately advanced upon a strategic slope essential to the security of his position and, boldly defying intense mortar, machine-gun and rifle fire which struck down thirteen of his men, drove relentlessly forward with the remnants of his patrol to seize the vital ground.
By his indomitable leadership, daring combat tactics and dauntless valor in the face of overwhelming odds, Captain Wilson succeeded in capturing and holding the strategic high ground in his regimental sector, thereby contributing essentially to the success of his regimental mission and to the annihilation of 350 Japanese troops. His inspiring conduct throughout the critical periods of this decisive action enhanced and sustained the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Chairman Steve Buyer:
Yesterday, America lost a great patriot and a brave Marine. General Louis H. Wilson, Jr., U.S. Marine Corps, Retired, was the 26th Commandant of the Marine Corps. He received the Medal of Honor for heroism during the battle of Guam in July 1944. He passed on June 21, 2005.
General Wilson, beloved of his fellow Marines, also served in combat in Vietnam, in the 1st Marine Division. General Wilson assumed the office of Commandant of the Marine Corps on July 1, 1975. He was instrumental in leading his Marine Corps through the transition from Vietnam into its present-day capabilities as an integrated, fast-moving, hard-hitting expeditionary force that has the full confidence and admiration of America. His legacy is most plainly visible in the convincing, decisive success of the liberation of Fallujah in November 2004.
We are eternally grateful for General Wilson’s service, sacrifice, and valor. In tribute to his service to country and freedom itself, we are privileged to offer below the full citation from his Medal of Honor.
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to
CAPTAIN LOUIS H. WILSON, JR.
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Fonte Hill, Guam, Marianas Islands, 25 and 26 July 1944. Ordered to take that portion of the hill within his zone of action, Captain Wilson initiated his attack in midafternoon, pushed up the rugged, open terrain against terrific machine-gun and rifle fire for 300 yards and successfully captured the objective. Promptly assuming command of other disorganized units and motorized equipment in addition to his own company and one reinforcing platoon, he organized his night defenses in the face of continuous hostile fire and, although wounded three times during this five-hour period, completed his disposition of men and guns before retiring to the company command post for medical attention.
Shortly thereafter, when the enemy launched the first of a series of savage counterattacks lasting all night, he voluntarily rejoined his besieged units and repeatedly exposed himself to the merciless hail of shrapnel and bullets, dashing fifty yards into the open on one occasion to rescue a wounded Marine lying helpless beyond the front lines. Fighting fiercely in hand-to-hand encounters, he led his men in furiously waged battle for approximately ten hours, tenaciously holding his line and repelling the fanatically renewed counterthrusts until he succeeded in crushing the last efforts of the hard-pressed Japanese early the following morning. Then, organizing a seventeen-man patrol, he immediately advanced upon a strategic slope essential to the security of his position and, boldly defying intense mortar, machine-gun and rifle fire which struck down thirteen of his men, drove relentlessly forward with the remnants of his patrol to seize the vital ground.
By his indomitable leadership, daring combat tactics and dauntless valor in the face of overwhelming odds, Captain Wilson succeeded in capturing and holding the strategic high ground in his regimental sector, thereby contributing essentially to the success of his regimental mission and to the annihilation of 350 Japanese troops. His inspiring conduct throughout the critical periods of this decisive action enhanced and sustained the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS
HELD MARKUP OF H.R. 1220 AS AMENDED
H.R. 1220, the Veterans’ Compensation Cost- of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs marked up the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005. H.R. 1220, as amended, which would provide, effective December 1, 2005, a cost-of-living adjustment to the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation paid to certain spouses and dependent children of service-disabled veterans. The bill would also codify the 2005 dollar amounts for disability compensation and dependency and indemnity compensation. This bill was passed by the Committee by a voice vote. Floor action is anticipated in July.
“Nearly 3 million service-connected veterans and survivors of service-connected veterans rely on this annual increase,” said Chairman Steve Buyer. “It’s important that we deliver it to them.”
The approved bill includes provisions derived from two bills below, as well as an amendment:
H.R. 2988, the Veterans Medical Care Revenue Enhancement Act of 2005, which would authorize a two year demonstration project to improve business practices within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) relating to third-party billing collections.
H.R. 2959, which would provide for the establishment of Parkinson's Disease Research Education and Clinical Centers in the Veterans Health Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Congresswoman Berkley offered an amendment to provide a cost-of-living adjustment in fiscal year 2006 to the additional payment of $250 per month provided for the first two years of DIC eligibility to surviving spouses with minor children.
HELD MARKUP OF H.R. 1220 AS AMENDED
H.R. 1220, the Veterans’ Compensation Cost- of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs marked up the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005. H.R. 1220, as amended, which would provide, effective December 1, 2005, a cost-of-living adjustment to the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation paid to certain spouses and dependent children of service-disabled veterans. The bill would also codify the 2005 dollar amounts for disability compensation and dependency and indemnity compensation. This bill was passed by the Committee by a voice vote. Floor action is anticipated in July.
“Nearly 3 million service-connected veterans and survivors of service-connected veterans rely on this annual increase,” said Chairman Steve Buyer. “It’s important that we deliver it to them.”
The approved bill includes provisions derived from two bills below, as well as an amendment:
H.R. 2988, the Veterans Medical Care Revenue Enhancement Act of 2005, which would authorize a two year demonstration project to improve business practices within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) relating to third-party billing collections.
H.R. 2959, which would provide for the establishment of Parkinson's Disease Research Education and Clinical Centers in the Veterans Health Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Congresswoman Berkley offered an amendment to provide a cost-of-living adjustment in fiscal year 2006 to the additional payment of $250 per month provided for the first two years of DIC eligibility to surviving spouses with minor children.
Introduced in April, maybe it will get passed
H.R.1588
Comprehensive Assistance for Veterans Exposed to Traumatic Stressors Act of 2005 (Introduced in House)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Definition.
TITLE I--VETERANS OF PAST DEPLOYMENTS
Sec. 101. Six-year extension of eligibility for readjustment counseling services for Vietnam-era veterans .
TITLE II--MILITARY ISSUES
Sec. 201. Department of Veterans Affairs-Department of Defense Health Care Sharing Incentive Fund.
Sec. 202. Collection of data from pre- and post-deployment health assessments.
Sec. 203. Preventative maintenance post-deployment intervention.
TITLE III--PREVENTION, EARLY DETECTION, AND TREATMENT FOR RETURNING TROOPS
Sec. 301. Study to identify factors that decrease the likelihood of the development of chronic PTSD despite combat exposure.
Sec. 302. Extension of period of enhanced eligibility for VA health services for veterans who served in combat theaters of operations.
Sec. 303. Demonstration project to station Department of Veterans Affairs psychologists and psychiatrists at major demobilization sites and military treatment facilities.
Sec. 304. Model programs for post-deployment mental health practice.
Sec. 305. Performance measures for Department of Veterans Affairs health care administrators.
TITLE IV--DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COUNCIL ON POST-DEPLOYMENT MENTAL HEALTH
Sec. 401. Establishment of Council.
Sec. 402. Duties of Council.
TITLE V--CAPACITY BUILDING IN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
Sec. 501. Plan for expansion of Department of Veterans Affairs system to expand access to specialized PTSD care.
Sec. 502. Additional Department of Veterans Affairs resources.
TITLE VI--FAMILY THERAPY
Sec. 601. Eligibility for family counseling and bereavement counseling.
TITLE VII--EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES
Sec. 701. Training program for health-care providers.
Sec. 702. Curriculum and protocols for cross-training of Department of Veterans Affairs clinicians.
Sec. 703. Publication of state-of-the-art post-deployment mental health problems diagnosis and treatment.
Sec. 704. Protocols for pain management for PTSD and war-related pain.
Sec. 705. Protocols for treatment of substance use disorders.
Sec. 706. Protocols for diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder.
TITLE VIII--NATIONAL STEERING COMMITTEE ON PTSD EDUCATION
Sec. 801. National steering committee.
Sec. 802. Funding support for National Center for PTSD.
Sec. 803. Continuing education to mental health providers.
Sec. 804. Web-based curriculum to sponsor clinician training initiatives.
TITLE IX--BENEFITS
Sec. 901. Identification of deficiencies in PTSD disability examinations.
Sec. 902. Criteria for determining medical conditions associated with PTSD.
TITLE X--PUBLIC AWARENESS
Sec. 1001. Public awareness program.
Sec. 1002. Web site and materials for general campaign of awareness of PTSD.
SEC. 2. DEFINITION.
In this Act, the term `PTSD' means post-traumatic stress disorder.
H.R.1588
Comprehensive Assistance for Veterans Exposed to Traumatic Stressors Act of 2005 (Introduced in House)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Definition.
TITLE I--VETERANS OF PAST DEPLOYMENTS
Sec. 101. Six-year extension of eligibility for readjustment counseling services for Vietnam-era veterans .
TITLE II--MILITARY ISSUES
Sec. 201. Department of Veterans Affairs-Department of Defense Health Care Sharing Incentive Fund.
Sec. 202. Collection of data from pre- and post-deployment health assessments.
Sec. 203. Preventative maintenance post-deployment intervention.
TITLE III--PREVENTION, EARLY DETECTION, AND TREATMENT FOR RETURNING TROOPS
Sec. 301. Study to identify factors that decrease the likelihood of the development of chronic PTSD despite combat exposure.
Sec. 302. Extension of period of enhanced eligibility for VA health services for veterans who served in combat theaters of operations.
Sec. 303. Demonstration project to station Department of Veterans Affairs psychologists and psychiatrists at major demobilization sites and military treatment facilities.
Sec. 304. Model programs for post-deployment mental health practice.
Sec. 305. Performance measures for Department of Veterans Affairs health care administrators.
TITLE IV--DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COUNCIL ON POST-DEPLOYMENT MENTAL HEALTH
Sec. 401. Establishment of Council.
Sec. 402. Duties of Council.
TITLE V--CAPACITY BUILDING IN DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
Sec. 501. Plan for expansion of Department of Veterans Affairs system to expand access to specialized PTSD care.
Sec. 502. Additional Department of Veterans Affairs resources.
TITLE VI--FAMILY THERAPY
Sec. 601. Eligibility for family counseling and bereavement counseling.
TITLE VII--EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES
Sec. 701. Training program for health-care providers.
Sec. 702. Curriculum and protocols for cross-training of Department of Veterans Affairs clinicians.
Sec. 703. Publication of state-of-the-art post-deployment mental health problems diagnosis and treatment.
Sec. 704. Protocols for pain management for PTSD and war-related pain.
Sec. 705. Protocols for treatment of substance use disorders.
Sec. 706. Protocols for diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder.
TITLE VIII--NATIONAL STEERING COMMITTEE ON PTSD EDUCATION
Sec. 801. National steering committee.
Sec. 802. Funding support for National Center for PTSD.
Sec. 803. Continuing education to mental health providers.
Sec. 804. Web-based curriculum to sponsor clinician training initiatives.
TITLE IX--BENEFITS
Sec. 901. Identification of deficiencies in PTSD disability examinations.
Sec. 902. Criteria for determining medical conditions associated with PTSD.
TITLE X--PUBLIC AWARENESS
Sec. 1001. Public awareness program.
Sec. 1002. Web site and materials for general campaign of awareness of PTSD.
SEC. 2. DEFINITION.
In this Act, the term `PTSD' means post-traumatic stress disorder.
QUOTE
H.R.1588
Comprehensive Assistance for Veterans Exposed to Traumatic Stressors Act of 2005
Comprehensive Assistance for Veterans Exposed to Traumatic Stressors Act of 2005
I certainly hope it passes, Marine. We need to recognize the needs of those who serve our country and this is a major need, imho. Let us hope that Congress has the fortitude to move into the 21st century.
QUOTE(Pie @ Jun 27 2005, 07:34 PM)
I certainly hope it passes, Marine. We need to recognize the needs of those who serve our country and this is a major need, imho. Let us hope that Congress has the fortitude to move into the 21st century.
They come up with all kinds of wonderful Bills in Congress for the benefit of Veterans.
Seems they always run out of time or attach a bunch of pork to it or water it down real bad and it always ends up the same way, nothing ever seems to get done.
