Obama Fills DoD Transition Jobs

Obama Fills DoD Transition Jobs

By Colin Clark Thursday, November 13th, 2008 5:50 pm
Posted in Policy, Rumors

The nascent Obama administration has filled the job of lead for the Pentagon transition and it isn’t Sam Nunn, as earlier reported by some media outlets.

Because of all the fog surrounding this story, I checked with a source familiar with Obama’s defense team to confirm that Michele Flournoy, co-founder of the Center for a New American Security thinktank and former head of strategy under Clinton, is joining former Deputy Defense Secretary John White to head the team reviewing the Pentagon. White is now head of the Kennedy School’s Middle East Initiative.

According to the Obama transition team’s website, the agency review teams will advise Obama and other senior people “with information needed to make strategic policy, budgetary, and personnel decisions prior to the inauguration.” Flournoy and White should start work by tomorrow. The main part of their jobs will be to “ensure that senior appointees have the information necessary to complete the confirmation process, lead their departments, and begin implementing signature policy initiatives immediately after they are sworn in.”

Former Senator Sam Nunn will advise Obama and the Pentagon team as needed. A Pentagon source told me today that Paul Kaminski appears to remain in the running for deputy defense secretary. I hear from other sources that Kaminski turned down an offer to serve on the agency review team. Since the transition jobs rarely translate to administration positions, several sources said they think Kaminski wanted to remain in the game for a senior defense job. What this says about Flournoy’s chances is unclear. She has worked with the Obama team for quite a while and is considered one of the leading Democratic defense minds.

Join the Conversation

infatrans November 15th, 2008 at 12:54 pm

The Armed Forces are going to hell in a hand basket with this crew…

ron pond November 15th, 2008 at 1:30 pm

Aman Brother!

f u obama November 15th, 2008 at 1:48 pm

I agree, the great men and women serving in the best military in the world will be serving a clueless president. He is going to strip the military and give that money to lazy bastards that are to lazy to work. They should at least have to pass a drug screen to qualify for welfare. I, my father, grandfather, and great grand father all proudly served and this shit head is going to undo all we have fought for. When you have all our enemys celebrating his election– that should tell you something

Penguin15 November 15th, 2008 at 5:06 pm

Yeah, with Obama as president the military is screwed. Especially since Obama wants to put as many troops he can in Afghanistan to go after Bin Laden. Taking out Bin Laden wont solve the al Qaeda problem. Some one will take his place and will continue their jihad against Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Apparently no one remembers past armies attempting to control Afghanistan… Like the Soviets, British and ancient Greeks. History repeats itself and not many people have appeared to realize that. Plus I guarantee that Obama is going to drastically downsize the military and cut military budget. It’ll just weaken the military, just as it did under the Clinton administration. History repeats itself and no one seems to learn from history…

Stephen November 15th, 2008 at 9:25 pm

Where do the adults post?

Russell Curnow November 16th, 2008 at 1:27 am

Obama is the answer to a Republican Party that
has made the stock market crumble and they are
known to be for the rich, well the rich even
got cheated from there own Party, Obama might come into the President office with a few new ideas but all Presidents have used the military
for taxation for the common defense. A new
position is always refreshing and soon taken over by experience, his proven track record is he is a go getter. Lets give him a chance and see.

Russell Curnow November 16th, 2008 at 1:32 am

I’m a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and only want whats best for we the people of the Unite States of America and all I can see is we needed change from a party that wasn’t taking care of there own. 12000 to 8000 stock market says it all.

DC2 Jennings November 16th, 2008 at 11:20 am

You guys kill me. Here is how Bush supported the military:

4000+ men and women dead.
30,000+ wounded
$700B in war spending
Overstretched and overworked military
Can’t meet commitments to the REAL war on terrorism because of being overstretched and overworked

All of that for no good reason. You can deny it, but facts are facts about Iraq. Just as they are about our economy right now.

But you are worried about Obama because he is a Democrat.

Looks like the fox has already gotten into the hen house to me.

FYI Republican does not equal pro military.

DC2

Joe November 16th, 2008 at 6:03 pm

I can see that many uneducated people are unfortunately allowed into the military. People that think Bush cared about the military are out of their mind. Bush wanted a lower pay raise than the one we are getting, only because he wanted the military to stay on par with the private sector. He cut spending for DOD schools by 75 percent. Many forget, that he sent us into war without hardly any funding, equipment, or any kind of plan. Ofcourse, many will say that we got bonuses under his administration. If bonuses were even offered to soldiers, it was strictly for retention purposes. So before you make some uneducated statement about someone not being qualified to lead the military, you might want to look at the far right wing religious fundamentalist president you idiots elected twice.

W.Byrd November 16th, 2008 at 7:37 pm

Does anyone remember that it was the same Clinton people that Obama is going to use to fix the military, which down sized the military, CIA and others that protect this country?
Teaching the world to sing won’t protect us.

Stephen November 16th, 2008 at 10:29 pm

“Does anyone remember that it was the same Clinton people that Obama is going to use to fix the military, which down sized the military,”
xxxx
We hear a lot about Clinton this and Clinton that, maybe because there’s other argument to be made.
What the right won’t tell you, either because they don’t know the facts or that they don’t want you to know the facts is that:
1) Clinton was obliged by law to downsize the military, a result of the break up of the USSR. That law came about after Bush 41 signed the bill presented to him. It’s commonly referred to as BRAC. Still in effect today.
2) Clinton had a republican controlled house and had to work w/ them on all matters of the governance. Newt and the boys didn’t “let” Clinton downsize the military any more than BRAC allowed or more than was acceptable to them.
Newt an’ them did however make the services buy equipment they didn’t want, couldn’t man, didn’t ask for, just to provide jobs in their congressional districts. Securing votes.
Of course, several of that crowd live on in infamy as violators of government ethics and having to resign from office.

jack November 16th, 2008 at 10:30 pm

i hope the new president will consider building the military back up it was down sizing that got us in this position we are in we need new bases and more soldiers a better va for the veterans all not just the ones from iraq all veterans need to get the same help clinton did not do nothing for the military but us veterans will hold obama to taking care of us or he want get any where. he states he will help us give him a chance i hate to see the va in waco will still be running that regional office is full of old theives.

D. R. November 16th, 2008 at 10:32 pm

W.Byrd is right, Ya’ll have forgotten that the reason the military was so small at the start of this conflict is THE CLINTON’S !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Did they not cut back on EVERY PART OF DOD ????
After being slashed to bits, how long does it take to put it all right again? Not over night.

Beast November 17th, 2008 at 12:02 am

Need to stop letting high school drop outs into the military. Start thinking for yourself and stop listening to right wing propaganda. Obama is going to do just fine.

fatefullightnig November 17th, 2008 at 1:40 am

A black man with no resume to speak of got more votes than a white war hero/POW with 26 years of good service in Congress, because “W” so cratered the Republican party they could have run Fred Sanders and beat McCain.

