Charles you are right.

And I hope the O is a quick study, and turns out to be a fine president.

Because this is my country, and I wish it well.

Well said.

I agree entirely. Barack Obama did the right thing here, end of story. I'll oppose him when he does the wrong thing; If he wishes to do right, he'll have my support in so doing.

Exactly Charles.

I just wish it didn't take five days to end it.

Thank you for posting this Charles. We're not abandoning our principles simply by saying, "Well done, Mr. President" when he deserves it.

Is it fair to say he did what Bush would've done?

And that’s my screed for the evening.

Kind of an anti-screed.

Well done Mr. President. I hope you'll give me cause to say it again sometime soon.

I do not care for Obama. At all. Nevertheless, he did give the Navy the go ahead to take the pirates out if they thought the captives life was in danger. Something tells me they may have been creative in that directive's interpretation.

Good job to everyone in the chain of command.

Mission Accomplished

what did he do? did I miss it?

I'll give him the same treatment Bush would have gotten in the same circumstances...

Yes, we need to look in the mirror and recognize Obama Derangement Syndrome for what it is.

Otherwise, what have we learned?

re: #13 Pythagoras

Yes, we need to look in the mirror and recognize Obama Derangement Syndrome for what it is.

Otherwise, what have we learned?

Its not ODS if you just question.

Exactly. We must always ask ourselves: "Is this how the left acted over the past 8 years?" If so, rational, liberty-loving people need to stop, step back, take a big breath and be the bigger person. In the long run it will pay off.

Thanks, Charles.

I get tired of unnecessary negativity, too.

re: #5 LeFort3

Exactly Charles.

I just wish it didn't take five days to end it.

Hunters will track an elk for days to get a clean kill shot.

Sniping bad guys who are holding hostages is the ultimate hunt for dangerous game.

Especially on pitching waves.

I'm not surprised given the situation that it took several days for the right combination of distance and position factors to come together to allow the SEAL team to take their shots.

Nice post Charles!

*shrug*

The truth is he should be praised for allowing the pros to do their job. I think Carter or Clinton would have botched it. In no way is this an endorsement of his other actions or policies.

I gave the one his due yesterday and chastised some of our fellow lizards the way Charles just did. Not so eloquently of course. Still don't trust the man or his policies though.

It's a single data point. Still too soon to judge the larger picture.

Thanks Charles, well stated. We need to cut through the fodder.

All's well that ends well.

Well said!

Thanks Charles. I have believed this to be the case through the duration of this matter and in its final resolution. To acknowledge a job well done is not a matter of supporting overall policies however it is important to show good faith when the time arrises.

This is one of those cases in which Obama deserves a tip of the hat and avoid the Monday morning quarterbacking that seems to have hit the blogosphere and radio waves before, during and after.

Is it over?

Are the pirates defeated? Is shipping now safe? This can't happen anymore?

A congratulate a brave US Navy Captain and those expert marksman sailors. I congratulate anyone who succeeded in their task in this one event.

If the President craves praise for giving an order that is expected of him, hurray.

The important next steps are up to the President. The decision of whether to put an end to these terrorist activities are why he gets the big house and that nice plane.

I'll congratulate Obama when the job is done. If it's done.

re: #11 albusteve

what did he do? did I miss it?

What he did: he got elected President of the United States.

Yes Yes Yes. He did his job. Period. Isn't that what "we" elected him for?

Automatic, unthinking criticism of someone we may disagree with on some or even most issues is just plain crazy.
Give credit where credit is due.

I just want to know if his lefty loon friends are accusing him of being a cowboy* yet.

* as if

What if the operation had gone terribly wrong - and the hostage had been killed.

Fair to blame Obama?

I think not.

Hear ye!

Besides all the loonies that complain about everything make it hard for the good arguments we make to be taken seriously.

True, well done by all involved. Now, what will the president do to prevent further pirate outrages?

You, Charles, are an example of what they mean when they say "He's a gentleman."

re: #33 Racer X

What if the operation had gone terribly wrong - and the hostage had been killed.

Fair to blame Obama?

I think not.

of course not. that is why the praise should go to the military. end of story.

re: #33 Racer X

What if the operation had gone terribly wrong - and the hostage had been killed.

Fair to blame Obama?

I think not.

Depends on how it went wrong I suppose

I just believe in intellectual honesty. If we would have praise for President Bush in a situation like this, then we should have some for 0bama too.

okay ... now let's keep the momentum going ... let's go kick some terrorist ass ... get back the reporters ... and while you are at it get Shalit back to his family ...

re: #33 Racer X
Talked about that yesterday too. I would not have jumped obambi on a failure. A hostage rescue is just about the most dangerous thing anyone can try to pull off.

Congratulations on one international action President Obama hasn't yet apologized for. Letting the military do its job.

And to the Navy SEALS for their outstanding marksmanship.

The anti-war, America-hating, apologizing-for-our-strengths leftist looney tunes are going to ramp up the skewering of our president because of his "violence against the little itty bitty piwates" and the right needs to support him when he is, well, RIGHT. That way, maybe he'll stand up for American again.

re: #29 Charles

What he did: he got elected as President of the United States.

I'm trying to deal with it...as far as the rescue it seems sanity prevailed and I have given him credit for that...it was a no brainer in my opinion, it's his job to protect American citizens...he did his job...no more no less

re: #20 mspfacs

The truth is he should be praised for allowing the pros to do their job. I think Carter or Clinton would have botched it. In no way is this an endorsement of his other actions or policies.

No offence..but that is a flippant statement..In case nobody has seen the TV yet. President Obama is now the leader of the free world..When his leadership as CIC of the US Military sees success..We are all winners.
I like it when America is successful...

And a good screed it is, Charles.

I've already given him credit for it, but feel compelled to drop into the thread and add my 2 cents to what you said.

Good job, Mr. President.

/now, keep it up.

out for the night

re: #39 Sharmuta

I just believe in intellectual honesty. If we would have praise for President Bush in a situation like this, then we should have some for 0bama too.

Bush let the military do their thing. He didn't get praise for everything good that happened. However, everything bad that happened he got torched.

re: #11 albusteve

OT, AS: Got BG's new "SD". Thanks for the serendipity!

re: #39 Sharmuta

I just believe in intellectual honesty. If we would have praise for President Bush in a situation like this, then we should have some for 0bama too.

To be honest, I do not remember crediting GW Bush for US military successes in Iraq. I do seem to remember a couple of generals, though.

re: #32 OldLineTexan

I just want to know if his lefty loon friends are accusing him of being a cowboy* yet.