No doubt many of these bills are introduced just so the sponsor can say they introduced it when running for re-election. 
Yea, lets' have them waste their time on a flag burning bill- (which they know will never get past the Supremes) - rather than actually work on legislation that would *HELP PEOPLE*.
I am not taking a position here on the merits of the Flag burning bill-
just using it as an example of futile distraction)
Yea, lets' have them waste their time on a flag burning bill- (which they know will never get past the Supremes) - rather than actually work on legislation that would *HELP PEOPLE*.
I am not taking a position here on the merits of the Flag burning bill-
just using it as an example of futile distraction)
QUOTE(Pie @ Jun 27 2005, 08:09 PM)
No doubt many of these bills are introduced just so the sponsor can say they introduced it when running for re-election.
Yea, lets' have them waste their time on a flag burning bill- (which they know will never get past the Supremes) - rather than actually work on legislation that would *HELP PEOPLE*.
I am not taking a position here on the merits of the Flag burning bill-
just using it as an example of futile distraction)
Yea, lets' have them waste their time on a flag burning bill- (which they know will never get past the Supremes) - rather than actually work on legislation that would *HELP PEOPLE*.
I am not taking a position here on the merits of the Flag burning bill-
just using it as an example of futile distraction)
Well if you look at that web site paid for with government funds I can detect a pretty good level of the chairman of that committee tooting his own horn.
QUOTE(Marine @ Jun 27 2005, 10:13 PM)
Well if you look at that web site paid for with government funds I can detect a pretty good level of the chairman of that committee tooting his own horn.
Yessiree !!!! Picture and his own "corner!" 
QUOTE(Pie @ Jun 27 2005, 06:13 PM)
No doubt many of these bills are introduced just so the sponsor can say they introduced it when running for re-election.
Yea, lets' have them waste their time on a flag burning bill- (which they know will never get past the Supremes) - rather than actually work on legislation that would *HELP PEOPLE*.
I am not taking a position here on the merits of the Flag burning bill-
just using it as an example of futile distraction)
Yea, lets' have them waste their time on a flag burning bill- (which they know will never get past the Supremes) - rather than actually work on legislation that would *HELP PEOPLE*.
I am not taking a position here on the merits of the Flag burning bill-
just using it as an example of futile distraction)
Pie, you forget. Once it becomes an amendment, it is part of the Constitution. The Supreme Court can't rule a constitutional amendment unconstitutional...
Thanks Winston-I'll be donating.
QUOTE(amy @ Jul 2 2005, 08:02 PM)
Thanks Winston-I'll be donating.
Thank you Amy!
= Cha-Ching!
ITEMS OF THE WEEK
USMC MOTIVATIONAL POSTERS
The MCA is honored to offer you a set of Limited Edition USMC Motivational Posters and, we are donating all net proceeds to a very worthy cause, the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund (www.semperfifund.com).
Many Marines and civilian defense employees that remain on American soil loose sight of the importance they all play in the Global War on Terrorism. These posters were developed to remind all of us of our obligation to fight the global war on terrorism. Your support will benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, which touches thousands of Marines and their families.
18" x 24"
Item #: P2126 - Set of six
$30.00 Mbr/NMbr
Individual Posters:
Item #: P21 - "He is the Reason for our Daily Routine"
Item #: P22 - "A Call from the Operating Forces..."
Item #: P23 - "What Have You Done for Them Today?"
Item #: P24 - "Your Efforts are Building a Future "
Item #: P25 - "Killing Time Kills Marines"
Item #: P26 - "We're at War, Are You Doing All You Can?"
$6.00 Mbr/NMbr
https://www.mca-marines.org/OnlineStore/
USMC MOTIVATIONAL POSTERS
The MCA is honored to offer you a set of Limited Edition USMC Motivational Posters and, we are donating all net proceeds to a very worthy cause, the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund (www.semperfifund.com).
Many Marines and civilian defense employees that remain on American soil loose sight of the importance they all play in the Global War on Terrorism. These posters were developed to remind all of us of our obligation to fight the global war on terrorism. Your support will benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, which touches thousands of Marines and their families.
18" x 24"
Item #: P2126 - Set of six
$30.00 Mbr/NMbr
Individual Posters:
Item #: P21 - "He is the Reason for our Daily Routine"
Item #: P22 - "A Call from the Operating Forces..."
Item #: P23 - "What Have You Done for Them Today?"
Item #: P24 - "Your Efforts are Building a Future "
Item #: P25 - "Killing Time Kills Marines"
Item #: P26 - "We're at War, Are You Doing All You Can?"
$6.00 Mbr/NMbr
https://www.mca-marines.org/OnlineStore/
QUOTE(Marine @ Jul 6 2005, 04:10 PM)
ITEMS OF THE WEEK
USMC MOTIVATIONAL POSTERS
The MCA is honored to offer you a set of Limited Edition USMC Motivational Posters and, we are donating all net proceeds to a very worthy cause, the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund (www.semperfifund.com).
Many Marines and civilian defense employees that remain on American soil loose sight of the importance they all play in the Global War on Terrorism. These posters were developed to remind all of us of our obligation to fight the global war on terrorism. Your support will benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, which touches thousands of Marines and their families.
18" x 24"
Item #: P2126 - Set of six
$30.00 Mbr/NMbr
Individual Posters:
Item #: P21 - "He is the Reason for our Daily Routine"
Item #: P22 - "A Call from the Operating Forces..."
Item #: P23 - "What Have You Done for Them Today?"
Item #: P24 - "Your Efforts are Building a Future "
Item #: P25 - "Killing Time Kills Marines"
Item #: P26 - "We're at War, Are You Doing All You Can?"
$6.00 Mbr/NMbr
https://www.mca-marines.org/OnlineStore/
USMC MOTIVATIONAL POSTERS
The MCA is honored to offer you a set of Limited Edition USMC Motivational Posters and, we are donating all net proceeds to a very worthy cause, the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund (www.semperfifund.com).
Many Marines and civilian defense employees that remain on American soil loose sight of the importance they all play in the Global War on Terrorism. These posters were developed to remind all of us of our obligation to fight the global war on terrorism. Your support will benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, which touches thousands of Marines and their families.
18" x 24"
Item #: P2126 - Set of six
$30.00 Mbr/NMbr
Individual Posters:
Item #: P21 - "He is the Reason for our Daily Routine"
Item #: P22 - "A Call from the Operating Forces..."
Item #: P23 - "What Have You Done for Them Today?"
Item #: P24 - "Your Efforts are Building a Future "
Item #: P25 - "Killing Time Kills Marines"
Item #: P26 - "We're at War, Are You Doing All You Can?"
$6.00 Mbr/NMbr
https://www.mca-marines.org/OnlineStore/
Thank you for posting your charity on this thread. Maybe this thread could be a thread for all types of service-related programs... mods, any problem with that?
Military care packages filled with American spirit...
"Patriotism In A Box" care packages
Celebrate those who demonstrate what it means to be a hero!
These care packages are shipped in a custom made box decorated with the American flag and is over flowing with American classic snacks such as: Cracker Jacks™, Bazooka Bubble Gum™, Hershey's™, Lifesavers™, and more. Send these care packages to our troops as well as friends, family, and survivors of the military. Your gift will heighten the spirits of the recipient and help the TAPS Organization - Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors. 25% of profits go to support TAPS.
We must continue to support the brave men and women in uniform who are protecting our most precious of American ideals...FREEDOM!
God bless our armed forces, firefighters, police, volunteers, survivors, and our fellow Americans.
http://www.supportustroops.com/index.htm
"Patriotism In A Box" care packages
Celebrate those who demonstrate what it means to be a hero!
These care packages are shipped in a custom made box decorated with the American flag and is over flowing with American classic snacks such as: Cracker Jacks™, Bazooka Bubble Gum™, Hershey's™, Lifesavers™, and more. Send these care packages to our troops as well as friends, family, and survivors of the military. Your gift will heighten the spirits of the recipient and help the TAPS Organization - Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors. 25% of profits go to support TAPS.
We must continue to support the brave men and women in uniform who are protecting our most precious of American ideals...FREEDOM!
God bless our armed forces, firefighters, police, volunteers, survivors, and our fellow Americans.
http://www.supportustroops.com/index.htm
Marine, want to buy a few for your rig or what?
Be honest dude, how many of those pathetic made in China Ribbons you own?? LOL Hang Tough "Chesty" or you rather be called Puller??? Your choice Bro', willing to oblige a fellow Vet! LOL
QUOTE(The_Bammo @ Jul 16 2005, 10:18 AM)
Marine, want to buy a few for your rig or what?
Be honest dude, how many of those pathetic made in China Ribbons you own?? LOL Hang Tough "Chesty" or you rather be called Puller??? Your choice Bro', willing to oblige a fellow Vet! LOL
BRILLANT BAMMO! but I've come to expect it of your posts
Honey, I faced worse, from better advisaries, (sticks and stones aren't a real threat)
"...they represent the true strength of the country and the heart and soul of its citizens."
- President George W. Bush about the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, December 7th, 2004
Today more than 174,000 active duty and 37,000 reserve Marines protect the United States of America, bravely serving our nation in hotbeds of violence like Iraq and Afghanistan.
Their dedication often has a price. Department of Defense statistics indicate 1,854 Marines were wounded in Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 19, 2003 through September 4, 2004. While the Marine Corps goes above and beyond to support Marines and their families, there are limits to the amount of funding available. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund was formed to provide supplemental assistance to our Marines, sailors, and their families as they face their road to recovery.
Please help support our Marines and sailors. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund is a 501©(3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible. The IMSFF is a volunteer-run organization. To support the fund, please send donations to:
Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund
825 College Blvd Suite 102
PMB 609
Oceanside, CA 92057
Please make checks payable to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
Thank you for your support.
http://www.semperfifund.org/
- President George W. Bush about the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, December 7th, 2004
Today more than 174,000 active duty and 37,000 reserve Marines protect the United States of America, bravely serving our nation in hotbeds of violence like Iraq and Afghanistan.
Their dedication often has a price. Department of Defense statistics indicate 1,854 Marines were wounded in Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 19, 2003 through September 4, 2004. While the Marine Corps goes above and beyond to support Marines and their families, there are limits to the amount of funding available. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund was formed to provide supplemental assistance to our Marines, sailors, and their families as they face their road to recovery.
Please help support our Marines and sailors. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund is a 501©(3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible. The IMSFF is a volunteer-run organization. To support the fund, please send donations to:
Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund
825 College Blvd Suite 102
PMB 609
Oceanside, CA 92057
Please make checks payable to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
Thank you for your support.
http://www.semperfifund.org/
With the continued war on terror and a prolonged engagement in Iraq, many of the men and women serving our country are facing personal and financial hardships. Family budgets are strained and those who remain at home face a mounting workload. The large activation of Reserve and National Guard personnel has further strained the resources needed to take care of our troops and their families.
With the generous support of the National Association of Broadcasters, the four Military Aid Societies — Air Force Aid Society, Army Emergency Relief, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society — have come together to address these escalating needs by creating The Armed Forces Relief Trust — a single, non-profit fund to better collect and disburse donations in support of the troops and their families in need.
The mission of the Armed Forces Relief Trust is to assist the military aid societies by providing a single vehicle to accept donations that will benefit the men and women of our Armed Forces and their families. Examples of such assistance may include payment for a soldier's airfare to fly home for his father's funeral, a special reading program for a sailor's daughter, special medical attention for a pilot's expectant spouse, or college tuition for a soldier's child.
Last year, the four emergency assistance programs disbursed more than $109 million in interest-free loans and grants to 145,000 individuals and families in need. But in order to meet our troops needs today, the Armed Forces Relief Trust is depending on the public's support.
Help boost the morale and welfare of our troops, better enabling them to focus on their important mission. Contribute to AFRtrust today.
Learn more about America's military aid societies:
Help boost the morale and welfare of our troops, better enabling them to focus on their important mission. Contribute to AFRtrust today.
http://afrtrust.org/
Our mission is to spread the gospel of the Lord JESUS CHRIST to the world .
Although we minister to all our main focus: "To be a LIGHT OF HOPE for our Servicemen / Servicewomen and their families every where."
Equipped with a vision larger than man's ability to fulfill alone.
