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Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs, other blogs, and the mainstream media. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. (We have a daily "Open Post" too, if you have something on another topic you can link there.)
Fresh food --[MREater - in Iraq]
We left after breakfast to drive to the far southern edge of our area, to meet with a sheik to discuss various matters. He was supposed to be around his home for about three days, so we drove out to see him.
REMINISCENCING THE GOOD OLE DAYS --[2005 Tour of Duty - in Iraq]
While talking to this farmer he begin talking of another time and place in his past when life was much simplier and things were different. We traded stories of record crop years and I listened as he shared his vision of the future. (pic)
Building the Backbone --[Major K - in Iraq]
While visiting 1st Brigade a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to spend some time at the Mini-NCO Academy that they had set up with the help of their MiTT Team. It was one of those experiences that really gives one hope.
Lines between crime and the insurgency --[Phil and Becky]
I wrote a little while ago about how sometimes the lines between criminal behavior and insurgent behavior can blur. We got an example of that recently.
Controlling Ramadi --[The Fourth Rail]
The situation in Ramadi is still unclear. Coalition and media reports are sparse on the subject of Ramdi, but it does appear operations are occurring, accompanied by an up tick in violence.
Car bombs in Iraq kill more than 110 --[Reuters]
Car bombs have killed more than 110 people, 25 of them children, in a surge of violence in Iraq ahead of an October 15 referendum on a new constitution.
Officials Fear Chaos if Iraqis Vote Down the Constitution --[NY Times]
Senior American officials say they are confident that Iraq's draft constitution will be approved in the referendum to be held Oct. 15, even though Sunni Arabs in Iraq are mobilizing in large numbers to defeat it.
Military Leaders Bring Mixed Message on Iraq to Capitol Hill --[NY Times]
An array of top American military leaders sought today to reassure Congress about progress in Iraq, but they made clear that American troops could begin withdrawing next year only if the country remained on its democratizing track and Syria and Iran stayed out of their neighbor's affairs.
Good News From Afghanistan vol.17: Sept 28/05 --[Winds of Change]
Anyone who has served or worked in Iraq and Afghanistan knows that it's a team effort. People step up, and we honor their service. Then they go, and others step up to take their place.
Ramp ceremonies, ISAF, and playing ball --[Going Down Range - in Afghanistan]
Over the past week I have been to three ramp ceremonies. One was for a French soldier who was killed right before the election. Soldiers from all the militaries on KAF lined up and rendered a salute as a coffin draped with the French tricolor was placed in front of the ramp of a French Armee de l?Air (Air Force) C-130.
Roadside bomb wounds four US troops in Afghanistan --[Reuters]
Four U.S. troops were wounded on Friday when their armoured vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb blast in the eastern Afghan province of Kunar, the U.S. military said.
Why Light Water Reactors Won't Work --[GI Korea]
Most people that follow the whole North Korea nuclear crisis know that North Korea won't give up their nuclear weapons just like we know the US won't build a light water reactor for the North Koreans as well.
UN Allows Kosovo War to Continue --[America's Liberty Security Force]
It has finally been reported that the conditions in Kosovo are not only bad, they are getting worse by the day. A whistle-blower from the UN, an ex-employee, has spoken to Sherrie Gossett of CNSNews.
EU Wants International Control of Internet --[AP]
The European Union insisted Friday that governments and the private sector must share the responsibility of overseeing the Internet, setting the stage for a showdown with the United States on the future of Internet governance.
Abu Azzam al-Iraqi: In His Own Words --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
Given the controversy that has erupted--and in an attempt to shed more light on the precise role of Abu Azzam al-Iraqi within Al-Qaida's Committee in Iraq--I am now making available a transcript of comments that Abu Azzam made during an Al-Qaida video recording released in December 2004.
Why Individuals Do and Do Not Matter in the Insurgency --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
The debate over whether the recently-killed Abu Azzam is really the second in command to Zarqawi in Iraq or an important figure in the insurgency, reminds me of how little we know of the internal structures of the enemy there, and, in a broader sense, of the al Qaeda network.
US warns of possible terror in China's northwest --[Reuters]
The United States has warned American travellers to be vigilant against a terrorist attack in China's restive northwestern region of Xinjiang after Beijing told police there to be prepared for danger.
It?s Over (230 Miles Of Fun) --[A Soldier's Perspective]
Big Bear was our release point where riders could stick around and enjoy BBQ or take off whenever they wanted. When we arrived at the Hot Spot in Big Bear I counted 52 motorcycles. We were able to raise over $600 on the ride. All $600 is being donated to three different groups that support our deployed soldiers and marines and their families...
From the bottom of my heart, I say THANK YOU! --[Soldiers Angels Germany]
I am writing to say thank you! Your beautiful eagle blanket made it's way around my fiance's shoulder!
Rodney is a medic, stationed about 50 miles north east of Baghdad. On the sixteenth of this month, his vehicle ran over a land mine. Rodney's injuries were mainly to his face....
Opportunities for you to support our troops (and their families) --[Soldiers Angel - Holly Aho]
Here are a few opportunities for you to help support our troops. Each one of these is important so pick one (or two) that you think best works for you.
We have a new Hero! --[This Soldier's Angel Journey]
Ok, so last night, put together a box for my newly adopted soldier David. Put the basics, cleaning wipes, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, washcloth and of course had to throw in some goodies to eat. Checked my email and have received an e-mail from one of our soldiers we sent a letter to from the Letter Writing Team. Here is what he wrote...
Successful Missile Defense Mission --[America's Liberty Security Force]
The Pentagon has successfully tested an upgraded surveillance radar in Alaska.
A long-range ballistic missile was fired across the face of the Cobra Dane radar on Shemya island in Alaska.
Army Faces Worst Recruiting Slump in Years --[AP]
The Army is closing the books on one of the leanest recruiting years since it became an all-volunteer service three decades ago, missing its enlistment target by the largest margin since 1979 and raising questions about its plans for growth.
A New Chief Justice --[Eric's Grumbles Before the Grave]
A few excerpts from his testimony before Congress should be interesting to those of us who believe the Constitution means what it says, not what we wish it said...
Gov. Blanco Sticks Up Senators: "No Questions. Hand Over Your Wallets" --[GM's Corner]
Director Michael D. Brown's charge that Louisiana officials were "dysfunctional" in handling the Hurricane Katrina disaster. She said that she wouldn't answer any questions, they said okay, and she asked for $40 Billion for job creation in her state. No questions, but where's my check?
The Indictment Was Earle's Finish Line --[Media Blog]
I?m going to write more later about this Tom DeLay interview with Wolf Blitzer, but I wanted to post the video and this comment from DeLay as soon as possible, because it?s important that people know what?s really going on right now.
Bush poll numbers improve in Rita aftermath --[Reuters]
Bush's approval rating climbed to 45 percent in a CNN/USA Today/Gallup poll taken September 26-28, up from 40 percent in a similar poll taken a week ago.
Bush nearing decision on next Supreme Court pick --[Reuters]
With John Roberts installed as U.S. chief justice, President George W. Bush on Thursday appeared to be nearing a decision on who should fill a second Supreme Court vacancy, and an announcement was likely soon.
Liberal Times? --[ROFASix]
Am I too hard on the ?Times? or does it really have a bias in what it reports and how it reports it?
Here are the 10 Most Read Articles on NYTimes.com since Sept. 1...
Awright, take a chill pill! --[The Anchoress]
There is quite a testy little storm a-brewin? between CBS?s new media blog, Public Eye, and blogfather Hugh Hewitt....At the heart of both fights is the question: What - in these changing times - defines a journalist? While a journalist can also be a blogger, is it out of the question for a blogger to be a journalist?
