God Bless our Troops!

Thank you Charles....

USA Land of the Free, Home of the Brave!

but ,, But ,,, BUT ,, Harry Reid said we lost! Harry would know! Harry would never EVER lie to us !

Thank you Zombie

Thanks to our servicemembers! And, to the thousands of Iraqis who are trying to take the reins of service to their nation!

Thank you, to all those who served in the liberation of 25 million people and ensuring the security of me, my family and my country.

Saludos to all of 'em.
Def'ny!

Here's to the US ARMY-NAVY-AIR FORCE-MARINES-COAST GUARD! You are the best the world has ever seen! Thank you all for your service and to a job well done! Your sacrifices and efforts are appreciated by millions of us!

Iraqis are really trying to get the whole democracy off the ground. I think they are having a general election to extend US stay in the country another three years? Please correct me if I am wrong.

Thanks to all serving, and all who served. We wouldn't be here without you.

Thanks to all who have served, and most especially General Petreus.

General Petreus: the Man with the Plan!

That is a beautiful graphic up top.

George Bush : Mission accomplished
Harry Reid : Submission accomplished

God Bless President Bush

No thanks the Obama.

re: #10 Wishing

Iraqis are really trying to get the whole democracy off the ground. I think they are having a general election to extend US stay in the country another three years? Please correct me if I am wrong.

Hadn't heard that.

Perhaps they'd wish to become our 58th state under B. Hussein. After all, lot of nostalgia there, for the Hussein family.

re: #14 debutaunt

That is a beautiful graphic up top.

Did Zombie do that as well? Sheesh, what CAN'T Zombie do!

Charles, I just added a "virtual ticker-tape parade" animated gif at the top of the post, with a new statement about VI Day (in case you haven't seen it -- I just added it a few minutes ago).

Thank you! And above all:

THANKS TO OUR SERVICE MEMBERS WHO WON THIS WAR IN THE FACE OF TERRIBLE ODDS FROM TRAITORS AT HOME AND TERRORISTS ABROAD.

re: #16 Killgore Trout

No thanks the Obama.

Oh, he'll take credit for it, though.

Or, most likely, the Media will give him credit for it and he won't argue...

Thank you, Charles!

THANK YOU, ZOMBIE!

I join in giving thanks to our military and for those courageous Iraqis. I'm not sure I'll celebrate fully, though, until we have a chance to see Iraq stand on its own without us propping it up; I'm concerned that when our steadying hand withdraws, the various sects and factions will collapse in on themselves.

But hey. It's a baby democracy. That's an unambiguously good thing.

re: #15 Shug

George Bush : Mission accomplished
Harry Reid : Sedition accomplished

God Bless President Bush

And the men and women of our armed forces and those who supply them.

Thank you to our troops, Charles and Zombie!

God Bless the Troops.

All volunteers. True Patriots.

The best there ever was.

re: #19 zombie

*salute*

re: #19 zombie

Charles, I just added a "virtual ticker-tape parade" animated gif at the top of the post, with a new statement about VI Day (in case you haven't seen it -- I just added it a few minutes ago).

Thank you! And above all:

THANKS TO OUR SERVICE MEMBERS WHO WON THIS WAR IN THE FACE OF TERRIBLE ODDS FROM TRAITORS AT HOME AND TERRORISTS ABROAD.

Bravo!

re: #18 Wishing

Did Zombie do that as well? Sheesh, what CAN'T Zombie do!

Yup, I labored for hours on that animated ticker-tape parade, and on the new "silhouette" VI Day button.

Sorry, I can't hang aorund to comment much here -- I have to scan the Web for outstanding posts to add to my list of VI Day essays for people to read. So far I have

Gateway Pundit

and

Confederate Yankee

Any others you recommend?

re: #19 zombie

Charles, I just added a "virtual ticker-tape parade" animated gif at the top of the post, with a new statement about VI Day (in case you haven't seen it -- I just added it a few minutes ago).

Thank you! And above all:

THANKS TO OUR SERVICE MEMBERS WHO WON THIS WAR IN THE FACE OF TERRIBLE ODDS FROM TRAITORS AT HOME AND TERRORISTS ABROAD.

Thank you zombie!

re: #19 zombie

Perfect for LGF too!

"Throbbing confetti!"

Recommended: House to House by SSG David Bellavia;
for those who haven't read much about the hard parts of the war:
[Link: davidbellavia.com...]

Thanks to our military, the Iraqi troops who stepped up, the congress critters who backed the surge, thanks to General Petraeus, thanks to too many people to count. Persistence pays, even when the world expects instant silver bullets.

re: #10 Wishing

But, I thought Democracy could never work there? That the tribal and sectarian differences could never be mended and it was a lost cause and naive to even try.

We should have just kept Saddam in power, it wasn't "that bad" over there, was it?

Seriously, the Iraqi people now have a chance to make it work on their own, without some strong man or megalomaniac coming in to fu*k it all up. That chance was brought to you by the US Military.

Some of your countrymen doubted you and thought you could not succeed. I am not one of those people. I have great faith in the abilities of the greatest military the world has ever seen. THANK YOU, again!

re: #22 Cognito

I join in giving thanks to our military and for those courageous Iraqis. I'm not sure I'll celebrate fully, though, until we have a chance to see Iraq stand on its own without us propping it up; I'm concerned that when our steadying hand withdraws, the various sects and factions will collapse in on themselves.

But hey. It's a baby democracy. That's an unambiguously good thing.

That's why Barry is already hedging on his withdrawal promises...

Ok I stand (sit) corrected:

The Iraqi parliament will be voting on the 3 year extension of American troops in Iraq sometime next week. LINK

Here's to the greatest military in human history!

God Bless our brave men and women who fight for freedom everywhere. Thank you.

Prob'ly don't have to bother with looking @ Google, huh?

A BIG Semper Fi to all our Troops.

re: #19 zombie

What happened to VI Day's previous comment thread?
AUUGGGHHH!
CENSORSHIP!
*SHRIEK*
/... (-: ... do I really need a sarc?

I think people are finally getting the hang of using the 'report' button. (The exclamation point.)

I had more than 70 comment reports waiting in the Inbox this morning...

re: #35 Wishing

Ok I stand (sit) corrected:

The Iraqi parliament will be voting on the 3 year extension of American troops in Iraq sometime next week. LINK

Let's hope CBBHO listens to Gen. Jassim.

re: #41 Charles

All reporting something nice?

I suspect that sometime over the past couple of days someone has posted this tribute to American Soldiers from a French soldier in Afghanistan, but I think it's worth posting again today.

re: #33 Desert Dog

But, I thought Democracy could never work there? That the tribal and sectarian differences could never be mended and it was a lost cause and naive to even try.

We should have just kept Saddam in power, it wasn't "that bad" over there, was it?

Seriously, the Iraqi people now have a chance to make it work on their own, without some strong man or megalomaniac coming in to fu*k it all up. That chance was brought to you by the US Military.

Some of your countrymen doubted you and thought you could not succeed. I am not one of those people. I have great faith in the abilities of the greatest military the world has ever seen. THANK YOU, again!

I will amen that!

re: #28 zombie

Mine's up in spinoffs

Hats off to all the men and women of our armed forces. And to the families of those who have fallen. Thank you. Frustrating job well done.

re: #43 Fat Bastard Vegetarian

All reporting something nice?

OR,,,, complaints that he let Cog back in !

(sorry COG ,, that was cheap and gratuitous ,,, but funny ! !)

re: #43 Fat Bastard Vegetarian

A sockpuppet from one of the stalker blogs.

re: #41 Charles

I think people are finally getting the hang of using the 'report' button. (The exclamation point.)

I had more than 70 comment reports waiting in the Inbox this morning...