But with the calling of our LORD JESUS CHRIST we will succeed.
Adopt A Soldier Ministries is a trans denominational ministry.
Reaching over the boundaries of religion and politics to showing the love of JESUS CHRIST through our outreach programs
"SOLDIERS NEED GOD TOO!!!!!"
WITH THE STATE OF OUR NATION LIKE IT IS, OUR TROOPS NEED TO HEAR FROM US. AS THEY PREPARE DAILY FOR COMBAT, THEY NEED TO HAVE OUR SUPPORT
CURRENTLY, ADOPT A SOLDIER MINISTRIES THROUGH INDIVIDUAL CONTACT,CONTACT WITH REGIMENTS AND CHAPLINS IS ABLE TO SEND ITEMS TO OUR SOLDIERS OVERSEAS. ALSO, THROUGH OUR VARIOUS OUTREACH PROGRAMS WE HELP THE FAMILIES AT HOME.
WE MUST NOT LET THESE HEROES DOWN. ONLY THROUGH YOUR SUPPORT ARE WE ABLE TO SEND PACKAGES OVERSEAS. SOME OF THE ITEMS INCLUDE: BIBLES, BOOKS, MAGAZINES, PERSONAL ITEMS THAT IS NOT AVAILABLE TO THEM OTHER WISE. YOUR SUPPORT IS NEEDED TO HELP FURNISH THESE ITEMS
http://www.adoptasoldierministries.org/
http://www.operationuplink.org/index.cfm
Operation Uplink is a unique program that keeps military personnel and hospitalized veterans in touch with their families and loved ones by providing them with a free phone card. Using contributions from supporters like you, Operation Uplink purchases phone cards and distributes them to servicemen and women who are separated from those they care about.
Read about how Operation Uplink has helped our military personnel stay connected. Read the Stories >
Know someone that would like to learn about Operation Uplink? Help spread the word by sending an e-mail message.
Tell A Friend >
To learn more about the program, click here for a printable brochure.
To learn more about our corporate citizens, click here for a printable brochure.
Want to know how phone cards are lifting the spirits of America's military members? Click here to read. If you would like to receive Operation Uplink's bi-weekly updates send us an e-mail at uplinkinfo@vfw.org
http://www.operationuplink.org/index.cfm
I like this gift certificate program. Wow- a chance to help the families of those overseas or a chance to help those who have been grievously wounded - or even groceries to help a family that has lost an income. Good resource !
I know how much it meant to my neighbor's husband when he was overseas to know that his family could move in with her folks and be well cared for. But there are families here at home
who do not have people to help support them. The above site offers a good way to help.
I know how much it meant to my neighbor's husband when he was overseas to know that his family could move in with her folks and be well cared for. But there are families here at home
who do not have people to help support them. The above site offers a good way to help.
I didn't know about this thread till Pie brought it to my attention. Some very good links to worthwhile organizations which I'll put together and post at some other forums I belong to.
QUOTE(Desron @ Jul 31 2005, 02:38 PM)
I didn't know about this thread till Pie brought it to my attention. Some very good links to worthwhile organizations which I'll put together and post at some other forums I belong to.
Thanks, Desron- and thank Marine, too, since he's the one who has kept this thread filled with all of the things we can do for our troops- things that matter.
Yeah, come to think of it, you were the one who started this thread, Winston 
Glad to see you have found it kept alive. 
Glad to see you have found it kept alive.
QUOTE(Pie @ Aug 1 2005, 07:48 PM)
Yeah, come to think of it, you were the one who started this thread, Winston Glad to see you have found it kept alive.
Glad to see you have found it kept alive. I remember that pie, you had a thread for military families and how to help them out. An excellent topic. It slid off into obscurity during that month I was condemned to purgatory at TOP
Thursday August 4, 2005
TWENTY-FOUR MARINES KILLED IN ONE WEEK
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Another American Marine was killed in action in a city in the Euphrates River valley where 14 U.S. Marines died in the deadliest roadside bombing suffered by U.S. forces in the Iraq war, the U.S. military said. That brought to at least 24 the number of Marines killed over the last week in along the Euphrates Valley in one of the bloodiest periods for U.S. forces in months.
GRIEF AND ANGER SHAKES THE "HOME FRONT"
"You never know who it could be. It could be your best friend. It could be your husband - it could be anyone from here," Eleanor Matelski, 69, said angrily. "Tell Bush to get our soldiers out of there now before any more of our soldiers die. This is getting to be ridiculous," she said.
...BUT DUBBAYA STILL WON'T SET TIMETABLE
GRAPEVINE, Texas - (KRT) - On a particularly deadly day in western Iraq, in which a roadside bomb killed 14 Marines, President Bush again declined to give a timetable for the war in Iraq on Wednesday.
CHICKENS COME HOME TO ROOST DEPARTMENT:
CIA TRAINED "SCORPION" BRIGADE
NOW "ARMY'S PROBLEM"
Authorized by President George W. Bush in March 2002 as part of a policy of "regime change" in Iraq, the Scorpions were made up mostly of exiles recruited by the Kurds who were sent to Iraqi cities including Baghdad, Fallujah and Qaim to give the impression that a rebellion was under way, current and former US intelligence officials told the daily.
RETIRED NAVAL COMMANDER RESPONDS
TO WAR CHEERLEADERS
"I fervently support our troops. I also believe that the war in Iraq is foolhardy, will not make us safer and will end up creating more enemies for America. Those two positions are not mutually exclusive."
http://www.bringthemhomenow.org/what/news.html
Selling the war
When your mission is failing, is it enough simply to rename it? Not if you care about credibility.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
By Sidney Blumenthal
July 28, 2005 | Never before has a president suddenly discarded his self-proclaimed "mission." But after declaring himself the commander in chief in the "global war on terror," President Bush has tossed the catchphrase aside in an elusive search for a new one. The "global war on terror" was his slogan to link the war in Afghanistan to the invasion of Iraq, the battle supposedly being one and the same. The quest for a new slogan is more than a public relations gesture. It reflects not only the failure but also the vacuum of his strategy.
Since Bush's speech at Fort Bragg, N.C., on June 28, for which the White House asked for and received national television coverage, and in which Bush reaffirmed "fighting the global war on terrorism," mentioned "terror" or "terrorism" 23 more times, and compared this "global war on terrorism" with the Civil War and World War II, his administration has simply dropped the words that more than any others Bush has identified as the reason for his presidency.
http://www.salon.com/opinion/blumenthal/20...r/index_np.html
When your mission is failing, is it enough simply to rename it? Not if you care about credibility.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
By Sidney Blumenthal
July 28, 2005 | Never before has a president suddenly discarded his self-proclaimed "mission." But after declaring himself the commander in chief in the "global war on terror," President Bush has tossed the catchphrase aside in an elusive search for a new one. The "global war on terror" was his slogan to link the war in Afghanistan to the invasion of Iraq, the battle supposedly being one and the same. The quest for a new slogan is more than a public relations gesture. It reflects not only the failure but also the vacuum of his strategy.
Since Bush's speech at Fort Bragg, N.C., on June 28, for which the White House asked for and received national television coverage, and in which Bush reaffirmed "fighting the global war on terrorism," mentioned "terror" or "terrorism" 23 more times, and compared this "global war on terrorism" with the Civil War and World War II, his administration has simply dropped the words that more than any others Bush has identified as the reason for his presidency.
http://www.salon.com/opinion/blumenthal/20...r/index_np.html
QUOTE(The_Bammo @ Aug 4 2005, 05:39 PM)
Thursday August 4, 2005
TWENTY-FOUR MARINES KILLED IN ONE WEEK
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Another American Marine was killed in action in a city in the Euphrates River valley where 14 U.S. Marines died in the deadliest roadside bombing suffered by U.S. forces in the Iraq war, the U.S. military said. That brought to at least 24 the number of Marines killed over the last week in along the Euphrates Valley in one of the bloodiest periods for U.S. forces in months.
GRIEF AND ANGER SHAKES THE "HOME FRONT"
"You never know who it could be. It could be your best friend. It could be your husband - it could be anyone from here," Eleanor Matelski, 69, said angrily. "Tell Bush to get our soldiers out of there now before any more of our soldiers die. This is getting to be ridiculous," she said.
...BUT DUBBAYA STILL WON'T SET TIMETABLE
GRAPEVINE, Texas - (KRT) - On a particularly deadly day in western Iraq, in which a roadside bomb killed 14 Marines, President Bush again declined to give a timetable for the war in Iraq on Wednesday.
CHICKENS COME HOME TO ROOST DEPARTMENT:
CIA TRAINED "SCORPION" BRIGADE
NOW "ARMY'S PROBLEM"
Authorized by President George W. Bush in March 2002 as part of a policy of "regime change" in Iraq, the Scorpions were made up mostly of exiles recruited by the Kurds who were sent to Iraqi cities including Baghdad, Fallujah and Qaim to give the impression that a rebellion was under way, current and former US intelligence officials told the daily.
RETIRED NAVAL COMMANDER RESPONDS
TO WAR CHEERLEADERS
"I fervently support our troops. I also believe that the war in Iraq is foolhardy, will not make us safer and will end up creating more enemies for America. Those two positions are not mutually exclusive."
http://www.bringthemhomenow.org/what/news.html
Hey Tom, the danger of posting clipets is someone may go read the link and post the stuff you didn't want read. Here's what the rest of that Navy Commander said:
QUOTE
I want every bullet they fire to find its target and every one fired at them to miss. I pray for their safe return.
Many Republicans were opposed to President Clinton's actions in Bosnia. Did that mean that they didn't support our troops?
I fervently support our troops. I also believe that the war in Iraq is foolhardy, will not make us safer and will end up creating more enemies for America. Please tell Preble those two positions are not mutually exclusive.
Virgil Bozeman III
Commander, retired
U.S. Naval Reserve
Augusta
victorbravo3@juno.com
Many Republicans were opposed to President Clinton's actions in Bosnia. Did that mean that they didn't support our troops?
I fervently support our troops. I also believe that the war in Iraq is foolhardy, will not make us safer and will end up creating more enemies for America. Please tell Preble those two positions are not mutually exclusive.
Virgil Bozeman III
Commander, retired
U.S. Naval Reserve
Augusta
victorbravo3@juno.com
http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/view...s/1834405.shtml
See, that's the problem of politicizing a war and making it a particular political party responsible for the bad stuff, next time around it will be the other political party's turn. The solution, support the troops no matter what and get it over as fast as possible so they can come home.
QUOTE(Marine @ Aug 4 2005, 08:21 PM)
Hey Tom, the danger of posting clipets is someone may go read the link and post the stuff you didn't want read. Here's what the rest of that Navy Commander said:
http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/view...s/1834405.shtml
See, that's the problem of politicizing a war and making it a particular political party responsible for the bad stuff, next time around it will be the other political party's turn. The solution, support the troops no matter what and get it over as fast as possible so they can come home.
http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/view...s/1834405.shtml
See, that's the problem of politicizing a war and making it a particular political party responsible for the bad stuff, next time around it will be the other political party's turn. The solution, support the troops no matter what and get it over as fast as possible so they can come home.
Thanks Marine, but read it already Bro' !
Does the Navy Commander SUPPORT the "SHRUB" fiasco?
We know he supports the G.I., Bro' - does he support the "SHRUB'S" WAR?
Hang Tough~
Peace Groups Organize Giant September Anti-War Protests in Washington, D.C.
by Leslie Cagan and Scott Harris ; July 14, 2005
Interview with Leslie Cagan, national coordinator of United for Peace and Justice, conducted by Scott Harris on June 27, 2005
Listen in RealAudio: http://www.btlonline.org/btl070805.ram (Needs RealOne player or RealPlayer)
Recent public opinion polls indicate that increasing numbers of Americans now oppose the Bush administration's decision to launch the Iraq war and the continuing bloody occupation. A Washington Post-ABC News survey found that more than half of Americans believe the war has not made the U.S. safer. A Gallup poll found 56 percent believe the war to overthrow Saddam Hussein's government was not worth the sacrifice and 60 percent favor a reduction in U.S. troops deployed to Iraq.