Times Reporter Free From Jail; She Will Testify --[NY Times]
Judith Miller agreed to testify in the C.I.A. leak case after she obtained a waiver offered by her source, I. Lewis Libby, Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff.
The.Worst.Callout.Ever? --[Mostly Cajun]
My cellphone rang. I didn?t recognize the number that showed in the display. I answered.
The voice was immediately and unmistakeably familiar. ?Hey. Where?re you at??
?I just left the firetrucks rolling up hoses. My house just burned down.? I wasn?t ready to deal with people just yet, and here was this PERSON. An old friend and a client, but still, I didn?t want to deal with anyone.
At Wit's End, a Town Dithers Over Its Millionaire Pest --[NY Times]
Known across Britain by his tabloid nickname, the Lotto Lout, Mr. Carroll won ?9.7 million (about $15 million at the time) in the national lottery three years ago and showed up to collect his prize while wearing a police-issued electronic ankle bracelet.
MG NOTE: You have to read this story - hilarious!
Followed by this story (do I see a weird theme here?)
British Lottery Rapist's Name Kept Secret --[AP]
Critics called on the British government Friday to stop paying to protect the identity of a convicted rapist who won a $12 million lottery jackpot.
Rep. DeLay Admits to 'All Specific Charges' --[Scrappleface]
The three page 'bill of indictment' contains the specific allegation that the Texas lawmaker waived his right to avoid prosecution under the law.
(Need more? The previous Dawn Patrol is here.)
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs, other blogs, and the mainstream media. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. (We have a daily "Open Post" too, if you have something on another topic you can link there.)
Operation Rhma: Final Mission --[Michael Yon - in Iraq]
Much world travel has convinced me that the ?average American? is a good person. But even a good person needs information in order to act effectively on their best impulses.
Come to his assistance, All you Saints of God... --[Soldier's Mom]
This hero was SSG Jason Benford. Our son "sat left seat" for the Sgt. on many occasions and was going to gun for SSG full time until our son was wounded... Noah said, "He was such a f*king awesome person, Ma... I wish you got to know him, especially like I did." I didn't know what else to say except, "Me, too, son. I know this is very hard for you... and I'm very sorry for the loss of another of your brothers."
September 28, 2005 --[Iraq the Model - an Iraqi in Iraq]
Today, American forces in the city of Kerbala officially handed over security responsibilities to Iraqi army and police units in the city.
This makes Kerbala the second Iraqi province that undergoes this transition of power after a similar step was taken in Najaf nearly two months ago.
Fighting God's Will... --[Major K - in Iraq]
One of the greatest challenges that we face in training the New Iraqi Army is overcoming that sense of fatalism and replacing it with detailed planning and the use of explicit instructions to subordinates.
Keeping busy --[Phil & Becky]
Lately I have been a little busier than normal at work. As I alluded to in my last post, the companies are beginning to submit their soldiers for end of tour awards.
Look Mom! I'm on the radio! --[Who's your Baghdaddy]
I have been invited to do a guest interview on the Danny Fontana show, which is a radio talk show on the east coast. The show is not nationally syndicated, but you can listed to a live web cast here.
Where are the Iraq's Secrets archives of Saddam's regime ? --[A Free Writer - an Iraqi in Iraq]
U.S. troops arrived too late to take control of many of the 23 government ministries and other intelligence-rich sites in Baghdad. Local Iraqis carted off bags of documents and videotapes from secret-police facilities.
Operation Hunter Redux --[The Fourth Rail]
Last week, the Coalition announced that Operation Hunter (or Sayaid), designed to bolster Coalition forces in the region of Qaim on the Syrian border, was underway.
AS I look out the window --[Melissa-A Soldiers Angel and Army Wife's Blog]
Well, I made the mistake of looking at the casualty list yesterday, and finding a soldier from our brigade had been killed by an IED and the name was not being released pending notification of next of kin. I just lost it.
U.S. Forces Raid Homes of Sunni Officials --[AP]
U.S. forces raided the homes of two officials from a prominent Sunni Arab organization Thursday, arresting bodyguards and confiscating weapons, Sunni officials said.
Follow-on Grieving --[A Storm in Afghanistan - in Afghanistan]
Yesterday, we had a wake for the fallen crew. In the Chinook hangar, they played a montage of photos of the crew that had been contributed by the unit. Was long and an amazing variety showing the thrill for living that they'd exhibited.
First All-female Crew Flies Combat Mission --[Patriot Voices]
A crew of six Airmen at a forward deployed location climbed aboard a C-130 Hercules together recently for the first time in their careers. But something distinguished this mission from others they had flown --it was the first time an all-female C-130 crew flew a combat mission.
Afghani's sell their daughters --[ROFASix]
One of the sadder episodes of the US ?War on Drugs? becomes apparent in Nangarhar Province, in Afghanistan. Every autumn, sharecroppers take loans from drug traffickers to plant their poppy crops.
Experts Examine Body of Afghan Bomber --[AP]
Experts are trying to identify the body of a man who launched a suicide attack outside a military training center in Kabul, killing nine people and wounding 36...
'Endless' Gripes Expected in Afghan Vote --[AP]
The chief electoral officer in Afghanistan's election last week said Wednesday he expects "an endless stream" of complaints from losing candidates, and he urged them to respect the results.
The Magic Kingdom Coming to Seoul? --[GI Korea]
The Mayor of Seoul, Lee Myung Bak is reporting that the city government is in negotiations with the Walt Disney company to build a theme park here in Korea.
The Siren Song of Diplomacy --[A North American Patriot]
For those who continue to blather on about 'diplomacy' and 'UN Resolutions' as a method of dealing with the flagrantly volatile fascists of Iran, I want to ask -- What the hell are you thinking?
China Differs on N.Korea Nuke Issues --[AP]
A split between China and the four other countries that negotiated with North Korea on scrapping its nuclear arms could doom efforts to come up with a resolution welcoming the North's decision at a meeting of the U.N. nuclear agency, diplomats said Thursday.
U.S. Congressional Hearing Will Analyze Status and Future of Counterterrorism Strategy --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
The U.S. House International Relations Terrorism Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), will explore the status and future of US counterterrorism strategy at a hearing today.
Terrorist bank deals seen as "impossible to spot" --[Reuters]
Four years of intensive U.S.-led efforts to starve terrorist groups of funds have brought home the harsh truth that banks are virtually powerless to spot terrorists solely on the basis of their financial dealings, bankers, regulators and experts say.
US: EU Slow to Freeze Terrorist Assets --[AP]
The European Union is moving too slowly in identifying individuals and organizations suspected of links to terrorists and freezing their financial assets, a top U.S. counterterrorism official warned Thursday.
"We have an Angel on this Flight" --[Soldiers Angels Germany]
When Delta Flight 1880 landed late Saturday at Logan International Airport, the pilot went on the intercom to make a request of the passengers preparing to grab their carry-on bags: Sit for a moment and honor a fallen soldier.
IFC Plans Scrapped - A Win For The Good Guys! --[GM's Corner]
The so called "International Freedom Center (IFC) has been Scrapped. Governor Pataki (R-NY) announced that the IFC would be moved from the WTC memorial and moved elsewhere.
Fuhgeddaboudit --[Riding Sun]
New York's Gov. Pataki has ousted the Freedom Center from Ground Zero.
"Freedom Museum" at WTC site scrapped --[ROFASix]
Of course the 9/11 families were only a part of the critics. The blogosphere universally derided the plan to build an anti-American facility on that hallowed ground.
