Replies

"I only propose that they (the National Guard) cover the areas B.I.C.E. lack the resources to cover, as the military has those and the least corruptible personnel to succeed in that mission."

I second your proposal.

There is one small caveat for consideration first though.

The National Guard (those authorized by the U.S. Constitution to protect our national borders) can't play.

They are playing in Iraq - in numbers unheard of since the Second World War.

One of my sons is an officer in the Army National Guard. We just said "see you in a year or so" a few days ago as he goes on to additional advanced training and then to Iraq.

His unit (part of the 7th ID) has been recalled in it's entirety. This is the first mass recall that division has had since the 1940's.

I had several good hours of quality time with my son to reflect on his mission, values, and what he wanted to accomplish while serving in uniform in Iraq.

One comment will readily come to my focus for years to come:

"Dad. When I get back, the first thing I want to see this country do is defend our border with Mexico."

God bless you and your valiant son. Young men with such insight are sorely needed in our political establishment, for who can decide better than those who have been there?
It's sad to see a man like John McCain lose sight of the best interests of his country. Kerry and Clark are sad reflections of the men they once were, their vision muddled by their handlers. Our President is beholden to not only our interests, but to the memory of all the Vietnam vets who payed the price in his place. He should remember those young folks who died before their time before considering putting a pen to any contract that rewards the right of American citizenship to lawbreaking profiteers who have no investment in our dream. The dream those soldiers, no matter their political or social differences, still lead point and ratted the tunnels for. The people who are still coughing up lung-matter despite defoliants used are officially non-harmful. The people displaying unique symptoms today from the toxic battlefield they lived in ten years ago. Those whose bodies were dragged through the filthy streets of Mogadishu for the lack of civilized support policy. Think on the sacrifices of America's selfless defenders, Mr. President, before demeaning their sacrifices with a shallow political expediency like granting blanket amnesty to a group who aren't worthy of shining those men's boots.