After the deaths of more than 1,700 American soldiers and news coverage of the British Downing Street memo that cast doubt on President Bush's stated justification for the war, some Democrats as well as a handful of Republicans in Congress are now openly calling for a timetable for a withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. President Bush strongly opposes such a move and re-asserted in a June 28 national address his belief that there is a "clear path to victory" in Iraq.
Over the past year, the U.S. peace movement has focused much of its energy on local organizing efforts. But anti-war groups are now planning for major protests this September in the nation's capital to give voice to the growing opposition to the war. Between The Lines' Scott Harris spoke with Leslie Cagan, national coordinator of United for Peace and Justice, who discusses the goals of the anti-war actions being organized by a coalition of peace groups for Sept. 24 through 26 in Washington, D.C.
LESLIE CAGAN: United for Peace and Justice, as I'm sure as a lot of your listeners will recall, is the largest anti-war coalition in the country right now. We have over 1,000 member groups all around the nation.
We decided, actually, back at our February national assembly that in September it would be opportune and important to have a major anti-war demonstration. As things have unfolded, we've come to realize really how important it is. And what we're planning to do is to have actually three days of anti-war activism in Washington, D.C. We've decided this time to go to the nation's capital and we're doing this on the weekend of September 24th, that's a Saturday; Sunday the 25th of September and then we'll invite people to stay with us over to Monday the 26th.
On Saturday, we'll do a mass -- and we think this will be a massive turnout of people -- a march and rally. We're actually thinking of not doing the same old kind of rally that usually happens at these events, but something that's much more interactive almost like a fair, a festival of resistance, an anti-war fair. Anyway, that will be on a Saturday, and already momentum is building; there's a tremendous amount of interest in this, and as I said, the timing is certainly right for it.
On Sunday evening, we'll do an interfaith religious service, and again try and pull together a large event where all the different religious orientations will be part of the program. Also on Sunday, we will be doing trainings for a lobby day on Capitol Hill where people will be visiting their members of the House, as well as their senators on Monday -- so the training for that will be on Sunday.
Also on Monday, there will be a non-violent civil disobedience action, so the training for that will also take place on Sunday. And we're imagining that as we get closer other activities, educational events, other protest activities will also be developed that will be part of the whole package of the weekend.
Obviously, it's been important from day one that these kind of public protests happen, but there's so much horrendous news every single day coming from Iraq -- this war and the occupation continues unabated -- that it's really, really critical that we put pressure on the White House and on the Congress to do everything we can to force them to stop this war.
What's really interesting about the timing is that things really seem to be shifting in the country. Not only are recent public opinion polls over and over again showing a great majority, a growing majority of people in this country opposing the war and wanting it to end, but also there's cracks opening up in the Congress, in the policymaking circles in Washington. Things like the Downing Street memo that came out of London a few weeks ago reaffirming what we all knew -- that the president lied about this war.
So, there's a whole lot that's going on that lead us to conclude that not only is it important to maintain the day in, day out activism that so many people are doing around the country, but that it's time in the fall -- and again we've designated the weekend of September 24th for people from not only the East Coast, but from wherever they can travel from all around the country, to come together in Washington and send a strong message.
BETWEEN THE LINES: Leslie, what's the key message or demand coming out of these days of demonstrations in September?
LESLIE CAGAN: Well, the key demand, the central demand is the same one we've had from the get go, and that is we need to end the war in Iraq and our troops need to be brought home now. That has been United for Peace and Justice's consistent demand from day one. We've never wavered from that and we still think it's the right demand.
This is a war that never should have happened. It's a war everybody, the whole world, knows was a war that was based on lies. That the quickest way to end this war is to end it -- is to declare, is to announce -- for U.S. policymakers to announce this war is over and we're bringing our troops home. That's what we think is the quickest road to turning things around in Iraq.
In the context of that major demand, there are other demands that we'll be making. For instance, we think it's time for military recruiters to get out of our schools. We know that our communities are being bankrupted by this war. So instead of billions of dollars going into the war, we want money coming into our own communities and the programs we need funded.
So there are a number of connections that we will be making during the weekend, but the core central issue here is ending the war in Iraq and bringing our troops home.
Contact the nationwide coalition United for Peace and Justice by calling (212) 868-5545 or visit their website at http://www.unitedforpeace.org
Scott Harris is executive producer of Between The Lines, which can be heard on more than 35 radio stations and in RealAudio and MP3 on our website at http://www.btlonline.org. This interview excerpt was featured on the award-winning, syndicated weekly radio newsmagazine, Between The Lines for the week ending July 8, 2005. This Between The Lines Q&A was compiled by Scott Harris and Anna Manzo.
http://www.zmag.org/content/showarticle.cf...D=1&ItemID=8294
by Leslie Cagan and Scott Harris ; July 14, 2005
Interview with Leslie Cagan, national coordinator of United for Peace and Justice, conducted by Scott Harris on June 27, 2005
Listen in RealAudio: http://www.btlonline.org/btl070805.ram (Needs RealOne player or RealPlayer)
Recent public opinion polls indicate that increasing numbers of Americans now oppose the Bush administration's decision to launch the Iraq war and the continuing bloody occupation. A Washington Post-ABC News survey found that more than half of Americans believe the war has not made the U.S. safer. A Gallup poll found 56 percent believe the war to overthrow Saddam Hussein's government was not worth the sacrifice and 60 percent favor a reduction in U.S. troops deployed to Iraq.
After the deaths of more than 1,700 American soldiers and news coverage of the British Downing Street memo that cast doubt on President Bush's stated justification for the war, some Democrats as well as a handful of Republicans in Congress are now openly calling for a timetable for a withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. President Bush strongly opposes such a move and re-asserted in a June 28 national address his belief that there is a "clear path to victory" in Iraq.
Over the past year, the U.S. peace movement has focused much of its energy on local organizing efforts. But anti-war groups are now planning for major protests this September in the nation's capital to give voice to the growing opposition to the war. Between The Lines' Scott Harris spoke with Leslie Cagan, national coordinator of United for Peace and Justice, who discusses the goals of the anti-war actions being organized by a coalition of peace groups for Sept. 24 through 26 in Washington, D.C.
LESLIE CAGAN: United for Peace and Justice, as I'm sure as a lot of your listeners will recall, is the largest anti-war coalition in the country right now. We have over 1,000 member groups all around the nation.
We decided, actually, back at our February national assembly that in September it would be opportune and important to have a major anti-war demonstration. As things have unfolded, we've come to realize really how important it is. And what we're planning to do is to have actually three days of anti-war activism in Washington, D.C. We've decided this time to go to the nation's capital and we're doing this on the weekend of September 24th, that's a Saturday; Sunday the 25th of September and then we'll invite people to stay with us over to Monday the 26th.
On Saturday, we'll do a mass -- and we think this will be a massive turnout of people -- a march and rally. We're actually thinking of not doing the same old kind of rally that usually happens at these events, but something that's much more interactive almost like a fair, a festival of resistance, an anti-war fair. Anyway, that will be on a Saturday, and already momentum is building; there's a tremendous amount of interest in this, and as I said, the timing is certainly right for it.
On Sunday evening, we'll do an interfaith religious service, and again try and pull together a large event where all the different religious orientations will be part of the program. Also on Sunday, we will be doing trainings for a lobby day on Capitol Hill where people will be visiting their members of the House, as well as their senators on Monday -- so the training for that will be on Sunday.
Also on Monday, there will be a non-violent civil disobedience action, so the training for that will also take place on Sunday. And we're imagining that as we get closer other activities, educational events, other protest activities will also be developed that will be part of the whole package of the weekend.
Obviously, it's been important from day one that these kind of public protests happen, but there's so much horrendous news every single day coming from Iraq -- this war and the occupation continues unabated -- that it's really, really critical that we put pressure on the White House and on the Congress to do everything we can to force them to stop this war.
What's really interesting about the timing is that things really seem to be shifting in the country. Not only are recent public opinion polls over and over again showing a great majority, a growing majority of people in this country opposing the war and wanting it to end, but also there's cracks opening up in the Congress, in the policymaking circles in Washington. Things like the Downing Street memo that came out of London a few weeks ago reaffirming what we all knew -- that the president lied about this war.
So, there's a whole lot that's going on that lead us to conclude that not only is it important to maintain the day in, day out activism that so many people are doing around the country, but that it's time in the fall -- and again we've designated the weekend of September 24th for people from not only the East Coast, but from wherever they can travel from all around the country, to come together in Washington and send a strong message.
BETWEEN THE LINES: Leslie, what's the key message or demand coming out of these days of demonstrations in September?
LESLIE CAGAN: Well, the key demand, the central demand is the same one we've had from the get go, and that is we need to end the war in Iraq and our troops need to be brought home now. That has been United for Peace and Justice's consistent demand from day one. We've never wavered from that and we still think it's the right demand.
This is a war that never should have happened. It's a war everybody, the whole world, knows was a war that was based on lies. That the quickest way to end this war is to end it -- is to declare, is to announce -- for U.S. policymakers to announce this war is over and we're bringing our troops home. That's what we think is the quickest road to turning things around in Iraq.
In the context of that major demand, there are other demands that we'll be making. For instance, we think it's time for military recruiters to get out of our schools. We know that our communities are being bankrupted by this war. So instead of billions of dollars going into the war, we want money coming into our own communities and the programs we need funded.
So there are a number of connections that we will be making during the weekend, but the core central issue here is ending the war in Iraq and bringing our troops home.
Contact the nationwide coalition United for Peace and Justice by calling (212) 868-5545 or visit their website at http://www.unitedforpeace.org
Scott Harris is executive producer of Between The Lines, which can be heard on more than 35 radio stations and in RealAudio and MP3 on our website at http://www.btlonline.org. This interview excerpt was featured on the award-winning, syndicated weekly radio newsmagazine, Between The Lines for the week ending July 8, 2005. This Between The Lines Q&A was compiled by Scott Harris and Anna Manzo.
http://www.zmag.org/content/showarticle.cf...D=1&ItemID=8294
Support the Troops: Especially When They Come Back with Substance Abuse Problems
by Tony Newman
Everyday I pass homeless people on the subway and streets. Many of them hold up signs saying that they served in the Vietnam War. Sometimes I don’t allow myself to think about it. I hand them a dollar and go back to reading my newspaper. When I do think about it, I try to imagine what these veterans have seen and been through.
What is it like to be shot at during war and know that any day may be your last? How does one deal with the pain of having friends killed in your arms? What does killing other human beings do to your emotional stability?
It is not hard to imagine how these experiences lead to self-medication and drug addiction. How could you not try to numb out the pain that must accompany fighting in a war? When passing homeless people, it seems clear that some of them have spent years dealing with substance abuse and mental illness.
I have been thinking about our current war in Iraq and wondering what the impact will be on the men and women fighting there. I get a shiver down my spine when I imagine what it would be like for me to leave my fiancée and family, depart the city I love and go fight in Iraq! It is horrifying to think of shooting at other human beings, seeing families getting blown up in cars and houses, feeling bullets whiz by me, seeing explosives take off the leg or arm of a close buddy. I couldn’t do it.
Seeing many Vietnam Veterans with mental problems who are often self-medicating with drugs, I have hypothesized that veterans from the Iraq war, many who are going through similar horrors, will also have similar problems with drug abuse. Many of us struggle with dependency on cigarettes, marijuana and alcohol, while attempting to cope with the pressures of our hectic lives, and obviously our problems are nothing compared to people coming back from Iraq missing a limb.
According to the military publication Stars and Stripes, my hunches are correct. In a July 25th story they report that alcohol and other drug use problems are common throughout the forces in Iraq. “Some of the young soldiers just can’t handle the stress and turn to alcohol or drugs to self-medicate”, said military defense lawyer Capt. Chris Krafchek.
Today in a story by the Associated Press, the Army’s Surgeon General said that a survey of troops returning from the Iraq war found 30 percent had developed mental health problems three to four months after coming home.
What is going to happen to all of these people who are suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts? Many will end up using drugs, as many of us civilians do. Now on top of everything else going on, many of these people are going to have to worry about getting caught with drugs and being arrested. Our prisons are already filled with non-violent drug offenders, many serving mandatory sentences of 15 years to life for small amounts of drugs. Service members being incarcerated and separated from their families because of a drug addition that is a result to fighting in Iraq will be yet one more instance of “collateral damage” of this war.