Governor Bars Freedom Center at Ground Zero --[NY Times]
The museum responded to Gov. George E. Pataki by declaring itself out of business, saying no other site was appropriate.
Museum Dropped From WTC Site for Now --[AP]
Bowing to pressure from Sept. 11 families, Gov. George Pataki on Wednesday removed a proposed freedom center from the space reserved for it near the planned World Trade Center memorial...
Are They Insane --[Balloon Juice]
Contained within a long WaPo piece on the process to choose DeLay?s successor (which, much to the chagrin of John Aravosis, had little to do with HAIRY MAN COCK and lots to do with the candidate?s conservative credentials) was this nugget that just left me aghast...
Earle's Record --[Media Blog]
We have an outgoing Democratic prosecutor staging a dramatic final act and trying to come up with something to show for an investigation that has lasted over two years and cost the taxpayers uncounted (to my knowledge) amounts of money.
House GOP Shaken Up After Delay Indictment --[AP]
Shadowed by scandal, House Republicans face an uncertain new era after a day of upheaval that left Majority Leader Tom DeLay under indictment...
More on Media Racism --[Baldilocks]
If this next passage is true--and, yes, we now have to say that about things we didn't personally witness--then why wouldn't the big media believe such things coming out of the mouth of the Chief of Police of the city?
Newsweek's speedy conclusions lead to analytical crash --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
An interesting Newsweek story this week -that references CT Blog among its sources- claim scoring a point against what it paints as a ?questionable Bush administration portrayal of Abu Azzam.?
A Joke For You All --[Balloon Juice]
The pink visitors? locker room at the University of Iowa?s stadium is making some people see red.
TimesReject: Frank Rich Can't Say the "R" Word --[Media Blog]
For those of you who still haven't subscribed to the new NY TimesSelect service, the only thing you've really missed was this hilarious moment in Frank Rich's "Meet the Columnist" video feature...
Bra Check Spurs Worker to Sue for $9 million --[ROFASix]
Sometimes when you read the news you are never sure whether you should laugh or just snicker. It seems that New York's Essex County has "county policy" that employees must wear a bra according to the AP report.
Defend your nuts: a parable on property rights and hippies --[Hamster Motor]
Suppose you were a squirrel. You would work hard to find the biggest nuts, and then stash those large nuts in secret places...Now suppose that a pack of liberal chinchillas, calling themselves the Friends of the Forest, came along preaching the evils of despoiling the forest by the secretion of nuts.
Danish Santa Paid for Reindeer's Death --[AP]
The Danish Air Force said Thursday it paid about $5,000 in compensation to a part-time Santa Claus whose reindeer died of heart failure when two fighter jets roared over his farm.
(Need more? The previous Dawn Patrol is here.)
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs, other blogs, and the mainstream media. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. (We have a daily "Open Post" too, if you have something on another topic you can link there.)
Pizza and heart rates --[MREater - in Iraq]
I have a wide variety of duties, and a couple of nights ago my duty was dumpster diving. We had an allegation of wrongdoing, the evidence of which was supposed to show up in the trash. It didn?t, but I was otherwise surprised by what I saw.
Email from Iraq --[My Vast Right Wing Conspiracy]
I think you would be amazed at the morale of the young military people here. I know I am. I?ve been in for over 28 years and I have seen good and bad. These youngsters are getting the job done in a way I would never have imagined...
Grief --[365 and a Wakeup]
Tonight our grief collapsed into a singularity, centered on a simple memorial in the center of a drab slab of concrete. A memorial to three fallen brothers; SSG Daniel Scheile, SGT Paul Neubauer, and SGT Michael Sonoda.
47. And the Horrendous Monster, All of a Sudden, Stirred (Part 1) & 48. And the Horrendous Monster, All of a Sudden, Stirred / Part Two --[Ishtarria - an Iraqi in Iraq H/T Iraq the Model]
Thickly moustached, as was common among the regime?s angels of punishments, he was somewhere in his thirties, tall, slim and good-looking with a fair complexion. He was dressed in what seemed to be a fashionably big-ticket suit that matched nicely his shirt and his tie. His accent instantaneously betrayed his Tikriti origin, and marked him as of the same hometown as the dictator and the majority of his retinue.
BAGHDAD, BEFORE AND AFTER ! --[Treasure of Baghdad - an Iraqi in Iraq]
Several great before and after pics in this post.
Washington Post Discovers Zarqawi?s Lead Role In Iraq --[Austin Bay Blog]
This story isn?t exactly news, but kudos to the Washington Post for reporting it. Zarqawi began ?hijacking? the Iraqi insurgency in the spring of 2004? to stir the Shia-Sunni civil war he mentioned in his infamous letter to his Al Qaeda seniors.
Iraqi woman bomber kills army recruits --[Reuters]
A female suicide bomber blew herself up outside a U.S. military office in the northern Iraqi town of Tal Afar on Wednesday, killing herself and at least five other people and wounding 53, police said.
Iraqis call Lynndie England jail term travesty --[Reuters]
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraqis expressed fury on Wednesday over the three-year jail sentence for Lynndie England, the U.S. soldier notorious for holding a naked inmate by a leash in Abu Ghraib prison, saying it exposed American hypocrisy.
Denmark to Send Three Helicopters to Iraq --[Defense News]
The Danish military has decided to boost its presence in Iraq with three unarmed helicopters and 25 crew, after parliament gave the green light on Sept. 27, the military said.
Kabul Serena Hotel and The Reawakening of Afghanistan --[Frisko Dude]
It always amazes me when I hear about some new hotel under construction in a former war zone such as Afghanistan, but I was just pointed in that direction from an Afghan travel story in this week's New York Times.
Suspect in Afghan Italian kidnapping arrested again --[Reuters]
suspected mastermind of the kidnapping of an Italian aid worker is re-arrested weeks after being freed through the intervention of an army general.
At least six Afghan soldiers hurt in Kabul blast --[Reuters]
An explosion hit buses carrying Afghan troops leaving a training camp on the outskirts of the capital Kabul on Wednesday, wounding at least six soldiers, police said.
German Defense Minister: Troops Still Needed in Afghanistan --[Defense News]
Defense Minister Peter Struck said he expected the German parliament to extend the mandate of troops serving in Afghanistan by one year when it votes on Sept. 28.
?The situation in Afghanistan demands that German soldiers must remain there,? Struck told ZDF television.
That explains it --[Riding Sun]
We all know (if we listen to anti-war protesters) that President Bush invaded Iraq, and is eyeballing Iran, because he wants their oil. But why has he taken such a hard line on North Korea? The Japan Times has the answer...
The fifth anniversary of the second intifada --[Tiger Hawk]
The Palestinian Arabs launched their so-called "second intifada" against Israel five years ago today, on September 28, 2000, 348 days before al Qaeda attacked New York and Washington.
Israel launches new air strikes in Gaza --[Reuters]
Israel launched missile strikes that knocked out power to thousands of Palestinians in Gaza on Wednesday as it pressed an offensive to halt cross-border rocket fire two weeks after its withdrawal from the strip.
Britain Rules Out Military Action on Iran --[AP]
Military action against Iran is inconceivable and diplomacy could still end the international standoff over Tehran's nuclear program, said British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, whose country plays a key role in negotiations.
"Abu Azzam": Is He Really Al-Qaida's No. 2 in Iraq? --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
While there is no doubt that Abu Azzam is a relatively influential figure within Al-Qaida's local Baghdad network, there are several cogent reasons to question his purported title as "Number 2."