Obama is the new C.O., period. Accept it.

He has NO experience, but he can inspire. He has two years to radically change what “W” and a factionalist Congress left behind. What he does will please the electorate or he’s gone, like Carter.

This is no longer about “they won, we lost”. It is OUR country. I believe the man was guided to that office by a desire to serve the country. I know his qualifications are second-best, but he’s got the hammer. We need to get behind him.

And we need to pray.

DC2 Jennings November 17th, 2008 at 8:07 am

Fatefull,

Good points all.

What I am tired of hearing about is how Clinton screwed the military by downsizing it. Wrong. You can make a legitimate argument about Clinton overdeploying our military and you can make a lesser argument about don’t ask don’t tell. Stephen is right. Our downsizing of the military during the 90’s was due to the end of the Cold War. Period.

Also understand that Republicans controlled Congress after 1994.

edison.betancur November 17th, 2008 at 9:09 am

Rememmber the Military is now downsizing, look at the Navy with high year tenure dates changed, The perform to serve program, PRT and BCM regulations changed and not to mention promotion in the enlisted Navy is down due to not enough vacancies available to promote to next higher rank, so yes at least the Navy is downsizing but it is not advertised and we are still in Bush administration, I support Obama and look foward to the changes he will make for the benefit of this country. and lets not forget all the bases that have closed since Bush took office, what he does do right is give military a pay increase every year which they appreciate.

Charles Simon November 17th, 2008 at 12:45 pm

I would like to know why we the people live in a lie! Obama,McCain, it does not matter! They and Congress have lied and stole from this countries tax payers through the lobbiests. There is a simple solution to the economy and it is NOT a stimulous check of $600.00 per family. There are 34 million taxpaying citizens in the United States. Do NOT bail out the banks fix them and the fix is: Divide the number of taxpaying families in this country by $780Billion and you give the people approximately $435,000.00 per family. That will resolve the mortgage problems and secure investments and fix the auto industry and create more investors then in the history of this country. SCREW bailing out AIG and Chase and Wells Fargo they have money just look at their books and audit them they way you audited Enron and you will see. That the only way to fix the economy is invest in the people not BIG Business.What a Blue collar cannot invest or be worth more then 50K a year! It is time to close the gap between white and blue and strive ti eliminate poverty by doing just that inject the money where it will create jobs and allow those to invest that would NOT normally be able to.
May a wise man pass this on so OBAMA and his staff can thank GOD for simple solutions that will work!!

Kimberly November 17th, 2008 at 12:45 pm

People, the election is over, it is time to move forward. It seems some are so afraid that this African American man just might be what this country need. How can President Elect Obama, break what is already broken. Some keep stating he lacks experience, well all the Presidents before him supposely had experience some military experience and LOOK AT THIS COUNTRY!!! Give President Obama a chance, he can not fix this country over night, hell he probably can’t fix it in four years. If you don’t like his changes in four years, you will have an opportunity to vote again.

david williamson November 17th, 2008 at 2:53 pm

power rules everything , we are nothing but pawns.we are like pigeons sniffing for tidbits on the ground.Our’s are to reason why,but ” to do or die”

david williamson November 17th, 2008 at 2:55 pm

power rules everything , we are nothing but pawns.we are like pigeons sniffing for tidbits on the ground.We are not to reason why,but ” to do or die”

f u obama November 17th, 2008 at 5:24 pm

TO ALL MY FRIENDS….LIBERAL OR
CONSERVATIVE……..FYI only.

George Bush has been in office for 7 1/2 years. The first six the economy
was fine.
A little over one year ago :
1) Consumer confidence stood at a 2 1/2 year high;
2) Regular gasoline sold for $2.19 a gallon;
3) the unemployment rate was 4.5%.
4) the DOW JONES hit a record high–14,000 +
5) American’s were buying new cars, taking cruises, vacations overseas,
living large!…

But American’s wanted ‘CHANGE’!

So, in 2006 they voted in a Democratic Congress and yes–we got CHANGE’ all
right. In the PAST YEAR:
1) Consumer confidence has plummeted ;
2) Gasoline is now over $4 a gallon & climbing!;
3) Unemployment is up to 5.5% (a 10% increase);
4) Americans have seen their home equity drop by $12 TRILLION DOLLARS and
prices still dropping;
5) 1% of American homes are in foreclosure.
6) as I write, THE DOW is probing another low~~ $2.5 TRILLION DOLLARS HAS
EVAPORATED FROM THEIR STOCKS, BONDS & MUTUAL FUNDS INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS!

YES, IN 2006 AMERICA VOTED FOR CHANGE…AND WE SURE GOT IT! …
REMEMBER THE PRESIDENT HAS NO CONTROL OVER ANY OF THESE ISSUES, ONLY
CONGRESS. AND WHAT HAS CONGRESS DONE IN THE LAST TWO YEARS ?
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.
NOW THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT CLAIMS HE IS GOING TO REALLY GIVE
US CHANGE ALONG WITH A DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS!!!!

HMMMMMMMM !

JUST HOW MUCH MORE ‘CHANGE’ DO YOU THINK YOU CAN STAND?

MPR November 17th, 2008 at 5:45 pm

I’m not happy about Him being elected, but he’s the pres. and for the person who said that people wouldn’t vote for 0bama because he was a democrat, If McCain was saying what 0bama was I would have voted for 0bama

BOP November 19th, 2008 at 4:46 am

I find some people and their opinions absolutely astounding… especially when certain issues expose their “tendencies”! They seem to always want to either spew useless, errant, moronic stats as ‘facts’ or revert to their past comfort zones! Well, guess what… you cant go back — not to “the way things used to be” or “when you were a kid” or crawl back into the womb!! So, just get a grip on today and keep your focus on the future. Military mindsets and leadership strategies of yesterday will not serve us well today nor tomorrow! Things are not the same as even 10 years ago! We have a new CIC, like it or not… So, remember your oath, do your job, and move on.

… and for fux sake… quit whining and lying!!

J.J. November 20th, 2008 at 4:07 pm

Folks,

It’s about time that we finally have someone at the helm that will turn upside down the whole lot of old cronies and good old boys operating this country like it’s their own game plan and provide relief to the rest of us. I see it everywhere in Military as well and that is something that will definitely need to be addressed… get them out and lets cleanup old ways and old values that have done nothing but criple this country…

JJ

Rick O'Daniel-Munger November 20th, 2008 at 4:17 pm

From: Proud American

To: f u obama

Could you have been just a little ruder? That’s sarcasm by the way. And you also need to learn how to spell. And where do you get off saying that our enemies are celebrating Obama’s victory: Al Quaeda calling him the “house negro” (Or “slave” in Farsi) wouldn’t be any sort of celebration in my book.