* as if

Lefty loon: You are not being told the Troof about Pirates

re: #39 Sharmuta

I just believe in intellectual honesty. If we would have praise for President Bush in a situation like this, then we should have some for 0bama too.

I believe Bush would have made a statement during the first day or two outlining our position. Obama was silent (publicly).

And thank G W Bush for having the military ready to take on the assignment...will it be ready to do the same in 2 or 3 years?

My Dad always said that if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all...

re: #32 OldLineTexan

I just want to know if his lefty loon friends are accusing him of being a cowboy* yet.

* as if

No, not yet, but expect some of LLL to start reacting if he continues the policy of Hellfire in Waziristan. The Pirate rescue OP was perfect for him, no repercussions because there's zero geopolitical consequence to killing pirates. There is consequence for the campaign in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

I'm very leery of Obama because it's hard to get a fix on the guy... who is the real Obama? So far it's a mixed bag. Give credit where credit is due. But one thing I'd hate to see is for us to go off the deep end like the Bush haters and deport ourselves in the same disgusting manner as the left wing loons with BDS, even if the big O does something really dumb, which I pray he won't. He is, like Charles said, our guy and if he screws up you feel embarrassed or you oppose him, you don't hate him.

re: #49 OldLineTexan

To be honest, I do not remember crediting GW Bush for US military successes in Iraq.

What successes?

/mfm

*sigh*

re: #33 Racer X

What if the operation had gone terribly wrong - and the hostage had been killed.

Fair to blame Obama?

I think not.

Why not? Carter got all (but all) the blame for that messed-up hostage rescue. And, because he was CiC, he deserved it.

re: #48 Cato the Elder

OT, AS: Got BG's new "SD". Thanks for the serendipity!

rock on bro...there is more when you want it...got couple more up my sleeve

We define the Presidency down if we heap praise for an order any small town sheriff would give in a hostage situation. If you have a clear shot at the perpetrator, take it.

ODS?

Damn straight and proud of it.

re: #50 Alouette

Lefty loon: You are not being told the Troof about Pirates

Great, I needed those brain cells that just died reading that article.

I'm more than willing to give Obama credit for allowing the military to do what it was already allowed to do under the Rules of Engagement - which is to go after the pirates who threatened a US citizen. Good on him for that.

Let's see his followup. He's called for an end to piracy. How exactly is he going to do that? Is that going to be hot air or is he going to follow up with a real concerted effort? Will we see another backing of Ethiopian forces going in on the ground to support the anti-ICU and other Islamists and warlords who rule over significant parts of the country? Or, will he simply talk the talk, while Somali pirates continue harassing shipping?

President Bush didn't take the action necessary to stop the piracy either - and he lent assistance to the Ethiopians once and increased Navy patrols off the Somali coast.

But Bush didn't go after the pirate safe havens up and down the coast.

Will Obama?

re: #16 Dianna

Thanks, Charles.

I get tired of unnecessary negativity, too.

I find myself just ignoring a lot of links, blog posts and right wing news stories because so much of it is not important or factually wrong. There is much to disagree with Obama about but people need to get smarter about it.

I no can haz ODS? :(

It's things like this that keep me coming back and reading this blog. It is one of the only places on the internet where you can see actual intellectual honesty being used in the discussion of politics.

re: #63 lawhawk

But Jefferson did, as did Madison!

I read an analysis before the Inauguration that said Obama might be surprisingly tough against terrorists acts.

It stems from his narcissism and his Chicago street politics; when it's *him* that's getting dissed/embarassed, he won't stand for it. He takes it real personal.

That may have played a role here. "I've been nice. If you want to live, don't diminish me." You don't want to be on his bad side.

Either way, I give him credit for giving the green light.

re: #61 Racer X

ODS?

Damn straight and proud of it.

Why? What is there to be proud about in derangement? Frankly, I think it will undermine legitimate criticisms of him later.

re: #30 NYCHardhat

Yes Yes Yes. He did his job. Period. Isn't that what "we" elected him for?

* * *
There is a LOT of gratuitous Obama bashing by many folks and it's not gracious, especially when Obama could have followed Carter's example in hostage crises, instead of letting the military do their job as Obama did.

Pres. Obama had a choice, and he made a good choice this week. We ought to be fair and acknowledge that FACT.

I feel like I need to have a stipulation prior to writing this... Good job Mr. President. Aren't we just lowering the bar a bit by giving this man credit for something he is supposed to do? I will give him all the credit in the world if he reverses the course on socialism.

I'll repeat my post from yesterday.

Thank you, Pres. Obama.

I told my wife when I came home today:

"Obama finally did something I can truly say I am proud of him for."

To paraphrase the rest, I went on to say I seriously expected him to send in Jimmah Carter (or someone similar) to "negotiate" for the Good Captains release.

Instead, he gave the (from all apparent evidence) classic commanders order; "Deadly force is authorized, get our guy out."

As a vet, it warms my cold, black heart.

re: sighing if directed at my post

Say the word and I'm gone for the evening. I'm not bothering to explain my remark, but it was not a slam at President Obama. I have plenty of other material for that.

re: #71 NYCHardhat

I feel like I need to have a stipulation prior to writing this... Good job Mr. President. Aren't we just lowering the bar a bit by giving this man credit for something he is supposed to do? I will give him all the credit in the world if he reverses the course on socialism.

Reward the behavior you want, remember? It's basic training for puppies and toddlers.

There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven . . .
Ahh . . . Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, one of my favorite set of verses in the Bible. Thanks Charles for reminding me of them and how reading them is like to taking a deep breathe of fresh, evening, clean mountain air at the end of a long hot day.

Well done Mr. President. You made the right call.

re: #67 quickjustice

But Jefferson did, as did Madison!

Last time I checked, we haven't had a Jefferson or a Madison in the White House in more than 200 years. It would be nice to see someone who respected the Constitution and the limited power of the federal government that those two envisioned.

re: #74 OldLineTexan

Have no fear, I haven't sighed at you.

re: #73 psyop

Yeah, the Jimmah woulda sent Jesse Jackson to negotiate.

re: #68 Buffalo Fats

I read an analysis before the Inauguration that said Obama might be surprisingly tough against terrorists acts.

He has the Democrat advantage of not being required to seek U.N. approval for using military force (cf. Clinton).

re: #71 NYCHardhat

I feel like I need to have a stipulation prior to writing this... Good job Mr. President. Aren't we just lowering the bar a bit by giving this man credit for something he is supposed to do? I will give him all the credit in the world if he reverses the course on socialism.

We can give him props for a job well done and successful. It's like saying, we shouldn't admire Capt. Sullenberger for ditching the plane in the Hudson and saving everyone on board, because his job was to land that plane.

re: #75 Dianna

Reward the behavior you want, remember? It's basic training for puppies and toddlers.