Jihad from Jail: Kevin James Pleads Not Guilty --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
Their targets allegedly included military bases and recruitment centers, synagogues, the Israeli Consulate, and El Al airline facilities. This case is significant for many reasons, not least of which is the fact that it's the first alleged terrorist plot since 9/11 to be hatched in a U.S. prison cell.
Al Qaeda stalks the Paris metro --[Tiger Hawk]
Surely this is powerful evidence that opting out of Operation Iraqi Freedom doesn't earn a free pass from the jihadis...
Negroponte Says Terror Database Is Working --[AP]
New York City police were led to a possible al-Qaida associate last month after a search of a federal terror database during a routine traffic search, National Intelligence Director John D. Negroponte said Tuesday.
Training called key for finding biological terrorism --[Boston Globe]
The lesson of the 2001 anthrax attacks, when four patients were sent home without a diagnosis, has not been learned, Sisson said.
States and medical residency programs should require bioterrorism training for doctors, he said.
Honoring Military Families --[Andi's World]
I have never been hugged and kissed by so many strangers in all my life. Everyone wanted to make sure that our military families were truly honored. I can safely say, Mission Accomplished. (pics)
The Moronic Convergence Diverges --[Winds of Change]
My friends Rona and Mark went to DC and took photos of the pro-soldier counter-protest and the antiwar protest. Many inventive signs and t-shirts.
Not that evident from the DC event is that the antiwar coalition is beginning to fray at the edges just a bit.
Operator, operator, I'm so glad you found me home... --[Soldier's Mom]
I think back to the days before he was injured and was still in Iraq. Each hour that we didn?t hear -- whether the instant messenger was silent or the phone didn?t ring ? one drip from a faucet into a million gallon bucket ? not fast enough, not soon enough, not often enough. It?s a bucket that can never be filled. And we suffer these terrible addiction-like responses, too ? you crave and demand and NEED to hear from your soldier.
An Update on Kyle --[Soldiers Angel - Holly Aho]
I had the opportunity to talk with Kyle today on the phone. I hadn't had the opportunity to visit him the last 3 weeks due to the construction we are doing on our home, and it was driving me nuts not knowing how he is doing lately. So I gave Kyle's mother a call to check up on things and she was at the hospital visiting Kyle at the time. Now let me tell you, I'm learning new things every day.
Honor lines road for fallen soldier --[Lexington Herald-Leader]
HARLAN - Students from Cawood High School, hospital employees and others turned out to line the roadway as Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard's body was carried to its final resting place yesterday.
New Advertising Campaign For Marines --[Patriot Voices]
On October 1, the Marine Corps will debut its latest television commercial, ?Diamond,? in front of a nationwide television audience. (pic)
I don't normally do this . . . --[An American in Italy]
All I can say is that I'm disappointed to know that an army spouse holds this defeatist attitude. Yes, the Army world can sometimes be difficult to move through, but if you hold true to your own self esteem and beliefs you can make the system work for you, not against you.
Thoughts on a local discussion forum --[Eric's Grumbles Before The Grave]
I answered the points more or less in order. His points were:
-The free market failed in the 19th century.
-Government schools are good.
-Government protects us from evil doers
-Government provides a social "safety net" for citizens...
Brown blames locals for Katrina response --[Reuters]
The former head of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, who resigned under a hail of criticism over the slow response to Hurricane Katrina, blamed local officials on Tuesday and said his agency had done a good job.
Blanco Goes to D.C. to Answer Brown Charge --[AP]
Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco will appear before a Senate panel this morning, but she's already come out swinging against former FEMA head Michael Brown.
GOP Hopes for Another Smooth Confirmation --[AP]
Now that John Roberts is assured of becoming the newest Supreme Court chief justice, Republicans are pointing to the conservative judge's confirmation process as the way future candidates should be treated.
Sen. Hillary Clinton Seeking Donations --[AP]
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is asking her backers to step up their donations, saying opponents of her 2006 re-election effort "will raise and spend hundreds of millions of dollars against me."
"Those People at That Point Needed Help No Matter What Was True" --[Media Blog]
Now take that last statement apart from the particular circumstances of Hurricane Katrina and the Convention Center. Is it okay for a journalist to report things even if they are false or exaggerated, as long as the reporting helps needy people?
Matthews Plays Wiffle Ball with Sheehan --[Media Blog]
Chris Matthews just had Cindy Sheehan on "Hardball." This is Matthews' idea of a hardball interview, I guess...
A tip of the hat to CBS --[The Anchoress]
I can testify to the difficulty of being a nobody blogger trying to nail down facts, and the serious advantage a newsgatherer has when they can call Max Mayfield at the National Hurricane Center, declare they are calling from CBS news, and get someone credible on the phone to confirm or deny a rumor that is flying through the internet...But it is precisely because the MSM does have premier access to sources and the patina of professionalim on their side that any evidence of journalistic laziness, of expedition-over-firm-exposition is really inexcusable.
Libel Memorandum Attributed Falsely to Court Nominee --[NY Times]
Judge John G. Roberts Jr., nominated to be chief justice of the United States, was not the author of an unsigned memorandum on libel law that was the focus of an article published in The New York Times yesterday. The Times erroneously attributed it to him.
It's humor, folks, it's humor --[Tidewater Musings]
It's only a joke, folks, it's only a joke.
And if you don't have a sense of humor or feel that any humor directed at the Commander-in-Chief is inappropriate, read no further. (pic)
MG Note: It is a pretty funny picture
'Dead women' elected as councilors --[Reuters]
ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Police in northwestern Pakistan have launched an inquiry after complaints about two dead women being declared elected in a local election held last month, election officials said Monday.
Cindy Sheehan Arrested, Forced to Live Indoors --[Scrappleface]
Washington D.C. police today arrested anti-war protester Cindy Sheehan, forcing her to live indoors, at least temporarily...A police spokesman said the perpetually-grieving peace icon would eventually "be released into the wild."
Fearless Nazi Hunter ?Supported Troops, Not Mission? --[Point Five]
Less well known, but certainly as important, another Nazi hunter was memorialized this week. Hans Schroder, whose stirring rallying cry was, "I support the Nazi troops, but not their mission," was remembered on the National Mall on Sunday by leaders and speakers at the anti-war protests sponsored by ANSWER and United for Peace and Justice.
(Need more? The previous Dawn Patrol is here.)
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs, other blogs, and the mainstream media. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. (We have a daily "Open Post" too, if you have something on another topic you can link there.)
The Beginning Of The End. --[MREater - in Iraq]
Although our departure date is a ways away, we have begun preparing for it. Logistics, it is said, doesn’t win wars but it can certainly lose them, and logistics takes planning. For now, we’re packing up equipment that we can do without for a while. “Getting skinny”, as it’s called. I’ll probably see the gear again in about 6 months.
Milestones --[Who's Your Baghdaddy? - in Iraq]
The good news is that the busyness is being driven by our quickly approaching redeployment date (i.e. we’re getting ready to go home). We still have a couple of months to go here, but we are definitely within the window that necessitates planning.
About Those Allegations… --[A Soldier's Perspective]
I mentioned a few days ago that the media, but specifically Human Rights Watch, is trying to ignite the issue of detainee abuse in Iraq. And, of course, in an effort to waste even more of our money they are calling for an independent investigation into the matter…that occured two years ago.
The Demise of Abu Azzam --[The Fourth Rail]
Al Qaeda in Iraq’s leadership suffers another blow. Sheikh Abdullah Abu Azzam al-Iraqi, the organization's number two in command, has been killed by Coalition forces in Baghdad during a raid after the Coalition received a tip on his location.