Massive motivation!

re: #49 Killgore Trout

I wouldn't know a sock puppet if it bit me on the ... uh ... toe?

re: #41 Charles

I think people are finally getting the hang of using the 'report' button. (The exclamation point.)

I had more than 70 comment reports waiting in the Inbox this morning...

I've gotten the confidence to begin "down-ding-negative" reporting. When I was newer here, I was hesitant.

Suggestions for what to report, or not? Or just use experience and common sense?

re: #51 Fat Bastard Vegetarian

They put up a thread about it.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

re: #53 Killgore Trout
Who "they"?

re: #51 Fat Bastard Vegetarian

I wouldn't know a sock puppet if it bit me on the ... uh ... toe?

FYI ... for fun, see my "pre-Boomer's SockPuppy" near the end of the last thread. I use him to ankle-bite on goddess.

re: #55 realwest

Robert Spencer's genocidal ex-lizard pals at the stalker blog.

re: #44 gregg

I suspect that sometime over the past couple of days someone has posted this tribute to American Soldiers from a French soldier in Afghanistan, but I think it's worth posting again today.

Thank you for the post. Wonderful.

God Bless them all!

re: #41 Charles

I think people are finally getting the hang of using the 'report' button. (The exclamation point.)

I had more than 70 comment reports waiting in the Inbox this morning...

That's what that button does...
=)

A heartfelt thank-you to our military men & women.

God bless you all.

And I just want to add my voice of thanks to the American Troops (and Coalition Troops) who helped make victory in Iraq a possibility.
And to all those members of Congress who have supported our efforts there.
And to the Iraqi people for their laboring for their own nation against some of the worst barbarians in history.
I'll NEVER FORGET those Purple Fingers!
And a special thanks to President George W. Bush for staying the course, regardless of the "popularity" or lack thereof with the political opportunists safely ensconced in their comfy offices here at home.

re: #52 pre-Boomer Marine brat

Or just use experience and common sense?

That would be the Lizard Army way.

re: #53 Killgore Trout

They put up a thread about it.

It's one of the stupidest possible human activities; sneak in at a site where you're banned and post a bunch of obnoxious crap, then crow about your exploits. It's mind-numbingly moronic. It decreases your IQ just to imagine that kind of mindset at work.

All I have to do is click one button and every comment they posted gets deleted, in about 0.0365 seconds.

To all the men and women fighting in Iraq thank you so much.
To all the families who have lost loved ones my heart goes out to you.
GOD I LOVE AMERICA!

May God bless every soldier and civilian that put their lives on the line to free Iraq and stop terrorism on the front line. The liberal non-loyal opposition has done everything they could to prevent success, but it didn't work. Again, God bless you and a job well done. Come home soon and hold your heads high.

P.S. Remember, Al Gore said in 1992 we should have taken Saddam out in the first Gulf war "because of his ties to terrorism." Somebody, conveniently forgot about that.

Obama has the likelihood of changing -don't you love that word- any possible success to catastrophe.

So just maybe any such celebration is premature. But honoring the troops who can accomplish anything asked on them, is proper on any day.

re: #53 Killgore Trout

Whur?

And, Thanks to Obama for opposing the war even though he wasn't privy to the intel. And thanks to Obama for opposing the surge. And thanks to Obama for voting to cut of funding.And thanks to Obama for being willing to go back to a pre 9-1-1 mindset in regards to Gitmo,intel gathering,and treating radical Islam with the American justice system,as opposed to a military action.
I thank him because Victory in Iraq may be declared, but victory over Islamic radicals is going to be a long,generational struggle.
Those that chose to not view 9-1-1 as a wake-up call,have chose to hit the snooze alarm,and it will go off again.
Then, I HOPE we will CHANGE, and see whom it is that is prepared to fight the good fight with winning being the only option.
I tank Obama so we can have the contrast of politically correct appeasement,and stoic determination to achieve victory.Even if your approval rating drops below 30%.

And please let's not forget the families they left behind - the spouses, the kids, the mothers and fathers. Our thanks - and our prayers - for them too.

re: #44 gregg

I suspect that sometime over the past couple of days someone has posted this tribute to American Soldiers from a French soldier in Afghanistan, but I think it's worth posting again today.

Thank you for that post!

Maybe one day when I grow up I can have my own mini-me stalker site.

re: #64 Charles

I thought it was 0.0364 seconds.

A Soldier's Praise

re: #64 Charles

Do we know the old nic of this poster?

re: #73 Fat Bastard Vegetarian

I thought it was 0.0364 seconds.

You need a new watch!

re: #75 pat

Rodin(t)?

re: #75 pat

Do we know the old nic of this poster?

Of course he does. he's ,,,well,,,, Charles !

re: #77 Thanos

OK. thanx

re: #41 Charles

I think people are finally getting the hang of using the 'report' button. (The exclamation point.)

I had more than 70 comment reports waiting in the Inbox this morning...

'twas needed in the overnight thread, that's fer sure. ;)

re: #75 pat

Do we know the old nic of this poster?

He's had at least four accounts:

Hateful Hater
Rodan
The Joker
Conquistador

re: #76 sattv4u2

You need a new watch!

In new regime the watch watches you.

re: #75 pat

Do we know the old nic of this poster?

We not only know his nic but the idiot registered the site with his real name and address. A quick whois search brings up all of his personal information.

re: #81 Charles

Thanx. FYI he is banned from a few other blogs also.

I am filled with so many emotions when I read things like this. It's helps knowing that the hard work and man hours are truly appreciated.

God bless our troops for sacrificing their time, energy, rights, and even lives to protect this great country of ours.

I will be in Afghanistan soon enough, and hopefully I too can make a difference. Not only for the US, but for the number of Afghans who support us in the quest for human rights and modernization.

re: #83 Killgore Trout

We not only know his nic but the idiot registered the site with his real name and address. A quick whois search brings up all of his personal information.

Are you telling us your real name is not Killgore Trout? Really? I am disappointed

re: #41 Charles

I think people are finally getting the hang of using the 'report' button. (The exclamation point.)

I had more than 70 comment reports waiting in the Inbox this morning...

Not that it matters to me but is the report button an anonymous report, or does it also give the nick of the reporter?

re: #85 carti3r

Thank you for your service.

re: #85 carti3r

I am filled with so many emotions when I read things like this. It's helps knowing that the hard work and man hours are truly appreciated.

God bless our troops for sacrificing their time, energy, rights, and even lives to protect this great country of ours.

I will be in Afghanistan soon enough, and hopefully I too can make a difference. Not only for the US, but for the number of Afghans who support us in the quest for human rights and modernization.

Thank you for serving!

re: #69 n in wi

...
I thank him because Victory in Iraq may be declared, but victory over Islamic radicals is going to be a long,generational struggle.
Those that chose to not view 9-1-1 as a wake-up call,have chose to hit the snooze alarm,and it will go off again.
...

The people of Iraq have traded one anti-Israel, terrorist associating, election fixing Hussein for another.

re: #83 Killgore Trout

We not only know his nic but the idiot registered the site with his real name and address. A quick whois search brings up all of his personal information.

He changed all the info on his registration. It may be fake.

re: #84 pat

Thanx. FYI he is banned from a few other blogs also.

Why oh why does that not surprise me? ;)

re: #83 Killgore Trout

We not only know his nic but the idiot registered the site with his real name and address. A quick whois search brings up all of his personal information.

GREAT ,,,,Give me his VISA charge account number, my son wants an X Box 360 for Christmas.

re: #90 Crusty

The people of Iraq have traded one anti-Israel, terrorist associating, election fixing Hussein for another.

Ouch! That is funny

well done troops!

and thanks to the right of center blogosphere for speaking the truth and doing right by the troops

re: #87 FurryOldGuyJeans

Not that it matters to me but is the report button an anonymous report, or does it also give the nick of the reporter?

