Should vets be able to share their strife with their leaders once they are no longer under their command?

SPC Christopher Smith — Thu, 08 May 2014 12:10:37 -0400

I just got done reading this letter in the link. I have my personal feelings on the subject, but I wanted the community view. Was this retired, triple amputee right or wrong for his comments? Should vets be able to share their strife with their leaders once they are no longer under their command?
http://www.secretsofthefed.com/triple-amputee-veterans-fck-letter-obama-presidents-day-goes-viral/

Triple-Amputee Veteran’s F#CK YOU Letter To Obama Goes Viral

Response by SSG Robin Rushlo made May 8 at 2014 12:56 PM

SSG Robin Rushlo — Thu, 08 May 2014 12:56:33 -0400

He is being easy on POTUS. I have even a rougher time and how POTUS treats the military is beyond words. I can not wait for him to leave office so I do not need to hear any more lies on how he takes carre of the military and VETERANS.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2014 1:15 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 May 2014 13:15:22 -0400

Actually I think he is well within his rights. As active SM we cannot publicly do what he did...if we tried we would more than likely find ourselves under some form of retribution. As a vet he is free to express his opinons that he couldn't before, and say the things that other active SM maybe thinking and cannot publicly express. Finally, he has EARNED the privilege to use the right to free speech that so many other use daily without regard to how they got it.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2014 2:03 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 May 2014 14:03:56 -0400

He has the right to say whatever he wants no matter how off base he is. I think what the letter really shows is how much extremism there is on the right towards the POTUS.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made May 8 at 2014 2:46 PM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Thu, 08 May 2014 14:46:36 -0400

He has every right to have written the letter....he has earned the right and no one should question his patriotism or his beliefs because of the letter. He espoused his views and should be applauded for them and his honesty.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2014 3:09 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 May 2014 15:09:21 -0400

Why not? He's no longer in the service and is entitled to his first amendment rights... Lord knows he earned it!

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 8 at 2014 3:57 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Thu, 08 May 2014 15:57:18 -0400

Airman,
First, I want to thank Airman Kolfage and you for your service. After reading his letter, my thoughts are, why make it public and more importantly, who cares? There are many parts to your question and his letter but I am going to boil them down to what I consider important.
To your question should vet be able to share their strife with their leaders, my answer is absolutely, ESPECIALLY if that leader is an elected leader. We live in a Republic, which means those in Washington D.C. are sent there to represent us. It is actually part of their job description to answer questions from ‘we the people’. We do not surrender our citizenship by simply joining the military. If our leaders are not aware of problem, then how can they correct it? For all of the President’s short coming and failures, the fact that he used the Iraqi request that we leave as an easy answer to pull us out, is one of the easiest to write off…especially when considering the major failings and scandals we are now aware of (Fast and Furious, IRS Gate, Benghazi, and [Un]Affordable Care Act).
My thoughts on Airman Kolfage’s letter…I am sorry for his injuries but it is only because of those injuries that I took the time out of my life to read his letter, and I cannot get that time back.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 8 at 2014 4:23 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Thu, 08 May 2014 16:23:41 -0400

Do you mean should vets be able to voice their oppinion about problems or ideas for improvements in the system? Of course!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2014 5:57 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 May 2014 17:57:46 -0400

Agreed, he's out of the Service and is free to exercise his 1st Amendment rights; further, he's personally earned that right through his service; and, he's paid for that right through the sacrifice of his limbs. He also is uniquely positioned to gain the attention of the President. I believe that answers your second question, SPC Smith.

Now, to your first question: was he right or wrong to make those comments? That depends on his intent. There was no solution posed. While he put a good deal of thought into what he said, there was no open door for discussion; there was no potential for engagement from the other side except for POTUS to defend himself or attack; no room for surrender or truce. Lastly, the tone was disrespectful. The ability to disrespect a position of authority such as POTUS does not lie within the argument of whether one agrees or disagrees. If any question my assessment of the tone of the letter, one has no further to look than in the address line to get to the letter: it's very clear the intent. The probable response of POTUS is that this is a bitter individual.

Did he have the right to send the letter? Absolutely.
Did he have good points to his letter? Not all, but a good number.
Was the time and effort spent writing and sending the letter worth it? Not worth the postage it cost to send it. Someone that gave so much to uniquely position himself to gain the ear of POTUS wasted his opportunity to make a thoughtful, intelligent, indefensible argument. Sorry... disappointed.

Response by SFC Matthew Parker made May 9 at 2014 11:32 AM

SFC Matthew Parker — Fri, 09 May 2014 11:32:15 -0400

The question posed was the veteran right or wrong for his comments and should vets be able to share their strife with their leaders once they are no longer under their command?

Well yes a veteran has the right to voice his or her concerns and or opinions and I think veterans deserve to be heard.

The actual comments were biased uneducated and directed anger towards the President of the United States. Nothing the airmen said was factual or relevant to any conversation. There was no question posed or solution offered in his personal attack rant.

But if his venting helps him heal or allows him to mentally cope then he can write one hundred letters. If he can sleep better and start to forgive then he can have my key board and I will mail his letters.

