panda ponders

“Good people sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”

Pass the Ammo
Michelle Malkin
Mudville Gazette (under the banner)

If you are a regular here (Thanks!) … you should remember my cousin, “Sawa” who comments here regularly. She just e-mailed me –

One of their contributors had a great article yesterday about the connections between Iraq and al Qaeda. I fired off an e-mail to him, which was part praise for him, and part rant about the war. He posted it!

Wow! Go Sawa!!

The “great article” was “It’s All About 9/11” by Andy McCarthy at NRO.

It was good to hear the commander-in-chief remind people that this is still the war against terror. Specifically, against Islamo-fascists who slaughtered 3000 Americans on September 11, 2001. Who spent the eight years before those atrocities murdering and promising to murder Americans — as their leader put it in 1998, all Americans, including civilians, anywhere in the world where they could be found.

When he posted portions of her e-mail, he withheld her name. Well you are privileged to not only read the great e-mail, but know who it is from, well sorta !

From The Corner at National Review

HOW THE LEFT DOESN’T GET RED STATE AMERICA [Andy McCarthy]
Regarding Iraq and the war on terror, I got this email from a patriot who describes herself as “a military wife”:

… I like to see facts presented in a simple, straightforward manner. I have long been baffled as to why some people still do not understand why we are in Iraq. I am “just” a homemaker, most of my time being spent taking care of my husband and my home. But I read, and I listen, and even I have been aware of many of the Iraqi terrorist connections mentioned in your article. So it has been puzzling to me that self-sharpened pointy-headed liberals, like Reid and Gergen and those at the New York Times, so stridently deny any connections between Iraq and al Qaeda. What is the motive? Is it that ignoring or denying the connections frees them from the responsibility of taking or supporting action? Could it be that simple?

Things are pretty simple in my world.

You recognize the connections, you support the action (or take it, if you are able). You don’t recognize the connections, you don’t support the action.

Men and women rotate in and out of Iraq. We call it “The Sandbox.” When they leave, we cry. When they get home, we cry some more. They go off to fight, we hold the fort. Everybody does their job.

The terrorists are bent on attacking Americans. The Americans are going to be either highly trained, heavily armed professionals over there, or happily oblivious, defenseless civilians over here. You choose.

Some say the above is only valid until we are attacked on U.S. soil again. Oh, I don’t know. I’ve kind of enjoyed the last four years of being able to go to Wal-Mart without fear of being blown to smithereens by a suicide bomber.

The media lament the influx of “insurgents” into Iraq. So…the terrorists flooding into the waiting arms of the most lethal military around is a bad thing?

Many want a “timetable” for the end of the war. Me too. As soon as the terrorists announce their timetable for implementing a “Be Sweet to Infidels” policy, we should reciprocate by announcing our timetable for ending the war.

Too many troops killed, they say. Now if the troops are the ones fighting and dying in the war (and they are), and the President enjoys overwhelming support among the troops (and he does), then there must be something the media are missing. Hmmmm…

Too much money spent, they say. There is always a price to be paid. You pay in taxes, the troops pay in blood. You choose. (Also, see above.)

So what is my point? Simply this: The politicians, the pundits and the media need to get out of the military’s way and let them do their job. Reid and Gergen and their ilk don’t have to worry that they’ll be asked to do anything scary if they acknowledge the obvious connections between Iraq and al Qaeda. Lots of people have already recognized them and have volunteered for the scary stuff. It’s 9/11, stupid.

[Name withheld]

Posted at 06:56 PM

My cousin is a military wife. She is addicted to news and her opinions are always informed, accurate, and passionate. Her husband has served almost 3 years in the Air Force.

As you may know, Blackfive is one of the top MilBlogs … blogs by Military personnel or their family/friends.

A couple days ago he re-posted his list of favorites, organized by branch or topic.

One of the best ways to combat, and hopefully quiet, Sen. Durbin and people who think similarly is to support the Military in any way possible. Two simple ways:
1) Support any of the great charities listed here from America Supports You.
2) Create traffic at their blogs! Go check out all the MilBlogs listed as favorites at Blackfive or visit the home of the MilBloggers … Mudville Gazette.

Today was the Army’s birthday! Lance in Iraq linked to this Washington Times commentary.

This early summer is the 230th anniversary of when American Colonists and British soldiers clashed outside Boston and began the American Revolution in 1775. On June 14 that same year the Continental Congress officially recognized the armed New England farmers and militiamen that had spontaneously gathered at Cambridge, Mass., as a Continental Army and named George Washington its commander.
On this day every year, soldiers around the world commemorate June 14 as the birthday of the United States Army, and remember when Gen. Washington established its standards of honor, discipline and professionalism. These traits have carried the Army through the Revolution, all of America’s wars since, and continue today

The Army has a birthday section that highlights the various worldwide events held annually.