You should show a little (actually a lot) more respect for your new Commander in Chief - and stop sounding like a petulant teenager!!

d. jACKSON November 20th, 2008 at 4:28 pm

Would you loud, uneducated smart a–,s shut up and get your head out of your rear. Obama is President. Either support him, or crawl into your stinking holes. Give him a chance. America elected him. Democrates and Republicans alike voted for Obama. Sure some over eager memembers of our country didn,t get their man. I did, and I spent 33 years in the military. So I say shut up or get off the wagon.

wtpworrier November 20th, 2008 at 4:32 pm

“Obama Fills DoD Transition Jobs”

This is for all of you who don’t know the difference between transition and appointments.
It’s the transition team, not the DoD team itself. They will be over seeing the “transition” from the old DoD to the new DoD(which haven’t been picked yet), I think it’s pretty smart myself. We cant afford to have any more slip-ups, can we? Find something else to rant about, like the economy for instance.

leonidus November 20th, 2008 at 4:34 pm

I think those who speak badly of our new president are only doing so because they are pejeduce against his skin color. I am a soldier and an electrical engineer, I am also half spanish and a quarter german and a quarter irish. I think it is time for all this egnorance and erogance to end. No one knows what is going to happen untile it happens, so I sugest those who have big mouths, just keep them shut.

Paragrouper November 20th, 2008 at 4:35 pm

The pendulum swings from right to left and we exchange our corrupt right-wing politicians for the same corrupt left-wing politicians that we had before we got the same corrupt right-wing politicians back with Bush.

Send in the clowns

Edward Gaddis November 20th, 2008 at 4:38 pm

After reading some of these postings it’s easy to see why a high school diploma used to be a requirement to serve. How sad the military has fallen so low.

Minnie res November 20th, 2008 at 4:40 pm

We’ll show him respect, the same respect that the left showed for the current Command In Chief,and if we sound like a petulant teenager, maybe you should look in the mirror!

J. Bousquet November 20th, 2008 at 4:42 pm

For all the folks pointing to the stock market drop…

1 - The president has very little to do with the stock market except where it comes to taxation and regulation. Increases will be bad, decreases (in most cases) are good. Stand by, see what happens, and tell me I’m wrong then.

2 - Socialist ideas can not co-exist in a capitalist system. The socialist idea of “a home in every driveway” was pushed by Obama’s party and community ‘dis’-organizing pals. They created buyers for bad debt and when there’s buyers people will sell anything. These securities moved like viruses through our financial system and then the stock market.

This is a classic “animal farm” case of creating the problems to pin on your enemies to gain power.

Jason

Nick Charles November 20th, 2008 at 4:51 pm

Check the voting record of Obama. He voted for veterens and DOD’s interest more favorably then his rival did. Look at all the bills he favored regarding DOD. He said he wanted to provide our Defense with the proper tools to get the job done, and unlike McCain he said he wanted to actually give adequate health care to veterans. I used to think McCain was better for us too, but then I looked at his voting history. I know Obama is a very smart man, and smart individuals learn from other peoples mistakes.(Clinton)
I’m praying at least!!!

NATIVE AMERICAN November 20th, 2008 at 4:52 pm

I agree with “Infatrans” and “FUCK OBAMA” AND “PUENGUIN 15″. It sucks that this beautiful land is all being destroyed by smelly pieces of shit like Obama. Fucking lazy bastards. This country is going to hell in a handbasket. WHEN ARE WE GOING TO HAVE A NATIVE AMERICAN PRESIDENT? At least Native Americans are hard workers and we were here way before Obama’s kind. Now those freeloaders are going to just destroy all the hard work we have put together.

Ex-Navy November 20th, 2008 at 4:54 pm

Take up arms and defend yourself, this is not going to be a fun ride.

garrick November 20th, 2008 at 4:55 pm

it a shame their are rednecks in the world that havent served a day in their life in the military and have an opinion about vets.join and serve your country before you open your dumb thoughts about the military

Another Proud American November 20th, 2008 at 4:56 pm

To: f u obama

You claim that 4 generations of your family served in the armed forces, yet you display arrogance, hatred, disloyalty, disrespect, petulance, and so on, obviously indicating that you are either a liar, clueless about the world around you, or downright ignorant.

Get a life and perhaps an education. 4 generations of my family served in the armed forces as well, including myself uder President Bush (and proudly). My new Commander-in-Chief is Mr. Obama, and I will continue to serve him proudly as well. I do not believe that he will undo anything our fathers have fought for. Its a new world, we need to adapt to it.

Patrick Eisenhart November 20th, 2008 at 4:56 pm

As long as Wall Street and Foreign governments can keep Americans pitted against each other and running down the nation’s leadership, even those who haven’t yet gotten in office, WE LOSE! I say keep your pie whole shut unless you have something constructive to offer so we can all get ourselves out of the mess we find ourselves in.

Ex-Navy November 20th, 2008 at 5:00 pm

Edward Gaddis, you must be one of them thar edumacated sophisticates who voted for Obama for nothing else than you didn’t know why. I have worked in the commercial sector for over 20 years and can attest that our military contains some of the brightest minds and that our collegiate schools suck at providing a “real” education.

garrick November 20th, 2008 at 5:03 pm

yea all great mines suck.like the none service men that cant take the military we call them girls

Karl Simonson November 20th, 2008 at 5:03 pm

1,446 days until election day 2012… we will all know if Obama was a good choice by then if we survive that long.

Anyone who doesn’t think McCain’s service to his country and his experience is far more valuable than the novelty of electing an african american president will soon see the error of their ways.

I hope those same people welcome more violence on american soil. It will happen. Socialism has been tried before. Remember Karl Marx or Mussolini?

With all the appointments from the former Clinton administration Hillary should feel right at home… even if she’s not the president.

Colorado Cliffs November 20th, 2008 at 5:08 pm

Obama democrat, Bush republican. Ok, we have had over a decade of Bush’s and we have seen the rollie coaster in action. Lets give the H.E.I.C. is due. The head elect in charge, might be a surprise, his record shows different, but until he proves himself as PRESIDENT OF THE GREATEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD,Lets don’t get our ropes out yet. If taxes on ammo and gun confiscation doesn’t go up, War on terror is successful and we get our boys and girls home safe. It might not be all bad. Oh, I am a died in the wool Rep.for what its worth.

Top J November 20th, 2008 at 5:12 pm

Mr Gaddis: What is sad is that people like you make bizarre uneducated statements such as you did. Please do a little research and you will find two things:

1. The U.S military has always taken non-high school grads.

2. The percentage of non-grads enlisted has steadily declined each decade since WWII.

Today, even with the war and its current recruiting challenges the US Army has enlists fewer that 25 percent non-grads (including GED recipients).