It is easy for people to buy a bumper sticker and demand that we “Support our Troops”. If we are going to walk the talk, we better be ready to offer compassion and treatment—not just a jail cell—when it comes to helping our brothers and sisters heal from the damages of war. Let’s hope that we support our current troops better than we supported the veterans who fought in Vietnam.
Tony Newman is the Communications Director at the Drug Policy Alliance, ( http://www.drugpolicy.org ) a non-profit working for a drug policy based on reason, compassion and justice.
http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0802-21.htm
by Tony Newman
Everyday I pass homeless people on the subway and streets. Many of them hold up signs saying that they served in the Vietnam War. Sometimes I don’t allow myself to think about it. I hand them a dollar and go back to reading my newspaper. When I do think about it, I try to imagine what these veterans have seen and been through.
What is it like to be shot at during war and know that any day may be your last? How does one deal with the pain of having friends killed in your arms? What does killing other human beings do to your emotional stability?
It is not hard to imagine how these experiences lead to self-medication and drug addiction. How could you not try to numb out the pain that must accompany fighting in a war? When passing homeless people, it seems clear that some of them have spent years dealing with substance abuse and mental illness.
I have been thinking about our current war in Iraq and wondering what the impact will be on the men and women fighting there. I get a shiver down my spine when I imagine what it would be like for me to leave my fiancée and family, depart the city I love and go fight in Iraq! It is horrifying to think of shooting at other human beings, seeing families getting blown up in cars and houses, feeling bullets whiz by me, seeing explosives take off the leg or arm of a close buddy. I couldn’t do it.
Seeing many Vietnam Veterans with mental problems who are often self-medicating with drugs, I have hypothesized that veterans from the Iraq war, many who are going through similar horrors, will also have similar problems with drug abuse. Many of us struggle with dependency on cigarettes, marijuana and alcohol, while attempting to cope with the pressures of our hectic lives, and obviously our problems are nothing compared to people coming back from Iraq missing a limb.
According to the military publication Stars and Stripes, my hunches are correct. In a July 25th story they report that alcohol and other drug use problems are common throughout the forces in Iraq. “Some of the young soldiers just can’t handle the stress and turn to alcohol or drugs to self-medicate”, said military defense lawyer Capt. Chris Krafchek.
Today in a story by the Associated Press, the Army’s Surgeon General said that a survey of troops returning from the Iraq war found 30 percent had developed mental health problems three to four months after coming home.
What is going to happen to all of these people who are suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts? Many will end up using drugs, as many of us civilians do. Now on top of everything else going on, many of these people are going to have to worry about getting caught with drugs and being arrested. Our prisons are already filled with non-violent drug offenders, many serving mandatory sentences of 15 years to life for small amounts of drugs. Service members being incarcerated and separated from their families because of a drug addition that is a result to fighting in Iraq will be yet one more instance of “collateral damage” of this war.
It is easy for people to buy a bumper sticker and demand that we “Support our Troops”. If we are going to walk the talk, we better be ready to offer compassion and treatment—not just a jail cell—when it comes to helping our brothers and sisters heal from the damages of war. Let’s hope that we support our current troops better than we supported the veterans who fought in Vietnam.
Tony Newman is the Communications Director at the Drug Policy Alliance, ( http://www.drugpolicy.org ) a non-profit working for a drug policy based on reason, compassion and justice.
http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0802-21.htm
QUOTE(Marine @ Aug 4 2005, 08:21 PM)
Hey Tom, the danger of posting clipets is someone may go read the link and post the stuff you didn't want read. Here's what the rest of that Navy Commander said:
http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/view...s/1834405.shtml
See, that's the problem of politicizing a war and making it a particular political party responsible for the bad stuff, next time around it will be the other political party's turn. The solution, support the troops no matter what and get it over as fast as possible so they can come home.
http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/view...s/1834405.shtml
http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/view...s/1834405.shtml
See, that's the problem of politicizing a war and making it a particular political party responsible for the bad stuff, next time around it will be the other political party's turn. The solution, support the troops no matter what and get it over as fast as possible so they can come home.
http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/view...s/1834405.shtml
Marine, think this is what Virgil Bozeman III, Commander, retired, U.S. Naval Reserve had to say about the "SHRUB" fiasco Bro' .
Hang Tough~
Thursday, August 4, 2005
Iraq war foolhardy, but troops act professionally
In a recent letter to the editor (July 29), Roland Preble asked liberals to explain how they can support the troops and not support the war. Let me respond.
The U.S. military is the muscular arm of America's foreign policy. The folks who serve in the military know that they can and will be sent to a variety of locations to accomplish missions in support of that foreign policy. Their job is to go wherever and do whatever the president tells them to do until he tells them to come home.
No doubt, there are troops in Iraq who disagree with our invasion, conquest and occupation of Iraq. Regardless, they still take great pride in doing their job well, and they do not let their opinions of the foreign policy behind their mission detract from their professionalism. I know this from personal experience.
}}}}----->>>> "I vehemently disagree with this war", but I still want our troops to succeed. I want every bullet they fire to find its target and every one fired at them to miss. I pray for their safe return.
Many Republicans were opposed to President Clinton's actions in Bosnia. Did that mean that they didn't support our troops?
I fervently support our troops. }}}---->>>> "I also believe that the war in Iraq is foolhardy, will not make us safer and will end up creating more enemies for America". Please tell Preble those two positions are not mutually exclusive.
Virgil Bozeman III
Commander, retired
U.S. Naval Reserve
Augusta ------------------------------------------------
There it is Bro' --he is a retired Commander Bro' --of course he supports his G.I.'S -- be da_ned foolish to think otherwise Bro'! But he also "vehemently disagree with this war"!!
And Retired Commander Bozeman said - "I also believe that the war in Iraq is foolhardy, will not make us safer and will end up creating more enemies for America". Please tell Preble those two positions are not mutually exclusive"
So there it is Bro' a retired Commander telling you the "SHRUB" war is a bunch of BS! Plain to me -- Marine - it is! I know it, Bozeman knows it, and I even think you know it!
A new road rage: My ribbon is better than your ribbon
Who can forget Jesus fish versus Darwin fish? Calvin peeing on Ford versus Calvin peeing on Chevy? Dale Earnhardt’s No. 3 versus Jeff Gordon’s No. 24? Stuff happens versus (expletive) happens?
My personal favorite has to be the Jesus fish versus Darwin fish smackdown. After years of unchallenged dominance, the Jesus fish people were body-slammed by the Darwin fish people, a group that believes in the clear separation of church and trunk space.
“Oh no you didn’t!” said the Jesus fish people, who countered with a Jesus fish eating a Darwin fish. “Read between the lines, sucka!” responded the Darwin fish clan as it busted out a Darwin fish eating a Jesus fish eating a Darwin fish. And on and on it goes.
Clearly the only winners here are the folks who make novelty metallic fish.
Fish war is hard to beat, but another trunk-door scuffle is brewing and it looks just as deliciously pointless. On one side you have “Support Our Troops” magnetic yellow ribbon people. On the other side you have “I don’t like ?Support Our Troops’ magnetic yellow ribbon people” magnetic yellow ribbon people.
In the Fox Valley, “Support Our Troops” people have a stronghold. That’s fine by me. I don’t knock the sentiment. But if I had to quibble, I probably would point out the unintentional irony of putting several “Support Our Troops” yellow ribbons on a gas-guzzling SUV. It’s sort of like putting a PETA sticker on a bucket of extra crispy from Kentucky Fried Chicken.
There’s also something vaguely hostile about the “Support Our Troops” ribbon. It doesn’t say “I Support Our Troops,” it just says “Support Our Troops,” almost like a command, like I’m not doing it already. Back off, man! I support them. The troops are braver and tougher than I ever will be. What I don’t support is you going 55 mph in the passing lane. Can I get a ribbon for that?
The anti “Support Our Troops” yellow ribbon people are just getting started, but they promise to be just as irritating. At http://www.funkyribbons.com , you can purchase ribbons that say snarky things like “Support Our War-Based Economy” and “Support Ribbon Profiteers.”
All together now: Ohhhhhhhh!
“Tired of seeing blindly patriotic magnetic ribbons everywhere?” the Web site asks, apparently assuming the answer is yes. “Fight back! Our ribbons look just like the bandwagon ribbons but express a different spirit.”
“Bandwagon ribbons”? Them’s fighting words, “Support Our Troops” people. You can’t take that lying down. Rustle up your best yellow ribbon writers and respond now.
Who is going to win the latest debate in trunk-door discourse? Who cares? Thanks to my newspaper column, I’m on spectator duty.
Steven Hyden
http://www.wisinfo.com/postcrescent/news/a..._21882835.shtml
Who can forget Jesus fish versus Darwin fish? Calvin peeing on Ford versus Calvin peeing on Chevy? Dale Earnhardt’s No. 3 versus Jeff Gordon’s No. 24? Stuff happens versus (expletive) happens?
My personal favorite has to be the Jesus fish versus Darwin fish smackdown. After years of unchallenged dominance, the Jesus fish people were body-slammed by the Darwin fish people, a group that believes in the clear separation of church and trunk space.
“Oh no you didn’t!” said the Jesus fish people, who countered with a Jesus fish eating a Darwin fish. “Read between the lines, sucka!” responded the Darwin fish clan as it busted out a Darwin fish eating a Jesus fish eating a Darwin fish. And on and on it goes.
Clearly the only winners here are the folks who make novelty metallic fish.
Fish war is hard to beat, but another trunk-door scuffle is brewing and it looks just as deliciously pointless. On one side you have “Support Our Troops” magnetic yellow ribbon people. On the other side you have “I don’t like ?Support Our Troops’ magnetic yellow ribbon people” magnetic yellow ribbon people.
In the Fox Valley, “Support Our Troops” people have a stronghold. That’s fine by me. I don’t knock the sentiment. But if I had to quibble, I probably would point out the unintentional irony of putting several “Support Our Troops” yellow ribbons on a gas-guzzling SUV. It’s sort of like putting a PETA sticker on a bucket of extra crispy from Kentucky Fried Chicken.
There’s also something vaguely hostile about the “Support Our Troops” ribbon. It doesn’t say “I Support Our Troops,” it just says “Support Our Troops,” almost like a command, like I’m not doing it already. Back off, man! I support them. The troops are braver and tougher than I ever will be. What I don’t support is you going 55 mph in the passing lane. Can I get a ribbon for that?
The anti “Support Our Troops” yellow ribbon people are just getting started, but they promise to be just as irritating. At http://www.funkyribbons.com , you can purchase ribbons that say snarky things like “Support Our War-Based Economy” and “Support Ribbon Profiteers.”
All together now: Ohhhhhhhh!
“Tired of seeing blindly patriotic magnetic ribbons everywhere?” the Web site asks, apparently assuming the answer is yes. “Fight back! Our ribbons look just like the bandwagon ribbons but express a different spirit.”
“Bandwagon ribbons”? Them’s fighting words, “Support Our Troops” people. You can’t take that lying down. Rustle up your best yellow ribbon writers and respond now.
Who is going to win the latest debate in trunk-door discourse? Who cares? Thanks to my newspaper column, I’m on spectator duty.
Steven Hyden
http://www.wisinfo.com/postcrescent/news/a..._21882835.shtml
TS2 stands for Troop Support Services. Everyday, we are seeing increasing numbers of units and military personnel from our communities being activated and deployed. In many cases they leave families and jobs behind them. Therefore, we need to be there for them as a support base by welcoming them home and back into the community. As veterans and veteran advocates, The American Legion family knows from experience just how valuable a helping hand can be in times of need.