Since its birth on 14 June 1775-over a year before the Declaration of Independence-the United States Army has played a vital role in the growth and development of our nation. Soldiers have fought more than 10 wars, from the American Revolution through the Cold War, the Gulf War, to the current Global War on Terrorism. This 230th Birthday is a recognition of The Army’s history, traditions, and service to the Nation, a Call To Duty, 230 Years of Service to Our Nation.

Lots of great pics here, and some awesome looking cakes!
Various military & government articles are here, if you would like to read more.
Lance also has some great pics from Iraq worth a look!

I listen to Radio 1710 on the internet quite often.AM 1710 Antioch broadcasts live in Antioch, IL and on the internet via their website. I listen using WinAmp (free download).

Today, until 1:05 am, they are running live D-Day news reports from various news sources. Go to their website for a schedule.

Special Report: Live* D-Day coverage all day
*on a 61-year delay

If you get a chance, and see this post in time, the reports are very interesting. Thanks to Jay Lichtenauer for today’s and all the other programs on Radio 1710.

Blog Tributes:
Lance in Iraq
The Mudville Gazette lists several links.
Michele Malkin links to a few sites also.
On June 6, 1944…
This post links to a nice pictoral history from the Army.
Remembering D-Day

The first Memorial Day was observed on May 30, 1868. Flowers were placed on the graves of the soldiers lost in the Civil War … for both sides. Now, Memorial Day honors all men and women who have served our country, honorably and courageously giving their lives in defense of freedom.

Our citizens live in freedom because patriots are willing to serve and sacrifice for our liberty. And on Monday, I will lay a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery in honor of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, a victory for freedom in which more than 400,000 Americans gave their lives. Today a new generation of Americans is making its own sacrifice on behalf of peace and freedom, and some have given their lives.
~ President Bush’s radio address on May 28, 2005

Memorial Day is about more than a three-day weekend, hamburgers , and going out on the lake. It is a somber day to remember all those who have sacrificed their lives for our daily freedoms. My family and I visited the Audie Murphy Memorial in Greenville, Tx. earlier today. It is a very nice memorial for Audie Murphy and the people from Greenville who have lost their lives for their country. Here are some of the quotes, engraved in stone, from the Memorial, that especially caught my attention…

To be prepared for war, is the most effective means of preserving peace.
~ President George Washington

Let us never become so comfortable with our freedom, that we forget the immeasurable sacrifice by which it was achieved.
~ General Dwight D. Eisenhower

No man is entitled to blessings of freedom, unless he is diligent in its preservation.
~ General Douglas MacArthur

The true heroes, the real heroes, are the boys who fought and died and will never come home.
~ Audie Murphy

I linked to some music yesterday, today I am linking to some dramatic images. Pictures really can speak a thousand words and on today .. these pictures honor our fighting military both home and abroad.

Highlights from the Image Gallery of “Memorial Day“
(If you are interested, they also have Vintage Memorial & Decoration Day Postcards)

Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial
Bullrun Memorial 1870 Dedication
Crowd Listening to President Bush’s Memorial Day 2001 Speech at Arlington National Cemetery
F-16 Fly Over
Graves at Arlington National Cemetery, Memorial Day 2001
Iwo Jima
Memorial Day, St. Louis, 1891
President Bush Laying Wreath at Arlington National Cemetery, Memorial Day 2001
Respectfully
Tomb of the Unknowns
USMC Color Guard
Memorial Day, Early, c 1900’s

Memorial Day Blog posts worth reading: (I will update if I see any more)
Mudville Gazette ~ SACRED WORDS
Mudville Gazette ~ Memorial Day
Blackfive ~ Opening the Gates of Heaven
Blackfive ~ Help The Troops This Memorial Day
American Solider ~ Remember
Lance in Iraq ~ The Arlington Ladies sends you to this
Marine Corps Mom ~ Honoring their sacrifice
Michele Malkin ~ MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND: IN REMEMBRANCE

My family had a few WWII veterans and several more that were like family. One of those men was Preston “Pug” Harris, who was listed as killed in action on Nov. 22, 1944, a mere 8 days shy of his 24th birthday. His remains were never found … until a German construction crew uncovered a shallow grave. They quickly contacted the proper authorities and finally in March of this year … a funeral for “Pug” was held in Greenville, Texas. The Army chaplain that conducted the service, an immigrant, is in this country because people like Pug died to keep freedom alive. (More on Pug is here, here, and here.)