To suggest that the comments above are the result of service members’ “lack of education” is BS and shows that you cant get past the fact that your own opinion is not the only opinion.

Perhaps you are the one in need of education.

DB November 20th, 2008 at 5:13 pm

To Ex-Navy: Not everyone in the military is a genius. You sound like you didn’t even go to college.

To everyone else: Obama is President. Everyone should accept this fact and move on. He won’t screw up the country any more than it is now and he definitely won’t do any worse than McCain.

Sam November 20th, 2008 at 5:15 pm

I can not believe the things that I have read on this site. The audacity of some of the individuals here that are posting these rude and unwarranted comments. Pres-Elect Obama is just getting started however, you all are living off the words of a man (Bush) that sent us all to war because of a personal grudge. I am also an Operation Iraqi Freedom Vet that was injured while there and the one thing that runs through my mind is one statement he made when he address Congress about funding for the war. He stated and I quote, “You guys have to remember this is the man that tried to kill my dad”, referring to Saddam Hussein, but it was Bin Laden that took the responsibility for 9/11. I just knew America was doom from there due to his personal grudge, however, it was my duty to follow the orders of my then Commander In Chief, Pres. Bush as it is for those individuals that will remain in and join when Pres-Elect Obama takes office. The prejudice and ignorance of the members of this board is dumb-founding especially to think you all are parts of the military in some way, shape, or form seeing that you all have either served or is still serving. We have to come together people because like it or not you have a new Commander and Chief and it something that none of you can change.

VIKING7 November 20th, 2008 at 5:17 pm

I voted for “Mc” but “O” got it. So he’s my president. I am a registered REP but voted for Nader in 2000 and Carter in 1976. Let’s see how “O” makes out. As another gentleman said, like Carter, if he effs up, he won’t get another term. On the home front, I just don’t want to be paying for a bunch of adoptees in transitional neighborhoods that I will never meet.

Edward Gaddis November 20th, 2008 at 5:17 pm

Ex Navy it sounds like you spent too many years in the bilge area.

OlSarge November 20th, 2008 at 5:23 pm

Anyone remember what the Liberal Democrats did to Pres Carter? He tried to govern as a centrist and they hung him out to dry, couldn’t get anything done, lamb duck for 4 years!

Pres Clinton started out as a Centrist as well, Liberal Democrats reminded him of what they did to Carter, he did an about face and went Left!

The same Liberals (read as Voting record not Party affiliation) are still in office and are already making demands that their lobbyists and unionists and special interests groups want pay-back! The Pres-Elect may have run on Change but all the change you will see is from what he believed to what Liberals will allow him to do.

It doesn’t matter what party you claim or what party is in power. The American experiment in modern Democracy is always best when it has checks and balances representing us all. I only fear that our latest economic debacles are a result of who truly runs this country–banks, unions and big corporations.

Another Proud American November 20th, 2008 at 5:28 pm

To Ex Navy

I’m glad you’re not serving any more. I wouldn’t want my country to rely on your efforts in the armed forces, ’cause obviously you would spend time hating everyone around you rather than getting a mission accomplished.

GM GAUNT November 20th, 2008 at 5:35 pm

Looking back through all this…blaming everyone for something…blame the greed that America has instilled in itself for the banks going under. Maybe the gov’t allowed this to happen, under both parties. Maybe the ones asking for a multi-billion dollar bail-out need a bit more baby-sitting to keep them in check? Ya think?

I live Arizona, McCain’s home state. When I asked him for assistance in a matter of national interest, his office told me ‘no’. Many of my co-workers don’t care for him due to his at-home track record. Regardless of his military background, which in my voter’s opinion only gave him a couple points, it’s that at-home track record that I was looking at. Berry Obama didn’t get any points for serving his country. I researched his record and shook my head. Whomever convinced him that he could be President could sell water to a drowning man. Now that he’s almost in and will be running the joint, I pray to my God that things improve. They won’t happen over night as this crisis didn’t happen just this year or over the past four years. Time will tell. We can help ourselves through this by continuing to spend our hard earned money on things that matter. We are the one’s who will pull us through. Keep the faith.

Paulski November 20th, 2008 at 5:38 pm

Don’t worry, be happy!
Once Iran fires their missile and Russia takes the Ukraine, OBama’s crack team will bring in Jimmy Carter to direct Navy ships. Clinton’s team wanted to save money by buying HomeDepot paint for the military. They tried it and several ships couldn’t leave port. Mr. Putin will wait till June 2009 to make his big move. Oh yes, did you know if terrorists are fully employed they will make peace. Gee. Obamaland here we come.

We need Obama November 20th, 2008 at 5:42 pm

f u obama–you are an idiot! You are obviously made that the election didn’t turn out the way you wanted.

Trickum November 20th, 2008 at 5:43 pm

FU is right on. The do-nothing Democratic congress led by Pelosi, Reid, Barney Frank, Ted Kennedy and the rest of those useless bloodsucking liberals were the ones at fault not GWB.

Sammy, SKCS(SS), USN, Ret November 20th, 2008 at 5:48 pm

You better not shout,
You better not cry,
You better not pout,
I’m tellin’ you why-
LIBERALS ARE COMIN’ TO TOWN!!!

God Bless America, and God save our new President- and may all of us give him a wide berth and all of our support. Like ‘im or not, he’s the new Boss. Remember the first thing we learned in Boot Camp, folks- if you can’t respect the MAN, at least respect his uniform!

Kevin A. Green November 20th, 2008 at 5:57 pm

I have served active and reserve duties in the Army and Air Force for 24 years. The Military and this country has suffered for the last 8 years under the Bush administration and there was not one negative comment made on that behave. Now, without even given President-elect Obama the opportunity to prove himself, there are all these negative and racial overtones being made against him. There’s nothing else that can be done to mitigate these past circumstances of incompetence, but there’s a chance for some good to come out of this new Administration if you would set aside your racial hatred and give it chance.

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Dunaway SFC November 20th, 2008 at 6:05 pm

Like it or not we have a new commander. President elect Obama will be faced with some serious issues in the coming months and will, like all other presidents, be faced with challenges that will test him. Like presidents before him, he will make mistakes. The decision has been made and it is our job to snap the salute and go forward. Like with any new commander we should be vigil and be ready to offer suggestions as the need arises to see the mission through.

Paulski November 20th, 2008 at 6:07 pm

Hey Kevin Green,
You do realize that Bush asked for more troops and Congress said no. Its Congress who sets troop count by the purse strings. That’s why reserve was used as much as it was.