I think we have a teenager in office.

re: #77 lawhawk

Last time I checked, we haven't had a Jefferson or a Madison in the White House in more than 200 years. It would be nice to see someone who respected the Constitution and the limited power of the federal government that those two envisioned.

Then why would you want a Jefferson?!

re: #83 NYCHardhat

I think we have a teenager in office.

The advice still applies.

Back to writing.

Well done President Obama. I simply cannot stand anything else you have done so far, but in this case the decision you made was the right one. George W. Bush was OUR President for 8 years and nothing he did was viewed in a favorable light by the left. I do not believe we owe President Obama any respect if I look through that lense. Given that I am more a patriot than I am a partisan, I will cheer for my country. Any benefit this country receives as a result of his presidency I will gladly welcome and give him credit for.

re: #70 alegrias

* * *
There is a LOT of gratuitous Obama bashing by many folks and it's not gracious, especially when Obama could have followed Carter's example in hostage crises, instead of letting the military do their job as Obama did.

Pres. Obama had a choice, and he made a good choice this week. We ought to be fair and acknowledge that FACT.

I am fair. He was supposed to do that. Using Carter as a template is a disaster.

re: #80 Thanos

Yeah, the Jimmah woulda sent Jesse Jackson to negotiate.

That would have been fiendishly cruel, IMO. As a pirate, I would rather be shot.

re: #5 LeFort3

Exactly Charles.

I just wish it didn't take five days to end it.

My opinion, the military waited as long as they could to save the captain, get snipers on the ship, and get the life boat close for the kill. The military had a good plan, and executed it, and I won't bitch about a few days to get all the assets in place.

re: #86 Truck Monkey

Well there's quite a few dead Jihadis in the Waziristans due to his orders as well.

I applaud him. He did his job. It is the job he wanted, and got.

"To protect the United States... from all enemies foreign and domestic". I think that is in the oath.

To have done any other thing would have been dereliction of his duty.

re: #29 Charles

What he did: he got elected President of the United States.

So did Jimmy Carter...

Ah, "the soft bigotry of low expectations"...

re: #80 Thanos

Yeah, the Jimmah woulda sent Jesse Jackson to negotiate.

Yeah, and Jesse woulda sent his son.

...for a guaranteed senate seat and $5 million donation to the Rainbow coalition.

I think Charles is letting his opinions be known so that the lovely people over at thedailykos will go insane.

re: #62 OldLineTexan

I scanned the article ... at the end were the apologies for the pirates actions because they were only "guarding their shores from toxic dumping and illegal fishing. How do you do that 350 miles out to sea?" Is there something in that San Francisco water? Maybe some LSD left over from the 60's? My head is going to explode from the stupidy of the remarks!

re: #84 Dianna

Then why would you want a Jefferson?!

Jefferson would be aghast at the US now, and I am for one am not willing to go back to his purist vision ... the nation would not survive.

re: #61 Racer X

ODS?

Damn straight and proud of it.

Unless I have missed some other posts of yours, I have to say no, no you don't have ODS. You do have this, however.

re: #69 Sharmuta

Why? What is there to be proud about in derangement? Frankly, I think it will undermine legitimate criticisms of him later.

I don't really feel deranged at all. I think my criticism of this president has been legitimate. As was my criticism for Bush. When Obama does something noteworthy that is good for America I have no problem giving him props.

In this instance the military deserves the credit. Obama has made too many disparaging remarks towards our men in uniform to give him credit.

re: #33 Racer X

What if the operation had gone terribly wrong - and the hostage had been killed.

Fair to blame Obama?

I think not.

Correct. But, had it failed there's no doubt in my mind what would have occurred.

What I still find interesting is that the same people that are engaging in writing off Obama for the event were quick to blame him for the delay of the Naval engagement and would have no doubt blamed him for its failure.

Thus since it succeeded they are writing him off. Had it failed they would have put the blame squarely on him.

My only problem with giving the President credit is I have heard some discussion (the 'Special Report' panel tonight, for example) that orders were already in place for the SEALS to execute on their plan for a rescue. Basically, the President didn't get in the way and micromanage a military situation from a couple thousand miles away. I'm not real sure that staying out of the way of professionals deserves a lot of praise.

re: #49 OldLineTexan

To be honest, I do not remember crediting GW Bush for US military successes in Iraq. I do seem to remember a couple of generals, though.

* * * *
Iraq is "too big to fail," too big to declare a victory, too important to grade pass/fail.

Pres. Bush will get his due in the history books. Bush is not a needy, celebrity addicted, adulation seeking person. Don't cry for Pres. Bush, he's going to be fine.

At the same time, the Left all of a sudden has come around to cheer the deaths of the pirates? Hmmm...

re: #82 Alouette

We can give him props for a job well done and successful. It's like saying, we shouldn't admire Capt. Sullenberger for ditching the plane in the Hudson and saving everyone on board, because his job was to land that plane.

Big big difference. What Sullenberger did was extraordinary. Unexpected. Showed a measure of skill and determination that set him apart.

Obama gave an order - or permission- that was what was minimally expected of any law (enforcement) and/or political leader.

re: #93 Dar ul Harb

Are you suggesting race is an issue?

re: #101 chicagodudewhotrades

My only problem with giving the President credit is I have heard some discussion (the 'Special Report' panel tonight, for example) that orders were already in place for the SEALS to execute on their plan for a rescue. Basically, the President didn't get in the way and micromanage a military situation from a couple thousand miles away. I'm not real sure that staying out of the way of professionals deserves a lot of praise.

Yup.

re: #93 Dar ul Harb

Exactly. Nice job, Mr. President! You somehow managed not to screw this one up. Now, how about not screwing up the country?

Theme song for this thread:

re: #99 Racer X

My guess is that BDS sufferers likewise didn't think they were deranged. I'm not say you are or not, but I think it's noting to claim to be proud of. You know better.

I work with some die-hard conservative Republicans, in their eyes Obama can do nothing right, needless to say they were awfully quite this morning.

re: #58 Dianna

Why not? Carter got all (but all) the blame for that messed-up hostage rescue. And, because he was CiC, he deserved it.

Good point.

I think Carter was a few years in and had decimated the military by then.

re: #103 lawhawk

At the same time, the Left all of a sudden has come around to cheer the deaths of the pirates? Hmmm...

Yeah, pretty much. You should have seen all of the "saber rattling" going on at the Democratic Underground.