At the end of this post, there are some music related links. If you only go to one link … I believe the one for Cliff Soon’s song “If I Fall …” would be the one that is most appropriate for these times. He was “Born in Singapore, raised in Malaysia; Chinese by birth but American at heart” and has a great tribute in the form of a music video.

Earlier this year, I was at a seminar that had such speakers as Rudolph W. Giuliani and General Tommy Franks. Their speeches were very memorable indeed but one of the most dramatic moments came from a previous speaker. Krish Dhanam, born in India and now a very successful business man in America, asked for every man and woman who had ever served in the military in any way, shape, fashion, or form to stand … “So that this immigrant can thank you” for his being able to be here in America and be a success. If you ever get the chance to hear Krish speak … take it. From another Tx blogger:

Next, a Zigler protege named Krish Dhanam spoke on goal achievement. He also was very good. What I took from his presentation was this: he is from India, the world’s largest democracy, and he love, love, loves America. He has seen the other side of the fence and not only is the grass greener here, but, there is no grass there. Put that in your hash-pipes and smoke it lefties. America is great, just ask an immigrant.

Now on to the music — As a platform for ideas, morals, criticisms, and honors, music is a powerful aspect of our culture. Sometimes our music does a better job of honoring those who so greatly deserve it, than any other spoken words can.

Here are some highlights from just a few of our many patriotic songs:

America the Beautiful

O beautiful for heroes proved In liberating strife.
Who more than self the country loved
And mercy more than life!
America! America!

U.S. Air Force Anthem: Off We Go!

Here’s a toast to the host of those
Who love the vastness of the sky,
To a friend we send the message
Of his brother men who fly.
We drink to those who gave their all of old,
Then down we roar, to score the rainbow’s pot of gold.
A toast to the host of men we boast the US Air Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Hymn

From the Halls of Montezuma, To the Shores of Tripoli;
We fight our country’s battles, In the air, on land and sea;
First to fight for right and freedom
And to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to claim the title of United States Marine.

The U.S. Army Anthem: The Caissons Go Rolling Along

In the storm, in the night, Action left or action right,
See those Caissons go rolling along,
Limber front, limber rear,
Prepare to mount your cannoneer,
And those Caissons go rolling along.

U.S. Navy Hymn: Eternal Father, Strong to Save

O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,

Protect them wheresoe’er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

U.S. Coast Guard Anthem: Semper Paratus (Always Ready)

We’re always ready for the call, We place our trust in Thee.
Through howling gale and shot and shell, To win our victory.
“Semper Paratus” is our guide, Our pledge, our motto, too.
We’re “Always Ready,” do or die!
Aye! Coast Guard, we fight for you.

Ballad of the Green Berets Lyrics written by SSgt Barry Sadler

Fighting soldiers from the sky
Fearless men who jump and die
Men who mean just what they say
The brave men of the Green Beret

Silver wings upon their chest, These are men, America’s best
One hundred men will test today,
But only three win the Green Beret

Music Lyrics: ( a very brief list, I know I am leaving a lot of great ones out)
Alan Jackson ~ Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)
Toby Keith ~ American Soldier, Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue
Randy Travis ~ America Will Always Stand
Darryl Worley ~ Have You Forgotten
Clint Black ~ I RAQ AND ROLL
Roxie Dean ~ A Soldier’s Wife

Music Links:
Music Video by Cliff Soon ~ If I Fall …
John Wayne and his patriotic MP3’s
Patriotic Music to Honor Our Nation and Its Heroes
Patriotic & Inspirational Songs Of America
Memorial Day Music

Other music related news:
Anxiety and Memory: Their Effects on Cognition and Musical Performance
Music improves autobiographical memory Recall in alzheimer’s disease patients
Music has power

I am sure if any of you have ever been to an Air Show where there was a fighter fly-over … you have seen the Missing Man Formation. Four jets fly in close formation and one suddenly flies straight up and the three remaining continue to fly strong, but clearly missing someone.

A tradition lesser-known is the Missing Man Table Ceremony. My cousin, Sara (Sawa), sent me this article from the Washington Times: Empty table honors all U.S. MIAs, POWs.

The table is set with a white tablecloth, a black napkin and white candle, and a plate with only a slice of lemon and salt. An empty chair leans against the table.

The tradition, little known to the general public, of setting an empty table with a white tablecloth in remembrance of prisoners of war and those missing in action had its beginnings with a group of fighter pilots who flew in Vietnam.

I found the significance of each detail at a website for Korea-Cold War Families of the Missing.

The Missing Man Table Ceremony

Set for six, the empty places represent Americans still [our men] missing from each of the five services — Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard – and civilians. This Honors Ceremony symbolizes that they are with us, here in spirit.