Are We Winning The War? --[The Stupid Shall Be Punished]
This question's been asked a lot lately: in last week's Time cover story, and in various national polls. The perception among the left side of chattering classes, and a good portion of the American public, is that the War of Terror is not militarily "winnable". I've blogged on this before, and my thoughts haven't really changed -- the only way we can lose the war is if we as a country lose the political will to fight.
Man said to be Zarqawi's No. 2 killed --[Reuters]
U.S. and Iraqi forces have shot dead the second-in-command of al Qaeda in Iraq, dealing what a U.S. commander called on Tuesday a serious blow to the militant group at the heart of Iraq's insurgency.
Assistance Still Required --[Afghan Warrior]
Terrorism is still a threat in Afghanistan and it is hard for Afghan National Army and National Police to fight the terrorists without the corporation of coalition forces. So we still need the assistance of the US-led coalition forces to defeat the remainder of the of terrorists in Afghanistan.
US troop deaths take Afghan toll this year above 50 --[Reuters]
A U.S. soldier and a U.S. Marine have been killed in militant attacks in Afghanistan, bringing American combat deaths in the country this year to 51, the bloodiest period for U.S. forces since the fall of the Taliban.
The British in Basra: Confronting Iran --[Tiger Hawk]
I have not written on the problems in Basra, which surfaced about a week ago when the Iraqis a couple of British agents into the klink and the Brits busted them out...Today we learned that the troubles in Basra are the visible manifestation of the shadow war with Iran.
Iran Threatens to Resume Enrichment --[AP]
Iran on Tuesday threatened to resume uranium enrichment and block U.N. inspections of its nuclear facilities unless the U.N. atomic watchdog agency stepped back from its resolution to refer Tehran to the Security Council for possible sanctions.
Awash in Liberal Racism and Exaggeration --[Froggy Ruminations]
Katrina didn’t just wash away hundreds of homes and businesses; it washed away the cheesy veneer of multiculturalism that the Left has been using to cover its own racist tendencies.
Col. Thomas Beron Discusses Exaggerated News Reports on "DaySide" --[Media Blog]
Col. Thomas Beron, the Louisiana National Guard officer who oversaw security at the Superdome during the worst of Katrina, just talked to FNC's "DaySide" about the exaggerated media reports during Katrina.
Still alive, but battered… --[Mostly Cajun]
This is my post-storm post…
I have lived through this one. We sat out the storm proper in a rural home in Ragley, Louisiana. As each rain band passed us, the winds howled and trees swayed.
Katrina Takes a Toll on Truth, News Accuracy --[LA Times H/T Drudge]
Rumors supplanted accurate information and media magnified the problem. Rapes, violence and estimates of the dead were wrong.
Small, Rural Towns Hit Hardest by Rita --[AP]
While much of Texas and Louisiana dodged the worst of Hurricane Rita, the damage to some small, rural towns was virtually complete - and the storm was being blamed for new deaths long after it moved away.
Mr. Galloway; Just Another Moron --[Warriors Voice - in Iraq]
Once again I've read of these liberals who believe that the terrorists in Iraq are "resistance" fighters and "Freedom Fighters". Gunmen kill Iraq school teachers ....now I ask you, what kind of "resistance and freedom fighters murder teachers?
SA Germany Fall & Winter Projects - Wounded Need Your Help --[Soldiers Angels Germany]
The primary mission of SA Germany is to support our wounded Heroes who are transitioned through Germany from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Ru-dy! Ru-dy! --[Riding Sun]
Former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani stated his opposition to the proposed Ground Zero "Freedom Center" yesterday.
9/11 KIN DESPISE REVISE OF FREEDOM CENTER --[NY Post]
A coalition of 15 groups representing 9/11 families has declared war on the International Freedom Center, just as the project goes before the public this week in a last-ditch bid to avoid being tossed from Ground Zero.
UPDATED: Should the US military take the lead in responding to natural disaster? --[Austin Bay Blog]
Unless we’re talking about fighting a war, a “let the military do it” idea is bad for a democracy. What the military can do is provide extraordinarily fine “special asset” coordination.
Domestic Militarization: A Disaster in the Making --[ROFASix]
The rumblings continue that the Posse Comitatus Act is passe. Even President Bush seems to have picked up the idea based upon his recent comment that, "It is now clear that a challenge on this scale requires greater federal authority and a broader role for the armed forces --
The US Military's Futuristic "Helicopters" --[Winds of Change]
This is a futuristic aircraft that would carry roughly the capacity of a modern C-130 Hercules Transport, but with the ability to take off and land like a helicopter. No current US military helicopter even comes close. (pic)
The Left, Right, And Liars --[Maxed Out Mama]
What I am speaking of here is the dropping of the concept of "tolerance" for the concept of "endorsement". It is no longer enough, in our wacky culture, to say that people who espouse strange religions, believe ardently in the redeeming and communion-like nature of promiscuous sex, campaign for polygamous marriage, etc, should not be actively discriminated against. Now discrimination is defined as expressing disapproval of their choices and speaking publicly about their bad consequences
Picture This: Ben Affleck, Senator From Va. --[Washington Post]
That's the hot new idea being tossed around by Virginia Democrats, who are desperately searching for a big name to challenge the reelection bid of rising GOP star Sen. George Allen next year, now that outgoing Gov. Mark Warner has ducked out.
Supreme Court May Hear Abortion Case --[AP]
The Bush administration is asking the Supreme Court to reinstate a national ban on a type of late-term abortion, a case that could thrust the president's first court picks into an early tie-breaking role on a divisive and emotional issue.
You Gotta Love the Media --[Eric's Grumbles Before the Grave]
So, in this AP article on the likely Roberts confirmation to Chief Justice of the Supreme Court we have some ...... interesting ........ ways of wording things.
Reuters finally gets a caption right --[Tiger Hawk]
The Reuters caption:
Police carry Cindy Sheehan, the California woman who has used her son's death in Iraq to spur the anti-war movement...
KKKatrina & Kennedy: Aquatic Expertise Nonparallel --[Atlas Shrugs]
Below is a pic of the senator being taken to the levee...(pic)
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT YOU HEARD EVERYTHING, the BBC reports;
Cooing at new-born babies banned A West Yorkshire hospital has banned visitors from cooing at new-born babies over fears their human rights are being breached...
Our Visit to the World War II Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial --[The Patriette]
The photo above shows my husband, Josh. When we arrived at the World War II Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial [France], they were getting ready to take down the American flag flying over the cemetery and Omaha Beach that day. Our British guide stepped forward and asked the director of the cemetery if Josh, being an Army officer preparing for deployment to Iraq, could assist with folding the American flag....As we walked away, the director of the cemetery called after us into the crowd and caught up with us. Out of breath and with the American flag still in his hands, he extended it to Josh and asked if Josh would take the flag with him to Iraq - to fly it over his camp there in appreciation and remembrance of the soldiers that have given their lives for freedom and for those currently risking their lives in harms way.
(Need more? The previous Dawn Patrol is here.)
For those who missed an earlier announcement - you'll see a new name on the Dawn Patrol these days - Holly Aho. She's agreed to fill in while Mrs Greyhawk takes a vacation.
Holly's been doing outstanding work - and I know how much effort it takes to put that daily feature together. We literally can't thank her enough. Holly's also an artist, mom, wife, and a Soldier's Angel - and she runs her own blog too.
I highly encourage you to visit Holly's site - she's got some great posts and podcasts there, including interviews with Cpt Chuck Ziegenfuss (a wounded warrior/milblogger), and Patti Patton-Bader, founder of Soldier's Angels. Don't miss 'em.
