Fearing Obama-bashing, Army limits media access to Palin event at Fort Bragg
posted at 8:17 pm on November 19, 2009 by Allahpundit
Via theblogprof. Believe it or not, they actually banned the media entirely at first.
[Fort Bragg spokesman Tom] McCollum said the Army did not want the Monday event to become a platform to express political opinions “directed against the commander in chief.”
“The main reason is to stop this from turning into a political platform,” he said. “There are Army regulations that basically prohibit military reservations from becoming political platforms by politicians.”
He said only one politician can use that platform, “and that person does it as our commander in chief.”…
“This will stop someone from grandstanding,” he said. Other members of the public would be permitted to attend.
The AP and a local paper put up a fuss so the base relented and is now granting limited access — provided that neither Palin herself nor anyone else there is interviewed. They’re not worried about Sarahcuda, I don’t think; hopefully, she’s disinclined to bash the C-in-C in front of a military audience. They’re worried about conservative troops chattering with each other about politics, getting worked up, and then being roped in by reporters eager for an anti-Obama quote or two to prove that the right-wingers in the military hate America or whatever. NPR argues that it’s stupid to ban the press since anyone who wants to grandstand publicly about The One is going to do so anyway on YouTube, but (a) it’s a lot more embarrassing to the military if it happens at a base-sponsored event and (b) being with like-minded people at a political gathering is apt to entice some troops who might not otherwise say anything into speaking up.
A question for troops and vets: Are media bans when political figures drop by a common thing? And how limited are you in offering political opinions when you’re on base? I know that opining while in uniform is a no-no, but presumably this crowd will be in civilian dress. If so, can your C.O. order you to keep your mouth shut during the book signing because you’re on military property (civilian dress or no) or can you speak freely once you’re off-duty? I’m guessing it’s the latter or else there’d be no need for a media blackout, would there?
Blowback
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That is the point, though, our military has no such provision.
Squid Shark on November 19, 2009 at 10:49 PM
Really? What would happen if a US President tried to stay in office beyond two terms? I’m honestly asking. It seems like the military would have to get involved, if he refused to vacate the WH.
Anyway, I’m just saying that while it might be not be persuasive to compare Obama to Zelaya (despite the former’s support of the latter), it doesn’t imply support of an illegal military overthrow of the US government. Because that’s not what happened in Honduras.
Missy on November 19, 2009 at 10:55 PM
The troops will be visiting Mr. Obama soon. Think Honduras
bill30097 on November 19, 2009 at 10:09 PM
No, this will never happen. Our military would not do this. I condemn this remark.
ted c on November 19, 2009 at 10:57 PM
You mean instead of sitting around and complaining while expecting the government to bail you out (even though they were supposed to since you signed up) you all took matters into your own hands and figured out a way to make things work.
Just another example of why the American Soldier is the prime example of leadership and ingenuity in our society.
Baxter Greene on November 19, 2009 at 10:57 PM
poor harry
he misses the point entirely. Our Hip Hop Prez, makin’ with the “shoutouts” before addressing the worst terrorist attack on US soil since 9/11 and the warriors and unborn child that died as a result of it denigrates and belittles the office of the POTUS in ways that no citizen could ever manage.
And you clearly have no concept of reality, on this plane at least, if you can draw any kind of moral equivalence tweenst potential criticism of our POS POTUS by a free Citizen of the Republic and Fondas clearly and undeniably traitorous acts of giving aid and comfort to the enemy during a time of war. According to Obama, we are not at war…we are involved in an “overseas contingency operation”. Yes? So what’s yer beef?
How old are you? History did not begin with your birth.
Army Brat on November 19, 2009 at 10:59 PM
But that is still an amazingly extreme circumstance. The situation in Honduras was the military acting within its constitutional duty of election enforcement.
Squid Shark on November 19, 2009 at 10:59 PM
I’m flattered that enjoy shouting my name. My wife generally does that but, unfortunately, she hasn’t done it with such obvious pleasure in a long while. These days it’s always in anger. In fact, I can’t even remember ….
As for your intuition and empathy as to who I identify with … well … let’s just say you’d probably make a poor psychologist. No offense of course. Especially if you are a crazy shrink. (Hey. How ’bout that guy, huh?)
