al Qaeda, and for that matter Osama bin Laden, aren't running the insurgency.

The insurgents, mostly part of major guerilla organisations and other distinct groups, are largely civilians driven by a variety of beliefs and grievances. They fight for a number of reasons, including regaining power, Iraqi self-determination, reinstating social classes, returning to "pure Islam", rejecting the foreign presence as a matter or principle, and vengeance for lost loved ones.

These groups include:
Ba'athists, Nationalists (mostly Sunni Muslims), anti-Shi'a Sunni Muslims;
Patriotic Communists;
Shi'a Islamist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr's "Mahdi Army";
Wahabi fundamentalists like Sunni Islamists and (a low number of) foreign Islamist volunteers (including a few members of al Qaeda);
as well as common criminal insurgents (fighting for personal gain.)

And given the conflicting goals, there's quite a bit of insurgency in-fighting.

All up, al Qaeda play a tiny part in the whole mess.

[b]Ben[/b]

The insurgency is being led, at least spiritually, by al Zarqawi, who has pledged himself to bin Laden. He's not an Iraqi - he's Jordanian, from what I recall.

Al-Sadr's army has been very quiet lately - in fact Al-Sadr himself called for calm after the destruction of the Golden Mosque. The only group that's actively trying their best to brew up sectarian violence is the Al-Qaeda, non-Iraqi types. They're manipulating, but so far they haven't succeeded.

I do think, though, that you're missing Scott's point. His satire is fairly amusing, so I hope that you at least got a chuckle out of it. I know I did.

Thanks DC Guy, I did miss Scott's point. I didn't realise he was mocking the US government's involvement in Iraq.

As for your comment about al Zarqawi, once again, there isn't a single "bogeyman"/group responsible for the insurgency. (Well... some might suggest there is...)

Most of the insurgents are resisting the "occupying power" using guerilla tactics, not terrorism.

al Qaeda in Iraq, however, are only interested in jihad - fighting those they label infidels and anyone aiding them. If the Iraqi resistance wins and does not adopt the version of Islam that al Zarqawi believes in - a Taliban style pure Islamic state - al Qaeda will continue to fight.

Likewise, eliminating al Qaeda in Iraq won't end the resistance.

The crappy part about irony and sarcasm is having to explain it to some people.

Take the article for face value and you'll get my point.

Your article needed no explanation for me. I got it and its hillarious! Your sense of humor and your ability to illustrate absurdity by being absurd is brilliant. Thanks for the giggle.

Wow! Killing people AND wasting bandwidth. Bastards.

Scott's point is quite simple. Iraq is as stable as a Eurabian country, certainly more so than Egypt or any cartoon fearing middle eastern peer. And these groups are nothing more than the bloods and crypts in L.A. - no real plan, no substance, we have done an apt job of containing their damage capability.

Ben (and others who don't know) - Al Qaeda is nothing more than an umbrella name for a conglomeration of special interest Islamic fundamentalists - it means "the base" and many different Al Qaeda related groups have been operating through out the world (check out Stephen Hayes to connect the dots to Iraq for more evidence of it)). The drama that enters into our households via the news media is interesting, but comparatively, Iraq is a bastion of freedom and religious pluralism, certainly compared to its peers and very much coming to be more stable than California or France.

Based on statistics, more homicides are committed in Philadelphia than Baghdad per capita. That may be the only reason I would want to withdrawal - Philadelphia and other inner cities need a bit of shock and awe.

I'm sure this factual debate will boil down to emotional epitaphs and anecdotes, so do your best, I can only show you the truth. And Scott, keep up the good work,

"Pro Deo Et Patria"
For God and Country

Very clever! Well done.

HEY DUMASS!

IRAQ HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH 9/11

IRAQ HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH AL QAEDA

THE US ILLEGALLY INVADED IRAQ

WE ARE NOT SAFER FROM THIS BUT LESS SAFE

THE US CITIZEN IS MORE HATED BY MORE PEOPLE THAN WE EVER HAVE BEEN IN OUR HISTORY.

CASE IN POINT, THE US SOCCER TEAM IS THE ONLY TEAM THAT WILL NOT HAVE A FLAG IDENTIFYING IT AT THE WORLD CUP.

READ PLATO'S LACHES IF YOU WANT TO UNDERSTAND WHAT REAL COURAGE IS. (THE US SOLDIER IS A COWARD)

READ BUTLER'S 'WAR IS A RACKET' IF YOU WANT TO UNDERSTAND WHAT WAR IS FOR. (THE US CAUSE IS BULLSHIT)

You obviously get your opinions from a whacked out drug addict on the radio, or a dildo using pervert and his screeching she-male cohort on FOX.

P.S. ANN COULTER CAN LICK HER OWN BALLS!!!!!

Liberal Fag
- your well organized and thoughtful response has prompted me to reconsider my position on the war, conservatism and the world in general. Please continue to post on sites that you deem supportive of American values. The American people near to hear from you and your well principled friends.

Just kidding. Well keep ranting - you'll do more for my cause and my people will keep getting elected while you cry about lost elections and waning power.

"Pro Deo Et Patria"
For God and Country

Oh this is even better than how Hitler could have won the war. And much better than any old cigar twiching Churchill lies. Besides it's a current and ongoing example of all the ills, foibles, deceit, and damn lies that are as easy to catch (Now) as little butterflies with big nets.

Where was all this clear, incisive, and decisive thinking a few years ago? Oh, I think it had something to do with 9-11. We soaked up all the sympathy the world had to offer. Within a year, the worlds' sympathy evaporated. This sympathy was grossly abused. Bush takes his highest popularity and likewise squanders it to a place he now deserves in the polls @29% favorable. Historically one president did achieve a lower, estimated (25% approval) rating. Some political historians claim the number never drops below 25 due to die hard partisinship. In our parlance let's just call it die hard stupidity. Sorry Nixon, Bush even beat your record on the day he left in disgrase giving his double V before boarding his helicopter. And this was "Tricky Dick" encumbered with Vietnam and got caught/taped in Watergate lies and cover-up.

Yes Scott's initial entry torqued me also. I can read very fast at times; so, in about 10 seconds reaching the end in angst--I wanted to give "equal time" to a disgruntled voter somewhere with a purple middle finger proudly fixed to sum up his/her angst. Going back, the mother to the right of the young daughter does have such a posture in my reading of body language. I just missed it by one finger. Scott has missed one point--his "calling"--say DC or the Pentagon; and, Ms. Rice would love him as he is so brilliant to her cause. That's cause she too is an oil baron as is Bush, Cheney, & Rumsfeld. No one has prospered as the oil companies. Their profits stand out like a sore thumb! Oh, high crimes and misdemeanors! Where's a Taft (the Big Stick monopoly buster) when you need him? He must be hiding behing the Bushes!

Nonetheless I'm felling better about the War on Terror now that I am 100% against it. No! I did not vote for it! I wanted some of the poopla to be true, but it was just recomposted into more artifical propaganada that wouldn't be believed by any German lunatic that Hitler had euthanized.

I bee-bopped right along and found myself really agreeing with everything until getting to the number 10 entry. This is a perfect example of the die hard 25% I was earlier refering. Some people are so narrowminded, their ears are touching! "My country (party) right or wrong!" Ya right. This one's too easy! Who could enjoy waving a flag of conservatism (ie. status quo) with the "values" that are being exemplified globally. I cannot think of any positive values extant to this subject that deserve conserving. Oh except for the 71% that disapprove of Bush. Who by the way was never elected in the true democratic sense in either 2000 or 2004. The first was given by a Republican Supreme Court (who could still have given Florida their recount--giving the Dem. the win, and they had 3 months to spare in recalling their decision); and, the second by the Diebold Corporation.

But I'll give 'em this, it does seem to have taken the good olde USA a few years to wake up and smell the gunpowder and the rats. Hitler just gave off a wiff--"I told you so..." Faschism is as far as you can move right on the Liberal/Conservative spectrum. But, I most clearly postulated the absurdities of and Rep./Dem. or Lib./Con. on the previous WMD page/forum. And, compared ignorance itself as a weapon of mass destruction. "It's the money stupid!" When our Big 4 leave office, they can then legally reap the profits they are accreting now. And, may the US then somehow begin to repay our indebtedness.