Visit, bookmark, return: Soldiers' Angel - Holly Aho.
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs, other blogs, and the mainstream media. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. (We have a daily "Open Post" too, if you have something on another topic you can link there.)
Pushing On --[365 and a Wakeup - in Iraq]
Grief has hit like a sledgehammer these last few days, leaving deep gouges in the collective memory of our battalion. A lifetime of anguish, bravery, loss and regret were compressed into a handful of days. I haven?t been able to chronicle the events in anything more then a cursory fashion because at some point my emotions slipped away, blanketed by a insensate numbness.
Creepy Humvees --[Akinoluna - in Iraq]
His staff sergeant told him that if he went anywhere to take the Humvee, so we did, even though I could have driven my beautiful, lovely, air conditioned Ford Expedition. As I was climbing in, he told me not to shut the door too hard or I wouldn't be able to open it again. At first I just thought, "Well that's a pain in the ass" but then I remembered the brand-new Humvees from last week with doors I had to kick open and doors I was unable to open at all from the inside.
New Video at MDG Video --[Ma Deuce Gunner - in Iraq]
I have a new clip posted over at MDG Video. It is from one of our sister companies practicing stacking and entering a building...a VERY SMALL building. Hope you get a laugh out of it.
Loss and Isolation... --[Major K - in Iraq]
I hitched a ride on a helicopter a few days a go to go back down to my old FOB. While it was good to see the Nightstalkers again, the reason that I was there could not have been any worse. Another Nightstalker had fallen, and I was there to attend his memorial service and pay my respects.
ONE DAY LESS --[Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum - in Iraq]
Our hearts are heavy, and thoughts of our own mortality have crept into our waking hours, fear attaches itself to the winds, whispering in our ears. So very close to home, yet so many unseen dangers that lurk in the darkened hearts of our enemies. Here in "this war" we have all peered into the heart of darkness, and all to often we have seen ourselves gazing back. Fatigue has once again set in, and black humor has mercifully albeit temporarily lifted our spirits.
The Anbar Campaign Continues --[The Fourth Rail]
The Coalition appears to be conducting a comprehensive operation along a segment of the Euphrates River. The area of operations appears to stretch from Ramadi in the east to Khan-Al-Baghdadi in the west.
Suicide bomb kills 10 Iraqis, violence spikes --[Reuters]
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A suicide bomber rammed his car into a bus carrying employees of Iraq's oil ministry as it passed a police academy on Monday, killing at least 10 people and wounding 30, police and witnesses said.
Around 1,000 to be freed from Abu Ghraib as gesture --[Reuters]
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - More than 1,000 prisoners held at Abu Ghraib jail will be released this week after a request by Iraqi authorities for a goodwill gesture to mark Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, the U.S. military said on Monday.
At Least 25 Are Killed in Day of Violence Across Iraq --[NY Times]
A suicide bomber swerved his sedan across a highway median and detonated it into a police convoy in eastern Baghdad on Sunday. It was the worst of several attacks and gun battles that Iraqi officials said left at least 25 people dead and dozens wounded.
Chinook Crash --[The Siegrist Blogs]
Most of you may have heard of the crash over the weekend in Afghanistan. I got a call Sunday morning from the FRG here in Germany informing me that is was not a German based helicopter. The Internet for everyone down range was still down this morning so I was unable to get any more information on what the real deal is. I'm still worried because I still know a few folks that fly with our sister unit.
The War Marches On --[A Storm in Afghanistan - in Afghanistan]
By now, I?ve seen it in the news about the Chinook going down in Afghanistan. Five Soldiers died. It was from our base. I knew one of the guys. He was in my unit. He lived two doors down from me.
Attack on U.S soldiers --[Afhgan LORD - an Afghan in Afghanistan]
On Friday Two US soldiers were wounded in Kandahar
The US soldiers injured when a roadside bomb exploded on a military convoy near the Kandahar City. The explosion was followed by firing from suspected Taliban hidden in the area, announced in a press release issued from US Bagram airbase.
Another Chinook down in Afghanistan --[Cali Valley Girl]
The news of the Chinook which crashed this morning in Afghanistan woke me from my post-R&R reverie. Although I received an email from the FRG stating that the helicopter was not from my boyfriend?s unit, I was also soothed by the knowledge that he was still in transit returning after mid-tour leave. My relief is someone else?s heartache. I can?t help but feel weepy, because the reality of the dangers of my boyfriend?s job are suddenly shoved in front of my face once again.
5 Die in Afghanistan as Copter Crashes --[NY Times]
KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 25 - Five American soldiers were killed Sunday when their Chinook military helicopter crashed in the mountains of southern Afghanistan, the United States military said.
Building an Afghan Army and Learning a Lesson in Patience --[NY Times]
American and international efforts to train Afghanistan's security forces began in 2002, about a year before a similar program for Iraqi soldiers and police officers. Yet the Afghan model seems to have lagged behind the troubled Iraqi program.
U.S. Military: Afghan Rebel Tactics Change --[AP]
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) -- Heavy casualties inflicted by U.S.-led coalition forces have forced Afghan rebels to recruit younger fighters and change their tactics, but the insurgency is far from broken, a U.S. military spokesman said Monday.
The British have their own Cindy Sheehan --[TigerHawk]
A mother whose son was killed by a roadside bomb in Basra a fortnight ago broke down in tears yesterday as she publicly pleaded with Tony Blair to bring British troops home from Iraq.
A More Americanized ROK Army? --[GI Korea]
The ROK Army apparently wants to become more Americanized by relying on hi-tech weapon systems and volunteer forces to down size their military.
Muslim women, children shield terrorists in Thailand --[ROFASix]
Months ago, I wrote about the Islamic war against the Thai government and people. The Islamic goal is simple. The want to establish an Islamic Caliphate in Thailand.
France is adding to her CT arsenal --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
So, even though France has already one of the toughest anti-terrorism judicial arsenal in Europe, it is adding to it. Indeed, French newspaper Le Monde just revealed the clauses of the new anti-terrorist law due to be formally presented to the government on October 19.
Here is a rundown of the major changes...
Suspected al-Qaida Cell Leader Convicted --[AP]
MADRID, Spain (AP) - A suspected al-Qaida cell leader was convicted Monday of conspiring to commit murder in connection with the Sept. 11 attacks in the United States...
Soldiers in Iraq - care packages --[Steven Kiel - in Iraq]
Since I can no longer receive packages...
If you are a soldier in Iraq and are interested in receiving care packages for yourself or others in your platoon, or if you are interested in receiving things to hand out to Iraqi citizens or soldiers...
At Least I Know Where I Stand With The Muj --[Warriors Voice - in Iraq]
The subject of protesters came up the other evening as we were sitting around ?BS?ing. Every single one of us believes that it is the right of those idiots to protest whatever they want. We all were quick to recognize that those protesters area a loud minority who more or less blame the United States for everything. These protesters are the same people who call many of us serving fascists, brainwashed, hicks, baby killers or red necks. They pretend to support us, all the while cursing us since 76% of service members and their families voted for President Bush. We believe, at least those who were sitting around talking, that "Support the Troops" means supporting the troops not calling the Muj in Iraq and Afghanistan ?Freedom Fighters?...
Support Our Troops AND Their Mission --[Andi's World]
I've just returned from the rally to honor Military Families. It was a fantastic event, and very emotional. I'll bring you the photos and story tomorrow, but for now let's back up and take a look at what happened outside of Walter Reed on Friday night.