But enough chit chat. Let’s cut to the chase.
I don’t know you. You could be a Harriett for all know and care. But based upon your few comments here which are filled pretty much with self-righteous indignation, wild assertions, and dubious affiliations, I know that I’m glad I don’t know you.
Because of you hand-wringing drivel, I’ve come to the opinion that you are a pompous, ignorant twit. It was apparent at the start when you compared Palin to Fonda.
No one with any military background past, present, or future would make such an idiotic comparison. As a Vietnam era vet, I find your comments extremely insulting and it makes me exceedingly angry that you would compare anyone to this traitorous wretch of human being who giggled and laughed with the Viet Cong while I was nearly getting my ass shot off by her party mates.
So screw you and your very existence. You are hereby known, at least in my book, as Harry the Troll. Congratulations.
Rod on November 19, 2009 at 11:01 PM
Honestly I am not sure but I don’t think so.
The rule was you can not speak publicly, as a representative of the US Military/Government.
F15Mech on November 19, 2009 at 11:03 PM
No one knows how to improvise better then the US Military.
F15Mech on November 19, 2009 at 11:05 PM
Sure it is. I guess I’m saying I’ve read dozens of comments on HotAir joking about Obama doing away with elections. That’s what I think the commmenter was referring to, was Zelaya getting bounced for acting illegally, not a deliberate military overthrow.
Missy on November 19, 2009 at 11:05 PM
No, this will never happen. Our military would not do this. I condemn this remark.
ted c on November 19, 2009 at 10:57 PM
Really? You would let a Zelaya disregard the Constitution and remain as President…no resistance?
Where are you from? The US? Care you so little for the liberty that others have died for you to enjoy that you would surrender them so quickly, so easily?
Get a clue… Your liberties will slip through your fingers if you don’t pay attention.
Army Brat on November 19, 2009 at 11:09 PM
For a remark like this – you should be banned – immediately.
AprilOrit on November 19, 2009 at 11:10 PM
The thread-hijacking troll has accomplished his mission.
OhioCoastie on November 19, 2009 at 11:13 PM
Thanks Rod…you speak for me regarding harry. My brother was in Nam when that despicable bitch was having fun with the enemy. He made it home with just a couple of holes in him. That bitch should be rotting in prison to this day for her treachery.
Army Brat on November 19, 2009 at 11:14 PM
Hey, harry! Chew on this, champ.
OhioCoastie on November 19, 2009 at 11:22 PM
….while their democratic leaders were taking hundreds of thousands of dollars from the code pinks,Answer,and move on activists that sponsored these anti-military events.
Baxter Greene on November 19, 2009 at 10:18 PM
Baxter Greene: Yup!!:)
canopfor on November 19, 2009 at 11:24 PM
The troops will be visiting Mr. Obama soon. Think Honduras
bill30097 on November 19, 2009 at 10:09 PM
For a remark like this – you should be banned – immediately.
AprilOrit on November 19, 2009 at 11:10 PM
I may not agree with what is posted, but I’m really glad that you are not the judge of who should or should not be banned…immediately or otherwise.
With ACORN, SEIU and all the other little armies at his command growing in strength and number as well as the numerous other “community organizations” …I kinda wonder, well…no…I kinda worry about what he may have planned.
Should I also be banned for thinking thusly? Or…can I think what I want as long as I don’t post my thoughts here?
Does this post of mine here meet your standards? I’m really worried now…
Army Brat on November 19, 2009 at 11:29 PM
Interesting…
Connie on November 19, 2009 at 11:35 PM
Uh, the military. They’re the ones with the guns. Face. Aim Fire.
Coronagold on November 19, 2009 at 11:35 PM
Thanks for your reply.
I got the impression that they made sure that they were speaking for themselves.
I second that.
Another great time to use your :
liberal spin,lie,and yadda..yadda…yadda..line that I wish I could remember.
Baxter Greene on November 19, 2009 at 11:41 PM
Re: treason. I’d like someone to define “enemy.” All nations are expected to act in their own self-interest.