We all can recall in Bush's first term that he had already turned a 1/2 trillion Clinton surplus into a 1/2 trillion Bush deficit. Intelligence isn't everything but in this case the difference is just as compelling. Clinton, a true Rhodes Scholar, spoke, wrote, and tested to an IQ of 160. Bush, speakes, writed and tested to an IQ of 95 by the same set of psychohistorians (no play on the prefix psycho now). If he didn't have his Yale degree bought, there is not a cow in his home long-horn state of Texas. People spent years poking fun at Quale's potato(e) gaff. He's an Einstein next to Bush. And, a veritable angel in any character comparisons. The US will never live Bush down. Don't we rather wish Monica was back with Bill?

What bothers me most about the war is not the cost, not the death and suffering, not the needless destruction, not the opinion of other countries, but...the obvious, blatant, and outright evil selfish motives to send (without remourse) our troops there. I spoke with a select few of army buddies about the anticipated invasion and said: "They have no WMD!" Having already completed a course entitled Adv. Intell. Analysis, holding 4 graduate degrees and as a member of Mensa, was still not enough background to have such a level of confidence. But, I did. Can't explain this certitude. But, I'd have bet my truck on it!

Remember the UN Instectors said they needed just a few more months to be sure of no WMD? Remember the world was clearly in support of any US invasion provided there was a "connection" between Iraq and 9-11? The more I look back, the angrier I get! We wanted no Allies really; why share the marbles? We denied any help in regards to rebuilding Iraq (all the while still tearing it down). Why should Cheney's Halliburton share their marbles either? It's all so sickening. I honestly get as sick as seeing Jews being loaded on the cattle cars. I assure more gruesome details about this war will come later. Hopefully after a quick impeachment!

I thought the US had a poor excuse for Vietnam. But consider: S. Vietnam wanted us there (even begged us), and many here really believed in the Domino Theory (one Communist country falling to take over another), and we had much international support. But this Iraq deal is off the charts as unjust wars go--especially with the reputation of the US. Or the reputation the US once had!

The names of the combatents have by now, lost all their meaning. There are the Americans (whose backward flag on their arms) is symbolic of this pathetic war on terror. Worse yet is the damage we've done and are still doing to an already 3rd. world country, that must be considered completely innocent to any complicity to the 9-11 incidents. All countries surrounding Iraq, have some ties to the Trade Towers, except Iraq itself. Give them whatever names you will. We stirred-up a hornets nest of justified hate, that when they can't take a shot at us, they just content themselves with killing oneanother. This is the most frightening context a soldier can find themselves in: Urban Warfare. We still don't know where the enemy is or who he is. Same applies to the Iraqui's.

What to do? Exit strategy? Easy, stop the shooting, wait for the smoke to settle, and make the exits along the same entrances from which this phony "War" begun. Make our apologies, guesstimate the cost of reparations, make payment, and escort Halliburton out along the same shamefull path. Last year I jokingly said to achieve the quickest road to peace in Iraq, is for the US to leave and reinstall Saddam.

At the present rate, there would be ample justification for the UN to remove our seat from the assembly. If it weren't for our Bully size--this would have already happened. All our feard about GITMO, Abu Grab, and other unknown facilitied will be unforgiveable in our future. It will take a Moses, Gandi, or a Jesus Christ to get our reputation and respect back. Right now what's left to "Concerve?" We need to "Liberate" a conscience somewhere along the line of egress from this deplorable war.

Osama declared "The Camp" responsible for 9-11. This same bunch the US backed in the Afghan 8 yr. war with the Soviets. Which the Soviets gave up on winning. Why so quick to admit such a dastardly deed? Osama said get the US angry and engage them in a protracted battle and we will bankrupt the US and they will never achieve victory. Now that's a strategy! And so far a successful one. We too often make the mistake of associating geography with intelligence. Osama has no sand-crab brain, he's a genius, but as hard to catch as the sand-crab on a open beach.
Now add our invasion to Iraq and even larger Arab country and Osama is ever indebted to Allah, for exceeding all his hopes and expectations. We underestimated our enemy. We are to stupid and stubborn to count our losses and quit while we are behind.

Most all terms as insurgents, rebels, al quaeda, fundamentalist Islamists, Sunni's, Kurds, Shiites, and so on is nauseating and only clouds the real issues and unjustness of this "War on Terror." Give me a break! Our presence there is causing more terror than we could produce if we had intended it. Hey maybe there is an ulterior motive there somewhere.

On top of all that, I can't fathom how a militarily mighty US can embroil itself so pathetically in such an unecessary war. Look what Hitler did in a matter of months--overtook a dozen countries. And most better armed than Iraq. Help, I don't get it! After 3 years the situation is worsening. I told someone if we didn't have control (a win) in 2 years--we lost!

The hypocracy never ends. While we point a threatening finger at one meager Iranian stockpile, we have more nuclear armanents than we know what to do with. The president of Jordan was on the Charley Rose show a few months ago. He said the US was in a "swamp" in Iraq. Yea, real smart, let's add a few more feet and hit Iran (one of the "axis of evil"). Let's sell Israel a few thousand more powerful weapons and spread even more good-will throught the Arab countries. I never thought I'd live to see such ghastly enterprises. Much fun is poked at the war on late-night TV. At the beginning Saddam was the brunt of the joking--now it's Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, and Rice.

A little levity is good and necessary for the soul. But, the indifference to the unecessary suffering of the Iraqi's along with our American soldiers is nothing less than what was heretofore unimaginable. And we are there to "liberate Iraq?" WOW. More likely, it seems, to liberate their oil somewhere along the line.
To attempt a pitifull conclusion to an infinately pitifull war or terror--may the Iraqui's with their new Constitution, put on the ballot a referendum as to whether the US is to stay or leave! You guess the turnout and the vote. I'll leave myself guessing what Eisenhower and Patton would be thinking of all this...And, I can't but wonder if the situation would give rise to McArthur again stating: "I shall return!"

Joe

Its unfortunate that the level of discourse in this country has dropped so low that people are willing to think the absolute worst of our elected officials, not even cutting them the slack that our justice system gives pedophiles and dog rapists.

It is unfortunate that your opinion seems to be a common one in certain sectors of our country, and I would suggest that those who are unwilling or unable to see the goodness in what we do are as equally to blame as those who see nothing but goodness. The truth is somewhere in between. Whether or not you are willing to believe it is an altogether different question.

The Executive impetus for our engagement/regime change/liberation into (of) Iraq is either for goodwill or illwill. Unlike the Afghan/Camp connection where there is plausable guilt (Osama admission), the Iraq deal is patently illwilled. It was initiated and precipitated opportunistically via deceiving our Congress and Populace. Happily and fortunately it did not deceive internationally!

I do not think the "absolute worst" about our "leadership." But, this is only because the "absolute worst" is unknown. This will take more time. We do not "elect" our representatives on an ordinal scale of say 1-10; we hit yes or no (using an absolute scale). In this case we should have a "0" option for many of our current "leaders" and encourage impeachment and "absolutely" get rid of them. Perhaps better we have an "Ongoing Democracy" so we could adjust/shift on-the-go. Whatever, "our" current administration does not represent me or anyone like me! Bush is in serious contention with two other "worst" US Presidents: Harding (Teapot Dome Scandal) and Buchanan (Do-nothing Party). Give us Buchanan!

It is fortunate that we have a level of discourse in this Country and unfortunately it is underutilized! Moreover, it is fortunate that my opinion is a common one on this score. And, it is even more fortunate that this "opinion" is becoming increasingly more common. The concept resented in your opine is the use of "common one." I fancy myself an independent thinking human being and not a well-trained dog--to lap-up the news/jews. I do not wish to level-down to the dullest perceptions of man and praise this as common sense when the commonest sense of man is when he's asleep and this is expressed by snoring!

What "level" we're on is extremely relative both to terminology and to degree. One does not of necessity have to be encyclopedic read or degreed in history, psychology, sociology, political science, and philosophy as myself to be correct or to maintain opinions--preferably fluid opinions. I don't want to be "held" by my opinions (like the 29% that still favor Bush), I rather "hold" my opinions--and these subject to change. That Bush and his ilk are scoundrels is felt by the vast majority in this and other countries and amongst all levels and "sectors."