My praise is to the American ethic that holds innocent life to be valuable and worth protecting.
I praise my president for rescuing an innocent life.

now about his other ideas...?...Next "0" boondoggle thread.

i perfer to keep it to issues, he did the right thing in afganistan, pakistan, and the pirates i think the moonbats will be more upset over this than i am for sure.

i will save my fire till he puts pressure on Israel.

i will have to earn my neocon WAR PIG status.

re: #95 swamprat

I think Charles is letting his opinions be known so that the lovely people over at thedailykos will go insane.

As SpaceJesus said about the Paulians:

They're already insane.

re: #89 avanti

My opinion, the military waited as long as they could to save the captain, get snipers on the ship, and get the life boat close for the kill. The military had a good plan, and executed it, and I won't bitch about a few days to get all the assets in place.

The Navy showed they are world class...

re: #101 chicagodudewhotrades

I'm not real sure that staying out of the way of professionals deserves a lot of praise.

*cough*Lyndon Johnson*cough*

re: #102 alegrias

* * * *
Iraq is "too big to fail," too big to declare a victory, too important to grade pass/fail.

Pres. Bush will get his due in the history books. Bush is not a needy, celebrity addicted, adulation seeking person. Don't cry for Pres. Bush, he's going to be fine.

OK, but not my point.

re: #103 lawhawk

At the same time, the Left all of a sudden has come around to cheer the deaths of the pirates? Hmmm...

And you know what - for that reason alone I think it is fine with me to give the man credit. Its about time the left feels good about our military, and if this doesn't do it nothing will.

re: #99 Racer X

He issued the right order about this situation not once, but twice. Disparaging remarks aside, the actions of a president matter a heck of a lot more than their words, regardless of what the campaigns would have you believe. It's a call where life, death, and risk was involved and he made the decision, made it right, and would have taken the heat had it gone badly. Kudos where Kudos are due.

Whether he ordered it , or let it happen, kudos to the President.
The use of force in situations like this is the only way to
prevent future loss of innocent life. Death is a great deterrent.
By, the way, I love Rush, but his show today was unintelligent
and came off as caddy and stupidly biased.

Charles, once again, whips us back into line. We must be careful not to become like the Left during the last eight years.

re: #119 Racer X

And you know what - for that reason alone I think it is fine with me to give the man credit. Its about time the left feels good about our military, and if this doesn't do it nothing will.

Oh c'mon, the left is cheering Obama first, military second. They have always been that way.

re: #112 Gus 802
Gotta remember their mantra...Any military action taken by a democrat president is pure and noble. Any military action by a republican is fascism, murder of innocent 3rd world frredom fighters and a profit advantage for military contractors.

I was watching ABC tonight, and what was their story line?

That the killing of the 3 pirates was going to make life difficult for Americans living in Somalia. No kidding.

re: #109 Sharmuta

My guess is that BDS sufferers likewise didn't think they were deranged. I'm not say you are or not, but I think it's noting to claim to be proud of. You know better.

You're harshing my buzz.

It just feels better to bag on Obama.

Fine.

Good job Mr. President!

re: #80 Thanos

Yeah, the Jimmah woulda sent Jesse Jackson to negotiate.

* * * *
Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ, Newark) whose plane was mortared in Somalia today, was in Somalia to do the group committee negotiation thingy. So there was Plan B.

re: #125 rawmuse

I was watching ABC tonight, and what was their story line?

That the killing of the 3 pirates was going to make life difficult for Americans living in Somalia. No kidding.

Heh. I thought only "the right" ate their own.

re: #107 Lightspeed

Exactly. Nice job, Mr. President! You somehow managed not to screw this one up. Now, how about not screwing up the country?

My expectations being, well, what was that felicitous phrase?

"Lower than the scum under the bottom of the barrel"?

Go ahead and feel disappointed. I don't feel he's done anything extraordinary or worthy of praise in my opinion.

Right on, Charles!

I'm reposting this from the "Captain America Freed" Thread, because it seems quite dead. (That'll teach me to go away for Easter.)

This went down just like the scenario I suggested in an earlier thread. President Obama gave the orders and did the right thing. I have no complaints about this one. Good job, Mr. President. I didn't think you had it in you. I'm overjoyed that I was wrong. And it appears I was right about the skill of the Navy SEAL sharpshooters as well. Three simultaneous kill shots. Excellent work guys! It is a proud day for all Americans.

re: #125 rawmuse

These people do not liive in the real world.

Fine.

Where's the button to ding up his Karma?

The article that appears in the PJM story, at least to me, is an attempt to lead those that do not think Obama is the man for the job, into outright hatred of the man. This is the completely wrong to do. There is enough out there, that Obama has proposed or is leaning to propose, to oppose. This is not one of those…PERIOD.

Obama did choose the correct course. Nothing more. ALL of those that lived and carried out this episode are and forever will be, THE heroes.

A lizard challenged my disgust at this Pajamas Media article...

Unfortunately for that lizard...he was incorrect...as the story goes on...

As such, they’ve all latched onto this post from Uncle Jimbo at BLACKFIVE contending that the on-scene commander already had the authority to use force under the rules of engagement, and therefore all the reports saying Obama issued that authority are incorrect.

Gortney’s statement was clear: “our authorities came directly from the president.”

Obama ordered...our magnificents did (including Captain Phillips, another just like Captain Sully, gliding that plane into the Hudson)..Damn well done by all.

re: #124 pingjockey

Gotta remember their mantra...Any military action taken by a democrat president is pure and noble. Any military action by a republican is fascism, murder of innocent 3rd world frredom fighters and a profit advantage for military contractors.

Pretty much a case of "go team!" Had this been performed under a Republican leadership the usual esoteric criticisms would be revealed. Not unlike the banter we're hearing from Ron Paul: Somalia policy, pirates as victims, etc. Not in this case.

I disagree with Obama as much as anyone, but I must also give his administration credit for coming around on the "Bush wiretaps". "Doing his job" again? Perhaps. But I am glad he made that decision.

re: #126 Racer X

Being a bigger person isn't easy. But I'm not interested in behaving like the left. There's more than policy that separates me from them.

re: #134 Racer X

Fine.

Where's the button to ding up his Karma?

That's an idea.

re: #125 rawmuse

I was watching ABC tonight, and what was their story line?

That the killing of the 3 pirates was going to make life difficult for Americans living in Somalia. No kidding.

Killing pirates will only create more pirates.
//

re: #138 Sharmuta

Being a bigger person isn't easy. But I'm not interested in behaving like the left. There's more than policy that separates me from them.

Fucking A.

re: #87 NYCHardhat

I am fair. He was supposed to do that. Using Carter as a template is a disaster.