Connie on November 19, 2009 at 11:51 PM
The left blogs were calling the base all day to stop her from using “tax” dollars to promote her book. *haha
AnninCA on November 19, 2009 at 11:57 PM
Gotta do it
Connie on November 19, 2009 at 11:59 PM
She just pushes ALL the right buttons.
Loves it!
Mr Purple on November 20, 2009 at 12:02 AM
Base protocol and public affairs offices work with the news people and set the parameters partly based on the politician’s preference.
Since Palin is not a politician but rather an author the base can determine what it will or won’t allow with safety of the base in mind. Let one author in with an entourage of news reporters and they have to defend why other authors aren’t treated exactly the same.
Not that limited – lots of people live on base and the thought police don’t patrol the housing areas.
They can’t tell them to be quiet as long as the mil members are not in uniform. If it is an official visit by a politician or military officer they can set the ground rules for what is and isn’t allowed and tightly script those visits based on the VIP’s wishes. By tightly scripted they are normally surrounded by uniformed members and not onlookers in civvies.
Bradky on November 20, 2009 at 12:02 AM
LOL Palin talking Politics infront of Media at Fort Bragg is bad. KSM praising Allah and calling for the death of America at a trial in the heart of NYC, infront of the world, is ok.
And we think Obama’s priorities are out of order.
Rbastid on November 20, 2009 at 12:03 AM
I’m glad the media was kept at bay. They would have loved to get some anti-Obama comments on the record from a soldier or two. That would have given them the chance to bash the military and decry right-wing “hate.”
jonezee on November 20, 2009 at 12:04 AM
If her purpose of visiting the base is to talk politics she shouldn’t be allowed to go. She has media more than willing to interview her for her political views.
Bradky on November 20, 2009 at 12:06 AM
You underestimate the professionalism of the men and women in uniform.
Bradky on November 20, 2009 at 12:07 AM
The royalties from the book will be donated to the family members of those who lost their lives and were injured in the attack.
It’s all good.
AnninCA on November 20, 2009 at 12:08 AM
Make it clear what that really means. One stop and whatever royalties she gets in the Ft Hood area. Mil families buy book and royalties given back to them. Not such a grand gesture when looked at that way is it?
from http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/2009/11/19/2009-11-19_sarah_palin_rolls_going_rogue_book_tour_to_fort_hood.html
Bradky on November 20, 2009 at 12:13 AM
I can’t imagine how a donation of that magnitude is not viewed as positive. In fact, it’s absurd to view it as negative.
Paul Newman’s product are sold and the profits go to support a host of wonderful efforts, and I’ve sure never heard anyone suggest that’s not “grand.”
It’s exactly the same thing.
The pettiness of demeaning a contribution is something that I simply cannot fathom. Regardless of politics, the families deserve better.
AnninCA on November 20, 2009 at 12:17 AM
Just setting the record straight – big difference in
“The royalties from the book will be donated to the family members of those who lost their lives and were injured in the attack.” which implies all royalties versus a few hundred collected from the Ft. Hood community.
Your comment about the families makes no sense in your comment – the point was about what Palin’s real contribution was versus your sweeping statement.
Bradky on November 20, 2009 at 12:21 AM
I left that out. I thought it went without saying. Guess not.
AnninCA on November 20, 2009 at 12:25 AM
Don’t worry, bill. No one listens nor cares what April has to say.
HornetSting on November 20, 2009 at 12:42 AM
Army Brat, I couldn’t agree more–
AprilOrit calling for someone to be banned? Yeah, that’s RICH, considering AprilOrit’s words (for which s/he was NOT BANNED):
NightmareOnKStreet on November 20, 2009 at 12:55 AM
heh: I don’t normally get involved in flame wars… at least not my own… but
Rod on November 19, 2009 at 11:01 PM
That was a pretty good take down.
Elastic Jordan on November 20, 2009 at 12:57 AM
I wonder if any of the military media outlets will cover it…?
CP on November 20, 2009 at 1:03 AM
I hope Sarah shows up in camo.
The troops already know where she stands compared to Photo Op-bama.