That we should be capriciously cramming democracy down the throats of a country already justifiably illwilled towards us, is both abhorrent to me and to the democracy I was born under. When the Communists did the like, we found them to be as evil as it gets. Turn it around!

I'm not just an academically empowered egghead either, nor one who has anything to gain by... My experience is gotten from numerous "sectors."
For one, the military itself. I've been and Army enlisted soldier and an officer sailor. I hold the highest medal for heroism the Coast Guard has and is bestowed at the Presidental Level. I tend to know heroism when I see it. Our objectives and methods in Iraq are not benign, goodwilled, or heroic--they are devious, illwilled, barbaric and henious. I am not merely thinking the "worst" of Bush, I'm watching it--I hope.

And, when viewing the 300+ horrible attrocities via the internet video in and around Iraq, you may see Bush's aura in the background. When about fellow soldiers and sailors and I hear "sand-nigger" and the like, I tend to know who to blame! Are these poor people to blame by reason of geography or race? If you think I'm kidding take a seat around a group of militaries and clear your ears to determine if they are "cutting them slack" as you term.

As far as the dog rapist and pedophile treatment and our justice system analogy, it is not only trite and base it's ignorant and dull! But as wisdom has wings to hover as well as to soar--all need to land now and then. Now to your level however unfortunate its' "level of discourse" is moreover unproductive.

This forum' topic is A Plea for a Clear Plan in Iraq. Your "altogether different question" is telling but only fitting somewhereelse. You have no clear plan or plan at all! I vered not. I spoke of no "goodness" only of the alacraty that US speeds its' egress from Iraq and the whole "theater of operations" for that matter. The truth is NOT somewhere inbetween (another cliche)! I'd like to say "almost pregnant" but must again take wing. Only two can tell the truth: One to tell it and the other to hear it. Have you done either?

I'd quicker cut-slack for Sadamm than Bush. I'm not some pea-brained bureaucrat that makes decisions based merely on geography, on race, on party, on job, or family--I much prefer (If it's a choice) the decision here be based on guilt. Whom is the guiltier party? Yet you are quite right "it is unfortunate," this injustice! Of similar importance is that our current government is riff with corruption, greed, graft, and bribery in all its forms. I hope to not be blinded by this to the virtue that is. But the virtue that be is much harder to see than the violence on TV... Thanks! You have my Plea: a hardy and complete egress from Iraq and the entire Arabian/Islamic theater. To be any more Clear, I could now answer for my own safety.

Joe

Your inability to succinctly outline something that even remotely resembles a coherent opinion is telling. Whether or not you actually hold the various degrees and medals you lay claim to, I won't go into.

I don't understand how a rational individual can state that they don't claim the "absolute worst" of our elected officials, while at the same time saying that Saddam Hussein, a murder of hundreds of thousands, deserves more slack than George W. Bush, the elected President of the United States. You then go on to blame him for a variety of "ills", including the racism of some troops in the field. You might as well blame him for earthquakes and Paris Hilton, too. But don't let that get in the way of your prostelytizing.

It doesn't take more than half a paragaph for you to revert to the same tired and trite nonsense about lies, etc. that the far left has been spewing for the last two years. If you are as educated as you claim, you must recognize that decisions of the magnitude that are faced by the President of the United States on a daily basis are difficult, and demanding, and are never made on a whim. Bush had to weigh what he believed at the time to be a serious threat to the United States and determine a course of action that would resolve that threat. That's what he did. Whether or not you agree with the policy, it was made with the best interests of the United States at heart. Any claim otherwise is nothing but tin-foil-hat wearing far left irrational drivel. And that is what is damaging our democracy. When both sides are unwilling to recognize that the other side is not "evil", the country is distilled down to its basest emotions, and long-winded shills like you become the lowest common denominator. Luckily, most Americans, even those who don't like Bush, can smell bullshit when they see it. Otherwise, people like you would worry me.

RE: When the Communists did the like, we found them to be as evil as it gets. Turn it around!

The difference is there has never been a successful run of communism in a country without millions of people being oppressed and killed.

Democracy has proven itself throughout history to be the best form of government. It's not perfect, but there is none better.

RE: You have no clear plan or plan
at all!

When you say this, are you saying that the Bush administration has no clear plan for Iraq?

RE: I'd quicker cut-slack for Sadamm than Bush. I'm not some pea-brained bureaucrat that
makes decisions based merely on geography, on race, on party, on job, or family

So you're a free-thinking American, but something like this is pretty extreme. I would be shocked to see a hardline conservative say they'd quicker cut-slack for Saddam than Clinton.

Saddam's atrocities span several decades and include things like mass graves and chemical weapons. He's been caught in countless deceptions to the world, he applauded the 9-11 attacks, and he gave millions to the families of suicide bombers. Can you really cut him more slack than the President?

OOPS some heads were transcended. Let's see if DC's 10:02am and Scott's 10:03am angsts can be quelled "succinctily." Then again, w/o "coherence" or "rationale" on my part, with what does one have to argue? But why appease briefly one who likely doesn't have the stamina or patience to read a book--much less a few pages? My last "free-thinking," off-the-cuff, 10 short paragraphs here, was only @ 850 words. Thanks, forgot a reading speed at @ 1,000 wpm. Sorry.

Scott has excellently and succinctly boiled-down to 3 subjects I must answer. Nice challenges!

One: Red China, with 20% of the worlds' population, currently the highest IQ'd at 109 avg. (US=100), currently the fastest growing economy, and currently w/o international conflict, etc.--I consider that a successful counter to your stating: "...there has never been a successful run of Communism..." And as far as democracy proving itself throught history: since the Egyptions, there has only been two distinct long-lived ones: one-Rome fell, two-US still stands, yet under much discredit, and three-the other smaller ones have not stood the test of time! Then too, we call ourselves a democracy--but all too many don't feel represented. I rather see the US ruled by a mass of hard-boiled capitalists, rather than an honest republic or democracy. Greek demo=people & cracy=rule :: US people ruling? I don't think so! If they did, we wouldn't be in Iraq. An easier arguement could be make that Islamic/Muslim theocracies or Egyptian Dynasties are much longer lived. And again China--go way back before Confucious 500bc.

Two: Regarding the "no clear plan or plan at all for Iraq" : I was refering to DCs' lack of one. The US definately has a plan. To stay there till pigs fly. Complete hedgemony in the Arab World! My plan, as previously stated was to "Stop the shooting, let the sky clear, then make our egress along the same path with which we entered." Clear enough?

Three: I agree with your challenge here. Bush as Govenor denied 150 stays of execution during his 4 years in that office. That is @ 1 death in 10 days avg. Saddam was in control 25 years and approximating 125,000 deaths to his discredit, his toll is @ 10 deaths per day. This makes him 10X worse than Bush. So it was. Since the Iraq invasion @ 100,000 civilians have been killed due directly to Bush's invasion. This turns the statistic around considerably to Bush killing (being responsible for) 90 deaths per day. Not counting our own soldiers. Therefore, at this proportional rate Bush will exceed Saddam (per diem death toll) in @ 6 more months. Yea Bush! The math is considerably easier than the prejudice. The greed is incalculable. Don't forget our "deceptions & atrocities", white phosphorous bombs, torture in prisons, killing indiscriminately, applauding the Shock & Awe style Operation attacks, giving billions (not millions) to mercenaries killing families, and I'll stop at these to appease DC's demand for "succinctness"/terseness/brevity. And also thereby cutting him (Bush) plenty of slack to go hang himself.

Now to retort DC. Too easy but still frustrating. His first sentence to wit: "Your ability to succintly outline something that even remotely resembles a coherent opinion is telling. Whether or not you actually hold the various degrees and medals you lay claim to. I won't go into." Well Excuuuuuuuuuuse me!

One: Scott easily found 3 coherent opinions to contest me on. And, for your sake, I countered briefly.