Edward Gaddis November 20th, 2008 at 6:10 pm

To Kevin A.Green,
Thanks for elevating this discussion. It shows your Air Force background :o)

Colorado Cliffs November 20th, 2008 at 6:16 pm

Edward,Another Proud American,Top J, and DB, You guys must not be able to recognize your own hatred. You come down on Ex-Navy like the United States Voting Populas came down on a Military Man who served his country and checked in to the Hotel Hanoi. Whatzzup wit dat? You would probably invite Hanoi Jane to supper too. I am willing to give the Pres elect a chance just cause M.R. (majority rules). Like Sammy said, Respect the UNIFORM.

GumpForrest November 20th, 2008 at 6:19 pm

Barry will have the power to veto. Congress will be a Democratic Party majority. Come hell or high water; Barry,Congress and the Conglomerates will not let America spiral into a depression. They will pull a white rabbit out of the hat before they allow the almost total significant and strategic economic dynamics to plummet into thin air. BRAC helped one of the BRIC’s buy Long Beach Naval Ship Yard. If the politicians want to sell off; i.e. ( subcontract) our DOD civil service jobs to private industry; at least have the courtsey to ditch our jobs to an American owned and run business. Some of those high tech. civil service jobs paid 30 per cent less than commercial industry. If the government gets a sweet deal opting for private contractors…please remember it may be cheap in the beginning;but think as to where the honeymoon will lead DOD. Now; you will be sweating always opening your safe to read your enclosed enveloped. Open one and it says port ; open the other and it says starboard…remember who the new deal cutters are in D.C. Port ( Left Party ) Starboard ( Right Party). Decision makers and analysts will present a risk assessment for what to chisel down on the DOD budget and sometimes its not perfect kosher. The Big Shots say what goes and what doesn’t go and that includes management, maintainence,manpower,equipment,the mission statements,research and development,global and intercontinnential security. The G20 will have new global clients in this IMF to iron out the currency, credit and trade challenges. This G20 meeting could help stop wars and economic depression on a macro scale. It was a cosmic enriching experience to be born in the DOD and to have served from 74 to 94 in any capacity possible. I like the Many will always cherish the Navy and the military. JFk said in one of his speeches about what he had done as a young man for his country; “I can proudly say,I served my country in The United States Navy.” Now about Barry…as you remember Colin Powell stated he would not have achieved the many hurdles and heights of greatness;if he had not been burdened with overwhelming collasal challenges preset to doom him. Colin Powell triumphed and it is possible Barry O will make the grade too. Who would want to be known as the first Black American President to have failed in the line of duty?

burnetten November 20th, 2008 at 6:38 pm

Likewise, I do not understand the comments made in response to the post by “Ex-Navy”. He merely points out - rightly - that current service members are the brightest and best-educated volunteer force we have ever seen. As far as I know, a high school diploma has NEVER been an enlistment requirement; nevertheless, the services now enjoy an unprecedented number of college graduates among their NCO’s. I am overwhelmingly impressed by the knowledge, skills, education, and personal initiative exhibited by all the personnel of each of our armed services - and, this comes from someone who has worked in academia, the private medical sector, served 35 years in the Army, and has a PhD/MD.

IO Warrior November 20th, 2008 at 7:10 pm

I’m amazed at the lack of knowledge that comes off the keyboards of many of the apparent veterans on this posting.

For K.S. (you know who you are) Mussolini was a Fascist, not a Socialist. Study your history next time before you jump out into the street and have to dodge the speeding cars racing by.
Since 1917, my grandfather, my father and I have served this country, we didn’t whine about who was President, we followed their orders and we did our jobs.

Charlie November 20th, 2008 at 7:25 pm

When all is sais and done–

We cannot afford to continue to spend money at the present rate for military operations.

We cannot continue neglect of the “infrastructure”.

We cannot continue to allow industry to move operations out of the US. Service industry does not generate wealth, instead it takes a percentage of existing wealth, and spreads it around.

Imported oil and other energy, such as natural gas/propane allows us to use the resources of others, rather than expend our own.

Unfortunately we cannot afford to continue, due to the amount of wealth flowing out of the country.

The government has a history (as many governments do) of not meeting it’s obligations to it’s veterans and military members.

The middle class is now simply another term to define “not rich”. The current status is rich, poor, or destitute.

The rich may or may not be getting richer, Everyone else is sliding down the path to poor & destitute farther and faster than ever.

The government is “by the people, for the people” according to law and custom. Yet, in recent times, this seems to have been replaced with by the corporations for the corporations.

And some wonder why the democrats won the recent election?

SA November 20th, 2008 at 7:26 pm

Wow! It is amazing to see how ignorant the various branches of the military truly is…it appears that some of you have not served overseas where tolerance is necessary for survival. Please do research, prior to posting in an effort not to appear ignorant. I have realized in life that when you argue with fools those observing can’t truly distinguish who the fool is! Unfortunately, racism still exists, cultural competency should be required apparently for all branches based on these blogs. Please note, that everyone is entitled to vote for who they shall, but remember that McCain graduated 894 out of 899 and Obama graduated from Harvard Magna Cum Laude.

For the “Native American”. Hopefully that will be our next ethnic president. Read up on your history though, before you begin to side with F U Obama, from his tone he was in agreement with the “Trail of Tears” and would not mind for another in 2008. Understand your allies are so that you may be more powerful against your enemies that desire your extinction.

burnetten November 20th, 2008 at 7:46 pm

“We cannot afford to continue to spend money at the present rate for military operations.

“We cannot continue to allow industry to move operations out of the US. Service industry does not generate wealth, instead it takes a percentage of existing wealth, and spreads it around.”

Let’s get this straight:

1). As enumerated in the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States, the first job of Government is “to provide for the common defense”. There is not a word about taxing the rich, helping the poor, or providing “free” health care. By its definition from the founders of this nation, this number one priority must be satisfied before one penny of taxpayers’ money or other national assets are spent on anything else.
2). We live in a free market society. When the USG forbids businesses from engaging in the best business practices that benefit the owners (including shareholders), we will no longer live in a free market society.

65FordGuy November 20th, 2008 at 7:47 pm

I think we all need to just have a bowl of ice cream and a cookie. No one can be angry and eat both.

So Obama won. Who cares! The real power in D.C. is Congress. So, was it the Bush’s fault or Congress’ fault? Was it Clinton’s fault or Congress’? Hell, who really know. I read much speculation on here and quite a few conspiracy theories. Frankly, they all make me laugh, because in truth, it is our fault as the voting public. We put them in there, either Bush 1, Clinton, Bush 2, or Obama if you voted for them or not. If you did not vote, then you hav eno right ot complain.

How about we all just let it go and try to make a better future with what we have. If you are prior military, then you know that is usually the order of business everyday.