The email I get identifies both the reporter and the reportee.

re: #81 Charles

He's had at least four accounts:

Hateful Hater
Rodan
The Joker
Conquistador

Why is it that people with multiple personalities have no personality at all?

For the record, and at some risk, I agree with them on one or two issues but I can't imagine letting it get to a flame war. If I don't like a thread I ignore it, if I get tired of your site I'll go away, if I disagree with you I'll talk to a friend about it but until you do something worthy of being publicly challenged about why start a war? Particularly why does anyone start a war when they can't win?

re: #91 Charles

Ah, I thanks for the update.

re: #87 FurryOldGuyJeans

Not that it matters to me but is the report button an anonymous report, or does it also give the nick of the reporter?

My 2 cents -- I hope it's NOT anonymous. (1) A report could be used as a weapon out of spite, and (2) I expect to be judged by how I behave.

A beautiful day for freedom, liberty, truth, justice, decency, courage, perseverance.. thank God for President Bush and his steadfastness.

A day to celebrate. Spread the word.

This victory didn't come from a sit- down conference, but from boots on the ground and the perseverance of the Iraqi people.

Thank you men and women of our armed forces and the people of Iraq!

"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty."

~JFK

Nice job Zombie. Thanks to our troops and freedom loving Iraqis.

No thanks to the democrat party led by Harry "this war is lost" Reid and Barack Husein Obama.

re: #28 zombie

zombie -

A suggestion - HOT AIR - think Michelle might like it.

-S-

re: #96 Charles

The email I get identifies both the reporter and the reportee.

Cool! Nice to know you can determine if the report is legit or just some clique crap gone overboard.

I own my reports. ;)

One would think that they would learn to stop being so obsessed with LGF. Sheesh, the come in, defecate all over the place, get banned for doing so, and they think that they have the right to repeat the process ad nauseum?

They're nothing but narcissists & sociopaths whose hubris is only matched by their moral and intellectual bankruptcy.

re: #102 jetprop

~JFK

"I have the corned beef"

~BHO

Posted at my website. And I made it my screensaver. We're proud of our Troops! Never faltered, never surrendered, never abandoned freedom's fight. You have won the war. We know it. You know it. And to hell with the traitors! We join you in celebrating a job well done.

re: #101 gman

This victory didn't come from a sit- down conference, but from boots on the ground and the perseverance of the Iraqi people.

Thank you men and women of our armed forces and the people of Iraq!

And, it most certainly did not come about by discussions at the Turtle Bay Debate Society!

re: #99 pre-Boomer Marine brat

My 2 cents -- I hope it's NOT anonymous. (1) A report could be used as a weapon out of spite, and (2) I expect to be judged by how I behave.

I agree.

Although it's also worth noting that the exclamation point doesn't appear to actually do anything to the reportee, other than sending a report to Charles. This is unlike the situation on Youtube, for example, where you can have any video flagged as "adult content," and therefore made more difficult to see, without the intervention of a moderator, and without any legitimate reason at all.

re: #99 pre-Boomer Marine brat

My 2 cents -- I hope it's NOT anonymous. (1) A report could be used as a weapon out of spite, and (2) I expect to be judged by how I behave.

Perverted minds think alike, eh? ;)

I feel the same way....I own up to what I say and report. :)

re: #107 lifeofthemind

~BHO

"Can I finish my waffle?"

Totally OT, but fascinating!
Wooly Mammoth to Go Live?

The graphics are just beautiful.
The content and graphs are impressive.
The number of participating blogs is heartening.

I don't know if Iraq will remain stable. But we have sacrificed much, some have sacrificed everything, to give them the opportunity to have what every American has: Freedom.

Today, November 22, 2008, the Iraqi people are free. That is Victory.

re: #107 lifeofthemind

~BHO

"Can't I just eat my waffle?"

-BHO

Can we have Petreus run for president in 2012?

Your Weekly Address from the President-elect
Obama's answer to the economic crisis seems to be putting people to work on windfarms and solar plants.

Several celebrity sightings in the Phoenix airport yesterday - many troops coming or going. Oh yeah, and John McCain.

re: #110 Last Mohican

I agree.

Although it's also worth noting that the exclamation point doesn't appear to actually do anything to the reportee, other than sending a report to Charles. This is unlike the situation on Youtube, for example, where you can have any video flagged as "adult content," and therefore made more difficult to see, without the intervention of a moderator, and without any legitimate reason at all.

Thank the stars Charles runs a responsible blog, thank you very much. :)

re: #112 n in wi

"Can I finish my waffle corned beef?"

[Link: news.yahoo.com...]

re: #28 zombie

Ace of Spades
Jawa Report

re: #113 Wishing

Totally OT, but fascinating!
Wooly Mammoth to Go Live?

Haven't we seen this movie? Can you imagine the intellectual property lawyers preparing to sue over this?

re: #107 lifeofthemind

~BHO

LOL

re: #120 sattv4u2

[Link: news.yahoo.com...]

BHO
"Can I waffle on any topic?"

re: #62 realwest

Well said. Those who stayed the course, who called for the changes that were needed in 2004-5, who took the flak in 2006 around the debate to implement the surge, do deserve the recognition for their commitment to watch the backs of our armed forces engaged on the frontlines. Not every enemy was in the Middle East.

re: #121 jetprop

Ace of Spades
Jawa Report

..oops it's already up at Jawa

re: #44 gregg Thank you for posting that. It was very moving and so appropriate to this day.
Again, thank you.

re: #103 FrogMarch

Don't forget Hillary "willling Suspension of disbelief" Clinton. And Murthafucker, and who could forvet Dick Durbin (D-al Qaeda)?

All the Democrat leadership was for losing the war. And now Obama is going to get one last shot at pulling defeat from the jaws of victory. I suspect that he will work way harder on that than he will on almost any of his domestic agenda. Except for gun control, of course.

re: #77 Thanos

Rodin(t)?

ewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.

Thanks to our wonderful military and their families for all their sacrifices in Iraq.

And thanks to zombie for all his/her efforts to honor them.

“Anybody gone into Whole Foods lately and see what they charge for arugula?-- I mean, they’re charging a lot of money for this stuff.”

-BHO

wow - the man is a genius.

re: #111 FurryOldGuyJeans

Perverted minds think alike, eh? ;)

I feel the same way....I own up to what I say and report. :)

Except for my more inept attempts at punning. I'm well aware that you are Vulcan-mindmelding them into my brain! ... You prevert, you!

/must maintain a semblance of victimhood, to match the Popular Culture

re: #116 MrSnuggles

Can we have Petreus run for president in 2012?

Not to disparage the man I would prefer the Republicans put up as a candidate a man that is a worthy political candidate and not just another war hero who capitulates on the political battleground. Being a great military leader is not an indication of being a great political leader, especially one with clear cut Conservative positions.

re: #70 wahabicorridor
Spot on and AMEN!

re: #129 debutaunt

ewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.

sorry misspelling

it's Rodan(t)

re: #131 FrogMarch

-BHO

wow - the man is a genius.

When you are sent to the "re-education camp", you can bet your bottom dollar you'll be planting the people's arugula!
/

re: #106 Athos

They've got something wrong with them, that's for sure. I hope I never get banned, but if I do I'd like to think I'd have more important things to do with my life than obssess of it.

re: #114 yah

The graphics are just beautiful.
The content and graphs are impressive.
The number of participating blogs is heartening.

I don't know if Iraq will remain stable. But we have sacrificed much, some have sacrificed everything, to give them the opportunity to have what every American has: Freedom.

Today, November 22, 2008, the Iraqi people are free. That is Victory.