* * * *
Using Pres. Carter as a template could have been Pres. Obama's choice! We can celebrate Pres. Obama CHOSE not to imitate Pres. Carter in this hostage crisis.

re: #101 chicagodudewhotrades

I'm not real sure that staying out of the way of professionals deserves a lot of praise.

Well, I think our surviving Vietnam veterans might disagree with that statement. I'm not a veteran, but I sure recall a lot of fingerpointing because politicians were running the war instead of the military. I think there is a lot to be said for staying out of the way. Sort of like the hippocratic oath: first, do no harm.

There is a not so subltle difference between Opposition and Oppositional defiant disorder

re: #141 NYCHardhat

Hon- I've already mentioned that a couple of democrats I work with were surprised to learn I wasn't a Nirther. It's not bad to let the opposition know we're not freaks! It will be much easier for me in the future to convince them to try conservative policy if they know now I'm not a kook.

re: #10 dauntlessone

I do not care for Obama. At all. Nevertheless, he did give the Navy the go ahead to take the pirates out if they thought the captives life was in danger. Something tells me they may have been creative in that directive's interpretation.

Good job to everyone in the chain of command.

Mission Accomplished

That's exactly how I feel.

"Present"

Good Job!

*rubs his head*

Have a cookie and a juice box.

re: #140 solomonpanting

Killing pirates will only create more pirates.
//

Actually, they said that too.

re: #131 Wilderstad

Wow. That was rude.

re: #148 Racer X

Come on!

re: #125 rawmuse

I was watching ABC tonight, and what was their story line?

That the killing of the 3 pirates was going to make life difficult for Americans living in Somalia. No kidding.

Which Americans would those be? The jihadis from Minnesota?

re: #143 alegrias

* * * *
Using Pres. Carter as a template could have been Pres. Obama's choice! We can celebrate Pres. Obama CHOSE not to imitate Pres. Carter in this hostage crisis.

Aren't you Glad Carter didn't call Obama and tell him not to worry..You still got at least 396 days to solve this crisis?

frankly saving the capt. was a very nice ending but it is a rather small part of the whole thing.

[Link: www.bloomberg.com...]

re: #148 Racer X

Don't make me ding you down.

re: #119 Racer X

Its about time the left feels good about our military, and if this doesn't do it nothing will.

What a great point!

Let's hope President Obama starts reading President Jefferson's koran

/ or will the ODS people accuse him of being a muslim if he does that?

re: #157 Shug

Let's hope President Obama starts reading President Jefferson's koran

/ or will the ODS people accuse him of being a muslim if he does that?

Just to make sure, he's only allowed to read it in the john.

/

re: #105 Killgore Trout

Are you suggesting race is an issue?

Well, how does one become editor of Harvard Law Review without having published a signed article?

That takes talent, doesn't it?

I don't know- am I the only one who takes the time to talk to democrats and work on them to change their opinions? Trust me- it's easier when you're not acting kooky.

Props exist on a sliding scale.
I give Obama a 4.
I give the Navy a 9.

re: #11 albusteve

what did he do? did I miss it?

He let the Navy do it's job.

/more than I expected

And another thing.

This whole thing was great for taking the focus off of how much a disaster the whole G2 summit thing was. Obama got nothing. No money for fincancial assistance. No troops for Afghanistan. Zip.

I think that is part of the reason why we only gave Italy - what - fifty grand? - for earthquake assistance.

Those who will not give credit when credit is due forfeit the right to be listened to when detraction is due.

re: #134 Racer X

Fine.

Where's the button to ding up his Karma?

Trust me, you don't want to know. Besides, there is a long list of koslings waiting to press their lips against, so you may have to wait longer then you'd like.
/

re: #149 rawmuse

Actually, they said that too.

They also said this...

In an interview, Sheikh Mukhtar Robow, spokesman for the Shabab Al-Mujahideen in Somalia, discussed his organization’s ties with Al-Qaeda, said that the Americans and the Western countries had created the Somali pirates, and called the African peacekeeping forces “enemies of Allah.”

MEMRI Blog

re: #149 rawmuse

re: #140 solomonpanting

Killing pirates will only create more pirates.
//

Actually, they said that too.

(In my best John McEnroe voice):

"You can't be serious!"

re: #84 Dianna

Then why would you want a Jefferson?!

George Jefferson. So our shirts would be very clean, of course.

re: #160 Sharmuta

I don't know- am I the only one who takes the time to talk to democrats and work on them to change their opinions? Trust me- it's easier when you're not acting kooky.

Good on ya. I personally know only ONE Dem that is not still a raving BDS sufferer, and I work with him, so I keep politics to about the same level as religion.

Oppose Obama’s policies all you like, but be the loyal opposition, not a bunch of ranting haters.

Well said Charles.

re: #118 OldLineTexan

OK, but not my point.

* * * *
I know, sorry--President Bush will be vindicated for doing the right thing on many tough issues that happened on his watch. He was unfairly hated, unfairly blamed, held to impossible standards, and didn't crumble like a weaker man would have. But then Bush didn't run to be loved, adored, or "represent", but to serve.

I'll allow Obama qualified congratulations for taking delayed but appropriate action in this case.

My enthusiam is somewhat tempered by the knowledge that Obama and company never supported the previous administration on anything it did and actually tried to tear it down at every turn.

We would have heard the following types of things if Bush had been in charge during the pirate take-down.

Pirates' rights were violated.
The big mean US Navy took down some poor wittle 3rd world pirates, which weren't a threat, but what about North Korea?
For every pirate that is killed 10 more pirates will take their place.
Killing the pirates' makes the USA less secure
so what?
The pirates were targeted because of their race

I had to switch from Hannity's radio program to Radio DERF in Poland. Sean was sounding desperate.

Too desperate, as a matter of fact.

re: #146 Sharmuta

Hon- I've already mentioned that a couple of democrats I work with were surprised to learn I wasn't a Nirther. It's not bad to let the opposition know we're not freaks! It will be much easier for me in the future to convince them to try conservative policy if they know now I'm not a kook.

I agree. I think the nirth certifikit and bowing bullshit is all smoke and mirrors and just plain stupid. I just don't really like when the presidency is watered down. Another classic for you my dear! :D

re: #169 OldLineTexan

Good on ya. I personally know only ONE Dem that is not still a raving BDS sufferer, and I work with him, so I keep politics to about the same level as religion.

See? This is why I wonder if some folks don't understand how much more difficult it is to flip people if they don't try. ODS hurts all of us out there trying to make a difference on personal levels.

re: #160 Sharmuta

I don't know- am I the only one who takes the time to talk to democrats and work on them to change their opinions? Trust me- it's easier when you're not acting kooky.

You are right. Believe me my discussions with democrats are really tame. I tend to get into a froth here sometimes and I shouldn't.