So, get your selves soem ice cream, or a cookie and just settle down. Coloring with crayons relieves the stress too! (No acting like children refrences are being made. When I color with my 6 year old, all that stress just melts. Try it.)

burnetten November 20th, 2008 at 7:50 pm

“… but remember that McCain graduated 894 out of 899 and Obama graduated from Harvard Magna Cum Laude.”

And, so what? Is the United States Naval Academy some slack-off institution? A little quiz: What do you call a person who graduated at the bottom of his/her medical school class?

Know-it-all November 20th, 2008 at 8:19 pm

I have just finished wasting nearly 45 minutes reading the tripe called “Comments” listed on this site. Shameful and sad that so many folks have nothing better to do in life than to participate in circular debates - spend all that effort trying to “make-a-difference” - dare to make a significant contribution TO YOUR country before you die!

burnetten November 20th, 2008 at 8:38 pm

“I have just finished wasting nearly 45 minutes reading the tripe called “Comments” listed on this site. Shameful and sad that so many folks have nothing better to do in life than to participate in circular debates - spend all that effort trying to “make-a-difference” - dare to make a significant contribution TO YOUR country before you die!”

Perhaps you missed the fact that many posting herein are current and former members of the armed services - with decades of selfless “contribution” to this nation. They have certainly earned the right to bitch and moan about the directions of this country, and particularly on a board dedicated to military news and opinion!

Total November 20th, 2008 at 9:01 pm

“What do you call a person who graduated at the bottom of his/her medical school class?”

A doctor you don’t want treating you?

You really wanted John McCain to go with the campaign slogan: “I could have finished last in my class, but didn’t!”

chris November 20th, 2008 at 9:10 pm

Two comments, One some of you need to get a grip and realize this is a diverse country, and yes we have a black president! To say this country is going to hell in a hand basket is childish, and acute ignorance. The president has no bearing on the pulse of this nation we the people do and yes we are failing! However our govenment, banks, etc have a hand in this mess. No fingers can pointed at one element. I may not have voted for Obama but he will be the CIC and I will get behind him until he makes mistakes and I will hold him and this dysfunctional congress accountable as should we all. But name calling and all this doom and gloom is simply ridiculous how about doing something other thing running your mouths and make a difference.
Second, our current CIC made some good decisions but were simply over shadowed by bad ones. Now will this democratic lead government do better fighting GWOT? In my humble opinion no, but it would not matter if it was a republican in office the fact is we g as a nation are not willing to take the necessary risk and actually conduct “war”. We will be at “politic” for the foreseeable future unfortunately, get use to it!

Doug November 20th, 2008 at 9:21 pm

Obama and his so called defense team is a real joke.
Put in real men and women that have been in combat and know what it is all about to survive in the middle of no where.
Forgot Obama was too much of a coward as with Clinton to be a real man and serve.

People who put this guy in are in for a real big surprise. It won’t be good for America at all, no matter who you are, well except the wealthy!!!!
You want to be called the Cammander and Chief, you must serve in the military perfer the Marine Corps.

SemperFi-Marines November 20th, 2008 at 9:34 pm

Voted Republican since 18 when joined the Marine Corps, never will do that again.

Republicans are out of touch with what is important and Mr. Bush can take his rodeo show back to Texas.
What happened to the Republicans that were in control of congress when Newt Gingrich was running the show, they actually did some good and let Clinton take the credit.
Get off the religious crap Repubs and start dealing with real issues that affect the entire country.
Let gays marry - they have every right to be as miserable as heterosexual married couples,and if that isn’t so then why is divorce so high, you hypocrites.
Abortion deal with it repubs, can u think how bad the medicare system would really be if we had all the unwanted pregnancies carried to term. More burden on our already troubled system.
Immigrants are needed because I don’t see anyone filling out a Mcdonalds application in a hurry.
Plain and simple this country has been run with one mind set for so long people actually still think everything is fine.

I don’t support any bailouts for stupid lenders, bad car companies, greedy banks, and idiotic borrowers.
Maybe Obama can turn this thing around with a fresh outlook because the “old” way of doing it “DOESN’T WORK ANYMORE”

Roger November 20th, 2008 at 9:45 pm

Obama is the Prince of Darkness.

But the people of America elected him and now starts the downfall of America.

Sam Nunn a good man for Secretary of Defense but who is the Cammder in Chief?

God Help us

retired Navy November 20th, 2008 at 10:05 pm

I retired after 22 years in the Navy and still have a lot of friends still in. For their sake, I hope Pres elect Obama renegs on his campaign promises. For him to keep them, he will surely have to make drastic cuts in DOD spending.

armamentsoldier November 20th, 2008 at 10:18 pm

“The main part of their jobs will be to “ensure that senior appointees have the information necessary to complete the confirmation process, lead their departments, and begin implementing signature policy initiatives immediately after they are sworn in.”

Thats how you plan. Thats called vision, something this current administration didn’t and don’t have.

“Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performances”
The six P’s.

REBECCA November 20th, 2008 at 10:35 pm

WELCOME TO HELL. POPULATION 6 BILLION

burnetten November 20th, 2008 at 11:00 pm

“A doctor you don’t want treating you?”

So, if a guy graduated near the bottom of his class at Yale University School of Medicine, you’d rather have a Harvard lawyer “practice” medicine on you, right?

John McCain graduated from one of the premier academic institutions of this country, served gallantly in war, was a senior military officer, and served three decades in the US House and Senate. Yet, you have no qualms about trusting the world’s most potent military force to a Harvard Law grad and “community organizer” with zero military experience.

Got it!

Jintaitai November 20th, 2008 at 11:57 pm

Charles, I like your idea of sharing those billions with the citizens, but be mindful of those who may put it in banks overseas.

Y\Tom November 21st, 2008 at 12:35 am

let see, senator Schmurn from NY on tv waived a paper saying Countrywide mortage/bank was going broke (not true), people made a run on the bank and withdrew billions. It then did fail thanks to schmurn. Barney Franks held hearings in 2004 and 2008 where Bush admin. told franks the mortage companies were in trouble. barney said there was no proof that freedie and fanny were in trouble and told people to keep investing in mortage companies. Guess what 4 months later they started to fail. Looking back you can see a pattern of how the mortage, insurance and banks were set up to fail by the democrates. This was done in order to show how bad bush was, so the people would vote for democrates.

Aurelio November 21st, 2008 at 12:51 am

Good commits all,

Either way you say it Clinton did it or bush did that. United We Stand have as a country, If this was a trial most convicted a person without having the dang trial. No matter how I feel I’m still here to defend my country and stand by our constitution.

LT Rockett November 21st, 2008 at 2:01 am

BOP you are a gullable idiot that thinks you know something.

FU has it right on the money. How many Economics courses have you had and obviously no education about how our government works.

Turn off the TV and start thinking for yourself.