Two: You went so far out on a limb here it snapped! To provokingly question an individuals degrees and medals is as ignorant and rude as it gets! If you had said such a thing in a University classroom or in an Army/Coast Guard Unit where I'm known--I couldn't answer for your safety! Instinctively knowing you'll have a sour grapes response, you must be briefed on the following: The degrees are BA, MED, MAT, MS, & 6hrs. shy of a SED. Total University credits = 287. Of significance, the first two masters were gotten in my 30s, the third in my 40s and my to be fifth degree this year at an age of 56. Thank you very much! Anyone can guess what I'd like to do with a 3 page "copy" of these transcripts! As for my medals, would photos with Nixon and the Secretary of Transportation do, or the medals themselves or a pic of me in uniform do? I've also completed an unheard of 850 credit hours on the Army Correspondence Course site. Would you like a copy of the twelve page printout--entered at the same location? Twelve frameable course completion certificates also. As far as being in Mensa (American Mensa Society Ltd.), they have a directory site on the internet. My name is there. I'm glad they have a rigorious screening process. Would you like to give it a try? Hit Google: Mensa. Good Luck! You'll find your "commom demoninator" in the psychometric test results. Get some good rationalizations ready.

Three: I've counted 10 of your personal slurs that are clearly tantamount to abusive name-calling, those are: "prostelytizing," "tired and trite nonsense," "irrational drivel," "long-winded shill," "tin-foiled-hat wearing", "lowest common demonator," "bullshit," and another "if your as educated as you claim..." WoW

Four: to use the first 3 words in your own 2nd. paragraph "I don't understand..." You sure don't!

Five: Bush is to blame for a "variety of ills," moreover a multiplicity of ills. Sorry I'll not be succinct for your sake now. His very partial list of "ills": reduction in SSI benefits, reduction in Medicare & Medicaid, reduction on US Dept. of Education spending, multiple attempts at reducing Social Security Benefits, reduction of US international prestidge and support, reduction in recruiting & retention within the military, reduction of VA Benefits, reduction of US National Guard and Reserve Bases, reduction to elimination of Environmental concerns, reduction of US cohesion within, reduction of UN respect, reduction of FEMA respect, reduction of Homeland Security feelings of competence, reduction of GNP revenues, reduction of citizens' rights, reduction of AFDC, reduction of Food Stamps, reduction of international respect for our military, and countless other reductions Check an Almanac, the GAO, or whatever you will--if you are really inclined to look objectively at the figures. Socrates when asked what is evil, responded briskly: "The only evil is ignorance. And the only good is knowledge."

Sixth: for equal time, here are Bushes increases: the Bugetary Deficit (broke a record here), Cost of Living, increase cost of import oil & cost of fuel at the pump, increased fear among Americans and Foreigners, increased death toll of Americans and Foreigners (still increasing), increased disapproval (71%), increased distrust of the government therefore democracy itself, increased Congressional Indictments for a variety of ills, increased anger from other important oil exporting countries (OPEC), increasing unemployment, increasing the tax on the poor by decreasing the tax on the wealthy, and forever etc, all the "drivel," as you say, or the pearls as I say am willing to throw away. Except its not a quantum leap from global warming to increased hurricane type catastrophies. And "styles" as Paris Hilton (your choice), do temporarily thrive under this style of leadership just as sure as Monroe did "under" Kennedy, or Monica "under" Clinton.

Seven: a forced "succinct outline" to be "coherent" as you term is for grade schoolers and simpletons; so, I have tried in somewhat a manner for ease of clarity and to avoid a preferred intellectual mix of ideas (designed for mutual edification and refinement). Such sites, for this cause, are thusly deemed not for philosophers. Rather for sophisticated mud-slingers at best. Your 10 personal, name-calling, insults may make a distinct record.

Eight: And, No I don't think Buch has the best interests of this country in mind. And, No I don't think we are safer. And, No I don't think Bush "weighed" anything post 9/11; he's a puppet! Yet a richer one all the while. And to avoid "the only evil ignorance" caveat of Socrates, chect the Corporate Records & Holdings (especially Crude Oil and Refining) yourself on Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, and Rice if enlightenment is what your after. Again, Bush is directly or indirectly (yet ultimately responsible as Commander in Chief) for all these "ills" and countless more to be realized. And, these "ills" are making our own citizens sick of Bush. A big Red-Flag is that most Americans feel less secure abroad and less secure at home. And, this so called War on Terror we are not losing--we've lost! It ranks up there already with the Johnson's War on Poverity and the War on Drugs. These are the brand of neoconian wars without end. Or if the ends were measured now, the US loses all three! Four--if one counts the War in (on) Iraq!

Nine: to be less abstract, especially for DC, let's impart some clear advice. Don't go into a VFW Hall and cast doubt on anyone's medals. You will quickly get a viceral feeling of terror and I could not answer for your safety.

Ten: AGs a former kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teacher (certified in 6 subjects)-would you like these inserted also?, community college, undergraduate and graduate school teacher & assisstant professor--please be advised! Don't get caught writing on any of the blackboards, or otherwise e-mail, fax, or especially standup in a room/forum and say anything like or make a provocative query to anyone, as your most ignorant "weather or not you actually hold the various degrees and medals you lay claim too..."! This also included the "smelling of bullshit" This may be less physically hazardous, but you'll quickly wish you hadn't. Unless you are an extremely dim-witted provocateer. Or like Einstein said: "Dull in Thought, Dull in Feeling." They do seem to go together.

Eleven: Don't worry though, your not as big an a-hole to receive all the certificates, degrees, transcripts, licenses, medals, and honors as I'd like to insert--no matter how loudly and deservedly you asked for them.

Twelve: This man is not particularily concerned with making a "flip-flop." I recant my advice for you to take the Mensa Qualifier, for I've now gone over 1,000 words this time exceeded the 850 word article that made you cringe originally. The Qualification Test will excoriate you--in many ways and in several languages.

Thirteen, Thank you for making me reflect and a chance to expouse on some of the achievements I can yet remember. Yours could likely be housed in your wallet. My plan is to take a PhD in my 60s. (Typical PhDs have @ 180 credit hours); Remind I already have over 280 cr. hrs.. I'm certain your brand refers to such a degree as "piled higher and deeper)--I've evidence you like "shit." Gee, I love to prate on myself while someone is sucking on a sour grape--especially when they ask for it so "succinctly."

Fourteen: Come to think of it, it is somewhat surprising that after an 850 word forum entry, there was not one single positive response from the two immediate respondents on any of my considerations. Where's my "slack?" Let's hope some arrive soon. Especially after the 1,850 words now. Let's see the average person reads at 250 wpm. >(IQ=100). Sorry, at that even these 14 points would take 4 mins. I'd hate to have to stick to a Mensa site where they may read the 1,000 words from @ 30 seconds (IQ~170) to 2 minutes (IQ=130) and not be bestired by its length. In DCs case "half a paragraph." His entire first sentence went: "Your inability to succinctly outline something that even remotely resembles a coherent opinion is telling." WoW. Excuuuuuuuuse Me! I'm doing the best I can. See you can now organize your or my thinking now by the numbers provided you: They go from #1 all the way to #15. (#=number). If any more coherence or cogency is needed still, I'll not provide it. Get an interpreter.

Fifteen: Nonetheless I try to keep in good spirits by asking: Why should they open their arms to one who devours hard-boiled capitalists with as much gusto as Grecian monitors in days-gone-by, who devoured lushious Greek maidens, and on top of that is low-down enough to reject all war except the enevitable war with ones' own wife? So, rather than in attacks on a seemingly defenseless citizen in our next War we should send these to the front--what better antiterroristic outlet could we ask for in this dreary sphere of infinite confusion? But we should remember and take heed of these clever and patriotic folk, and remember--the capital of mighty Rome was once saved by the cackeling of its' faithful geese!

Joe

You have written 2,125 words here. I read them all. Yet again, you have demonstrated your ability to surround a core of absolute nothingness with a superfluity of multisyllabic vocab words that, in effect, convey nothing.

I tend to let my education speak for itself. I write clearly, concisely, and I get to the point. I know that as a professional degree seeker now you've got both the time and the inclination to write article-length posts on random internet forums, but if you ever do try and take your education back into the real world, that is a life skill that you'll need. Also, don't repeat yourself.