Sorry everyone.

re: #175 Sharmuta

As ye sow, so shall ye reap.

re: #125 rawmuse

That the killing of the 3 pirates was going to make life difficult for Americans living in Somalia. No kidding.

Cause it's so easy there now.

re: #176 Racer X

Racer X is a rabid wombat!

/

Hey, I don`t care if O allowed the intervention because he thought it was politically expedient or because he thought it was a great idea. The end result is heartening and I hope the success motivates him to do the right thing again if pirates take American hostages in the future.

re: #160 Sharmuta

I don't know- am I the only one who takes the time to talk to democrats and work on them to change their opinions? Trust me- it's easier when you're not acting kooky.

Everyone of them that I know start out every sentence with ..."Bush...

re: #172 azul93gt

Yes but we are not the children that those one the left are. (well maybe some of us are.) If we put our president in a "damned no matter what" box like the left did to Bush, then we give him less reason and less leeway to do the right thing when given the chance.

re: #176 Racer X

I understand- it gets frustrating and it then becomes easy to give in to temptation. But it's damaging in the long run, and we can't afford that. America needs us to remain level headed. The Constitution is counting on us to defend it.

re: #53 simonml

My Dad always said that if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all...

Mine as well. Looks like I'm shutting up for this thread.

re: #178 countrygurl

Cause it's so easy there now.

Hey, a tropical chocolate bar and a can of pork 'n beans, you're a rich man.

re: #178 countrygurl

Cause it's so easy there now.

Maybe he's referring to all those Minnesota cab drivers

/

It is a pity that we cannot have the US Marines follow a line from their theme: "... to the shores of Tripoli." I like "the loyal opposition" phrase. Did that come from the Commentary Magazine website?

As much as I am alarmed by the things Obama does and the in your face attitude everything he does reeks therein, I listen to Rush, Sean, Mark, Rusty and they sound like they are screaming. OK. Maybe I've never listened to air amerika, or the like, but, if we're gonna win people over who are young or disappointed with the hope and change let down, I don't think screamin at em will work. Someone please come up with a solution asap.
point 2: I'm so sick of the media telling us how smart Obama is, he's such a multi-tasker, blah blah blah!
Remember when the media said George Bush was so stupid, a neanderthal, chimpymcbushhitler, whatever?
They got all of his college transcripts out and started comparing his records to Kerry's. Oooopppss! Bush was smarter! HHAAAHHAA!
If Obama is so smart, howcome our noses aren't getting rubbed in his high school transcipts, his act, his sat, his intelligence quotient, etc. Reason why: he's a poser!

OT- Hooray! I have running water again!

I think we need a change in the laws so we don't have to get POTUS approval to act with deadly force. I found this:

"Obama's involvement in the decision to authorize lethal force was legally required, officials said, because it was a hostage situation, not combat, and unrelated to the already authorized U.S. effort against al-Qaida and other terror groups, officials said."

“It’s not a combat operation so the lawyers wanted to ensure this was done right," said a second defense official. "

re: #125 rawmuse

I was watching ABC tonight, and what was their story line?

That the killing of the 3 pirates was going to make life difficult for Americans living in Somalia. No kidding.

Amazing.

There's always some way to justify the acceptance of evil.

re: #140 solomonpanting

Killing pirates will only create more pirates.
//

Whereas paying pirates... damn.
We better surrender then, huh?

//

I really do Hope that Obama has been enlightened in the past 2 months, and gradually (or sooner) changes his policies more towards the middle ground.

re: #189 Sharmuta
That's a huge improvement! What happened?

You're right on the money, Charles. Unqualified congrats to Capt. Phillips, his crew, the Navy, the SEALS and President Obama.

re: #193 Racer X

I really do Hope that Obama has been enlightened in the past 2 months, and gradually (or sooner) changes his policies more towards the middle ground.

He has a global mandate to kill a lot of bad actors. He can get away with things that Bush couldn't simply because the world has a hard on for him. He's a "rock star"

if he plays his cards right and takes advantage of a total pass from the Civilized world, he could get an awful lot accomplished in his time in office.

I won't hold my breath though

re: #189 Sharmuta

OT- Hooray! I have running water again!

I would feel all flushed as well!

re: #194 pingjockey

That's a huge improvement! What happened?

teh pohler ise kapz melted cuz teh glowbul warming maed em

re: #194 pingjockey

That's a huge improvement! What happened?

Ruptured pipes in another unit. I'll get hot water back tomorrow.

*grumble grumble,
Obama!
grumble grumble*

re: #192 Dar ul Harb

Whereas paying pirates... damn.
We better surrender then, huh?

//

Hell, no! Here's the best answer ever to paying ransoms:

Danegeld by Rudyard Kipling

IT IS always a temptation to an armed and agile nation,
To call upon a neighbour and to say:
"We invaded you last night - we are quite prepared to fight,
Unless you pay us cash to go away."

And that is called asking for Dane-geld,
And the people who ask it explain
That you’ve only to pay ’em the Dane-geld
And then you’ll get rid of the Dane!

It is always a temptation to a rich and lazy nation,
To puff and look important and to say:
"Though we know we should defeat you, we have not the time to meet you.
We will therefore pay you cash to go away."

And that is called paying the Dane-geld;
But we’ve proved it again and again,
That if once you have paid him the Dane-geld
You never get rid of the Dane.

It is wrong to put temptation in the path of any nation,
For fear they should succumb and go astray,
So when you are requested to pay up or be molested,
You will find it better policy to say:

"We never pay any one Dane-geld,
No matter how trifling the cost,
For the end of that game is oppression and shame,
And the nation that plays it is lost!"

So when does he Get Osama ?

/ heh

re: #200 Racer X

*grumble grumble,
Obama!
grumble grumble*

I hope you were smiling.

re: #149 rawmuse

Actually, they said that too.

The Rear Admiral who gave the Pentagon briefing by phone said that as well: the fact that the three pirates holding Capt. Phillips were killed may lead to an escalation in the violence of future pirate attacks.

re: #198 OldLineTexan
oh nooz. waht abot teh sea kittehs?

re: #83 NYCHardhat

I think we have a teenager in office.

NYCH .. yeah but the really cool kind ... you know the one that runs for student body president ... without qualifications ... but hands out candy to all the kids ... and promises them no more detention after school ... and gets all the girls to make really pretty signs with the dotted "i" made with hearts ... cool huh ...

re: #140 solomonpanting

Killing pirates will only create more pirates.