LT, USN
Iraq

BOP November 19th, 2008 at 4:46 am stated >>

I find some people and their opinions absolutely astounding… especially when certain issues expose their “tendencies”! They seem to always want to either spew useless, errant, moronic stats as ‘facts’ or revert to their past comfort zones! Well, guess what… you cant go back — not to “the way things used to be” or “when you were a kid” or crawl back into the womb!! So, just get a grip on today and keep your focus on the future. Military mindsets and leadership strategies of yesterday will not serve us well today nor tomorrow! Things are not the same as even 10 years ago! We have a new CIC, like it or not… So, remember your oath, do your job, and move on.

… and for fux sake… quit whining and lying!!

Andrea Miesler November 21st, 2008 at 5:32 am

I did not vote for Obama for that reason. I would think it great for the US to have a black or other than white president but Obama was not the right choice most certainly. Not that he can’t learn. Working fo rthe Army for 14yrs, and being in a war zone right now, I have always flown by the seat of my pants as far as learning each new aspect of my career field. Now that the deed is done we can only support and pray that the other branchs can set us on the right path and I especially pray the president doesn’t have soverign power.

Wil November 21st, 2008 at 5:35 am

Hey you dumb asses! President elect Obama did not put you where you are (Afgan - Iraq ,etc). It was your dumb ass Commander-in-Chief. Soon he will leave the White House and he will leave you in place. So stop getting upset with yourselves! You volunteered to be just where you are! Dumb ass!

Ted Dentay November 21st, 2008 at 7:59 am

DOD, Guns, and Obama

I know this will sound somewhat convoluted but what comes to my mind is that a smart move would be to go back to the ‘citizen soldier’ concept as Obama scales back your defence complex. Your constitution mentions “…a well regulated militia…” doesn’t it? The Swiss military and civil model seems to work well for them. I wonder how that would sit with Mr. Obama’s plans for gun control in the whole mix.

usafarff51 November 21st, 2008 at 8:33 am

You all just need to calm down, half of you already are negative with the President-Elect and he hasn’t even gotten into offic yet. Most you are stereo-typing Obama. Put the shoe on the other foot, would you like it if you were treated that way for a job you really wanted and you haven’t even gotten in the door to get it? The fact of the matter is, it doesn’t matter who got us into this mess, thanks to our constitional rights; which I remind you, that most of you volunteered to defend; was put to use and the majority of the country that you agreed to defend has spoken. Now you can do one of two things the way I see, you can just shut up and carry on and be respectful of the decision the country as a whole made, or shut up and when your EAOS rolls around, get out of the military that I once served and still support to this day and move to another country. Either way it doesn’t matter, Obama will still take office and like the current CinC, he can also decide what the military will do in the best interests of this country, regardless of your opinion.

Oh, and here’s a reminder, since you volunteered to join whatever military branch you are currently in, perhaps you should review your contract again, you will notice that you basically signed over your rights to the military and you pledged to obey your superiors. I don’t recall the contract giving you the rights of a democracy in deciding what you will or will not do.

So in short, while you are out where ever you are stationed or deployed to, just remember, you can gripe, bitch, or even moan about the President-elect, it’s still not going to change the fact the he will be taking office. So get over it, what is done is done, now give him a chance just like so many others have given you a chance to prove yourselves.

QM1(SS)

wtpworrier November 21st, 2008 at 9:04 am

Y\Tom November 21st, 2008 at 12:35 am

“let see, senator Schmurn from NY on tv waived a paper saying Countrywide mortage/bank was going broke (not true), people made a run on the bank and withdrew billions. It then did fail thanks to schmurn. Barney Franks held hearings in 2004 and 2008 where Bush admin. told franks the mortage companies were in trouble. barney said there was no proof that freedie and fanny were in trouble and told people to keep investing in mortage companies. Guess what 4 months later they started to fail. Looking back you can see a pattern of how the mortage, insurance and banks were set up to fail by the democrates. This was done in order to show how bad bush was, so the people would vote for democrates.”

You seem to have firm knowledge of things, to bad the Repubs didn’t. It’s also to bad you didn’t inform them of the situation before hand, you might still have a few of those(I won’t call them names, it’s moot at this point) Senators still in office, if what you say is true of course. Everyboby know what happened, trying to spin it or blame it on somebody else won’t work.

Back to the subject. This is just the “transition team” not the actual DoD team. They are the ones who will make sure the out going administration don’t try and pull a fast one, before they leave office, even though it seems they are trying to screw things up worse than they already have.

LeadingEdge November 21st, 2008 at 9:06 am

HOLD ON, HOLD ON……
Stop all this whining and crying!!!!

For all the volunteers that have fought for this country, you are our Hero’s! And Hero’s don’t cry!

We FIGHT!!! If you can’t beat the system, join it.

And one way to join it is to force the system to go back to the DRAFT! This would definately wake up all those civilians with grand ideas about the military.

Do I agree with the draft? Absolutley NOT! Our hands need not be tied in war, and we just need to get it done with.
America has the technology, equiptment and expertise to WIN. Our leaders need one week on the battle field (not in protective custody) with the troops to wake them up.
Draft all those 19-35 year olds. Draft those who are in the welfare lines. Draft those who are in the prisons as “BAIT” for the enemy. Draft those who ask for MUCH, and give back nothing!
We are not at War, or did I miss the Congressional Act that authorizes war?

Maximus November 21st, 2008 at 9:46 am

A lot of serious minded persons have commented here. There has been a lot of angst and anxiety displayed, and rightfully so. We now have a President-Elect that has made some interesting promises during his campaign that directly affect the service members and their families. Whether these campaign promises hold true is still up in the air. It also remains to be seen if those effects will be positive or negative. All that I ask of you is that you do your job, close ranks around the fallen, and soldier on. Useless agonizing over the past, changes nothing unless it is in an attempt to learn. I understand the comments made here try to quantify the at-fault parties as regards the current economic situation. To be quite honest with you, the fault lies with most of the involved parties. Both governmental and private sector. The real question now, is how do we fix it? I hope and pray that the incoming administration can get a handle on things, quick, fast, and in a hurry. We will quickly end up mired in details, if we cannot focus on the big picture of ensuring the physical and economic safety of our country. Understand this; no rational person can say that the incoming president would willingly place our country at risk. Whatever his background, he will (at least in his mind) have the best interests of the country at heart when conducting the duties of his office. I have to believe this of WHOEVER is elected. I am a registered Republican, and do not espouse the liberal ideals forwarded by our president-elect. Yet still, I believe that he will do his best to be a good chief executive. If I cannot say this of a duly elected CIC, then I will have lost faith in our entire democratic system. We still live in the greatest country on Earth, and even with the current woes of Wall Street, still live in one of the most prosperous nations ever. We can, and we will, surmount and conquer the challenges of the next four years. Whether because of, or in spite of Barack Obama doesn’t matter. The fact remains that we will endure. Carry on.