“Pal-ing around with terrorists” indeed.
profitsbeard on November 20, 2009 at 1:33 AM
Sarah Palin being Commander-in-Chief in Kosovo:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4s9mJWA2rI&feature=PlayList&p=E571D93EEA22C4D9&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=2
gary4205 on November 20, 2009 at 1:35 AM
The media ban is unusual enough to raise eyebrows, but not unheard of. As for whether the order came from DC or from a lower level commander, I don’t think you can know from the outside. Feel free to speculate, but it’s just speculation.
Unusual or not, though, it’s unnecessary. It may well be just an over-reaction from some officer who’s worried about some minor comment reflecting badly on him. Yes, some officers are just that over-cautious.
There Goes The Neighborhood on November 20, 2009 at 1:37 AM
It’s not on or off base.
You can have any opinion political you want.
However you can not use your Military Rank service or uniform to promote it.
Example, letters to the editor.
I’m “CPO joe blow” and I think the policy of XXX is really stupid.
Major problem, now what you can say
I’m “joe blow” and I think the policy of XXX is really stupid.
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 3:21 AM
Why wood the military get involved?
Are you aware the country has cops?
The Military is not allowed to do domestic law enforcement.
Been that way since 1878
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 3:28 AM
True. Basically the military is intended, by design “Apolitical.
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 3:38 AM
Its only a no no IF you use your Rank, military title or are wearing your uniform when you do it.
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 4:04 AM
If only Hasan been a conservative, they could have stopped that kind of extremism..
the_nile on November 20, 2009 at 4:26 AM
.
Yawn, I didn’t read most of your rant.
I stand by my comment. If she denigrates the CIC while on a military base she = Fonda.
Pretty simple.
harry on November 20, 2009 at 6:39 AM
What? I thought she’s just irrelevant and just a “future talk show hos” like Huckabee?
So what’s the fuss?
TheAlamos on November 20, 2009 at 7:07 AM
Whatever.
This was, more than likely, an indirect order from the Palin Watchdogs in the White House. And they’re desperately worried how invigorated the troops will appear in front of the camera, and how Palin’s image will be enhanced when the truth of the troop’s disposition toward her is the background…..
……and Spokesman Tom McCollum’s statement that “the Army did not want the Monday event to become a platform to express political opinions ‘
‘” was a brilliant way to “give the sign of coercion”.
Nice work reading between the lines, Connie.
Saltysam on November 20, 2009 at 7:59 AM
More PC from the base CO. He probably got a call from Gates who got a call from Rahm. See how this works. The Chicago way in action to clear the playing field. Their game, their rules.
Kissmygrits on November 20, 2009 at 10:03 AM
It’s a long-standing hard-ball policy that there is no politicking on military installations. It doesn’t matter who’s the Commander in Chief. He or she can visit a military post because he or she’s the boss, but there are no political arguments or dissing of the boss on his own turf. That’s just the way it is and should be. Sarah would surely be critical of Obama in some ways while on Ft Bragg ~ she’s promoting a book presumably full of criticism of him ~ so it’s just policy that she not be able to soap box this event. I agree with her, I’m on her side but it is a good military policy. Admirals and Generals do not disclose their political leanings or support any candidate for exactly the same reason. It ain’t treason.
Undaunted on November 20, 2009 at 10:31 AM
I was in the Navy/DoD through 5 presidents (Carter – Bush II). The only time I remember the skipper “briefing” us to not say anything negative was when Carter and Clinton came to visit. Especially Clinton. We were told that if any of our people in the squadron said anything negative about Clinton there would be severe punishment (Capt Mast or Courts martial). When Reagan, BushI, and BushII came aboard, there was NO brief. Wasn’t necessary. The Master at Arms and security would have to lock arms to keep the adoring sailors from crushing the presidents. Military people know who supports them and who doesn’t.
Bevan on November 20, 2009 at 10:45 AM
Yes, we most certainly do…
Khun Joe on November 20, 2009 at 11:12 AM
Umm, you might run that by Janet Reno and the Clintons re: Waco.
OkieDoc on November 20, 2009 at 11:14 AM
I’ve seen video of the troops’ reaction to GWB’s 2003 Thanksgiving visit to Iraq. Those guys and girls raised the roof and there is no way it was staged.
Exactly.
We are in trouble, but the Armed Forces’ restriction of the free speech of its members is not a symptom of it. See enlistment contract and UCMJ.