Same thing goes for radioactive bloodsucking cockroaches.

re: #145 Shug

There is a not so subltle difference between Opposition and Oppositional defiant disorder

* * * *
Thank you, that's profound. People ought not use Charles Johnson's excellent blog as venting therapy, or to exhibit deranged oppositional defiant disorder!

The thing I'm wondering is if the statement Petraeus made that "more US military force was headed to the area" meant just this ship, or if a rolloff is headed to the horn of Africa.

re: #203 OldLineTexan

I hope you were smiling.

I am crackin' up!

re: #199 Sharmuta
That sucks. But at least the water is running!

didn't mean to rant earlier, Obama made a good call.

re: #205 pingjockey

oh nooz. waht abot teh sea kittehs?

teh sea kittehs iz alrite, tehy kan haz moov in wif shar

Would any of you Naval experts out there explain to me why we, or better yet a coalition of naval powers, can't blockade the Somali ports causing all this hassle?

re: #148 Racer X

"Present"

Good Job!

*rubs his head*

Have a cookie and a juice box.

* * * *
You're being infantile.
The Presidency is the world's toughest job. If you don't think so, you're not thinking straight.

I was thinking what some of these ships need are some big, nasty dogs roaming around so the second these pirates comes up the grappling hook, hello, Mr. Rottweiler.

re: #213 OldLineTexan
Gud. Time to goez nit nit. Later folks.

re: #214 Blastforth

Would any of you Naval experts out there explain to me why we, or better yet a coalition of naval powers, can't blockade the Somali ports causing all this hassle?

On who's dime?

re: #207 Mich-again

re: #140 solomonpanting

Same thing goes for radioactive bloodsucking cockroaches.

YAY ME!

but i want to be a zionist honco

One can only imagine the furor had a "Rethug pResident" ordered the deaths of three unarmed teenagers.

This was not the preferred outcome as far as the Obama administration was concerned. They wanted the pirates taken alive. Did that mean the captain would have had to suffer longer? Most likely. The SEALS had multiple opportunities to kill the pirates, but that was not the goal.

This final action was taken because the captain was perceived to be in imminent danger, only. Death of the pirates was the less preferred outcome according to news reports.

I'm perfectly willing to give a hearty "Well done" to people who actually DID THINGS.

Giving credit to Obama for saving Captain Phillips is like giving credit to Bill Clinton for the Internet boom. Sure, he was in office when it happened, but nothing more.

re: #182 Thanos

Yes but we are not the children that those on the left are...

Sometimes I think that the donks know that they have a free hand to pull any low down, dirty, rotten, back-stabbing, duplicitous, and border-line treasonous trick that they like with the assurance that they will never have to suffer the same in return from the opposition.

re: #219 OldLineTexan

YAY ME!

but i want to be a zionist honco

You are in it for the money, fess up!

re: #215 alegrias

* * * *
You're being infantile.
The Presidency is the world's toughest job. If you don't think so, you're not thinking straight.

I am, and it is.

re: #153 HoosierHoops

Aren't you Glad Carter didn't call Obama and tell him not to worry..You still got at least 396 days to solve this crisis?

* * * *
Every day Pres. Obama does not take instruction on foreign policy or defense from Pres. Carter or Pres. Clinton is ok in some respects.

re: #214 Blastforth

Blockading is just a standoff that would probably lead to another USS Cole incident or similar event. I prefer recon and destruction of capabilities from a distance myself.

re: #225 Wishing

You are in it for the money, fess up!

honcos need love too

re: #223 WoodstockDave

He did a great job in Waco.
/s

re: #220 LC LaWedgie

One can only imagine the furor had a "Rethug pResident" ordered the deaths of three unarmed teenagers.

Hate to say it but that first video makes a great point. That's exactly what I was talking about above.

re: #214 Blastforth

Laws of the sea, Mate. The merchant ships can't carry guns. If they could, problem solved.

I haven't been in tough with this story as much over the last couple of days...Obama allowed the forces to use force to take out the pirates, right?

re: #221 DistantThunder

This was not the preferred outcome as far as the Obama administration was concerned. They wanted the pirates taken alive. Did that mean the captain would have had to suffer longer? Most likely. The SEALS had multiple opportunities to kill the pirates, but that was not the goal.

This final action was taken because the captain was perceived to be in imminent danger, only. Death of the pirates was the less preferred outcome according to news reports.

The SEAL team observed two of the pirates move away from Phillips and stick their heads out from a hatch. The third pirate raised his weapon at Phillips' back. Convinced that Phillips was about to be shot, the SEAL commander gave the order to fire.

"If the goal was just to kill these guys there were opportunities where we could have shot them," said a military official. "This was not the outcome we wanted. We wanted those three guys to give themselves up."

Link

re: #216 rawmuse

I was thinking what some of these ships need are some big, nasty dogs roaming around so the second these pirates comes up the grappling hook, hello, Mr. Rottweiler.

How about a new crew member: The Ship's Pig.

Just a pig that runs around on deck. And fly a yellow diamond flag that says "Pig on Board" in the appropriate languages underneath the Stars and Stripes.

God Bless America (and Bacon!)

re: #232 gringo69

Laws of the sea, Mate. The merchant ships can't carry guns. If they could, problem solved.

what about those loud cannons ... I think I have seen where they worked before ...

re: #220 LC LaWedgie

One can only imagine the furor had a "Rethug pResident" ordered the deaths of three unarmed teenagers.

The US Navy had no way of knowing if they were out of ammo. Even if that report were true, it would make no difference in any honest court. The Navy's actions were reasonable and prudent in light of what they knew. That article is just a reflection of the left's inability to deal with the reality of evil.

The problem here is that from various accounts received, President Obama's role in this was to eventually authorize the CO of the Bainbridge something that the default rules of engagement originally authorized him to do anyway, but that he had been specifically been denied permission to do -- by Obama -- before the man reversed his earlier decision and set things back to default.

Which is why some of us refuse to give him any credit for the success of this outcome, because not only was his net contribution to it zero, but his earlier dithering is why it wasn't all over the first time Captain Phillips managed to escape his captors.

Well, looking at the positive side of it:

No ransom was paid, it didn't take 444 days to free an American hostage, three pirate assholes (not the same as "butt pirates") got a terminal lesson, and a whole lot of other pirates will be having second thoughts about going after American ships in the near future.

re: #220 LC LaWedgie

One can only imagine the furor had a "Rethug pResident" ordered the deaths of three unarmed teenagers.

I don't care if they were desperate and out of ammo,( IF they were) all they had to do is give up and serve their time.

re: #232 gringo69

There aren't laws preventing merchant ships from arming. They have trouble getting in an out of some ports however if they do carry weapons. There are ways around that with locked cabinets and port of call seals.

Can I mock him?

Pretty please?