To capture this whole process from activation to discharge, we have combined several brochures (Reconnect, Family Support Network and Welcome Home) into one pocket-sized durable Troop Support Services (TS2) Resource Guide. This guide is designed to be placed in the "troops" hands prior to deployment. One section of the guide is for the "troop" and the other for the family as a stay behind.
http://www.legion.org/support/index.php?content=ts2
from VVAW.ORG
Hi, Enclosed is a heads up on an event you may find of interest. Antiwar Art Show “Antiwar Vietnam veterans inspire art and action”— that’s the aim of an art event that opens Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia, Pa. The decidedly different art show commemorates a march 35 years ago by Vietnam Veterans Against the War from Morristown, NJ, to Valley Forge, Pa. The show is called Operation Rapid American Withdrawal 1970-2005 Exhibition. Comparisons with the war in Iraq are encouraged, says Jane Irish, the show’s organizer. “Visual artists have power, and with this exhibition we will use this power as another democratic check and balance,” Irish, an artist who focuses on social issues and political art, said in a news release. The exhibition is at the Ice Box Project Space, Crane Arts Building, 1400 American Street, Philadelphia. The opening reception is Friday, Sept. 2, at 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. The show runs through Sept. 25 as part of the Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe. An oral history panel is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 3, at 2 p.m., followed by a poetry reading at 4 p.m. The panel includes Tony Velez, a photographer and veteran who recorded the march, other march participants, and filmmaker Jack Ofield. The poetry reading features veteran poets W.D. Ehrhart, Gerald McCarthy and Jan Barry. A 1970 documentary film of the march, Different Sons: Vietnam Remembered, will be shown as a projection loop during the exhibition. The film was made by Ofield, an Emmy Award winning producer, assisted by the New York Film Industry For Peace. Sixty-three artists will present new works reflecting the peace march. Among them are 18-22-year-old soldier-aged artists, veterans of the Vietnam War, Philadelphia-based artists and artists outside of Philadelphia. Participants include Ron Abram, Amy Adams, Terry Adkins, Sam Belkowitz, Shannon Bowser, Brian Brotman, Gerard Brown, Charles Burns, Mark Campbell, Steve Donegan, Jessica Doyle, Joy Feasley, Susan Fenton, Matthew Fisher, Sherman Fleming, Don Fox, Will Gabaldon, Sarah Gamble, Arthur Gonzales, Patrick Grugan, Susan Hagen, Carolyn Healy, Mary Henderson, M. Ho, Diane Hricko, Richard Hricko, Alex Hughes, Cathleen Hughes, Jane Irish, Jeanne Jaffe, Christianne Kapps, Juliana Espana Keller, Nick Kripal, Kit Layfield, Tristin Lowe, Gabriel Martinez, Sarah McEneaney, Kait Midgett, Susan Moore, Thomas Morrissey, Joshua Mosley, Jack Ofield, Sharyn O’Mara, Michael O’Reilly, Peter Parker, John Phillips, Tom Porett, Cynthia Porter, Andrew Prayzner, Janet Richard, Sarah Roche, James Rosenthal, Ann Seidman, Mark Shetabi, Larry Spaid, Paul Swenbeck, Ira Upin, Jeremy Vaughn, Tony Velez, Bill Walton, Natalie Weiters, Ben Woodward, Sarah Zwerling. The work ranges from small drawings to large paintings to photographs to sound and media art. “All kinds of strategies will be used to reflect the original Operation Rapid American Withdrawal: techniques of resistance, movement through landscape, symbolic props, camaraderie and bigotry, introspection and community conversation, remembrance of the dead and soap box speechmaking, celebrity and nostalgia,” said Irish. “The show will draw its power from contemporary artists’ personal re-imagination of the past.” For further information: www.operationraw.com --Jan Barry
Hi, Enclosed is a heads up on an event you may find of interest. Antiwar Art Show “Antiwar Vietnam veterans inspire art and action”— that’s the aim of an art event that opens Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia, Pa. The decidedly different art show commemorates a march 35 years ago by Vietnam Veterans Against the War from Morristown, NJ, to Valley Forge, Pa. The show is called Operation Rapid American Withdrawal 1970-2005 Exhibition. Comparisons with the war in Iraq are encouraged, says Jane Irish, the show’s organizer. “Visual artists have power, and with this exhibition we will use this power as another democratic check and balance,” Irish, an artist who focuses on social issues and political art, said in a news release. The exhibition is at the Ice Box Project Space, Crane Arts Building, 1400 American Street, Philadelphia. The opening reception is Friday, Sept. 2, at 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. The show runs through Sept. 25 as part of the Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe. An oral history panel is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 3, at 2 p.m., followed by a poetry reading at 4 p.m. The panel includes Tony Velez, a photographer and veteran who recorded the march, other march participants, and filmmaker Jack Ofield. The poetry reading features veteran poets W.D. Ehrhart, Gerald McCarthy and Jan Barry. A 1970 documentary film of the march, Different Sons: Vietnam Remembered, will be shown as a projection loop during the exhibition. The film was made by Ofield, an Emmy Award winning producer, assisted by the New York Film Industry For Peace. Sixty-three artists will present new works reflecting the peace march. Among them are 18-22-year-old soldier-aged artists, veterans of the Vietnam War, Philadelphia-based artists and artists outside of Philadelphia. Participants include Ron Abram, Amy Adams, Terry Adkins, Sam Belkowitz, Shannon Bowser, Brian Brotman, Gerard Brown, Charles Burns, Mark Campbell, Steve Donegan, Jessica Doyle, Joy Feasley, Susan Fenton, Matthew Fisher, Sherman Fleming, Don Fox, Will Gabaldon, Sarah Gamble, Arthur Gonzales, Patrick Grugan, Susan Hagen, Carolyn Healy, Mary Henderson, M. Ho, Diane Hricko, Richard Hricko, Alex Hughes, Cathleen Hughes, Jane Irish, Jeanne Jaffe, Christianne Kapps, Juliana Espana Keller, Nick Kripal, Kit Layfield, Tristin Lowe, Gabriel Martinez, Sarah McEneaney, Kait Midgett, Susan Moore, Thomas Morrissey, Joshua Mosley, Jack Ofield, Sharyn O’Mara, Michael O’Reilly, Peter Parker, John Phillips, Tom Porett, Cynthia Porter, Andrew Prayzner, Janet Richard, Sarah Roche, James Rosenthal, Ann Seidman, Mark Shetabi, Larry Spaid, Paul Swenbeck, Ira Upin, Jeremy Vaughn, Tony Velez, Bill Walton, Natalie Weiters, Ben Woodward, Sarah Zwerling. The work ranges from small drawings to large paintings to photographs to sound and media art. “All kinds of strategies will be used to reflect the original Operation Rapid American Withdrawal: techniques of resistance, movement through landscape, symbolic props, camaraderie and bigotry, introspection and community conversation, remembrance of the dead and soap box speechmaking, celebrity and nostalgia,” said Irish. “The show will draw its power from contemporary artists’ personal re-imagination of the past.” For further information: www.operationraw.com --Jan Barry
Ways Americans Support their G.I.'S?
As you know by now, I am sick and tired of seeing those yellow ribbons on every instant patriot and fad follower's SUV. Think about it, it's ridiculous and hypocritical. This is how we as Americans show support for our G.I.'S? What you say we bring them home to their families instead of putting them in the "SHRUB" fiasco? What you say about not voting for a lieing, idiotic Commander and Chief that would rather blow YOUR $40 million having multiple shindigs instead of assisting the American G.I.'S and their families? Kind of getting the picture here? I sure as he_l hope so - da_n!
How the he_l is putting a stupid made in China yellow ribbon on your ride a sign of any type of support for the American G.I.? Face the facts people it's not, plain and simply put. Let us not forget the beaucoup of hicks that have thought by putting beaucoup of these whacky ribbons (by all means, don't forget the ribbons with US flags and all the other WWE mentality ribbons out there) all over their pick me up trucks, they are more patriotic than the guy in the other rig.(LOL-give me a break)
Got an idea to support our G.I.'S, end the wars. He_l better than that, impeach the "SHRUB" for his lies, deceit, and disregard for the lives of Americans, Iraqis, and everyone affected by his fiasco in Iraq. Until then, sheople out there got to stop looking like hypocritical morons who have effectively ruined his or her car's paint.
Hang Tough~
As you know by now, I am sick and tired of seeing those yellow ribbons on every instant patriot and fad follower's SUV. Think about it, it's ridiculous and hypocritical. This is how we as Americans show support for our G.I.'S? What you say we bring them home to their families instead of putting them in the "SHRUB" fiasco? What you say about not voting for a lieing, idiotic Commander and Chief that would rather blow YOUR $40 million having multiple shindigs instead of assisting the American G.I.'S and their families? Kind of getting the picture here? I sure as he_l hope so - da_n!
How the he_l is putting a stupid made in China yellow ribbon on your ride a sign of any type of support for the American G.I.? Face the facts people it's not, plain and simply put. Let us not forget the beaucoup of hicks that have thought by putting beaucoup of these whacky ribbons (by all means, don't forget the ribbons with US flags and all the other WWE mentality ribbons out there) all over their pick me up trucks, they are more patriotic than the guy in the other rig.(LOL-give me a break)
Got an idea to support our G.I.'S, end the wars. He_l better than that, impeach the "SHRUB" for his lies, deceit, and disregard for the lives of Americans, Iraqis, and everyone affected by his fiasco in Iraq. Until then, sheople out there got to stop looking like hypocritical morons who have effectively ruined his or her car's paint.
Hang Tough~
QUOTE(The_Bammo @ Aug 8 2005, 04:58 PM)
Ways Americans Support their G.I.'S?
As you know by now, I am sick and tired of seeing those yellow ribbons on every instant patriot and fad follower's SUV. Think about it, it's ridiculous and hypocritical. This is how we as Americans show support for our G.I.'S? What you say we bring them home to their families instead of putting them in the "SHRUB" fiasco? What you say about not voting for a lieing, idiotic Commander and Chief that would rather blow YOUR $40 million having multiple shindigs instead of assisting the American G.I.'S and their families? Kind of getting the picture here? I sure as he_l hope so - da_n!
How the he_l is putting a stupid made in China yellow ribbon on your ride a sign of any type of support for the American G.I.? Face the facts people it's not, plain and simply put. Let us not forget the beaucoup of hicks that have thought by putting beaucoup of these whacky ribbons (by all means, don't forget the ribbons with US flags and all the other WWE mentality ribbons out there) all over their pick me up trucks, they are more patriotic than the guy in the other rig.(LOL-give me a break)
Got an idea to support our G.I.'S, end the wars. He_l better than that, impeach the "SHRUB" for his lies, deceit, and disregard for the lives of Americans, Iraqis, and everyone affected by his fiasco in Iraq. Until then, sheople out there got to stop looking like hypocritical morons who have effectively ruined his or her car's paint.
Hang Tough~
As you know by now, I am sick and tired of seeing those yellow ribbons on every instant patriot and fad follower's SUV. Think about it, it's ridiculous and hypocritical. This is how we as Americans show support for our G.I.'S? What you say we bring them home to their families instead of putting them in the "SHRUB" fiasco? What you say about not voting for a lieing, idiotic Commander and Chief that would rather blow YOUR $40 million having multiple shindigs instead of assisting the American G.I.'S and their families? Kind of getting the picture here? I sure as he_l hope so - da_n!
How the he_l is putting a stupid made in China yellow ribbon on your ride a sign of any type of support for the American G.I.? Face the facts people it's not, plain and simply put. Let us not forget the beaucoup of hicks that have thought by putting beaucoup of these whacky ribbons (by all means, don't forget the ribbons with US flags and all the other WWE mentality ribbons out there) all over their pick me up trucks, they are more patriotic than the guy in the other rig.(LOL-give me a break)
Got an idea to support our G.I.'S, end the wars. He_l better than that, impeach the "SHRUB" for his lies, deceit, and disregard for the lives of Americans, Iraqis, and everyone affected by his fiasco in Iraq. Until then, sheople out there got to stop looking like hypocritical morons who have effectively ruined his or her car's paint.
Hang Tough~
Bammo,
I for one really appreciate your passion, and I think every one on this forum is in agreement: the yellow ribbon magnets are pure bushit. Which is precisely why I started this thread.
Marine has posted some 20 charities and support groups that tend directly to the needs of our troops. I started this post with the backpack program, and have supported it directly- as have several others in my activist group, and in this forum- my daughter natskedat included.
I sincerely hope you can also add to this list. Whether it's for activist networks or for support, it makes no difference. It was pinned specifically so that you and others could share your concerns and passions in a way that will make a difference in the lives of men and women who, like us, have chosen to serve our county by service at arms.
Thanks, bro.