Support Our Troops Rally [update] --[A Soldier's Perspective]
Wouldn?t ya know it? I can?t find much about the soldier support rally in the news. As I reading about the largest anti-war rally since the Iraqi invasion occurred, I noticed a glaring bias on the part of most media outlets. Let the nerdy statistics fly...
Sights and Sounds --[Baldilocks]
Scenes from the underground: the ANSWER, etc. Anti-War, Anti-Bush Protests were conducted all across the country today to coincide with same in the DC area, so I went to observe some leftists in their natural habitat.
Antiwar Rallies in Washington and Other Cities --[NY Times]
Vast numbers of protesters from around the country poured onto the lawns behind the White House on Saturday to demonstrate their opposition to the war in Iraq, pointedly directing their anger at President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney.
Hundreds Rally in D.C. for U.S. Troops --[AP]
Support for U.S. troops fighting abroad mixed with anger toward anti-war demonstrators at home as hundreds of people, far fewer than organizers had expected, rallied Sunday on the National Mall just a day after tens of thousands protested against the war in Iraq.
Anti-War Demonstrators March on Washington --[AP]
Crowds opposed to the war in Iraq surged past the White House on Saturday, shouting "Peace now" in the largest anti-war protest in the nation's capital since the U.S. invasion.
War Supporters' Day to Rally --[Washington Post]
It took more than 30 years to make it happen again, but yesterday Young joined hundreds of others on the Mall to support the nation's troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, among them his son, Croft, 32.
Jack Kelly, short -n- sweet! --[The Anchoress]
The Army exceeded its recruiting goal for August scoring 102 percent of goal for the month.
You have read no news story about this, because the Army exceeded its recruiting goal for August.
More Media Falsehood --[Dadmanly]
The Washington Post ran a story with some fraudulent "novice" protesters, that happened to be picked up by Stars and Stripes in the Saturday 24 September edition. This is highly reminiscent of the NY Times "man on the street" interviews when the same, randomly selected "man on the street" turns out to have a sideline career in giving interviews to NY Times reporters.
Jazeera reporter found guilty of terrorism. --[Iraq the Model - an Iraqi in Iraq]
This is not the first time where reporters and camera men are found to have connections with terrorists so it is definitely time to start questioning the networks themselves and the people in charge of choosing reporters and sending them to join terror networks, sorry! I mean to report the truth!
Not A Job I Would Want --[Balloon Juice]
I can think of a lot of things I would rather do with my life than be public editor of the NY Times, spending 8 hours a day (is this his only job? Not that I don?t think correcting the Times wouldn?t be a full time job.) trying to squeeze corrections and admissions of error from the NY Times staff. However, Byron Calame seems to be giving it the old college try...
He is also still pissed about Krugman making things up...
Reportage And The Iraq War ~ A View From The Home Front! --[GM's Corner]
There is a major difference between what is going on in Iraq and what the MSM is telling you is going on in Iraq. The MSM won't tell you that, I just did! ... And significant differences there are! Not just in the quality of the reporting, but in the focus. One tries to portray a quagmire, the other a quality of life missing in Iraq for decades, if not tens of decades and the difference is telling.
Losing In Iraq --[Pebble Pie]
There is proof this morning that the leftist media propaganda campaign over the war in Iraq is working.
I gotta Break Free! --[Assumption of Command - in Iraq]
This is my last post from the Fertile crescent. This is a good thing.
The following must be said...
A Roller Coaster --[Eric's Grumbles Before the Grave]
Our son was hit by a car on Friday afternoon on his way home from school. He was riding his bike, wearing a helmet and carrying his bike, the car was going about 20 miles an hour when it hit him. My wife saw the whole thing happen, just a couple of blocks from our home. After rolling up the hood of the car and hitting the windshield he was thrown to the ground. Before she could get to him, he tried to stand up, apparently. She called 911 as she ran to him...
Another Conspiracy Theory --[From My Position..On the Way!]
Okay...Tinfoil is firmly in place. The Mrs. and I got to talking yesterday about the next big thing that is going to be President Bush's fault.
Has anyone noticed how all of these hurricanes have passed through the Gulf of Mexico without so much as scratching Cuba?
Poll: Most Americans Not In Iraq --[Scrapple Face]
Hours after a CNN/USA Today/Gallup poll revealed that fewer than half of respondents believe the U.S. can win the war in Iraq, a second survey showed that more than 99 percent of Americans are not in Iraq...
Lightning Strikes Two Planes on Takeoff --[Conservative Thinking]
(Honolulu, Hawaii) Even in paradise, there are occasional stormy messages from Mother Nature. Within one hour, lightning struck both Hawaiian Airlines and Aloha Airlines planes shortly after takeoff.
(Need more? The previous Dawn Patrol is here.)
Welcome to the Dawn Patrol, our daily roundup of information on the War on Terror and other topics - from the MilBlogs, other blogs, and the mainstream media. If you're a blogger, you can join the conversation. If you link to any of these stories, add a link to the Dawn Patrol too and your trackback will be added to the list. (We have a daily "Open Post" too, if you have something on another topic you can link there.)
Author's note: This has to be one of the strangest Dawn Patrols I've done so far, with tons blogs covering events the MSM almost completely ignores and the MSM disagreeing with ITSELF. It should all be under 'News of the Weird'....
Bathroom Wars --[MREater - in Iraq]
An internecine war has broken out among soldiers on the FOB, and the battleground is the bathrooms.
the journey home, part 2 --[Blog Machine City]
You might think that sitting for three days in air-conditioned tents in the middle of the Kuwaiti desert would be terminally boring, but it was really in the vein of our entire deployment. And indeed, it was only preparation for the final bout of sitting that lay ahead.
A Eulogy for the Fallen --[Dadmanly - in Iraq]
We mourn just over 1,900 in Iraq, and there are those who would walk away from the sacrifices already made, dismiss the liberation of 50 million souls as collateral benefit of a nevertheless unnecessary war.
70 days (more or less) --[Tour of Iraq - in Iraq]
In about a week Ramadan begins, which will be interesting to say the least. We start cultural briefs this week to prep for any changes. The weather is cooling to the low 100s/high 90s during the day and 70s at night. No rain yet, but soon this place will be a massive mud pit like when we first got here.
Happy Days are Back in Baghdad!! --[Treasure of Baghdad - an Iraqi in Iraq]
Once, I went through a hard time. I was covering violence in Baghdad day after day and I was so depressed to the extent I was about to leave my job as a reporter. We kept emailing each other. She helped me a lot to pass that period and that hard time and made me understand that my country needs me, needs my power, my loyalty, my hope, my will, and my love.
All what I said is so little in comparison to what she gave me and still giving me. She is our Angel that came back to Baghdad.
Suicide Bomber Kills 4 in Baghdad --[NY Times]
In Baghdad, a suicide car bomber exploded his vehicle near an Iraqi army checkpoint Saturday morning, killing three soldiers and an Iraqi civilian, police said.
Bus Stop Blast Kills 6 Iraqis; 3 G.I.'s Die in Other Attacks --[NY Times]
An attacker detonated an explosive belt on Friday at a crowded bus stop in central Baghdad and killed six people...
82nd Airborne Soldiers Allege Iraq Abuse --[AP]
Soldiers in the Army's elite 82nd Airborne Division vented their frustration by systematically torturing Iraqi detainees from 2003 into 2004, hitting them with baseball bats and dousing them with chemicals, a U.S. rights group alleges in a new report.
AFTER YOU READ THAT, READ THIS...