Its really funny.

He did what he was supposed to do. If it was you or your family member in that situation, you're damn straight you'd be thankful the President made the call he did. Don't want to praise him for dong what he was supposed to do- fine. But don't be petty about it either.

re: #233 TheMatrix31

I haven't been in tough with this story as much over the last couple of days...Obama allowed the forces to use force to take out the pirates, right?

Ity is a bit more complicated than that: this was determined to be a criminal matter of hostage taking, not a military matter, so the normal ROE's were not what was necessary. Lawyers made sure that Obama signed the correct documents so the Commander could intervene is the Captain was in imminent danger.

OT: We need a little break..So let's do a little poll..just post what you think..
What show on TV has the worst acting known to all mankind? Not the worst show..Even bad shows can have good actors..No..I mean the worst group of actors on a show in the last 5 years..
Here are the rules: No reality shows..So all you real world/american idol/Dancing with the stars watchers are out..
Comedies are out..Nobody thinks a comic is a good actor..So voting for George on Steinfield is out.
If you are nominating a TV drama where the acting is so unbearable as to not be able to watch..Add 5 points
If the main character is a washed up child star making a comeback..Add 10 points
If the cast to the TV drama has more drug addicts in the cast than plot points..Add 15 points
If for some unknown reason unexplained to mankind that Hollywood made a movie from the TV series..And it sucked worse than the show..add 20 points..
***
I'm starting with CSI Miami...Worst acting ever...
But I'm doing a google search as we talk

re: #223 WoodstockDave

I'm perfectly willing to give a hearty "Well done" to people who actually DID THINGS.

Giving credit to Obama for saving Captain Phillips is like giving credit to Bill Clinton for the Internet boom. Sure, he was in office when it happened, but nothing more.

Well, President Obama is the C-in-C, and thus entitled to some credit for not screwing things up for the folks at the tip of the spear.

re: #222 taxfreekiller

7,000 centrifuges spin at top speed to build nukes to kill every Jew

North Korea shoots the practice rocket as an add and only the price and ship selection need the doing for the rocket to be in Iran, and once the 7,000 centrifuges come to a stop.

The little mad man in Iran then gets his firring instructions from the mad mullahs, the rocket is on the pad, then too as now there will be no choice.

Thing is, this very moment is when the leadership should be going, not when the gun is cocked, held to our heads and you hear the short breath as the finger starts to pull...!

Sorry to say that is the deal now. Obama does not have a clue, and will not listen. To busy with redistribution and over spending for Government enlargement . Unless some one else steps up. Millions will die and the whole earth will suffer for 100's of years.
IMO

I think it will be left to Netanyahu to step up. And I believe he will.

re: #244 Wishing

is = if

re: #247 Sharmuta

I think it will be left to Netanyahu to step up. And I believe he will.

Can the IAF reach Pyongyang?
/

I guess they can refuel en route

re: #248 Wishing

is = if

OMG, let me get Bill Clinton on the line. He has been looking for that answer for YEARS.

/

re: #245 HoosierHoops

it has been more than 5 years ... so I already broke the rules ... but what was the name of that really stupid cop show where it was sort of a musical ...

re: #232 gringo69

Laws of the sea, Mate. The merchant ships can't carry guns. If they could, problem solved.

Is it true what I've heard that the problem is that insurance rates would double if the crews were armed?

Because "guns are bad, m'kay"?

re: #244 Wishing

Ity is a bit more complicated than that: this was determined to be a criminal matter of hostage taking, not a military matter, so the normal ROE's were not what was necessary. Lawyers made sure that Obama signed the correct documents so the Commander could intervene is the Captain was in imminent danger.

Oh alright, cool. Sounds good then. Sounds like this is exactly what needed to be done.

And a damn fine screed.

I said it earlier, BHO did the right thing and gave the commanders on the scene the discretion to act in the event of imminent danger--and they did. he did not try and micro-manage but he let the professionals do the jobs for which they had been trained.

As for our policy to the pirates--looks like we set it yesterday. American-flagged ships are not to be considered easy targets--there will be consequences.

Folks, let's not do what the Dems did for eight years--let's have politics end at the water's edge. (of course if think we're going to make the same mistakes in Afghanistan that were made by the Russians, British, Greeks, et al., then I am gonna say something)

re: #251 JacksonTn

it has been more than 5 years ... so I already broke the rules ... but what was the name of that really stupid cop show where it was sort of a musical ...

21 Jump Street?

re: #218 Wishing

On who's dime?

Seems like we'repending plenty as it is patroling open ocean with no let-up in the trouble. Put a gun boats at each port and tell them we blow anything that tries to come out out of the water.

re: #89 avanti

and I won't bitch about a few days to get all the assets in place.

It is good to remember that:

1. The Ocean is HUGE. Most people have no idea how big it really is.

2. Ships are not fast at all, really.

re: #252 Dar ul Harb

Is it true what I've heard that the problem is that insurance rates would double if the crews were armed?

Because "guns are bad, m'kay"?

What if each vessil carried a few crates of weapons as cargo?

and under attack...oops, they accidentally opened the crates and killed the pirates

re: #252 Dar ul Harb

Is it true what I've heard that the problem is that insurance rates would double if the crews were armed?

Because "guns are bad, m'kay"?

I think it would mean unnecessary time in ports of call where guns are NOT permitted for searches and etc.
Expensive, in other words. Follow the $$

re: #255 OldLineTexan

21 Jump Street?

no ... I think that was the johnny depp thing ... or maybe not ...

re: #246 Dar ul Harb

/Oops, can I say "spear," Killgore?

re: #230 LC LaWedgie

Note that Clinton (Waco) and Obama (Somali pirates) both wisely stayed personally quiet until these situations were resolved, so as to insulate themselves from bad PR should things go poorly.

Of course, when things turn out well they're right there in front of the camera and CNN is lapping it up like a five-dollar hooker laps up, well, whatever a five-dollar hooker laps up.

re: #251 JacksonTn

it has been more than 5 years ... so I already broke the rules ... but what was the name of that really stupid cop show where it was sort of a musical ...

Cop Rock, I think.

Well done, President Obama!

re: #241 Thanos

There aren't laws preventing merchant ships from arming. They have trouble getting in an out of some ports however if they do carry weapons. There are ways around that with locked cabinets and port of call seals.

Might be a good opportunity for an upstart security firm. It can work like a port pilot so to speak. A security team goes to the ship with all the necessary manpower and armament for the duration of the voyage through the Gulf of Aden and when finished through that leg they disembark. Can be done with sea going vessels or helicopters.

re: #264 Dark_Falcon

yes ... that was it ... it was so dumb ...