Some mentioned that the officers don’t trust their subordinates. Um, hello? How about they totally “trust” their troops and throw out the rules altogether? We’ll see how well the mission gets accomplished then.
It’s not a matter of trust. The military knows what it has on its hands as C-in-C and I bet there are a lot of epithets flying around about him behind closed doors among the officer corps and the senior enlisted. But the have enough self-discipline to keep it there. Conversely, many young enlisted persons haven’t had a long time to develop their self-discipline. The commanders are merely trying to protect them–and themselves.
baldilocks on November 20, 2009 at 11:14 AM
When my husband was on active duty, the CO of his squadron had to order people to be part of the ‘welcoming’ committee for Clinton when he came to base. A few of the poor JO’s ended up having to do it, because none of the more senior guys wanted to. My husband and the others got to come home early, since they didn’t even want to run the risk of having to come into contact with the man. Respect for the CiC…it’s a good thing, but definitely not a given. Of course, they respect the position, but not always the man filling it.
pannw on November 20, 2009 at 11:23 AM
We’ve had a number of people, some controversial, come to the Base for book signings. Oliver North and Newt Gingrich are a couple of examples. I’ve never heard of press restrictions being put on those events.
That said, no non-goverment civilian has a right to come on base and the Base Commander can institute any restrictions he desires in order to protect the base or maintain good order and discipline. (If he goes too far or is out of line he is always subject to being overruled by superiors) Recently at Camp Lejeune the Base CG banned a man from coming on base because he deemed the bumper stickers on the man’s car as overly critical of the President. Just the Base Commander’s opinion, and he was upheld.
I think this was a local decision from a Base Commander who was being realistic and prudent. He knows darn well that the vast majority of the military (and probably even more so at a place like Ft Bragg) do not care for this administration. And, you have a visit from what is probably the Presidents most visible opponent. I do not believe that Ms. Palin would intentionally whip up the crowd or try to create an incident. But, the last thing that Base Commander wanted was pictures and video of his troops booing the President. Probably would not happen, but you never know.
The bit about what you can do in uniform and out is mostly not worth talking about. (There are a few specifics) But, you are a Marine 24 hours a day no matter where you are or what you are wearing. Voting and expressing political opinions in social gatherings is fine. Taking part in political campaigns is not. Shoot, I wouldn’t even put a bumper sticker on my car or a yard sign out front because I did not want to be seen as trying to influence the troops. But, I always vote.
SoonerMarine on November 20, 2009 at 12:21 PM
The Army is more concerned about Sarah Palin than it was about known Jihadist Nidal Malik Hasan.
Great priorities.
Sarah will serve as Obama’s foil for the next 3 years.
She will dictate a large part of the agenda and he will be forced to repeatedly respond to her common sense remarks and ideas.
molonlabe28 on November 20, 2009 at 12:33 PM
Hey Missy,
Scenario 1 – An election occures and the incumbent President looses and refuses to leave office.
The military would simply refuse to obey any of his orders following the inaugration of the new President on the grounds that they are, by definition illegal orders and would obey the orders of the new President.
Scenario 2 – The President refuses to even have an election.
It would then be up to the people of the many states to take up arms and march on Washington DC and remove that President and any Politicians that support him. I believe that the military would refuse any orders that would have them combatting the people for the same reason as stated above, i.e., they would be illegal orders and also the military takes an oath to preserve and protect the Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. The military would consider a President that does this as a domestic enemy of the Constitution.
Brown James on November 20, 2009 at 12:38 PM
Thanks, Brown James, for the info. It’s all hypothetical of course but I appreciate your take on the scenarios.
Missy on November 20, 2009 at 12:49 PM
Please accept my apologies. I didn’t know you suffered from ADHD.
Try this. I’ve no idea if it will help but at least you’ll get a $50 discount.
Now, considering your disability, I’ll keep this short.
(Harry, if you find yourself distracted and drifting, just jump here. If this point of my “rant” is still too much information to digest, jump to the next paragraph I’ve helpfully noted for you.)
You, Harry the Troll, are a fool and a very poor liar who, despite the fact the you apparently don’t like Jane Fonda, shares with her many of her abnormal traits and characteristics. You share none of Sarah Palin’s.