cobler November 21st, 2008 at 11:07 am

I have noticed that many postings have not thought about the fact that when our country is at war it stimulates our economy. Much of the billions of dollars that go out from the government are going into the accounts of US Businesses, Soldiers accounts, and therefore into local economies surrounding military institutions and the like. When the drawdown from Iraq, and eventually Afghanistan takes place, we will see another major hit to the US economy. Already looking forward defense plants are scaling back their productions and laying off thousands. So, for all those who oppose war, that’s fine; but when your Soldiers are forced into early retirement and they and their families are standing in welfare lines and at the employment office, please remember this post. It will happen again like it did before. A massive drawdown of troops and reservists comnig home to take back jobs that others are filling will bring another major catastrophe to the financial sector. Similarly, maybe we should lay off the fireman, and policeman who are just hanging out until they are needed. If we did that lawlessness would be more rampant. so, we shouldn’t do the same to our military. Leave the funding, just realocate it and keep our men and women of the military working.

As far as those who have made comments about the intellect of the US service members, I am appalled. Especially when those posting the comments cannot spell, or puncuate properly. I served, and serve with some of the most intelligent people in the United States. Reservists who are CEO’s of hospitals, lawyers, and even politicians; many are policemen, firefighters and the majority college students. The officer corp requires college degrees and the US Army will not promote beyond a certain point without proper education. One of the reasons many young people join the military that are not educated is because the military offers educational incentives and they desire to get ahead in life. The military is about learning and growing and becoming the man or woman that you have the potential to become. There are exceptions to everything, but as a business man I would hire military long before someone that finished top in their class and had no experience in life. I’ve watched boys and girls become men and women in a short time. What the new CIC will do, who really knows. As an Army NCO with a Bachelors degree in Business, I know what I will do. I will continue to march, salute when I have to, and if my country tells me my time is up and they cannot pay me anymore; I have other options that I will take advantage of.

As a closing note, I did not vote for Obama, don’t care for his politcal stand on health care and the military. Before someone throws out that I don’t like him because he’s black; I will go a step farther and tell you that I would have gladly voted Condi for President, and Colin Powell for her Vice.

WRyker November 21st, 2008 at 11:43 am

I voted for McCain. However, the will of the American people have spoken and President-Elect Obama will become the next Commander-in-Chief.

Regardless whether we like or agree with the outcome of the election, the will of the people have spoken. Politically, this is perhaps one of the worse times in history to accept the role of President and depending on how well Obama does in the first two years of office will determine whether he has a chance at getting reelected.

Economic forecast are already projecting that the next six to seven years will be one of the worse economically since the stock market crash prior to the Great Depression. There are many factors that are contributing to the current decline of the economy. Some are because of Bush and the outlays to support the war. However, Obama will not end the war or America’s presence in Iraq after he’s in office.

Some of the problems are because of the democratically controlled Congress who intentionally allowed certain things to happen to ensure the Democrats would gain control.

Some of the problems are caused by the American public who overextended and then defaulted on their mortgages, credit cards, auto loans, etc…

Other forecasts that are currently floating around are a devaluation of the dollar, double-digit unemployment, inflation, and interest rates.

Also, there is talk of the draft being brought back because of a sharp decline in the military manpower levels that will occur due to the deep cuts in the military budget to help reverse the current economic situation.

We are on the edge and there is plenty of reasons why we are currently in this economic crisis and I do believe Obama will make every attempt to change the economic situation.

However, I also believe he will not get the help or support he needs from Congress, the military, or the American people and America will decline even further than we are now.

Finally, the sky is falling, the end is near, and we’re all going to die.

BOP November 21st, 2008 at 12:18 pm

To: LT Rockett

As much as I disagree with your disgusting and disturbing diatribe… I went through 2 wars, and spent 31 years risking my life defending your right to your “opinion” and your freedom to express it… as did many other honorable Americans. (Thanks…)

Incidently, I also achieved 3 degrees (BS & 2 Masters) while in service to OUR country! So, in answer to your question: Yes

Leading Edge November 21st, 2008 at 12:55 pm

There is one Right that hasn’t been taken away, but freely given.

That is your RIGHT to VOTE. The reason why there is a curtian that covers a ballot box is so that You can vote in private. This is still the one Right not taken. Don’t give up this private right to become public, otherwise that right will also be taken away.
That voices made here, need to be directed to your congressional constituant. The lobbist do it, so should we!!!

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/directory/congdir.tt

http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

(ref the book of Revelations-KJV).

DustyBill November 21st, 2008 at 2:07 pm

Well, it took 4 years of Jimmy Carter to get Ronald Regan in office. We’ll see what happens with a do nothing Congress after 4 years.

Kevin McGuirk November 21st, 2008 at 5:45 pm

Keep a sharp eye out for Gen. Tony, “Let’s make the Air Force dress like stewardesses” McPeak and Sarah Lister. McPeak dismantled SAC and Sarah Lister was fired after USMC Krulak threatened to resign after she compared the Marines to the SS.

No wonder my cousins are retiring from the Air Force. God help us all.

Gary November 22nd, 2008 at 7:05 pm

Let’s see.. General Jim Jones, a Marine General and former NATO Commander, one hundred or so retired Marine, Navy, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard officers all supporting the President-Elect.

And tens of thousands more enlisted men & women supporting the new President.

Thank God for all you posting here who aren’t whineing, cursing or bad-mouthing the new President, and Congress. You’re the true Professionals! Stand tall!

reggie November 23rd, 2008 at 9:11 pm

I believe some of you all who are submitting negative comments about the Obama transitional team are cowards and losers.I mean do you love this country or do you like to complain? Why don’t you wait and see… c’mon man the President-Elect hasn’t been swear in office.

Old391 November 25th, 2008 at 1:52 pm

I have a great idea. What I need is a lawyer who will do pro-bono work for the following reason. If Obama, Reid and Queen Pelosi tries to do what Jimmy did when he was the president, cut the military budget, then we sue them for failing to follow the Constitution for which they swore to do. We will file that they have failed in their duties to Provide for the Common Defense by cutting the budget and also state that they are now Providing for the General Welfare instead of promoting it as required by the Constitution.

Also make them do an economic impact on what would happen if they cut the military budget. They will have to determine how many people in the defense industry from manufactures to suppliers and the local city, county and states they are in will be affected by their cuts. Also how much revenue in the form of Federal Income Tax and Social Security taxes will be lost and what state income taxes would be lost and how much the Federal and States government will have to pay out in unemployment benefits.

I think they will be surprised at the figures

joekubilus November 25th, 2008 at 3:20 pm

The military referred to Clinton as the LOTHESOME DOVE.He made a comment