American Held in Iraq Tells of Torture --[AP]
An American contract worker who was kidnapped in Iraq and held more than 10 months says in an interview that his captors kept him blindfolded and bound throughout the ordeal.
Afghans Enjoy Successful Election Day --[A Soldier's Perspective]
With President Bush busy creating hurricanes in the gulf and the media eager to publicize those outrageous claims, it?s not surprising that news of the Afghan election has gone unnoticed...
Two US troops hurt in Afghan roadside blast --[Reuters]
Two U.S. soldiers were wounded by a roadside bomb in the Afghan south, while there were conflicting reports on the whereabouts of a Taliban commander earlier believed to have been surrounded, officials said on Saturday.
Spain and Germany Feud Over EU Arrest Warrant --[The Counterterrorism Blog]
Spanish judicial authorities have finally reacted to last July's decision of the German Constitutional Court to release suspected Madrid Bombing suspect Mamoun Darkanzali (see my earlier blog) rather than extradite him to Spain under a Spanish issued EU Arrest Warrant.
British Ambassador & LA Times Speak Out on MacArthur Controversy --[GI Korea]
British Ambassador to Korea, Warwick Morris has now spoken out in regards to the current General MacArthur statue controversy in Inchon by sending this letter to the Chosun Ilbo...
Nuclear Agency Expected to Back Weaker Rebuke to Iran --[NY Times]
Britain submitted the weaker of two draft resolutions proposing that Iran's nuclear program be reported to the U.N. Security Council.
Rita: Insult and Injury --[Baldilocks]
New Orleans, while lying far to the east of the eye of Hurricane Rita, is in for it again. Rain from Rita has caused the levees near the city?s Ninth Ward to be breached and is causing the district to be flooded once again.
CNN: Blown Away --[Media Blog]
MG Note: Hard time deciding whether to put this in 'Humor', 'Media' or 'Hurricanes'...it fits all three.
Todd looked like an extra from the "Black Hole Sun" video. At one point in the video I thought he was going to bash himself in the head with his own microphone.
Wolf Blitzer cautioned viewers: "Don't try this at home."
Whatever you say, Mister --[Riding Sun]
Via LGF, National Guardsman Jeremy Hall has photos taken during his post-Katrina deployment to New Orleans, including this one of a store owner's attempt to ward off looters (must see pic)
Bush skips Texas to avoid hampering Rita response --[Reuters]
President George W. Bush, still smarting over criticism for his slow response to Katrina, flew to a Colorado military base on Friday to monitor Hurricane Rita after abruptly canceling a trip to Texas to avoid interfering with relief operations.
Bush's Crisis Itinerary at Mercy of Weather, Even Nice Weather --[NY Times]
SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 23 -President Bush was supposed to land here on Friday afternoon on the first stop of a tour intended to make clear that he was personally overseeing the federal government's preparations for Hurricane Rita's landfall. But the weather did not cooperate.
It was too sunny.
How about not? --[Winds of Change]
I'm not sure whether or not this is related to the recent resurgence of the US anti-war movement, but there have been two articles published over the last couple of weeks by academics (who else?) arguing that what we really need to do is negotiate with al-Qaeda.
Reality Bites - Peaceniks Show Their True Colors --[ROFASix]
These are the same folks who are organizing Saturday?s ?anti-war? rally in Washington. Interestingly, they claim ?solidarity? with the ?Iraqi fighters? and ?resistance.? In other words, they are all for those who kill American troops and innocent civilians in Iraq. If anything, what it shows is that this movement is really an anti-American pro-war organization that seeks to kill those struggling for freedom and democracy in Iraq and around the world.
Support the Troops Weekend Has Begun --[Andi's World]
I'm just back from the kick-off of the Support the Troops weekend. Tonight was a great night outside of Walter Reed.
Job was tested less than this... --[From My Position..On The Way!]
However, Carren I decided that we will still go to the Air and Space Museum tomorrow. We're not going to let a bunch of pansies keep us away. And, if we happen to see a Fighting Aces T-shirt out there, will be sure to stop and give them a hug. (If they are in the protest march (and not the protest the protest march) I will beat them to the ground, and rip the T-shirt off their body.) I say again, if you do not support our troops and their cause you do not speak for me.
Iwo Jima Memorial --[PebblePie]
On the last night of our trip we stopped at the Iwo Jima Memorial...I noticed a solitary figure at the base of the statue, and as I got closer he asked, "Where are you guys from?" I told him that we were from Wisconsin. "Hey, I'm a cheesehead, too! Come gather around Cheeseheads, and I will tell you a story." (James Bradley just happened to be in Washington, DC, to speak at the memorial the following day. He was there that night to say good night to his dad, who has since passed away. He was just about to leave when he saw the buses pull up. I videotaped him as he spoke to us, and received his permission to share what he said from my videotape.
MG Note: A MUST READ POST!
The National Guard need more backpacks and phone cards! --[Soldiers Angels Germany]
The ARNG Liaison Office asked me for more phone cards!
With our project ?Transitional Backpacks? the Soldiers Angels support wounded soldiers and marines here in Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany! Today we brought 60 new backpacks to the National Guard and the Marines.
We ask all Angels and Friends for donation - to help us by the next backpacks!
Little Angels --[Whispering Wolf - new blogger]
Anyway - I told my two oldest girls (11 tomorrow and 7) that I was a Soldiers Angel. They asked what that meant and I explained my role. My seven year old looked at me very seriously and asked "Can I draw a picture for your soldier?"
Doing More Than Holding a Sign --[Soldiers Angel - Holly Aho]
Just a few thoughts on the anti-war rally this weekend and the support our troops demonstrators. Well, it's just me, and I don't know if my idea is even feasible, but as pro-troops demonstrator I think I'd have to put my actions where my mouth is and visit a few wounded soldiers instead of standing on the street looking at the Sheehan crowd.
Anti-War Protesters March in Washington --[AP]
Opponents of the war in Iraq rallied by the thousands Saturday to demand the return of U.S. troops, staging a day of protest, song and remembrance of the dead in marches through Washington, other U.S. cities and capitals abroad.
The City Responds to Me --[Eric's Grumbles Before the Grave]
And so, I received a response from the City of Elk Grove to this letter...I have their answer now. And the answer is politics as usual.
Ginsberg Usurps The Role of President and is stuck on stupid. --[GM's Corner]
Now she is telling the President WHO he must appoint to the vacancy caused by the retirement of Sandra Day O'Connor.
Ginsberg has stated "...any woman will not do..." and this of course gives rise to more than one question. First, who says it has to be a woman, just because a woman is retiring?
Amid Many Fights Over Qualifications, a Bush Nomination Stalls in the Senate --[NY Times]
Senator Susan Collins of Maine is holding up the nomination of a lawyer with little background in immigration or customs to head the law enforcement agency in charge of those issues.
From Ghraib to Fallujah - Prisoner Abuse --[A Soldier's Perspective]
The media has lost its steam with trying to screw our servicemembers so they searched long and hard to find some 2-year dirt that they could stir up again. I?m going to talk in depth about this tonight when I get back from LA since I have that firsthand experience, but for now wanted to warn everyone not to believe the allegations just yet.
Weird Weatherman Resigns --[Media Blog]
That weird weatherman in Idaho ? who attributed Hurricane Katrina to a Japanese weather machine ? has resigned so he can spend more time unraveling the conspiracy.
Two Wives, One With Two Hubbies, Costs Cop --[AP]
A Sumter County sheriff's deputy was fired for being married to two women at the same time, and his second wife was married to another man at the time of their wedding...
(Need more? The previous Dawn Patrol is here.)