The one thing that you HAVE made clear in your ramble is your complete lack of understand as to how the legislative process in the United States works. Not only have you been fast and loose with the facts, you've also completely failed to recognize that not a single one of the government program failures or budget reductions you're claiming here was within the President's power to change without the consent of Congress.

I'll outline them briefly for you.

1.) Reduction in SSI benefits: First of all, prove it. Second of all, no changes to SSI benefits can be made directly by the President. Those go through the trustees of the SS system and the Congress.

2.) Reduction in Medicare & Medicaid: False. Bush advocated for the biggest increase to medicare and medicaid more than any other President since Johnson, when it was created through the prescription drug plan. This was passed by Congress.

3.) Reduction on US Dept. of Education spending: Another falsehood. Education spending has double under the Bush Administration, and even so, Congress is responsible for funding DOEd, not the President. He merely suggests, they decide.

4.) Multiple attempts at reducing Social Security Benefits: Which is it? Did he actually reduce SSI as you outlined in #1 or was he simply attempting?

5.) Reduction of US international prestidge and support: Debatable, but if you blame him from the reduction in international prestige, you should also give him credit for the biggest increase in international prestige as well, since both occurred on his watch.

6.) Reduction in recruiting & retention within the military: False. DoD recently has stated that they have hit all of their recruiting goals. And in any event, how does the President effect recruiting and retention? Shouldn't you be blaming Secretary Rumsfeld for this? Or is it your belief that because we're actively engaged in Iraq that Americans are no longer signing up for the military? With all the bluster you've put in establishing your credentials, I doubt you're trying to imply that the average American is a coward.

7.) Reduction of VA Benefits: Again, prove it. From what I understand veteran benefits have continually increased over time. And again, this is Congress's balliwick, not the President's. He can't set funding levels or appropriate money on his own.

8.) Reduction of US National Guard and Reserve Bases: The BRAC process is completely outside the President's authority - its delegated to the BRAC commission, who provides their report to DoD. I assume you meant physical bases, and not the general idea of a "base of support". If so, I'd like to see some numbers.

9.) Reduction to elimination of Environmental concerns: I'm sure this refers to the whole "arsenic in the water" nonsense from the early days of the Bush administration. I can't argue this point because I don't have the information - the environment isn't one of my issues - but I don't see people dropping dead in the streets because of pollution.

10.) Reduction of US cohesion within: I honestly don't know how you can blame Bush for the political schism that exists within the country. The political process is unusually fractured right now because neither party has a clear vision of where they want to go and where we should be. That's not Bush's fault. You can blame that on the times we live in. In fact, I would put more blame on people like you who perpetuate the lies and myths of the far left than I would on Bush.

11.) Reduction of UN respect: How does one quantify this?

12.) Reduction of FEMA respect: FEMA has been a dysfunctional bureaucracy since it was created. If you don't believe me, talk to anyone from Florida. I had a long conversation, some of it laced with profanity, with a number of the folks in the Florida Congressional delegation PRE-KATRINA about FEMA.

13.) Reduction of Homeland Security feelings of competence: How is this Bush's fault? Without Bush there wouldn't BE a Department of Homeland Security.

14.) Reduction of GNP revenues: This is patently false, and who uses GNP as a measure anymore anyway? GDP has been consistently increasing throughout the Bush administration as the economy has grown. Look it up.

15.) Reduction of citizens' rights: Where? And when has the President had the authority to unilaterally remove rights from the citizens? If you're going to bring up the Patriot Act or the NSA programs, the Patriot Act was passed by Congress TWICE, and the NSA programs have not been judged illegal, nor will they be.

16.) Reduction of AFDC: Again, you have no proof of this, and the program was renamed TANF by Congress during the Clinton Administration, FYI. Any reduction would have to be passed by Congress, not unilaterally by the President.

17.) Reduction of Food Stamps: See #16

18.) Reduction of international respect for our military: Really? How exactly is that quantifable? And are you talking about respect in regards to Abu Ghraib type stuff (again, how you can blame Bush for this, I have no idea - he wasn't the one snapping electrodes onto people's genitalia) or are you talking about their skill? Because the Iraq campaign was one of the swiftest and most skillful invasions in world history.

19.) And countless other reductions Check an Almanac, the GAO, or whatever you will--if you are really inclined to look objectively at the figures - I would respectfully suggest that you're the one who has his facts, figures and knowledge of how our government functions wrong.

20.) The Bugetary Deficit (broke a record here): Bush can't pass a budget. Congress does that. They deserve at least an equal measure of the blame.

21.) Cost of Living: How does the President have ANY say on the cost of living? This is patently absurd.

22.) Increase cost of import oil & cost of fuel at the pump: Again, where does the President control the cost of the price of oil or fuel? This is all set by the market.

23.) Increased fear among Americans and Foreigners: This is another of your unquantifiable ridiculous statements.

24.) Increased death toll of Americans and Foreigners (still increasing): So you're blaming the President for the deaths of all Americans world wide now? Are you serious?

25.) Increased disapproval (71%): You finally got one right. Bush is indeed responsible for his own poll numbers. 1 out of 25.

26.) Increased distrust of the government therefore democracy itself: This has been a on-going trend since Watergate, and another in which I believe you are just as culpable, as you spread disinformation and lies across the internet.

27.) Increased Congressional Indictments for a variety of ills: Its good to see you advocate for personal responsiblity here. Bush had nothing to do with the Congressional indictments. DeLay, Abramoff, Scanlon, Cunningham, and probably Ney and Jefferson were all responsible for their own behavior.

28.) Increased anger from other important oil exporting countries (OPEC): This is patently false. If this were the case, why do the OPEC countries consistently pledge to increase oil production for us despite the fact that they're already pumping over capacity?

29.) Increasing unemployment: The US is enjoying the lowest unemployment in decades. The fact that you could even say this demonstrates how absolutely divorced from reality you are.

30.) Increasing the tax on the poor by decreasing the tax on the wealthy: Everyone in this country is paying less in taxes than they did when Bush took office. That's simply a fact. Even the most ardent Democrats don't disagree with that.

Joe, you need to step away from the keyboard, and take a few minutes. You are not talking sense. If you are a veteran, are highly decorated, and do actually possess all of the education that you claim to have, you need to go to the VA and see a counselor, because you are not behaving rationally. I say that with all sincerity.

Good luck to you.

The Clear Plan for Iraq can be said to begin in 1917 when France and Britian were allowed to map-out the Arab Countries as we know them today, including Iraq. Remember Wilson's "War to end all wars" and "to make the world safe for democracy?" Part of the Resolutions postwar included "for the free flow of oil." WW2 didn't substantively change the area. The regions oil continues to be envied throught the world.

Anyhow, under Bush I, the US "led" a coalition of 30 countries to oust Saddam & Co. from Kuwait in 1991. Iraq has been under some form of Sanction eversince. Some say so stringent that @1M died of starvation. US never liked Iraq as they have notoriously been allied with Russia.

With WMD as a primary rationale (and now the questionable link with 9/11) the US has, since 1991, always had an excuse to futher invade. Bush exercised these "war plans" in 2003. This was achieved by disenforming (lying) to Congress, thereby getting their support for the War or Iraq. Let's have another vote--too late!

Aren't we a powerful country now? US finished WW3 in three years ('42-'45). And we haven't "liberated" this backward, 3rd. world country in three years! Que pasa? This Bush led US isn't interested in any Clear Plans for Iraq--except to never have to leave the region. A continuied presence there ensures emergency oil. It's the "flow of oil stupid." Too bad the oil is under their sand. The world never bought our lame rationale for reinvasion and the US citizenry finally caught on to our own rascals.
These elected rascals have been threatened with full House Censure and/or full Impeachment of Bush.

If anyone thinks bush entered Iraq for benign reasons (God told him), needs to rethink and compare this to all those "benign" intentions he has with us at home and all his "benign" diplomatic interests with the rest of the world. I don't think Bush will be benighted for peace and good-will any time soon. Maybe he's be a candadate for the Nobel War Prise!