The table is round — to show our everlasting concern for our missing men.

The tablecloth is white — symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to duty.

The single red rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing, and the[ir] loved ones and friends of these Americans who keep the faith, awaiting answers.

The vase is tied with a red ribbon, symbol of our continued determination to account for our missing.

A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those captured and missing in a foreign land.

A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by those missing and their families who seek answers.

The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God.

The glass is inverted — to symbolize their inability to share this evening’s [morning’s/day’s] toast.

The chairs are empty — they are missing.

There is also a special table ceremony for POW’s and MIA’s. The following is the slight variation observed for all those who are considered prisoners of war or listed as missing in action.

This Table set for one is small — Symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his oppressors. Remember!

The Tablecloth is white — Symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms. Remember!

The single Red Rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families and loved ones of our comrades-in-arms who keep the faith awaiting their return. Remember!

The Red Ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing. Remember!

The Candle, the candle is lit — Symbolizing the upward reach of their unconquerable spirit. Remember!

A Slice of Lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate. Remember!

There is Salt upon the bread plate — Symbolic of the families tears as they wait. Remember!

The Glass is inverted — They cannot toast with us this night. Remember!

The Chair — The chair is empty. They are not here. Remember!

The Washington Times article also refers to a new book, “America’s White Table,” written by Margot Theis Raven who “would like to see the tradition of the white table spread to homes and restaurants across the nation.” The book describes how a young girl helps her mother prepare the table for a special dinner while her mother explains the significance of each object. I have not seen this book but I am going to buy it when I see it next. If it is as good as I think it will be, every house in America should have one.

The table is “the most important image we can ever have, and it’s not political,” she [Raven] said. “Even the flag can get politicized. This has no party and no agenda except that a person said ‘yes’ to duty, and that is always to be honored.”

I am getting all choked up just writing this. To make it even more real … I have this page which has the lyrics and music to “Some Gave All” by Billy Ray Cyrus playing in the background.

I remember I was in 6th grade when Desert Storm started. One of the boys in my class had been visiting his grandmother for the summer. Nothing unusual about that … except that he was from Kuwait … and he was in my class because he could not go home after Iraq invaded his country. He and I were in the same high school and we graduated together in 1997 … as far as I know he never was able to go back home. He was (and I am sure still is) a really nice guy. We talked our senior year about that 6th grade class and everything that occurred since.

I listened to KSCS 96.3, the local country station then (and still do sometimes) and the song Some Gave All always gave me chills … even in 6th grade and all the way to now. I am sure it always will.

Love your country and live with pride
And don’t forget those who died
America can’t you see

All gave some and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall

Some gave all

“America Supports You,” a nationwide program launched by the Department of Defense, will recognize citizens’ support for our military men and women and communicate that support to members of our Armed Forces at home and abroad.

All across America, thousands of individual citizens, businesses, and groups - from local schools and establishments to nationally-known corporations and organizations - are hosting events and undertaking projects to support America’s Armed Forces, especially in forward-deployed areas of the Global War on Terrorism.

The support of the American people builds and sustains the morale of those fighting to defend freedom against the tyranny of terrorism, and communicates America’s recognition and appreciation of their courage and commitment to our country.

With Memorial Day right around the corner, I am glad the Military has an offical website for us to see all the support from all over the nation for our men & women in uniform!

You can also check out DefendAmerica & DefenseLINK

Driving home yesterday I was able to catch the end of the Sean Hannity show. He was promoting the 3rd annual Freedom Concert. Mr. Hannity will be broadcasting live from the Six Flags in Jackson, New Jersey where the concert will be held on Friday, July 8, 2005. Hosted by Sean Hannity and LtCol Oliver L. North, the concert features Buddy Jewell, LeAnn Rimes, and Aaron Tippin.

The proceeds from his concert benefit Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund.

The Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund honors the bravery and dedication exhibited by Americans in our armed forces who have sacrificed life and limb by providing educational scholarships to their children.

From their 2004 Annual Report (pdf):

Freedom Alliance has established a permanent Scholarship Trust Fund of over $1.2 million to aid the children of these brave Americans for years and generations to come.

To qualify for a scholarship the young man or lady must be:

This great program has already helped so many children go to college. Some of the kids that are recipients of this scholarship are the first in their families to go to college! I doubt that there can be any other service we could provide our fallen and injured soliders that would make them happier than knowing that their children will be given the oppruntunity to open any door they choose into the professional world by getting the education of their dreams.

You can read about this weeks Scholarship Scholarship Recipient. Or you can browse the archive of recipients.