The Iraqis have been given the ability and awesome responsibility to either fail or achieve greatness on their own.

re: #81 Charles

He's had at least four accounts:

Hateful Hater
Rodan
The Joker
Conquistador

Wasn't he also "Akita" or some such?

re: #85 carti3r
From one old vet (Vietnam, class of '70) to a current one: thank you for your service to our nation and Godspeed.

re: #104 Dr. Shalit

zombie -

A suggestion - HOT AIR - think Michelle might like it.

No, actually. Those two sites have expressed hesitancy to post about it. Which is understandable. They're more mainstream, and I think fear being held to account if, 18 months from now, someone stubs their toe in Fallujah and the Left screams, "See? Defeat! Iraq is in turmoil And you foolishly declared victory! Hahahahaha!"

I actually understand their reasoning behind not posting about it, because they have more of a "brand" to protect. It's perfectly fine -- VI Day is completely voluntary! Most bloggers are on board, but not all.

HOME
QuickTime video plugin not found; download embedded file here
The Soldier's Creed

I am an American Soldier.
I am a Warrior and a member of a team.
I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values.

I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.

I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills.
I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
I am an expert and I am a professional.
I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the
United States of America in close combat.
I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I am an American Soldier.

Well what can one say except...We have the BEST DAMN MILITARY IN THE WORLD! One excellent way to celebrate today is to go on over to Soldiers Angels and donate to the Project Valour IT program....give a little to each service because the Marines and Army tend to tear it up and this WIN was a team WIN as they usually are!

I suggest perhaps 22 dollars to each branch! Just to recognize today!

re: #113 Wishing

Totally OT, but fascinating!
Wooly Mammoth to Go Live?

Saw that movie, didn't turn out too well IIRC.
/

re: #131 FrogMarch

-BHO

wow - the man is a genius.

Just out of curiosity I priced arugula at my local grocer - they were charging $8 a head! Obama was right (for once).

re: #138 FurryOldGuyJeans

The Iraqis have been given the ability and awesome responsibility to either fail or achieve greatness on their own.

"On their own". Now I get the lib opposition to it. They oppose anybody doing anything on their own.

re: #119 FurryOldGuyJeans

Thank the stars Charles runs a responsible blog, thank you very much. :)

Amen. LGF was my first foray into commenting. I wouldn't have registered had it not been a decent, upright, blog.

re: #139 Sharmuta

Wasn't he also "Akita" or some such?

Good memory. Other accounts this person has used:

BombIranNow
Akita

re: #128 Iron Fist

Yep. The defeat-first democrats were all climbing over each other yelling "No -I'm more anti-war - and I was anti-war first, and I voted against the war, and I ..."

Never mind the democrat party spent the whole of the 1990s bitching fears about Saddam and how we should have finished the job during the first gulf war. The dems are never satisfied and any amount of hypocrisy they douse all over our national security is fine by them as long as it scores political points with the KOS Huffpo assholes.

re: #88 Pvt Bin Jammin

re: #89 Wishing

Thank you. I really have not been able to contribute a whole lot. I am receiving training right now that I am very proud of and cannot wait to use it in the field.

re: #44 gregg great letter; Im sure MSNBC will read it on the air; not really but wonderful and 'ding-worthy':)

re: #125 Athos Thank you my friend.
" Not every enemy was in the Middle East." How true and how nauseating at the same time and for the same reason.

Congratulations to the USA and their allies, all the best for the Iraqi people and a big f*ck off to those who spit on freedom.

[Link: gegenkritik.wordpress.com...]

This was not a mistake.

re: #117 Killgore Trout

Your Weekly Address from the President-elect
Obama's answer to the economic crisis seems to be putting people to work on windfarms and solar plants.

This morning on Fox, leftie said that the car companies didn't make cars people wanted to buy. Jonathan Hoenig said, then they should fail. Leftie said they should be bailed out. Hoenig said why. Leftie said they've just turned a corner. hahahahahahhahahahahhahaa

Forgive me for the difference in opinion, but this is one Iraq Vet who isnt jumping on the bandwagon quite yet. Just because we've had a few months of relative calm doesn't mean we're out of the woods yet. Some were starting to say the same thing while I was there in 2006 because the number of attacks and deaths were going down. Unfortunately, things change very quickly over there. In the latter part of 2006 Iran stepped up its efforts in Iraq with their assistance to the Shiite militias. This was in the form of "weapons experts", cash, weapons, etc. The most common form of assistance was the EFP, or explosively formed penetrator, a nasty shape charge that will punch through any armored vehicle. December 2006 became the second deadliest month ever for US troops at 112. This was double, or even triple the number of deaths for each of the previous six months. I was lucky. I escaped with my life, but not without the loss of one arm. So please excuse me for saying this, but we're not out of the woods yet. Things can still go bad, and Obama and his fellow Clinton era staffers can still screw this up. When I feel the time is right, I will jump on the bandwagon with everyone else. But I'm not going to yet.

Thank God for the best men and women in the world.
And if it hasn't been said, I'm sorry but it it needs to be: Fuck you Harry Reid.

re: #146 n in wi

"On their own". Now I get the lib opposition to it. They oppose anybody doing anything on their own.

The Iraqis are learning what a majority of Americans have so blithely forgotten or willfully ignored.

God Bless our Troops!

And God Bless the people of Iraq!

Victory!

re: #145 BeerDrinking_VictoryMonkey

Just out of curiosity I priced arugula at my local grocer - they were charging $8 a head! Obama was right (for once).

He may be right, but his job isn't the new tonight show host. He's our new leader. I feel like we just elected Jon Stewart. (and I detest Jon Stewart.)

Oh well - the dems are going to kill off the auto industry by forcing card check on non-union (healthy modern) auto manufacturers. The UAW must be purged and pushed out - that's how you save GM - but I digress...

re: #156 logboy

Forgive me for the difference in opinion, but this is one Iraq Vet who isnt jumping on the bandwagon quite yet. Just because we've had a few months of relative calm doesn't mean we're out of the woods yet. Some were starting to say the same thing while I was there in 2006 because the number of attacks and deaths were going down. Unfortunately, things change very quickly over there. In the latter part of 2006 Iran stepped up its efforts in Iraq with their assistance to the Shiite militias. This was in the form of "weapons experts", cash, weapons, etc. The most common form of assistance was the EFP, or explosively formed penetrator, a nasty shape charge that will punch through any armored vehicle. December 2006 became the second deadliest month ever for US troops at 112. This was double, or even triple the number of deaths for each of the previous six months. I was lucky. I escaped with my life, but not without the loss of one arm. So please excuse me for saying this, but we're not out of the woods yet. Things can still go bad, and Obama and his fellow Clinton era staffers can still screw this up. When I feel the time is right, I will jump on the bandwagon with everyone else. But I'm not going to yet.

Noted, and thank you.

re: #133 FurryOldGuyJeans

Not to disparage the man I would prefer the Republicans put up as a candidate a man that is a worthy political candidate and not just another war hero who capitulates on the political battleground. Being a great military leader is not an indication of being a great political leader, especially one with clear cut Conservative positions.

It is my understanding that Petreus has clear cut conservative positions. And why not have a general as president? It has only been 50 some odd years since the last one, and he wasn't too bad.

re: #108 ciaospirit

Posted at my website. And I made it my screensaver. We're proud of our Troops! Never faltered, never surrendered, never abandoned freedom's fight. You have won the war. We know it. You know it. And to hell with the traitors! We join you in celebrating a job well done.

Great! I added you to the "Blogroll of Honor" (bottom left of the list). Thanks!

Thanks Zombie and Charles for making this a SPECIAL DAY for our wonderful troops and their families. We all have a lot to thank them for. Let's break out the champagne, drop all the red, white and blue balloons and wave OUR FLAG!

re: #128 Iron Fist

That's one of the arguments towards setting today / now as a milestone with the declaration of victory in Iraq. While still unable to be entirely independent, the new agreement when ratified by the Iraqi Parliament, would set the start of the fourth and likely final stage of the war. From this point forward, the burden of seeing the process through the home stretch successfully will be on the President elect and the Democrat leadership.