We have earned the right to be heard and paid for that right with pieces of ourselves, so if not us, who? All veterans from the crazy right to the lib left and everywhere in between the political spectrum have two things, the right to express themselves and each other.

So brother, I don't agree with you but I have your back.

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made May 9 at 2014 10:01 PM

SPC Christopher Smith — Fri, 09 May 2014 22:01:44 -0400

I apologize to everyone who shared their views on this topic, and I was not able to respond. I have been very busy at work, and also had some last minute training this week.

I will share my views on this topic with you all now.

I believe that once we have taken off our uniform for the last time officially, we have more so a right than most to share our opinions and almost a responsibility to our brothers and sisters who cannot speak so freely for themselves. This Senior Airman although seemed to be venting, did what many would not by attacking the snakes head, and saying what he believed in an honest air.

Will it be responded to, more than likely not, but he had the right, and the intestinal fortitude to tell the POTUS the truth that I'm sure he doesn't get to hear. Even if some believe he had some other intent for leaking the document, I see it done to show the public that he will not be another letter that disappears in the pile.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2014 7:19 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 19:19:53 -0400

Should vets be able to share their strife with their leaders once they are no longer under their command?

I don't see how this can even be a question. Absolutely, yes. Would you like your free speech limited once you part ways with the Army? I would think not.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2014 12:01 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Sep 2014 00:01:16 -0400

Of course the airman has the right to write a letter but his accusations against the president weren't based on facts but based on his own negative bias against this administration, more specifically the president. Because of that, the author loses all credibility. It’s almost like I felt obligated to read the letter due to his injuries, but the letter to me was an unprofessional rant that wasted my time. I wouldn’t blame the president for not responding, if that was the true intent. Based on the language and tone of the letter, I wouldn't be surprised if the letter was thrown away. There's a right way and a wrong way to professionally express criticism, IMO, this is evidence of the wrong way.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2014 12:06 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Sep 2014 00:06:43 -0400

The simple answer is yes. The freedom of speech applies to everyone not just those you agree with. He is now a civilian and can express what he wishes. He has more then paid the price. Right, wrong or indifferent it is his opinion.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2014 2:38 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Sep 2014 14:38:55 -0400

He has an opinion, and every right to it. He has no more or less right to it than any service member. I didn't find any new information, and factual inaccuracies were common to other documents.

I searched his name, then searched in connection to major news outlets. Then checked his face book page. I read a sampling of mentions of his name. It appeared that he was usually referred to as an expert in military matters. This reflects poorly on the quoting site, not the SrA.

But as to the factual accuracy of his letter, it does not reach the bar of credibility, if any other person had wrote it it would have never been mentioned again.

Take that as you will.

Response by MSG Mitch Dowler made Sep 27 at 2014 11:51 AM

MSG Mitch Dowler — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 11:51:41 -0400

SPC Smith of course vet should be able to share their strife and opinions after they separate and are no longer under the command. After all, to do so while still under the command risks punishment under the UCMJ, and not being selected for schools or promotion. This guy is right and I'm glad to hear his opinion.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Nov 15 at 2014 2:08 AM

Cpl Dennis F. — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 02:08:21 -0500

Sorry, I did not see this as a rant.
I sent a telegram to the white house during the fall of Saigon that was very similar in content. He not only had the right to vent his spleen , but a duty, to all of those he speaks of. Were I him, I would have probably been much more profane.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2015 7:35 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 19:35:34 -0400

He has the right but it is very poor judgement and tacky. Yeah I get the frustration being a triple-amputee but really that is too much. Better way to handle one's feelings or berating family. That is just not cool. Besides Michelle Obama has grown during her time with President Obama on Capitol Hill, with regards to health. I applaud her and she even gave the Sniper movie a thumbs up.

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made Mar 13 at 2015 1:10 PM

SSG Leonard Johnson — Fri, 13 Mar 2015 13:10:56 -0400

Well....I seen this letter before...and it's an awesome letter. However, to answer the question, I'm a Vet....Just because I served, doesn't mean I lost my freedom of speech once I get out....as a matter of fact....Veterans have Special Freedom of Speech rights compared to college boys who never served. You keep that attitude...a person will reduce their ability to get punked.
It is our job as veterans to speak out against this regime and also the future Hillary regime when her reign of terror starts and she comes out against soldiers and vets. (And it will, I served during the slick Willie administration)

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Mar 15 at 2015 8:33 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 20:33:03 -0400

I not only believe that veterans have a right to give full voice to their political views, but also that they have an obligation to do so even it they use that right to vent their spleen. We veterans are the free, unfettered voice of the military.

Regardless of our political affiliations and our ideological proclivities, we tend to resent overwhelmingly when our sacrifices are misdirected or wasted. Given recent events, it is undeniable that the sacrifices of those who served in Afghanistan and the Gulf were wasted.

We Vietnam veterans are sensitive to this. Our sacrifices in Southeast Asia were similarly wasted. Though we succeeded in driving the North Vietnamese invaders back behind their borders, chasing their communist allies with them, at great cost in lives and treasure, the leaders in Washington snatched defeat from the jaws of victory when they pulled all American forces out of South Vietnam and allowed the communists to return and wreck havoc on those poor people.