(The following is the simplest, most easily comprehended section. Read it aloud for better focus and comprehension. In fact, I’d suggest you read it aloud while in the company of others – for instance, in your office cubicle. Those that hear it will, I’m sure, reinforce the statement.)
“I am an inconsequential turd lying on the sidewalk of life who’s only value is to provide my betters a moments rest as they pause to scrape me from their shoe.”
Make it this far? Good boy Harry the Troll!
I declare this conversation over as I hereby scrape you from my shoe.
Rod on November 20, 2009 at 12:52 PM
***
The ban on political demonstrations on a military post makes sense to me. The Army should not be taking part in political catfights.
***
The good Military Personnel are not stupid. Watch the videos of their faces when they received President Bill Clinton on the aircraft carrier when he was a recently elected CIC. They weren’t happy–but kept straight faces and respected their commander. Then compare their faces when President Bush 43 landed on the “mission accomplished” aircraft carrier–their like for their CIC was obvious. He also served and wore the uniform.
***
As far as Sarah Palin’s Ft. Hood appearance–she has “skin in the game” with her son serving in the Army in harm’s way. And I think she will thank them for their service, and will speak about the sacrifices they make daily for us. And she will try to comfort them for the loss of their loved ones.
***
John Bibb
***
rocketman on November 20, 2009 at 1:02 PM
Brown James, there aren’t any “federal elections, only individual State elections, which in turn “send” delegates to the Electorial College who vote and elect the POTUSA
blue1 on November 20, 2009 at 1:58 PM
Adolf Axelrod and company are petrified about the press recording the reception Palin will get. Some photos, and video, however, are bound to get out. Anyone at Ft Hood going to see Palin?
james23 on November 20, 2009 at 2:07 PM
Palin won’t need to say a thing about Maobama. She will get a rousing reception, and that will help her = bad news for the socialists.
james23 on November 20, 2009 at 2:10 PM
Rod my dear fellow you must try at least to talk without making a fool out of yourself. Your little rant is nothing but a string of childish insults, with no actual counter-argument other than Rod disagrees.
I yawn because you defend the indefensible. You find no issue with Palin denigrating the CIC on military soil and woe unto any one who disagrees.
yawn
harry on November 20, 2009 at 2:12 PM
What military troops were used at Waco?
I saw FBI and ATF.
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 2:18 PM
Harry ya might want ta go back to school and brush up on your reading comprehension skills.
The Army is NOT worried about what Palin might say, The Army, and they know what their troops think, is sweating bullets as to what their TROOPS might say!
The Army is telling us the troops don’t like Obama and barely respect the man in the office.
That’s HUGE. They don’t respect the office because of the man in the office.
The Army is terrified that their highly trained, disciplined troops would blow a gasket and dump on Obama IF given the opportunity to do so is “telling”
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 2:34 PM
Don’t know if it will be all that “grainy” unless the “grainy” is meant to hide the source.
A lot of these troops are trained to set up surveillance/ information systems.
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 2:46 PM
And how does Obama “look” when he bans her from speaking on a base out of fear that the troops will dump on him?
Weak
Vain
Thin skinned
Childish
Insecure
Pathetic
scared stiff
ALL OF THE ABOVE Ding!!!!
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 3:12 PM
To bad ya couldn’t get the commie bastard to play “hop scotch” on that little yellow line.
F14 Tech
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 3:21 PM
Excuse me, but YES IT IS. Palin is not profiting from her visit to Fort Hood, but she is making sure proceeds from her visit will go to the families. What, did you expect her to shower them with millions like some camel jockey Saudi prince throwing a Rolex to a bellboy? She has legal fees to pay.
alliebobbitt on November 20, 2009 at 3:40 PM
WOW! Oh my frigging god!
Palin’s criticism of Obama has been stating “Obama should provide more troops to Afghanistan”
Dang no one else has ever said something so so so radical as “Obama should provide more troops to Afghanistan!
Obviously Obama MUST ban Palin! Can’t have people going around saying “Obama should provide more troops to Afghanistan”!
Whew, glade that was cleared up!