His stated Mission will never be Accomplished. It's a sham. It's the oil stupid. His general attitude has destroyed much good will toward Iraqi's and has destroyed much trust toward US and weakened democracy's prestidge throught the world and especially in Iraq. I don't blame them a bit! I'd be shooting outward myself.

The some 3,000 victims of the WTC is tragic and helped the US whip-up the concept of international terror eversince. Did we terrorise Iraq via our first Operation--"Shock and Awe?" We wanted regime change, easily gotten, and a permanent excuse to stay, stay, and stay. There are many players involved thinking altruistically, yet my mind, gut, and heart "knows" our Administration has no such Long Ranger motives. The only Rangers are on the battlefield.

To date (3 years later) we have vengenced our lost 3,000 victims by allowing to be killed ("harms-way") nearly as many of our own soldiery. Who's counting the 30-100,000 Iraqi citizens killed outright or by IEDs. Saddam's "death toll" was far less than this. Their citizens feel more bullied and terrorized now than at any time under their previous dictator who was easily uninstalled by our brave troops.

Again, the Plan to indefinitely stay in Iraq is Clear. Rather than Saddam, these Muslim/Islam peoples, inherent in their history and religion, want a theocracy as they alway have. Besides we have diverted ourselves, evidenced by troop count from Afgans/Taliban, because Iraq is where the oil is stupid. Iran has a "democracy," and we'd like an excuse to hammer them just like we are now liberating the hell out of Iraq. Any pretended cause for our rude entry there has been exposed!

There is a just solution to save face (especially as we have little domestic and international support. The Clear Plan, like I've said several times before is to first quit all the shootin', then let the dust and smoke settle so as to see Clearly. This Plan is radical I know, just cease and decist. Our presence is only irritating the whole area. Now that we can see clearly, make our exit prompt and with sincerest apologies. They have their "democracy" now and the Iraqi police and what's left of their Army to sustain the "peace" there.

Concurrently, we can make acclain of our successes via the UN (paper tiger) of our final Mission Accomplished in Iraq--then return for a final brief round to finish what we can regarding the true perpetrators of 9/11--the Taliban. Of coures if the terrosists attact the US in the next two years, the White House will say I told you so. The best protection agaist terrorism (counterterrorism and antiterrorism) is to befriend the Arabs--not just the Jews in Israel.

The "military-industrial complex" (military=whole DOD complex & industry =Halliburton and profiteers from the war) has done enough damage, and made enough profits. Let these poor people alone for God's sake! Perhaps we can find a better excuse to invake somewhere else. Rather than the up-'n-coming 300B mark wasted in the Iraq "swamp" we're in, we might consider a more profitible endeavor/investment say in NW Africa where there is untapped oil and in a country riff with corruption and a starving economy. Perhaps we can do some real good where we might be wanted--if we haven't completely squandered our credibility and trust. There are countless little dictators and kings there.

The cost has resulted in a 2006 Budget Deficit of 427B. We'll sooner pay off these deficits than we can recover from our lost international favor and prestidge. Admit it--greed got us! It's the oil stupid. If Iraq only grew radishes, the US would not be there.

Well there is consolation; we'll have years for the press to report and entertain us re: all ongoing ills and dissatisfactions, and atrocities
committed there. "Home of the Brave and Land of the Free" is not to be exported willy-nilly. Iraq got their regeme changed allright. From Saddam the Dictator to US the Dictator with all rights and responsibilities pertaining thereunto. Iraq may now have the government of its' choosing--as long as it's democracy. A government of the people, by the people, and for the US! It the oil stupid!

Thomas Jefferson said: "All democracy needs is more democracy." Nice sentiments, so much better then for a referendum style, what you might call a "Running Democracy." Let's take another vote on this bad deal and hold our "leaders" to the vote.
Then the Clear Plan will be acceptible via plebicite. But, the patricians are running things. Oh well, nevermined! I'd idolize the person who could provide and prove the money trail in all of this. Nothing has changed, the old adage still applies: "The rich get richer and the poor get poorer!"

Follow the money-trail. It's the oil stupid. The US is unfortunately more Capitalist than a Democracy or a Republic. Perhaps the term Oligopoply better suits us--a government of several gigantic industries. The US has lost its' heart, its' principles and its' head, thereby its' prestidge--irrespective of the money and power it can amass. Greed got us where it hurts. We'll never fully pay for or live this debacle/crime down. Again, what's the Plan? Leave Iraq Now. We've done enough irrepairable damage. Clear enough?

DC your 1,2,&4 may be answered thusly, a mandatory reduction of 10 billioon to Entitlement Programs has been passed this year by Congress as part of Bush's 2006 Budget Deficit (247 billion) program. Expected reductions first are Medicaid, therefore increased co-pays, ipso facto social security itself (the net to recipient). Of the new Prescription Plan, I just had my own SS reduced $62. because of it--even though I'm in VA and covered for full hospital care and pharmacy. The states each have a formula for their SSI & foodstamp payout. Bush's own approval of the '06 Budget will soon alter these formulas. Chect it out in your state. Remember the 10B reduction in Entitlement Programs is mandatory, sorry--another Bush Plan!

3. According to the US Dept. of Ed. funding has been cut as well as "No child left behind," and "Head Start." All the while his wife Barbara is tauting Reading for the children on TV and Bush is at the elementary school being advised of 9/11. They are pitiful hypocrites. You check it out I'll not belabor this.

4. President can appeal to BRAC and BRAC is directly under the oversight of the Executive Branch--therefore Bush. There have been numerous Base closings throught the US. When recruiting drops below each unit's goal of 70% retention, bases are mandatorily and according to regulation closed and merged!

5. Even Republicans admit to International Prestidge having been reduced due to Iraq, etc. US is a joke now in many circles. Go ask around.

6. There has absolutely been a very significant reductions in recruiting and retention service-wide. The DOD says so. US is getting desperate. This stuff is public information (FOIA)--check it out. And, again ask around. I just retired and know several National Guard and Army Recruiters personally. I used to be a recruiter in the Coast Guard. I should know something regarding this. Your expertise?

7. Anyone can check-out the unemployment percentages, let us not argue this one.

8. Cost of living has increased. Reposessions of homes due to variable mortgage rates. I am a Realtor--give me credit here also.

9. To reduce the Deficits future tax hikes will be mad--I assure you. "What's in your wallet?"

10. Cost of Living has increased in all respects considering the cost of fuel (gas, oil, coal, etc.) alone. Again, the Prime Interest Rate also increased two months in a row.

11. To say "OPEC is pumping over capacity" is an oxymoron.--bonehead.

12. Corruption, graft, indictments, convictions, prison terms are riff under Bush--and they have been preponderately Republicans. There is something called an atmosphere in government administrations--thus many questionable and criminal behaviors are occuring under the Watch of your Buddy Bush.

13. Death tolls Have gone up worldwide. Check the National and International Crime Statistics. Terrorism in its' totality is also worse than ever. May I offer you a paid vacation to Bagdad, etc.? Foreign traved has slowed greatly. Bush started the war in Iraq, thus we have the worldwide increase in terrorism, thus these reductions in out-of-country travel. Check US Visa count. Pick a country where there is not such slowdowns and turmoil excepting some countries as Canada and Australia.

14. If you still think our International prestidge and respect (to include the UN) has not been on the wane, perhaps you are "devoid of reality."

15 . As you "...let your education speek for itself," is telling. What is your educational level?

16. You said directly and rudely that "...you have demonstrated to reveal a core of absolute nothingness with a superfluity of multisyllabic vocab words that, in convey nothing." WoW--you ass, you can be a little wordy yourownself. Go read a dictionary or get a translator.

17. To be egually rude I might say when you get 3 master degrees (likely never)--I'll discuss it futher with you! My 2nd. masters was in teaching (MAT) major: social sciences in toto. It is you who needs to take a seat--bonehead.

18. And that "I have a complete understanding of how the legislative process works in the US." Again, take a seat, one of my 7 college majors is political science--bonehead.

19. That I may "repeat myself," is sometimes true if it's worth repeating--I reiterate. Again, you said: "Don't repeat yourself." Who do you think you are?--bonehead.