If they do snatch defeat from the jaws of victory and a repeat of 1975-1979 takes place - they will own the stench of that failure and resulting carnage for decades. They are now accountable and responsible for the results. Those are two things the D are not used to being.

re: #149 FrogMarch

Yeah, and I'd go one step further: they aren't anti-war. They are actively cheering for the other side. Nothing proves this point better than the endless hammering the military took from Abu Grabass. Our enemies cut off people's heads. We're supposed to be worst thing that has ever come down the pike because a couple of moron put panties on the heads of some terrorists.

Yeah, that makes sense.

re: #141 zombie
Zombie - first of all thank you for all of this.
Secondly, it's a sad time in the blogosphere when concern over the impact on your "brand name" keeps you from celebrating with the rest of us.
I still respect Hot Air and Michelle Malkin, just not quite as much as I used to.

re: #143 Jaded

One excellent way to celebrate today is to go on over to Soldiers Angels and donate to the Project Valour IT program....

Great idea. It only takes seconds to donate. Here are some links:

Learn about Project Valour-IT

Donate to Project Valour-IT (donations end November 27)

Soldiers Angels home page

re: #156 logboy

Forgive me for the difference in opinion, but this is one Iraq Vet who isnt jumping on the bandwagon quite yet. Just because we've had a few months of relative calm doesn't mean we're out of the woods yet. Some were starting to say the same thing while I was there in 2006 because the number of attacks and deaths were going down. Unfortunately, things change very quickly over there. In the latter part of 2006 Iran stepped up its efforts in Iraq with their assistance to the Shiite militias. This was in the form of "weapons experts", cash, weapons, etc. The most common form of assistance was the EFP, or explosively formed penetrator, a nasty shape charge that will punch through any armored vehicle. December 2006 became the second deadliest month ever for US troops at 112. This was double, or even triple the number of deaths for each of the previous six months. I was lucky. I escaped with my life, but not without the loss of one arm. So please excuse me for saying this, but we're not out of the woods yet. Things can still go bad, and Obama and his fellow Clinton era staffers can still screw this up. When I feel the time is right, I will jump on the bandwagon with everyone else. But I'm not going to yet.

Two reasons for a VI day now.
First, there will be no sharp line we cross from war to victory, like you so well put in your post.
Second deny the victory claim to Obama, withdrawal is not the same as victory.

re: #142 Dustyvet

For all the Airman out There.

I am an American Airman.
I am a Warrior.
I have answered my Nation's Call.

I am an American Airman.
My mission is to Fly, Fight, and Win.
I am faithful to a proud heritage.
A tradition of Honor, and a Legacy of Valor.

I am an American Airman.
Guardian of Freedom and Justice.
My Nation's Sword and Shield.
It's Sentry and Avenger.
I defend my country with my life.

I am an American Airman.
Wingman. Leader. Warrior.
I will never leave an Airman behind.
I will never falter...
AND I WILL NOT FAIL!

re: #156 logboy

Just remember that the fight is never truly over but it is important to celebrate when you can. Celebrate a quiet time but stay vigilant, celebrate a child's smile but stay vigilant, work never ends.

re: #133 FurryOldGuyJeans

Not to disparage the man I would prefer the Republicans put up as a candidate a man that is a worthy political candidate and not just another war hero who capitulates on the political battleground. Being a great military leader is not an indication of being a great political leader, especially one with clear cut Conservative positions.

Just give Petreus a chance, he's reported to be a clear thinker generally (!), and being a flag officer has a big political component to it, too.

re: #140 realwest

Thank you for your service. You and all Veterans are personal heroes of mine.

This is pretty cool.....
Blu's Muto (animated graffiti)

Thank you to the troops for their unfailing integrity and dedication to duty to protect this country from enemies both domestic and foreign.

re: #156 logboy

Certainly, you're right. Frankly, Iraq has barely had a good decade in a couple of thousand years. Any victory we get there, has to be kept separate from what happens to them, tomorrow.

Of course Free Frank Warner celebrates. Frank is the unusual combination of a liberal for liberation.

It may not be an "official day" but my flag is flying . God bless America !

re: #162 MrSnuggles

It is my understanding that Petreus has clear cut conservative positions. And why not have a general as president? It has only been 50 some odd years since the last one, and he wasn't too bad.

We have also had failures, some quite spectacular like Grant and Carter. McCain was by no means a paragon of Conservative values by a long shot, his military record was exemplary. Shortly after Gulf War 1 there were people who were cheerleading Colin Powell be put up as a candidate and see where he went politically? If we want a good solid candidate we need to see that they are good at politics as well as on the battlefield.

The goal of the military is incompatible with the goal of politics.

re: #166 Iron Fist

Yeah, and I'd go one step further: they aren't anti-war. They are actively cheering for the other side. Nothing proves this point better than the endless hammering the military took from Abu Grabass. Our enemies cut off people's heads. We're supposed to be worst thing that has ever come down the pike because a couple of moron put panties on the heads of some terrorists.

Yeah, that makes sense.

Abu-Grabass. Yeah - that was a GIFT to the DNC media.

re: #121 jetprop

Ace of Spades
Jawa Report

Thanks. But neither is an epic essay -- just basic posts. I'm looking for the real interesting/long/insightful/moving ones. I've hundreds of blogs to plow through! Hard to find the "best."

re: #156 logboy

Forgive me for the difference in opinion, but this is one Iraq Vet who isnt jumping on the bandwagon quite yet. Just because we've had a few months of relative calm doesn't mean we're out of the woods yet. Some were starting to say the same thing while I was there in 2006 because the number of attacks and deaths were going down. Unfortunately, things change very quickly over there. In the latter part of 2006 Iran stepped up its efforts in Iraq with their assistance to the Shiite militias. This was in the form of "weapons experts", cash, weapons, etc. The most common form of assistance was the EFP, or explosively formed penetrator, a nasty shape charge that will punch through any armored vehicle. December 2006 became the second deadliest month ever for US troops at 112. This was double, or even triple the number of deaths for each of the previous six months. I was lucky. I escaped with my life, but not without the loss of one arm. So please excuse me for saying this, but we're not out of the woods yet. Things can still go bad, and Obama and his fellow Clinton era staffers can still screw this up. When I feel the time is right, I will jump on the bandwagon with everyone else. But I'm not going to yet.

Points well made. But I still want to celebrate and honor all the sacrifices you and all the others in the military have made to keep us all safe. You are our heroes !

re: #4 sattv4u2

Yeah, but that was before the "Chosen One" was (s)elected .

Now everything is hunky-dory, the birds are singing, the flowers are in bloom, the sun is shining, people are dancing in the streets, the war is over, world peace is here , blah, blah, blah, blah, blah,blah, blah,........

re: #173 carti3r

Thank you for your service. You and all Veterans are personal heroes of mine.

And every one of these heroes (yes, realwest, that includes you) always says that they sere just doing their jobs.

As opposed the politicians in Washington who are always trying to take credit for the sun coming up in the morning.

re: #156 logboy
Your difference of opinion is duly noted and I will add that I had some concerns about this as well, but the Iraqi people have indeed come a long way towards being their own, independent and self-sustaining democratic government and while you may be right (though I know we both pray you are wrong) about future situations evolving, now seems to be as good a time as any to "celebrate" before the Democrats can let go of all that you and your fellow veterans have obtained.
And thank you, personally, for your service and sacrifice to our Nation.

re: #172 itellu3times

Just give Petreus a chance, he's reported to be a clear thinker generally (!), and being a flag officer has a big political component to it, too.

If he fights it out on the political battlefield as well as he did on the military one I certainly would be enthusiastic about a President Petreus.

