“Any thoughts?” - You asked for it...
I always find these things intriguing. I like to compare attempts like this in Oregon to much larger historical things and wonder why some things succeed and others fail, especially such as the difference between the American and French revolutions. Here’s my criticism of what the Oregon “coup” could’ve prepared for:
-If you don’t want to get caught, don’t leave your secured area.
-”Mechanics” should never do any negotiation or public communication. Have a separate group of “negotiators” do that for you. Negotiators and mechanics should not have any specific operational or personal knowledge of each other in case of arrest and interrogation.
-When negotiating with the authorities, remember that they are talking to bring you down to a peacable arrest and taking note of any evidence you provide - not to meet your demands. They don’t care about your politics. They’re doing a job enforcing the law, whether you like that law or not, and they’re usualy pretty good at it. Just because you’re “in the revolution” doesn’t mean they are. You’re just a criminal to them.
-Know your jurisdictions. Is the local mayor/governor sympathetic to your cause? Even though the park was on Fed property, most of them appeared only after the insistence of the Oregon governor (big lib).
-Attempting to negotiate the law has to be done w/politicians, the general public, and the groups on the other side of the law you oppose, not the enforcers of that law. Know both your audience and your advesary.
-Communicating w/enforcers allows the opportunity to pinpoint your location. Another reason to have separate negotiators.
-Be aware that you are being surveilled, and may have your comms disrupted. Stock up for siege in advance if you’re into this kind of “protest”.
-Comms can be blocked by both frequency and code, in channelized designs.
-Be aware that typical techniques may mean you’re holed up w/someone from the “other side” who has long ago infiltrated your group.
-Know that a road block means there are more than just people on the road. There may be others on all sides off the road all around the location at least 25 yds out.
-Be still when facing arrest unless you’re into death by cop. Don’t panic. Panic kills. If you can’t control that under high stress, maybe reconsider your participation as a mechanic from the get go.
I would submit, they WERE infiltrated. One of the occupants of the refuge supplied inside conversations to federal authorities. This is why they are being charged with conspiracy to...
Again, this wouldn't be a hill I'd choose to defend. Most Americans still have too much to lose. It's not that bad...yet.
These guyz did not think this thing through. Also, it appears they allowed themselves to be lulled into thinking they had free travel to and fro.
I can empathize with their cause to the extent that folks in America are just plain FED up with government intruding into every aspect of our lives, spying on personal communications, tracking folks, surveilling innocent citizens and in some cases oppressing overtly utilizing the IRS, BATF, OSHA and EPA. First case comes to mind, “True the Vote organization” here in Texas. Kathy Engelbreck, or something close to that name.
That said, if we didn't have law enforcement, think about the chaos that would ensue in our communities. I still think the FBI has some good patriotic, hard working folks that do truly care about justice and civil society.
When one feels they need to take a stand...that's their decision, but grandiose illusions of riding away on a white horse after beating your opponent are just not realistic. Chances are, you will lose. You may leave a legacy with those who love you or look up to you, but folks should think of all the consequences.
Some of these guys like the Bundys have wives, children. It is likely they will not see their families for a very long time. Sad really. In their minds, this objective had to be real important to give up so much. Would you not agree?