20. Your complete disparagement of me is clearly Green Toady.

21. Your doubting my VA status as well as doubting my degrees is rude and ignorant. My first two masters were taken at the Univ. of Louisville. And, the 3rd. at Morehead Univ. And, I am one course shy of a SEd in Higher Education. And yes I do have nearly 300 cr.hrs. This breaks records at many Universities.--Don't ever question someone's credential--it's futile, immature, and wrong.--bonehead.

22. That I am a member of Mensa International Limited (the directory is on the internet)is in stone. And in your case, I'm glad it's Limited!--bonehead.

23. That I an a member of Phi Kappa Delta is no big deal. Yet, that my last 4 semesters at college were nothing but As.--bonehead.

24. That I have pleased @ 100 university professors to date--should not put my writing skills or processes ("ramble," "repeat myself," etc.) into much question.--bonehead.

25. That you counted "2,125 words" in one of my forum entries is telling.--bonehead.

26. Your overall response and attitude to my honest (I know I'm not always right!) forum opinion (opeds) is my perogative and right and privledge. This is subject to noone save Scott. Don't dare tell me to "Step away from the keyboard and wait a few minutes. You are not making sense." Who are you to condescend and sarcastically correct me? Disagree with something stated and let it go at that!--bonehead.

27. To speak/type toward a known DAV in your fashon is disgraceful.

28. And, for you to say I need to see a counselor at the VA due to my being "divorced from reality, is funny. My 1st. masters was in Counseling.--bonehead.

29. These forums are for fun, entertainment, and occassional enlightenment. When one diverges from this to personal attack, a button was pushed, the green eyed monster appears, or a transference towards another that is all to often telling in a Freudian sense.

30. Bush is to blame for many negative happenstances that you would not otherwise think possible. Remember. Executive Atmosphere? The Presidental (Bush) "Bully Pulpit" has always affected legislation in some way.--bonehead.

31. And, "If I am highly decorated..." Again you rude, disrespectful "Green" beret. Perhaps you have not hit my name and Coast Guard on Google.--bonehead.

32. Most everything I may taut can be found right here on the internet. My achievements are in stone.--bonehead.

33. I have scored high (top quartile) in Writing on the National Teacher Exam & have won a national essay contest. My Social Worker at VA is insistent I write a book and get a PhD. She said my 5 degrees is more that the Psychiatrist and herself. They have 4 together. She enjoyed reading about my act of heroism on Google.

34. I advise myself not to get jerked around by your ilk. Perhaps I should stick with the Mensan site, so as to eliminate your brand.--bonehead.

35. More to topic: Bush has squandered his "political capital" post election and this is obvious. That the US is now largely discredited throught the world, that the troops are in disfavor (@60%) of the Iraq War, that Bush may surpass Buchanan ("Do Nothing Party")& Harding ("Teapot Dome Scandal") is approaching, that he lied, that he could only win an election against maybe Pee Wee Herman, that the majority of citizens in the US are ashamed of him, that he is the brunt of true jokes to well exceed even Quales potato(e), that there is shuffling of many personal within the government, that the Secretary of Defence is being asked to resign by many respected quarters, that the country is no where near being on the right track, that he is now even losing chunks of his own Republican Party makes it All Very Obvious that he well may beat Buchanan as the Worst President of the US. This is so as Bush would have survived better if he had done "Nothing."--bonehead.

36. Thanks for all your angst: It's a strange homage that inferiority pays to true merit!--bonehead.

37. Now go, fill your rattle with a University degree or two.--bonehead.

38. That "Because I am not behaving rationally. "I say that with all sincerity." Well, no thank you! How would you know how I behave anyway?--bonehead.

39. That your final salute to me is: "Good Luck to You," is patently insincere and futher proves you to be a bonehead!--bonehead.

40. Good luck in your educational pursuits, you will certainly need some. In the mean time, go somewhere and expand your mind so as to not find others so "irrational," and/or "unable to make sense." Comprehend?--bonehead.

41. So, finally I shall spare you any psychological diagnostic labeling as my degree in psychology and counseling would enable me. I only bothered to defend myself and of necessity getting down to your level, thusly.--bonehead.

42. For your safety never go into a VFW Hall and question anyone's military or decorations. I could not answer for your safety. Again, NEVER DO THIS!

43. I've taught in undergraduate and in graduate school. If you ever pursue or futher any university education, check the Universities Register, and never openly question any of your professors' educational degrees. NEVER DO THIS!

44. I've "Been there and done that!" It is you that needs "Good Luck!"--bonehead.

45. Don't count my words again!

46. Finally, Bush=Bad=Iraq! Nowhere to go but up!--bonehead! Clear enough?

RE: One: Red China, with 20% of the worlds' population, currently the highest IQ'd at 109 avg. (US=100), currently the fastest growing economy, and currently w/o international conflict, etc.--I consider that a successful counter to your stating: "...there has never been a successful run of Communism..."

First of all, you need to use my whole quote: "there has never been a successful run of communism in a country without millions of people being oppressed and killed."

To cover all the incidents in China of people being oppressed and killed would fill several volumes, but here are a few examples.

1957-1961: The Great Leap Forward
In an attempt to compete with the world's superpowers at the time, Mao created a series of agricultural policies that led to nearly 38 million people starving to death between the years of 1957-1961.

This was no accident either as Mao was fully prepared to deal with the death of his own people. In 1957, he said "We are prepared to sacrifice 300 million Chinese for victory of the world revolution." The result was people eating grass and in some cases, each other.

While the worst famine in the world's history was taking place, Mao sympathized with the people by telling them to "deal with it" and eating meat-rich European cuisine.

(Source: Mao: The Untold Story by Jung Ghang, pages 426-472)

June 4, 1989: Tiananmen Square
On June 4, 1989, more than 100,000 unarmed students had been demonstrating for democracy for over a month. Seems these kids living in a "successful Communist country" were not content with their extra 9 points in IQ averages and fast growing economy.

The Chinese Communist Party's response was to roll in troops and tanks to gun down the demonstrators.

The Chinese Red Cross estimated 2,600 death and nearly 10,000 injured. There were also rumors that the PLA was burning corpses. No one could know for sure though since the People's Liberation Army was not letting anyone into Tiananmen Square.

(Source: The Search for Modern China by Jonathan D Spence, pages 701-702)

China is a country that has been ruled with an iron fist. Any chance that there might be unrest in the country is quelled with incidents like Tiananmen Square.

Based off of China's history, the lack of international conflict is merely because China is waiting for the right moment. For example, China made peace with Tibet between 51-59 while roads were built that could transport enough troops to take the country by force.

Once there, the Communists did great things like starve the Tibetans to death and force monks/nuns to get married in order to produce children (Source: Mao: The Untold Story by Jung Ghang, pages 453-457).

A high IQ average and a fast growing economy does not make up for more than a billion oppressed people.

I had similar negative sentiments in mind on China when I previously used them as a sucessful/legitimate government of longer duration than Democracy. You've provided excellent examples of their historical "man's inhumanity to man."

Nonetheless, the US is also no picture of perfection in safeguarding those "inherent freedoms of all peoples." We were the last country to formally end Slavery. We were the first country to use the A-bomb. We let the Chinese work on our railroads for pennies a day while treating them terribly. Thus the phrase: "Don't have a Chinamans' chance!" They felt about as safe in their Chinatowns as Iraquis now do in their Mosques.

And, who do those Rebel States think they are wanting to leave the US? Let's force them to repatriate back into this "great" Democracy and "Land of the Free." Thereby, causing more deaths (N&S) than in all "our" wars combined since the Revolutionary War! Somewhat "iron-fisted" I think. The Jim Crow Laws were also successful and exemplary--NOT. Let's hope not to have any more such successes.

The US near total success of killing @15M Am. Indians (in a thousand ways)(in over a hundred years) is also of dubious distinction. But, we did well to make special "Reserved" places of safekeeping for them. We also did this for the Japanese in WW2, providing them safe "Internments" till the end of the war.

And, how dare those Iraquis to not completely acquiesce to the Democracy we are handing them on a "silver platter?" And, the US being such a "shining beacon on the hill," such "a thousand points of light," and such a "sweet land of liberty," etc., that all countries and peoples forevermore would be remiss and foolhardy to not cease and decist their various governances and with all possible speed, copy verbatum our Constitution & Bill of Rights.