Victory
Victory
That's our cry
V
I
C
T
O
R
Y
!

re: #168 Last Mohican

Great idea. It only takes seconds to donate. Here are some links:

Learn about Project Valour-IT

Donate to Project Valour-IT (donations end November 27)

Soldiers Angels home page

Project Valour-IT and Soldiers Angels are WONDERFUL! They gave me a laptop with voice recognition software when I was still a patient on Ward 57. They always (and still so, almost two years later) kept in touch with my wife to see if there was anything that we needed help with. One of them even tracked down a nurse in Germany who had taken photos of me in Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. If you are looking to donate, they are a great group to send your money to.

Well all y'all it's been grand but I have chores I MUST attend to.
I hope you all have a GREAT DAY and that I get the chance to see you all down the road.

re: #181 zombie

Thanks. But neither is an epic essay -- just basic posts. I'm looking for the real interesting/long/insightful/moving ones. I've hundreds of blogs to plow through! Hard to find the "best."

This might qualify.

re: #19 zombie

THANKS TO OUR SERVICE MEMBERS WHO WON THIS WAR IN THE FACE OF TERRIBLE ODDS FROM TRAITORS AT HOME AND TERRORISTS ABROAD.

}:)     [Amen.]

re: #153 gegenkritik

Congratulations to the USA and their allies, all the best for the Iraqi people and a big f*ck off to those who spit on freedom.

[Link: gegenkritik.wordpress.com...]

FANTASTIC POST!

I have just added you to the "best of the best" list at the top of the page.

Thanks!

test

re: #184 3 wood

And every one of these heroes (yes, realwest, that includes you) always says that they sere just doing their jobs.

As opposed the politicians in Washington who are always trying to take credit for the sun coming up in the morning.

As the world turns....

re: #156 logboy

Forgive me for the difference in opinion, but this is one Iraq Vet who isnt jumping on the bandwagon quite yet. Just because we've had a few months of relative calm doesn't mean we're out of the woods yet. Some were starting to say the same thing while I was there in 2006 because the number of attacks and deaths were going down. Unfortunately, things change very quickly over there. In the latter part of 2006 Iran stepped up its efforts in Iraq with their assistance to the Shiite militias. This was in the form of "weapons experts", cash, weapons, etc. The most common form of assistance was the EFP, or explosively formed penetrator, a nasty shape charge that will punch through any armored vehicle. December 2006 became the second deadliest month ever for US troops at 112. This was double, or even triple the number of deaths for each of the previous six months. I was lucky. I escaped with my life, but not without the loss of one arm. So please excuse me for saying this, but we're not out of the woods yet. Things can still go bad, and Obama and his fellow Clinton era staffers can still screw this up. When I feel the time is right, I will jump on the bandwagon with everyone else. But I'm not going to yet.

All good points.

However, if you read my full essay, you will see this very point addressed. To take the liberty to quote one section:

- What if the violence flares up again next year or in the future? We'll look foolish.

A: If violence flares up in the future, that will be part of a new conflict, a different war. I'm not pretending to be able to predict the future; all I know is that the war we had been fighting is over. I sincerely hope that Iraq has peace for years to come; but yes, there could be fighting in the future, though it will not inherently be the continuation of this war. On occasion throughout history, in fact, after wars end, new subsequent wars spring up in their wake. The Vietnam War, for example, started in 1946 in the turmoil after WWII, and continued under various names until 1975. Yet do we consider the Vietnam War part of WWII, just because it was partially caused by it and immediately followed it? No. Similarly, the Russian Civil War grew out of WWI, yet they too are considered separate wars.

So if, in the future, some new conflict arises, we won't need to feel "foolish" for having declared victory in this war; it just means that a new war has broken out. Iran and Iraq have had terrible relations dating back to 1979, often erupting into skirmishes or full-scale war; and if Iran (or its proxies) tries to invade Iraq again in 2010 or 2013, that will be a new war; not this war. And if homegrown Ba'athists or jihadists spend years plotting a coup and then try to ignite a new civil war in 2011 or beyond -- once again, that will be a separate conflict. Not this war.

I am ex-Air Force, from the Reagan era so we didn't have to fight much;)but I salute those today and all who have gone before

re: #188 logboy

I'm a soldiers' angel and personally acquainted with the founder. I'll be sure to share your comments with her.

re: #197 Pvt Bin Jammin

I'm a soldiers' angel and personally acquainted with the founder. I'll be sure to share your comments with her.

This is the group that 1/2 cookbook proceeds will be donated to.

One year after the troops withdraw and an Iraq secular democratic republic is still standing, I'll buy the champagne.

Till then, claiming "victory" is presumptuous at best.

re: #185 realwest

Your difference of opinion is duly noted and I will add that I had some concerns about this as well, but the Iraqi people have indeed come a long way towards being their own, independent and self-sustaining democratic government and while you may be right (though I know we both pray you are wrong) about future situations evolving, now seems to be as good a time as any to "celebrate" before the Democrats can let go of all that you and your fellow veterans have obtained.
And thank you, personally, for your service and sacrifice to our Nation.

Good point realwest. We need to celebrate now before the Dems sit on their hands, possibly let the situation deteriorate, and do nothing except whine it was "Bushies War".

re: #179 FurryOldGuyJeans

We have also had failures, some quite spectacular like Grant and Carter. McCain was by no means a paragon of Conservative values by a long shot, his military record was exemplary. Shortly after Gulf War 1 there were people who were cheerleading Colin Powell be put up as a candidate and see where he went politically? If we want a good solid candidate we need to see that they are good at politics as well as on the battlefield.

The goal of the military is incompatible with the goal of politics.

Petraeus far outranks McCain, Carter, and pretty much anyone with a military background that has run for president in the past few decades. The man clearly has the skills to lead and a resume that makes Obama look like a preschooler.

And at least it would shut people up about who needs to be kicked out of the party since I think every Republican would have an easy time supporting him.

re: #44 gregg

From the article -

an American combat team will rush to support ours before even knowing how dangerous the mission is - from what we have been given to witness, the American soldier is a beautiful and worthy heir to those who liberated France and Europe.

Thanks for that - It's funny though, it doesn't matter how dangerous the mission is, except tactically. We are coming regardless. To American Combat soldiers, it does not occur to them not to go.

re: #198 reine.de.tout

This is the group that 1/2 cookbook proceeds will be donated to.

No kidding? That's great!

re: #190 gregg

This might qualify.

Yes, it's good -- that's because the entire post is mostly just a re-post of my original essay!

With gratitude to our President, George W. Bush;

To the troops who give, and gave, their lives in defense of our nation and our Constitutional freedoms;

To the courageous Iraqis who risked their lives and their families, sometimes paying the ultimate price, in order to stand against tyranny;

To all those, from all over the world, who joined and supported them in affirming the humanity of the oppressed.

Let freedom ring!

re: #195 zombie

It would be nice to reach some conclusions about Iran now. That might help stabilize Iraq's future.

re: #203 Pvt Bin Jammin

No kidding? That's great!

No kidding. I made personal donation to them last year and year before, and think they do great work

re: #192 zombie

Thank you very much!

re: #199 The Undead Buddy Holly

One year after the troops withdraw and an Iraq secular democratic republic is still standing, I'll buy the champagne.

Till then, claiming "victory" is presumptuous at best.

Read the entire essay, and get back to me.

re: #192 zombie

FANTASTIC POST!

I have just added you to the "best of the best" list at the top of the page.

Thanks!

An EXCELLENT post. And, Gegenkritik, I love the photo you used for the post of the American soldier with the Iraqi children. This Victory in Iraq Day is also for them, for the Iraqi children, who can celebrate the fact that they can now enjoy the freedoms that so many of us here in America take for granted.