WS
QUOTE(Marine @ Jul 17 2005, 05:45 PM)
Today more than 174,000 active duty and 37,000 reserve Marines protect the United States of America, bravely serving our nation in hotbeds of violence like Iraq and Afghanistan.
Their dedication often has a price...there are limits to the amount of funding available. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund was formed to provide supplemental assistance to our Marines, sailors, and their families as they face their road to recovery....
http://www.semperfifund.org/[/b][/size][/color]
Their dedication often has a price...there are limits to the amount of funding available. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund was formed to provide supplemental assistance to our Marines, sailors, and their families as they face their road to recovery....
http://www.semperfifund.org/[/b][/size][/color]
Marine, I donate to those places and I even have a link for doantions to wounded warriors and others in my blog (instead of asking donations for myself as most selfish bloggers do). But I gotta say it is a shame that Presidents (Dems and Repubs alike) start wars without having proper funding to take good care of the people they send to fight in those wars!
I am ashamed that 95% of us Americans keep spending like there's no tomorrow completely oblivious to the sacrifices the other 5% do for our country. This is NOT right! If more of us were called in to share the cost you can bet we wouldn't be having troops spending 2 years without decent armored cars and kevlars...
Thanks for your service and courage BTW.
QUOTE(winston smith @ Aug 8 2005, 11:12 PM)
Bammo,
I for one really appreciate your passion, and I think every one on this forum is in agreement: the yellow ribbon magnets are pure bushit. Which is precisely why I started this thread.
Marine has posted some 20 charities and support groups that tend directly to the needs of our troops. I started this post with the backpack program, and have supported it directly- as have several others in my activist group, and in this forum- my daughter natskedat included.
I sincerely hope you can also add to this list. Whether it's for activist networks or for support, it makes no difference. It was pinned specifically so that you and others could share your concerns and passions in a way that will make a difference in the lives of men and women who, like us, have chosen to serve our county by service at arms.
Thanks, bro.
WS
I for one really appreciate your passion, and I think every one on this forum is in agreement: the yellow ribbon magnets are pure bushit. Which is precisely why I started this thread.
Marine has posted some 20 charities and support groups that tend directly to the needs of our troops. I started this post with the backpack program, and have supported it directly- as have several others in my activist group, and in this forum- my daughter natskedat included.
I sincerely hope you can also add to this list. Whether it's for activist networks or for support, it makes no difference. It was pinned specifically so that you and others could share your concerns and passions in a way that will make a difference in the lives of men and women who, like us, have chosen to serve our county by service at arms.
Thanks, bro.
WS
You know Bro', sending trivial BS to the Troops in Iraq sounds all nice and rosey!
What about the G.I. stationed in Germany, Korea, Afghanistan etc. - forget about those Bro's and Sisters. How about the G.I. stationed here in the States? Think they just might have needs, he_l with their dynamite salaries--they don't need sheet, do they!!
What about the VAMC war a lot will have to fight for their bennies when they get back from the "SHRUB" fiasco? They think IED'S are bad, wait until they hit the VAMC! Trust me on that Bro' -- it is a nightmare!
Waiting logs --backed up claims, no help at the inn -- I know, I see it all the time Bro' - all the free-kin time.
In fact they are sending active duty troops to the VA now, instead of military hospitals.
Just seen one the other day at the White River Junction VAMC in Vermont Bro'.
This dude was messed up really bad, and was hospitalized by a Mental Health Social Worker there.
Upon further investigation, this G.I. was on heavy meds from the VA for his mental health condition which he got in Iraq.
Well Bro', he got a 21 eval. from the VA, but that is all they are giving this dude.
Why -- he is being sent back to Iraq - meds and all.
This is no BS story Bro', it is the truth.
How would you like this dude in back of you, watching your azz while on Head Meds?
That there is the "SHRUB" and Chickenhawk -NeoCon support of the American Troop Bro' -- cannon fodder for their Power and Profit.
These G.I.'S are going to need more than those charities Marine and the rest posted. When they return, which they are!
Are we as Americans going to help them or forget them like was shown in the past?
BS war Bro' - pure BS. Based on lies and fraud!
Tearing up families and marriages. Is this what we call support?
I sure as he_l don't. See them and many more Vet in need at the VAMC and at Vet Standowns! Where the he_l is their support???
Same Ol' Bro' -Same Ol' !
Some things never change!
This is no different - bank on that and collect interest!
Want some links? Here are a few Bro'
http://www.vietnow.com/vietnow.htm
http://www.operationdignity.org/
http://www.kitchentablegang.org/
http://www.bloodlesswounds.org/
http://www.nvlsp.org/
http://www.usvetnet.com/Default.htm
http://www.veteransvoices.org/
http://www.vvaw.org/
http://www.vaiw.org/vet/index.php
http://www.veteransforpeace.org/
http://www.optruth.org/
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/
http://www.vetsforjustice.com/
http://www.vetsresource.com/
http://www.vawatchdog.org/useful%20links%20for%20vets.htm
http://www.yourvabenefits.org/useful%20links.htm
A lot more where they came from!
"America’s vets need action, not more glowing words. Payback begins at home. Our country’s service heroes must be properly looked after before the rest of the world gets any more goodies." Colonel David H. Hackworth
Definition of BAD POLICY: Training your armed forces to break things and kill people...then denying them their VA benefits! -- http://www.yourvabenefits.org/useful%20links.htm
Another thing about this support the Troop fad Bro' - why the he_l is it that a punk azz like Kid Rock can make millions off of Americans?
Then we have the Pro Athletes with their yellow free-kin ribbons on their shirts --courtesy of the NFL-- NBA-- NHL --Baseball etc. making millions upon millions.
And we got to worry if our G.I.'S in a war based on BS is getting enough shaving cream!
Now ain't that just dandy doo Bro'!
Where the he_l do American priorities lie.
We send Americans off to go get killed, wounded, or mind messed up and cannot pay them a damn good wage to do so.
Take care of their families!
What gives there?
Hang Tough~
Bammo,
I don't doubt your veracity nor do I question your passion. I simply don't know what to do- other than what I can with the resources available- until I and everyone on this forum regain control of our government. This is like watching a friggin train wreck: it happens, nothing you can do until after it's done, then you can only do what you can until others join in. It will take cranes and ambulances and hospitals and heavy equipment- and bro, none of us here have any of that kind of stuff. Only congress has the heavy equipment and right now they're keeping most of it away.
Our service to our country is a source of pride, yet those chickenhawks currently in contol give it little if any value. They have been successful in cutting veteran benefits to the point of pain, and only reinstated funds when confronted by men like Kerry and McCain who do respect the men and women in uniform. The men in charge right now give no thought to the lives they place in harm's way. In fact, they denigrate those in uniform at every opportunity- Swift Boats, McCain, McClellan, and Hackett as cases in point.
I don't know if petitions help, nor can I claim with certainty that protest marches change minds. I do know that I can sign a petition and march in a rally, and that I can donate money to an organization who will tend to some of the myriad needs of our armed forces. In looking over the list of service organizations on this thread, I don't see any that are limited strictly to Iraq or Afganistan; they seem to spread their largess worldwide.
I'll do what I can, and the most important thing I can do is try to change the atmosphere and personnel in Washington. I can also do everything possible to bring the people who started this illegal war to justice.
We are, obviously, not on the same page but, bro, we're reading the same book.
WS
I don't doubt your veracity nor do I question your passion. I simply don't know what to do- other than what I can with the resources available- until I and everyone on this forum regain control of our government. This is like watching a friggin train wreck: it happens, nothing you can do until after it's done, then you can only do what you can until others join in. It will take cranes and ambulances and hospitals and heavy equipment- and bro, none of us here have any of that kind of stuff. Only congress has the heavy equipment and right now they're keeping most of it away.
Our service to our country is a source of pride, yet those chickenhawks currently in contol give it little if any value. They have been successful in cutting veteran benefits to the point of pain, and only reinstated funds when confronted by men like Kerry and McCain who do respect the men and women in uniform. The men in charge right now give no thought to the lives they place in harm's way. In fact, they denigrate those in uniform at every opportunity- Swift Boats, McCain, McClellan, and Hackett as cases in point.
I don't know if petitions help, nor can I claim with certainty that protest marches change minds. I do know that I can sign a petition and march in a rally, and that I can donate money to an organization who will tend to some of the myriad needs of our armed forces. In looking over the list of service organizations on this thread, I don't see any that are limited strictly to Iraq or Afganistan; they seem to spread their largess worldwide.
I'll do what I can, and the most important thing I can do is try to change the atmosphere and personnel in Washington. I can also do everything possible to bring the people who started this illegal war to justice.
We are, obviously, not on the same page but, bro, we're reading the same book.
WS
Can't afford a cash donation? Then think about this route for service to your country.
Volunteer work proves worthwhile for Camp Pendleton resident
Submitted by: MCB Camp Pendleton
Story by: Computed Name: Lance Cpl. Renee Krusemark
Story Identification #: 200581111150
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.(Aug. 11, 2005) -- In a time full of base closures and budget cuts, volunteer work can prove to be a useful tool to base-generating a monetary value that is no trivial matter.
One woman has donated more than 7,800 hours of her time as a volunteer on base, an unselfish effort that is worth more than $132,000 to Camp Pendleton. Not only has the base recognized this achievement, so has the president.
Lisa Wright was awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award for lifetime achievement last month. Wright is the only Camp Pendleton volunteer to receive the award since George W. Bush established it in January 2002. The award calls for at least 4,000 hours of volunteer work. Wright gave almost double that number.
“It’s a very big award,” said Carmen Carlisle, volunteer program manager at Marine Corps Community Services. “When we called to request the award, it took a long time. It’s one of the highest recognitions for volunteers.”
Wright started her volunteer work in 1997, when she started working at the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society. She continued her service in other areas, such as being a Leadership Education Seminar facilitator, a LINKS mentor, and a key volunteer.
“I started volunteering to keep up my teaching skills,” said Wright, who taught English and drama for nine years before marrying into the Marine Corps family. “I became hooked when I saw how much it helps military families.”
Wright worked as the Chairman of Volunteers at NMCRS, where she not only volunteered her time, she also provided leadership to others.
“Her work was extremely important,” said Michael Hire, director of NMCRS. “She basically managed the volunteer forces.”
Volunteers provide most of the services and work needed at NMCRS and are “extremely important to get the job done,” Hire said.
Although it’s impossible to calculate the number of lives Wright has touched, Hire estimated that she impacted a few hundred volunteers and more than 500 clients at NMCRS alone.
Wright may have found satisfaction in helping others, but it wasn’t the only perk of volunteering.
“I didn’t want to live parallel to my husband’s life,” said Wright, who is married to Staff Sgt. Jeff Wright of 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. “I found out more about the military, and it took pressure off my husband to educate me.”
Volunteering is definitely a pastime Wright recommends to other Marine Corps spouses, as it has connected her to both the community and to her husband.
“Volunteering definitely means you have to have commitment,” said Carlisle of Wright’s services. “She deserves the award with all the work she has done. She has touched so many lives.”
Wright says volunteering was a key way for her to get through her husband’s deployments, the most recent one which occurred over their ninth wedding anniversary. Although Wright doesn’t plan on quitting her volunteering services, she has cut back to take care of the couple’s 6-year-old daughter and 3-year-old son.
“I wish more people would volunteer,” Wright said. “It makes life easier to live.”
Volunteer work proves worthwhile for Camp Pendleton resident
http://www.marines.mil/marinelink/mcn2000....5a?OpenDocument
Volunteer work proves worthwhile for Camp Pendleton resident
Submitted by: MCB Camp Pendleton
Story by: Computed Name: Lance Cpl. Renee Krusemark
Story Identification #: 200581111150
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.(Aug. 11, 2005) -- In a time full of base closures and budget cuts, volunteer work can prove to be a useful tool to base-generating a monetary value that is no trivial matter.
One woman has donated more than 7,800 hours of her time as a volunteer on base, an unselfish effort that is worth more than $132,000 to Camp Pendleton. Not only has the base recognized this achievement, so has the president.
Lisa Wright was awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award for lifetime achievement last month. Wright is the only Camp Pendleton volunteer to receive the award since George W. Bush established it in January 2002. The award calls for at least 4,000 hours of volunteer work. Wright gave almost double that number.