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 3:48 PM
I thought we were mocking the troll?
DSchoen on November 20, 2009 at 4:04 PM
Old joke:
Bill Clinton was exiting Air Force 1 after a trip to Arkansas. He had a small razor back shoat (young pig for youuns in Rio Linda) under his arm. As he was coming to the bottom of the stairs, Bill noticed the saluting Marine guard peering at the shoat out of the corner of his eye. “Got it for Hillary,” said the president. The Marine responded, “Good trade, sir.”
Bevan on November 20, 2009 at 4:09 PM
Exactly, I’m truly amazed at the level of projection that’s going on here.
Personally, I suspect the advice the Commander’s received has been a bit extreme and probably unhelpful. The military has rules on what you can say or do, but in my 28 years (and 21 days) those rules were never applied to events such as these.
Most comments coming from G.I.s at these events are always expected to be exuberant, spontaneous outbursts and not carefully crafted political statements by a G.I. in or out of uniform.
The rules are mainly to prevent idiots from showing up at a political event in uniform with a sign and even then the full force of the rules are applied with a moderate touch.
Face it, if you’re stupid enough to publicly flaunt the rules then you’ll face some action, but it would take an incredibly brazen act to merit any serious action.
E9RET on November 20, 2009 at 4:25 PM
These high ranking officers…hoo boy.
They seem to view the military as a successful microcosm of Socialism at work, therefore it should apply to the country as a whole. That’s all I can figure out with these guys.
Of course, they get higher pay, better food, better housing, more flexibility in time off, and the mere fact that the military can’t pay for itself but relies on what are basically tax-based subsidies…but, all that’s beside the point.
Dr. ZhivBlago on November 20, 2009 at 5:00 PM
Why don’t we talk about Sarah Palin? This site needs more Sarah Palin. P.S. Allahpundit = Todd Palin.
voxpopuli on November 21, 2009 at 6:07 AM
Umm. Better check your history. IIRC, Governor Slick, cinc Arkansas National Guard, refused to let his troops(C-130s) be activated to support Grenada, when CinC Ronald Reagan called them up. As I recall it, Slick said since it wasn’t a war declared by congress, he wasn’t gonna comply.
Rather than waste time debating it with Slick, the US went to others, i.e. TxANG/TnANG, ready and eager to serve. I think similar issues occurred WRT Honduras/Nicaragua/Colombia and again under Papa Bush and the operation in Panama.
Point is DoD/POTUS control over NGs isn’t so absolute. Theoretically, yes it is. But practically, not so much, unless POTUS is willing to fight for that right of supremacy. But when such disputes are “rare”, it’s just more expedient to go to the units more willing to support the CinC.
In the GWOT, cincs didn’t have that latitude, some resisted at first, but eventually were compelled to relent.
Just saying…
AH_C on November 21, 2009 at 3:47 PM
Umm, SS Hairy Troll, ya’ll reading too much into it.
1) The Honduras troops followed constitutional orders to escort an “impeached” President off the premises. To the extent of deporting him may be debatable, but the orders came from their elected politicians in concurrence with their Supreme Court, and not of the military’s initiative.
2) Under what scenario, would our troops visit Obambi? If and when he’s impeached! Or did you forget Richard Nixon? Our troops are always called upon to escort their CinC wherever he travels, and they’ll be there to escort him out of office when appropriate.
At the rate Obambi’s going, he’s liable to get impeached. If for some reason, he tries to stay in the WH beyond his allotted time, then yeah, they may have to drag him and Meechelle kick & screaming- but only when instructed to do so by Congress & SCOTUS. But to do so, as a matter of coup? Unthinkable, not with this current crop of soldiers.
On the other hand, if and when Obambi gets his national corp of civilian serfs – “that will be just as powerful as the military” (Obambi’s words), then I can see problems. BIG PROBLEMS. Then again, the problems will emanate from the Obambot SS, and not from the constitutionally mandated armies/navies.
But that nuance is usually lost on trolls posing as “patriotic” vets.
AH_C on November 21, 2009 at 4:05 PM
Sarah had better have a few cases of books to duck behind in case another nut is in the audience.
johnnyU on November 21, 2009 at 6:52 PM
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