It's a travesty that the anti-American mass media & our anti-American President-elect have tried to keep our victory over El Qaida a secret. Maybe they think that pride goeth before a fall. Or, more likely, they are just mean-spirited.

re: #207 reine.de.tout

They really are a good group. I've been a member for four years now.

re: #191 Kulhwch

}:)     [Amen.]

And thank you Lord for bringing mine home safely. For those not so fortunate give them peace and comfort and the thanks of a grateful nation for their sacrifice.

re: #163 zombie

Zombie, Please add a special thank you to Michael Yon
[Link: www.michaelyon-online.com...]
: )

Thank you for participating, Charles!

Many thanks, prayers and praises to those who have made a difference in Iraq. We've rid the country of some extremely evil leaders, given them a taste of democracy, trained their police force and re-built their country, to name a few of the many "positives".

Blessings to all of you!

re: #214 notutopia

Zombie, Please add a special thank you to Michael Yon
[Link: www.michaelyon-online.com...]
: )

I mention him right near the beginning of the essay:

I have felt for many months that we had already won the war, but I was spurred to action by this report from Michael Yon:

"THE WAR IS OVER AND WE WON:" Michael Yon just phoned from Baghdad, and reports that things are much better than he had expected, and he had expected things to be good. "There's nothing going on. I'm with the 10th Mountain Division, and about half of the guys I'm with haven't fired their weapons on this tour and they've been here eight months. And the place we're at, South Baghdad, used to be one of the worst places in Iraq. And now there's nothing going on. I've been walking my feet off and haven't seen anything."

Since he hasn't actually linked to VI Day on his site, I can't add him to the list participating blogs, important though he may be.

re: #156 logboy

As stated above, noted, and thank you.

I will also suggest you read Michael J. Totten, who has been covering events in the Middle East, including many major operation centers in Iraq, for several years. He has a longer-range before-and-after view, not just of Iraq, but also of how events in Iraq have influenced lives elsewhere. He recently returned to Baghdad after a brief hiatus, to see for himself how different things are from just a year ago. He hasn't filed a report yet, except to say that he has landed in Baghdad.

I heard an Iraqi man that called into a radio program this last week and was expressing astonishment that the media in the US was not reporting how good things were in Iraq now.

I too am thankful that my son came home safe from his tour of duty in Iraq. I will add my voice to the others in thanks to all those who gave their lives to rid the world of a sadistic murderer and his sons who were even worse.

A hearty thank you to all the troops. We love you all.

re: #56 pre-Boomer Marine brat

Sockpuppet? We don't need no dumb sockpuppets! ;)

_{[I will now jump back into the hamper!]}

re: #210 valkyrie

An EXCELLENT post. And, Gegenkritik, I love the photo you used for the post of the American soldier with the Iraqi children. This Victory in Iraq Day is also for them, for the Iraqi children, who can celebrate the fact that they can now enjoy the freedoms that so many of us here in America take for granted.

Thank you. The VI-logo was made by a friend of mine.
You are absolutely right, VI-Day is also dedicated to the Iraqi children.
Big thanks to Zombie for making this celebration possible.

Zombie,
You did an amazing job. Thanks for letting us participate in something patriotic and pro USA for a change1

God bless our brave men and women in uniform! This would not be possible without you!

I am an American who is so proud of our military troops and the victory they have secured in Iraq. I honor all of the brave men and women who have served in our military (past, present, or future), to secure the many freedoms we enjoy. Our country is blessed because of your sacrifice. May God bless you and your families.

I recently joined Operation Welcome Home Maryland ([Link: www.operationwelcomehomemd.org...] as a way to express my appreciation for our military troops. Hundreds of well wishers sporting red, white and blue colors come to BWI to welcome home the troops as they arrive from Iraq and Afganistan to the sounds of clapping, cheering, and whistling. Last Thursday night, there was a couple of Girl Scout troops singing and giving away Girl Scout cookies to them.

I encourage you to check out this website (especially check out the pictures and the comments).

And if anyone lives near BWI airport in Maryland, and has a couple of hours to spare, I would encourage you to come and join us as we welcome home our troops!

re: #201 MrSnuggles

Petraeus far outranks McCain, Carter, and pretty much anyone with a military background that has run for president in the past few decades.

I'm trying to think of everyone who has run with military experience...

McCain, O-6 POW, Kerry, O-2, and Bush, O-2... anyone else?

Ross Perot's running mate, James Stockdale, was an O-9 POW, but then, he wasn't running for president, either.

re: #57 Killgore Trout

Robert Spencer's genocidal ex-lizard pals at the stalker blog.

I am not defending any stalker blogs.

I dinged this down because I object to this characterization of Robert Spencer.

I've read many of the inflammatory comments in various threads here about Robert Spencer and I disagree with them all.

And please, for the love Pete, I don't need to read Walter's partial email quotation again. He consistently fails to quote the other emails from Mr. Spencer.

It feels as if every thread I read nowadays contains smears against Robert Spencer. It is unpleasant, to say the least.

Obviously, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and I realize that I am in the minority here.

My bad...

The link to Operation Welcome Home in Maryland is:

[Link: www.operationwelcomehomemd.org...]

The Losers, the dems and their retreat plan.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
--John 15:13

Our debt is great. I salute all who fought and fell, all who served, all who continue to serve, and I thank you for your sacrifice and noble endeavor.

This goes out to family and friends who serve(d), and to those not personally known to me. With gratitude we think of courage, endurance, and love of country when we think of you.

Haven't read all the comments but.................

Google doesn't have any commemorative artwork on their homepage logo!

Hmmm.

I wonder why?

Thank you, brave ones, for giving so many people in this world REAL hope. I am so proud of you, and of my country. Thank you.

Thank you, (((zombie))).

re: #230 Brees

Haven't read all the comments but.................

Google doesn't have any commemorative artwork on their homepage logo!

Hmmm.

I wonder why?

They weren't invited.

Happy VI day everyone! God Bless our troops!

For our wonderful troops! G-d bless you all, and your families who are so proud of you.

You stayed the course.No cut and run like the Demonrats wanted...and thank you, President Bush for your steadfast support.

Bought breakfast for a couple of our military men last month. Told the waitress that there money was no good as long as I was in the restaurant. Thanks troops for a job well done.

Caution - New hatchling here. Struggeling to get on his feet, er legs. Been wandering around the site to become familiar with what's where.

Now standing tall to salute our troops.

I'd like to think of myself as part of this crowd:

Homecoming by Budweiser

Smell that? You smell that?
What?
Nothing in the world smells like that.
I love the smell of napalm in the morning. Smelled like... victory.

But the way the Commie MSM is ignoring Victory in Iraqi Day- stinks.

re: #236 Cheechako

Caution - New hatchling here. Struggeling to get on his feet, er legs. Been wandering around the site to become familiar with what's where.

Now standing tall to salute our troops.

I'd like to think of myself as part of this crowd:

Homecoming by Budweiser

I gently pinched your Cheek, Cheechako.

re: #108 ciaospirit

Posted at my website. And I made it my screensaver. We're proud of our Troops! Never faltered, never surrendered, never abandoned freedom's fight. You have won the war. We know it. You know it. And to hell with the traitors! We join you in celebrating a job well done.

a ga-zillion up dings to you!

re: #85 carti3r

I am filled with so many emotions when I read things like this. It's helps knowing that the hard work and man hours are truly appreciated.

God bless our troops for sacrificing their time, energy, rights, and even lives to protect this great country of ours.

I will be in Afghanistan soon enough, and hopefully I too can make a difference.

Not only for the US, but for the number of Afghans who support us in the quest for human rights and modernization.