“It’s a very big award,” said Carmen Carlisle, volunteer program manager at Marine Corps Community Services. “When we called to request the award, it took a long time. It’s one of the highest recognitions for volunteers.”
Wright started her volunteer work in 1997, when she started working at the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society. She continued her service in other areas, such as being a Leadership Education Seminar facilitator, a LINKS mentor, and a key volunteer.
“I started volunteering to keep up my teaching skills,” said Wright, who taught English and drama for nine years before marrying into the Marine Corps family. “I became hooked when I saw how much it helps military families.”
Wright worked as the Chairman of Volunteers at NMCRS, where she not only volunteered her time, she also provided leadership to others.
“Her work was extremely important,” said Michael Hire, director of NMCRS. “She basically managed the volunteer forces.”
Volunteers provide most of the services and work needed at NMCRS and are “extremely important to get the job done,” Hire said.
Although it’s impossible to calculate the number of lives Wright has touched, Hire estimated that she impacted a few hundred volunteers and more than 500 clients at NMCRS alone.
Wright may have found satisfaction in helping others, but it wasn’t the only perk of volunteering.
“I didn’t want to live parallel to my husband’s life,” said Wright, who is married to Staff Sgt. Jeff Wright of 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. “I found out more about the military, and it took pressure off my husband to educate me.”
Volunteering is definitely a pastime Wright recommends to other Marine Corps spouses, as it has connected her to both the community and to her husband.
“Volunteering definitely means you have to have commitment,” said Carlisle of Wright’s services. “She deserves the award with all the work she has done. She has touched so many lives.”
Wright says volunteering was a key way for her to get through her husband’s deployments, the most recent one which occurred over their ninth wedding anniversary. Although Wright doesn’t plan on quitting her volunteering services, she has cut back to take care of the couple’s 6-year-old daughter and 3-year-old son.
“I wish more people would volunteer,” Wright said. “It makes life easier to live.”
Volunteer work proves worthwhile for Camp Pendleton resident
http://www.marines.mil/marinelink/mcn2000....5a?OpenDocument
Station volunteers honored
Submitted by: MCAS Yuma
Story Identification #: 20055716655
Story by Lance Cpl. Natasha S. Green
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. (May 5, 2005) -- Marine Corps Community Services held the fifth annual Volunteer Appreciation Award Event at the Sonoran Pueblo Consolidated Club here April 28.
The purpose of the event was to recognize personnel who volunteered their time and efforts to benefit the station community.
There are about 385 volunteers aboard station, including civilian spouses, retirees and active duty service members and their families, and nearly one quarter of those volunteers were recognized at the event, said Tracey Hughes, station volunteer coordinator.
During the award ceremony, guest speakers mentioned the importance of volunteer services to the community, and awards were presented to more than 175 volunteers in attendance.
Many of the station's support services and divisions, including the American Red Cross, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, Boy Scouts, Young Marines Program, Family Services, Key Volunteer Network, Marine Corps Family Team Building, had volunteers recognized during the event.
The volunteers assist service members and their families in a variety of fields including finance, parenting, leisure and even dealing with domestic violence.
"We organized this event to show appreciation to these people for all of the hard work they put in," said Hughes. "They volunteer because it is personally rewarding for them. This event serves as an end result of their good deeds."
Hughes said although the station's support services and divisions hold their own personnel appreciation events, this one was essential because they were all gathered together and commended at the same place and time. This gave the volunteers an opportunity to meet with each other and celebrate their accomplishments together.
One of the NMCRS volunteers, Lynn Bankard, said she encourages anyone with spare time to volunteer on station.
"It is very gratifying to be able to help Marines," said Bankard. "It has helped me grow as a person and it has brought a lot out of me. It feels good when someone comes to me and says they are having a problem and I am able to help them."
Col. James J. Cooney, station commanding officer, was one of the guest speakers during the ceremony.
In the three years he has been on station, Cooney estimates that he has signed nearly one thousand certificates. He said he never finds the task tedious, because he considers it an honor to personally thank the volunteers for their contributions.
"I truly appreciate the great work they have done on behalf of this community," said Cooney.
The roles volunteers assume each day are essential to station service members and their families, and these roles do not go unrecognized, said Cooney.
Sherri Coble, MCFTB manager, said she is thankful to be appreciated for her volunteer efforts. Her role as a station volunteer has helped her support her spouse, who is a Marine, while he supports the country, and she is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to her community, she said.
"People will not care how much you know until they know how much you care," said Coble.
To volunteer or for more information, call Tracey Hughes, volunteer coordinator, at 269-5233.
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf...ht=2,volunteers
Submitted by: MCAS Yuma
Story Identification #: 20055716655
Story by Lance Cpl. Natasha S. Green
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. (May 5, 2005) -- Marine Corps Community Services held the fifth annual Volunteer Appreciation Award Event at the Sonoran Pueblo Consolidated Club here April 28.
The purpose of the event was to recognize personnel who volunteered their time and efforts to benefit the station community.
There are about 385 volunteers aboard station, including civilian spouses, retirees and active duty service members and their families, and nearly one quarter of those volunteers were recognized at the event, said Tracey Hughes, station volunteer coordinator.
During the award ceremony, guest speakers mentioned the importance of volunteer services to the community, and awards were presented to more than 175 volunteers in attendance.
Many of the station's support services and divisions, including the American Red Cross, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, Boy Scouts, Young Marines Program, Family Services, Key Volunteer Network, Marine Corps Family Team Building, had volunteers recognized during the event.
The volunteers assist service members and their families in a variety of fields including finance, parenting, leisure and even dealing with domestic violence.
"We organized this event to show appreciation to these people for all of the hard work they put in," said Hughes. "They volunteer because it is personally rewarding for them. This event serves as an end result of their good deeds."
Hughes said although the station's support services and divisions hold their own personnel appreciation events, this one was essential because they were all gathered together and commended at the same place and time. This gave the volunteers an opportunity to meet with each other and celebrate their accomplishments together.
One of the NMCRS volunteers, Lynn Bankard, said she encourages anyone with spare time to volunteer on station.
"It is very gratifying to be able to help Marines," said Bankard. "It has helped me grow as a person and it has brought a lot out of me. It feels good when someone comes to me and says they are having a problem and I am able to help them."
Col. James J. Cooney, station commanding officer, was one of the guest speakers during the ceremony.
In the three years he has been on station, Cooney estimates that he has signed nearly one thousand certificates. He said he never finds the task tedious, because he considers it an honor to personally thank the volunteers for their contributions.
"I truly appreciate the great work they have done on behalf of this community," said Cooney.
The roles volunteers assume each day are essential to station service members and their families, and these roles do not go unrecognized, said Cooney.
Sherri Coble, MCFTB manager, said she is thankful to be appreciated for her volunteer efforts. Her role as a station volunteer has helped her support her spouse, who is a Marine, while he supports the country, and she is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to her community, she said.
"People will not care how much you know until they know how much you care," said Coble.
To volunteer or for more information, call Tracey Hughes, volunteer coordinator, at 269-5233.
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf...ht=2,volunteers
This should happen every day, not just on Memorial Day.
Operation Gratitude gears up for
shipment
Submitted by: American Forces Press Service
Story Identification #: 200561771430
Story by Mr. Steven Donald Smith
Washington (June 16, 2005) -- Over the Memorial Day weekend, "Operation Gratitude" assembled and shipped almost 20,000 care packages to deployed troops as part of its "Patriotic Drive," the group is gearing up for another big push.
During the weekend of June 18-19, volunteers will put together and ship thousands of additional care packages loaded with an assortment of items, including snacks, Girl Scout cookies, DVDs, CDs, games, T-shirts, phone cards, and personal letters of support.
Carolyn Blashek started Operation Gratitude in March 2003, after talking to several servicemembers who were on their way to Iraq. Blashek felt the care packages would boost their morale and be a reminder to the troops that folks back home supported them, she said.
"While they are so far away from home, I want our troops to know that Americans all across the country remember and respect them for their service and their sacrifice," she said.
To cut down on overhead expenses, Carolyn's Encino, Calif., home serves as the operation's business office. The sorting, packing and shipping are all done at the nearby California Army National Guard Armory in Van Nuys.
The nonprofit organization has thus far sent almost 65,000 packages to servicemembers serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Bosnia, Korea and Kosovo, as well as to numerous ships, she said.
Individuals, organizations, schools, community groups, businesses and corporate sponsors have donated all of the items in the care packages. Shipping expenses are covered by financial contributions from citizens and businesses, Blashek said.
"When I first started Operation Gratitude, my only focus was on reaching the troops. What I did not expect was the groundswell of support and interest from Americans all across the country." Blashek said. "I am delighted that Operation Gratitude is providing a means for Americans of all ages to participate in this effort."
As long as the U.S. has forces deployed around the world the effort will continue unabated, she said.
"Many troops have told me that they expect to receive letters and packages from their family, but to receive something from total strangers confirms their commitment to our country and their belief in the American people," she said.
Blashek and Operation Gratitude have been the recipients of a little gratitude themselves. They have received many thank you e-mail messages from troops.
"I just want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your support and contribution to the care packages that our soldiers have received during Operation Iraqi Freedom. It is indeed a pleasure and an honor to have this type of patriotic appreciation displayed by a loving and caring American society," wrote an Army sergeant major.
Blashek says that letters like this make the project extremely gratifying and make her appreciate her freedom that much more.
"Not a moment of my day goes by that I do not appreciate that I am able to live in freedom and security because brave men and women in uniform have volunteered to serve our country," she said. "It is an honor for me to send these small expressions of enormous gratitude."
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf...9f?OpenDocument
Operation Gratitude gears up for
shipment
Submitted by: American Forces Press Service
Story Identification #: 200561771430
Story by Mr. Steven Donald Smith
Washington (June 16, 2005) -- Over the Memorial Day weekend, "Operation Gratitude" assembled and shipped almost 20,000 care packages to deployed troops as part of its "Patriotic Drive," the group is gearing up for another big push.
During the weekend of June 18-19, volunteers will put together and ship thousands of additional care packages loaded with an assortment of items, including snacks, Girl Scout cookies, DVDs, CDs, games, T-shirts, phone cards, and personal letters of support.
Carolyn Blashek started Operation Gratitude in March 2003, after talking to several servicemembers who were on their way to Iraq. Blashek felt the care packages would boost their morale and be a reminder to the troops that folks back home supported them, she said.
"While they are so far away from home, I want our troops to know that Americans all across the country remember and respect them for their service and their sacrifice," she said.
To cut down on overhead expenses, Carolyn's Encino, Calif., home serves as the operation's business office. The sorting, packing and shipping are all done at the nearby California Army National Guard Armory in Van Nuys.
The nonprofit organization has thus far sent almost 65,000 packages to servicemembers serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Bosnia, Korea and Kosovo, as well as to numerous ships, she said.
Individuals, organizations, schools, community groups, businesses and corporate sponsors have donated all of the items in the care packages. Shipping expenses are covered by financial contributions from citizens and businesses, Blashek said.
"When I first started Operation Gratitude, my only focus was on reaching the troops. What I did not expect was the groundswell of support and interest from Americans all across the country." Blashek said. "I am delighted that Operation Gratitude is providing a means for Americans of all ages to participate in this effort."
As long as the U.S. has forces deployed around the world the effort will continue unabated, she said.
"Many troops have told me that they expect to receive letters and packages from their family, but to receive something from total strangers confirms their commitment to our country and their belief in the American people," she said.
Blashek and Operation Gratitude have been the recipients of a little gratitude themselves. They have received many thank you e-mail messages from troops.
"I just want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your support and contribution to the care packages that our soldiers have received during Operation Iraqi Freedom. It is indeed a pleasure and an honor to have this type of patriotic appreciation displayed by a loving and caring American society," wrote an Army sergeant major.
Blashek says that letters like this make the project extremely gratifying and make her appreciate her freedom that much more.
"Not a moment of my day goes by that I do not appreciate that I am able to live in freedom and security because brave men and women in uniform have volunteered to serve our country," she said. "It is an honor for me to send these small expressions of enormous gratitude."
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf...9f?OpenDocument
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