Perhaps a huge Space Invasion is the only way to Unite the United Nations on this planet. In the mean time, let's all have nuclear families, two cars in every garage, 2&1/2 children, universal medical care, low taxes, a chicken in every pot, and full assurance of 100% liberties for every citizen. What's not to like? So, like good little children eat your porrage, eat your spinach, and take your medicine as we see fit. You are immature & undeveloped. Stop your crying! We know what's best for you.

So, allow US to ironfistedly cram these tasety marcels of democracy down your throat for you. You will thank us forever--later-on. And then, when you mature you will see clearly and help US to raise another "infant." Let's hope the omnipresent "infancy" isn't ours; and the omniscience somewhere else--for our political sanity.

Another thing I've been wanting to ask you about is where you get the following numbers for Saddam?

"Saddam was in control 25 years and approximating 125,000 deaths to his discredit, his toll is @ 10 deaths per day."

The Human Rights Watch estimates 250,000 have been murdered or disappeared. That doesn't include the Iran-Iraq War which Encarta estimates more than one million dead.

This is all going strictly by deaths and not taking into account other things like rape, torture, supression of freedom, etc.

Perhaps a good call on the numbers Scott. However, such humanitarian groops do tend to exaggerate. It's like the 6M in the Holocaust. Nonetheless, I'll use your (Ken Roth--exec. dir. of the Human Rights Watch) figure of 1/4M deaths since Saddam's reign of 25 years. Besides, the Baath Party has been in power 40 yrs.

Conservatively, it's 30,000 civilian deaths in Iraq since the American invasion of "liberation."
Yea, we're liberating the Hell out of them! Figuring 1,200 days there so far at 30,000 deaths = 25 civilian deaths per day! Wow, I'd consider your estimate of 10 per day on the 1/4M trumped. Futher, a liberal estimate is @ 100,000 according to Mr. Bestun of Iraq. If so, we have been killing civilians at the rate of 75+ per day. US caused death rate (using your approximate figures) is 2.5 times that of Saddam's! So, when I said earlier (when you called me crazy) that things would be quieter with Saddam back in power, you may now see me sane.

Although Ken Roth of HRW gave the staggering figure of 1/4M, he still disagrees with the US invasion--then liberation of Iraq. And, on top of that so does the Hoover Institution, Amnesty International, the International Criminal Court, the International Commission on Intervention & State Sovereignity, & the UN! This UN, we helped form after WW2. We are such hypocrites.

Humanitarian Missions according to Roth and HRW is only necessary with "imminate genocide or mass slaughter." US can claim neither. And, he said: the "extroidinary remedy of humanitarian intervention should not be used simple to serve justice for past crimes" (after-the-fact efforts to justify the war) on Saddam/Iraq. He then listed many countries where such intervention is now called for. But, they have no Oil or Strategic Location! He futher said such things as: "The invasion of a country, especially without the approval of the U.N. Security Council, also damages the international legal order which itself is important to protect rights." I agree! And that Paul Brener the 3rd. (the US Administrator in Iraq) disbanded the entire Iraq Army and Police Force, really is counterproductive to the liberation/democratization of the now demolished country. Now "we are trying" to build-up the Iraqi'Police Force for internal stabilization. Again, "thou hypocrite..."

Though wholesale torture and other brutality did occur under Saddam, the US has not proven much superiority in such matters. Likewise, the UN is insisting we close the Delta Force prison/concentration camp at Gitmo. We (our dubious leaders--33% for Bush) have continually used munitions in populated areas like white phosphorous, cluster munitions, indiscriminate killing/bombing, and the dismal 0 of 50 success rate (by airplane and ship) in pinpoint strikes in/on Iraq. But, we'll keep trying. So far, we have only killed 30,000 to 100,000 innocents! How many American soldiers have died to date?

Again, we're "liberating" the hell out of Iraq! I'm ashamed of our current governance! Besides this, "Our ideal" for a true democracy in Iraq is (and will be proven to be) an oxymoron. Let's "liberate/democratize" the rest of the Arab countries while we're at it--NOT. After all, none are democratic (they prefer theocracies inherent in Islam and the Muslims for centuries), they use cruel and unusual punishments, and we can "help control" the rest of the Oil Rich countries. And, perhaps "supervise" OPEC. What coincidences are "beneficial" and allied to US being there? If Iraq grew only radishes or potatoes, we wouldn't be there. Oh, the fields of poppies in Afganistan--lets get back to the War on Drugs--which was about as successful as our current "liberation" of Iraq. Well, we did "get" Noriega. He is still in our federal highest security prison. What a danger he is!--NOT.

Throught the Iraq/Iran 8 yr. War and the gassing of the Kurds, you'd be surprised of the billions of dollars and loan guarantees that Reagan and Carter provided. And, don't forget the US first helped install Saddam. But, he didn't prove to be the "puppet" we had hoped! Likewise, we funded and otherwise helped Osama and his "Camp" in defence of Afganastan as they held-off Russia--another 8 yr. War.

All the above contribute to my disgust with the War on Terror and the War on/in Iraq. What about the War on Afganistan--oh, I mean Osama and his Camp? In my view, this War is a euphasism for illegally trying to control a soverign country. We have futher aggravated, if not caused, the Civil War of Suiinis' and Shiites'. Hopefully, the Kurds won't be sucked-in this mess. Of interest, Osama's stated main purpose for "his 9/11," was to rile the US into the expected retalliation. This was to "embroil" and hopefully "bankrupt" the US. Osama said this (on record) before the War of "Liberation" in Iraq and the "War on Terror" in Afganistan. Osama is no dummy. His predictions are in our face!

Pick a country, any Arab country, that is our true Ally in this War on Terror and War on Iraq. Figures, last year, had only 40% of US troops in favor of the War. And, I feel safe to say only 1/3 of American citizens are in favor of the war.

We'd best be cautious/conscious of our economy and deficits! China, Japan, & Germany is rapidly catching-up. This is now a world empowered economically--not militarily!

So, if your still in favor of these Wars--"Annie get your gun." The US has raised the age limit for recruits to 45 yrs.. You may still have a chance. Don't forget all the bonuses and other incentives for joining any Branch of Service, especially the Army. Go Special Forces or Marines, you'll get to the front (wherever that is) that much quicker!

So, this DAV, "that needs counseling at the VA," your demerit--will hang-on to my fervent belief that War=Bush=Bad! So start training (doing push-ups, sit-ups, and running) so you can pass the PT test. Perhaps you may turn the tide of the War--NOT! Again, 10 deaths per day under Saddam is preferable to 25-75 deaths per day in this unjust, unecessary, and oft considered (International Tribunal) illegal War.

Oh, by-the-way, "we" lost the War 2 years ago. Nowhere to go--but down! And, never forget Israel's (Jewish) role in the mix! US sent them 5,000 "smart bombs" this year. It can hardly be exaggerated! You know: Israel v Palestine (Arab). Hitler correctly said 66 yr. ago that "America is a Jewish Denocracy." What coincidences...

Follow the "money-trail"--backwards--to acertain these phenomena. You'll find the "buck-stops here," with the international banking systems, the Federal Reserves (Greenspan), Wall Street and investment industries--to include the military, Jew York, and all the Jews News. But, give Hitler a break. He said it may take one to two hundred years before Jew-ish/Hebrew dominance is complete. He refered to them as the "international Jew," in his final sentence in his last known write on April 28, 1945. The word "beware" also comes to mind in this last Political Testament two days prior to his self-induced demise.

But, I'll give humor its' due. One sees many motives and histories in surnames. Many have Gold, Silver, Crystal, and "Green" ($), etc. in their names; allthewhile, some change their names. When one goes Platinum it will be a dead giveaway! No, I don't need therapy--"our" Country does!! But, you are quite right in bringing-up the numbers. It Is in the numbers--$$. And, in all these "precious" metals. Beware!
And in anticipation, no--I'm not prejudiced. I'm realistic. Do the math! Follow the money--the (Green) trail and the yellow brick (Gold) road!