Hey, buddy! I'm in Afghanistan now, and let me tell you--we are making a difference! I was on a tour of some facilities being re-arranged, and the Afghan officer I was with proudly pointed out his sergeants, saying "Look at how organized they are--they are truly modern soldiers with skills and dedication."
He was right, of course, but that was not the impressive part--the part that really struck me was that this officer was praising his men in public, and in fact gave them credit which he could easily have taken as his own.
In a tribal society, connections and influence, and no small amount of patronage will get you very far, and it is quite respectable. In this way the peace is kept, and the families are fed, and society benefits.
In a more modern model, though, those same traits will get you labelled as corrupt. One of the issues here is helping the Afghan servicemembers and police to be comfortable letting a large bureaucratic system function as it must, and have faith in the benefits thereof. Another is the similar difficulty in letting authority and ownership rest at the lowest level possible, while retaining responsibility. This is a difficult bit of education to get done, as only through actually feeling it work do you ever really believe in it, and even then, I have seen plenty of people on our own side of the fence who have never mastered the art.
So it just made my day to see that Afghan officer refer to his men in such proud terms.
Now if only some more of my own companions would get around to it. [sigh]

I am in Balkh province. Do not tell me where you are going, as this is not the place to discuss travel plans, and you may not be going where you think you are anyway. But do look me up when you get here. You'll know how when you get to your destination.

re: #236 Cheechako

Welcome, pale cold one.

Great job by all. Hats off to great c in c--Pres Bush.

re: #240 haakondahl

So it just made my day to see that Afghan officer refer to his men in such proud terms.
Now if only some more of my own companions would get around to it. [sigh]

I am in Balkh province. Do not tell me where you are going, as this is not the place to discuss travel plans, and you may not be going where you think you are anyway. But do look me up when you get here. You'll know how when you get to your destination.

Yeah, I wouldn't do that on an open forum, Heh.

It's fantastic to hear such news. I know how the Afghans operate on a very general level right now, more in depth to come soon, but it is very uplifting to hear about that officer. Great strides are being made, and only more to come.

re: #117 Killgore Trout

Your Weekly Address from the President-elect
Obama's answer to the economic crisis seems to be putting people to work on windfarms and solar plants.

What really bothers me is that he's actively engaged in shadow governance and he hasn't even taken office yet.

re: #244 Macker

What really bothers me is that he's actively engaged in shadow governance and he hasn't even taken office yet.

*Trumpet sounds*

Hail to the chief-elect - ta dah!

...Hail to the Chief, he's the chief and he needs hail-ing...

re: #198 reine.de.tout
Pvt Bin Jammin

I'm a soldiers' angel and personally acquainted with the founder. I'll be sure to share your comments with her.

This is the group that 1/2 cookbook proceeds will be donated to.

. . . , this is why I'm proud to be an American! Thank you, reine, for your generous heart!
God, please continue to bless our troops!

God Bless all the troops who fight for freedom.
/God Bless the USA!

Just an observation... remember the Iraq Study Group report of 2006? They recommended the US gov't push Israel to make concessions with the Palestinians and the Syrians because there would be no peace in Iraq until the "Palestinian issue" was resolved.

Well, here we are 2 years later. Peace is at hand in Iraq, but the Palis are still looking for new & innovative ways to kill Jews and ruin any hope for peace.

There's a lesson in that.

Thank you---Thank you.......You accomplished this during a time in our Countries history that will always be known, during this time of war, as........America's SHAME. How the American people just turn away from a war that everyone thought was necessary and right including congress, to do. It's such a shame how the American's started forsaking there true believes and instead starting accepting the lies and deliberate misconception the msm was spewing; even though, these say people had a negative view of the msm and it accuracy of there reporting. I know the war was long, and maybe dragged out a Little longer then necessary, but this period of time, from this day forward can't possible be know as anything but America's SHAME. The Mora family.

Thank you for doing this, Zombie.

And an extra special thank you to our armed forces and our allies for making this possible.

For all those who have died to give freedom for the rest of us, thank you.
For all those who fight still to bring freedom for those that don't have freedom yet, thank you. For those who will continue to fight a very noble cause, thank you. For those who support these efforts, thank you.
May the forgotten and discounted deaths be honored forever in a free Iraq.
AND a big thank you to the US military and her allies, specifically.

And you too ZOMBIE, I thank you too.

THANK YOU to ALL our Soldiers.
We fired off a few fire works tonight!
WOOT!WOOT!WOOT!
God Bless You!

Thank you, our brave and wonderful service men and women for this victory. It is a victory. Victories don’t come cheap or fast, but this one has happened. The media would have had us all believe that this conflict was a quagmire, unjust, illegal, doomed, and too dear to justify the cost. I don’t hear them talking much at all about it now. Whatever conflicts are still occurring in Iraq are probably now not much worse than that which happens on a daily basis with the street gangs in our own inner cities, the gun-runners and drug dealers across our borders, and the meth labs and crack houses out there. When the Islamic sects decide to live in peace there, because their conflict is actually meaningless, maybe those good folks can get on with it, prosper, and make decent lives for themselves. I hope so. And that opportunity may not have been possible without our intervention.

Of course this conflict was expensive in American treasure and lives; all wars are. I have so much gratitude for those who served, gave up their lives, were terribly wounded, separated from their loved ones, but stuck with it. The media, the congresscritters, and the “experts” are very quick to make their judgements about what may happen if we don’t, for example, let them fix the economy, bail out the loser corporations, provide us with “affordable” health care, but none of them have revisited their judgements about what may have happened in Iraq, and elsewhere, had we not taken that conflict on.

I’d like to clue them in. The Husseins are gone, truly, truly dead. Saddam was a menace for decades. His son, Uday, was a psychopath of the worst degree, but the really scary one was Qusay. He was clever and diabolical and the heir to his father’s legacy. Those were the WMD’s that were found and destroyed. The politics in Iraq today may be shaky, but they don’t include the Husseins anymore. But those WMD’s would have really caused Iraq, the entire region and us more of a world of hurt.

For those of our anti-war, peace-loving folks, I’d like for those platitudes to be real, too. But that’s not how human nature among the evil works. Do not forget, when “fighting” for peace, that someone once said, “You may not be interested in war, but war is interested in you”. Better to fight it, attain victory, rather than sitting around with your thumb up your nose singing Kumbaya. Your house burglar alarm will not protect you.

Thanks for listening to Grandma on this freezing Carolina night, and have a nice day.

Victory in Iraq=Iraqis about to elect Islamic Fundamentalists into power, due to the needless sacrifice of American blood. This is no reason to celebrate.

But our servicemen and women don't make policy, so many thanks to them in any case.

Tons of praise for all our uniformed personnel. YOU DID IT! The war in Iraq is over, and we won! Happy VI day, November 22, 2008!

re: #256 Student of Objectivism

Victory in Iraq=Iraqis about to elect Islamic Fundamentalists into power, due to the needless sacrifice of American blood. This is no reason to celebrate.

But our servicemen and women don't make policy, so many thanks to them in any case.

With unbridled support like this who needs the media?

I guess "stay the course" and "stand them up so we can stand down" doesn't sound stupid anymore, does it, leftwits?

This vet wants to give a huge THANK YOU to ALL the men and women for their untiring effort and sacrifice.

Well done, people.

re: #258 jcbunga

With unbridled support like this who needs the media?

That isn't an argument

This is a sad day for Al Qaeda, Iraqi insurgents, and American liberals, all of whom have bitter hatred for the United States and would have celebrated our loss in Iraq. Also, as I'm sure someone has commented above, this would not have happened if Obama, Pelosi, Reed were making the decisions. They would have lead our country right down the path to defeat and national humiliation, leaving Iraq a hotbed of terrorism and human atrocity. Thanks to the troops, And George W. Bush!

God bless our troops and pray for the democracy advocates in Iraq and all over the middle east. I will miss W. when he is out of office. I am sure that I am not the only one too.