Isn't this what happened in Iraq? Isn't this what is about to happen again in Afghanistan? Why would anyone be surprised when veterans, especially those who suffered so tragically, object as they see the same stupidity repeated.

I'm willing to bet the farm that the vast majority of those still on active duty are gladdened to hear the veterans speaking out against this crime. Can you imagine how frustrated they would feel if no one spoke these thoughts and they are forced to remain mute?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2015 9:22 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 21:22:16 -0400

I've read a lot of service members writings, many of my right leaning friends forward his stuff to me.
As an American citizen he has every right to say what he wants to whomever. As a veteran, disabled or not, once that DD214 is in hand he can run his mouth until the cows come home.
But...
Regardless of how I feel about his politics or the obama administration's policies, I do feel that his tone brings down his message. If someone were to speak to me in the tone and language he uses, I'd have serious thoughts about his first amendment right might meeting my second amendment right. (Wouldn't do it, but I'd think about it real hard). While I entertain those thoughts, I sure wouldn't be listening to anything else he had to say. If that letter had been addressed to me, I might have made out two paragraphs before it was circular filed.
Now if he's just preaching to the right, so be it. He needs to know that his message is going to stay in that echo chamber and never going to go anywhere. Just like the left echo chamber. The two groups don't meet except in very tightly specific areas.
He wasted an opportunity to do something great. He could have stood up for veterans issues given his unique situation. He could have been a great spokesman for current service members who don't have the same voice while serving.
Instead, he chose an inflammatory tone and style that shuts down any discussion on any issue with his name on it. He might get the opportunity to speak his mind, because of his citizenship, service or disability, but he's guaranteed that no one who doesn't already agree with him will listen to a word he says.
It's a waste and its sad.
Just my .02¢

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Mar 15 at 2015 9:43 PM

SFC Collin McMillion — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 21:43:29 -0400

My only response to this is an old, well known one, "if the shoe fits, wear it"!!!!!!

Response by Sgt Cody Dumont made Mar 15 at 2015 9:50 PM

Sgt Cody Dumont — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 21:50:31 -0400

Great letter

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Mar 16 at 2015 2:07 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 02:07:37 -0400

Oh he's no longer subject to UCMJ? Let the profanity roll out then. What can the government take from him even if he was technically still a service member? He has already left three of his limbs on the battle field. Check this out though, all the President has to do is to call the IRS and have him audited and he'll be harassed for the next 3 or 4 years by the IRS. Was the letter hostile? Well that's FBI and secret service area so he'll be on a no fly list. His he a tea party member? The IRS will definitely want to audit him.

We can voice our opinions but we have to be respectful. Whether if its about the shitty non performing VA whose employees still get bonuses even though they suck or making Veterans pay for part of the TA while tax payers may have to foot the bill to send someone through their first two years of college while they sit on their rear ends expecting me to tax fund their education, we just have to be respectful.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Mar 16 at 2015 9:48 AM

Sgt Adam Jennings — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 09:48:43 -0400

Where do folks keep getting this idea that veterans have to keep tight lipped when it comes to politics?!? We no longer fall under the UCMJ, we are the voice of those still serving. If we don't speak up for them then who the hell will?

Response by SPC David S. made Mar 16 at 2015 9:57 AM

SPC David S. — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 09:57:40 -0400

I think anyone who has sacrificed as such as this airmen has earned the right to say whatever they want. While the content may lack in merit this is how this individual feels and I think its important to allow people to vent and express their frustrations. Sometimes people aren't looking for answers or a response. Sometimes people just need to vent and I'm OK with that.

Response by MSgt Steven Goetsch made Mar 16 at 2015 10:24 AM

MSgt Steven Goetsch — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 10:24:42 -0400

To answer your question, yes he has the right to write it, but the way he went about it was all wrong. His message is much more effective if he leaves off the cheap shots. He also needs to tie in silver spoon with poor leadership. That connection was lost on me. Seems like he is just as resentful to his parents as he is the president.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 10:35 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 10:35:08 -0400

I think he NAILED IT!

Then I'm: WHAT? WAIT? HUH?! Not only does he have the RIGHT to express his disgust, but he ALSO FOUGHT FOR IT. There is no question this man is fully deserving of saying whatever the hell he wants to whomever the hell he wants. I applaud him for saying what must of us OIF/OEF soldiers are feeling but don't either know how to express or have the guts to say it. BRAVO

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 10:40 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 10:40:41 -0400

oops

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 16 at 2015 12:00 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 12:00:58 -0400

The retired SrA is entirely within his First Amendment right to address the President in this way. He is right on target with his comments.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 12:45 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 12:45:23 -0400

Whenever I see the fallout from someone's opinion being aired, I always think of the line from the movie:

The American President (1995),

here's a synapsis:

President Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas):

America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight.

It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours.

Show me that, defend that, and celebrate that in your classrooms.

Then, you can stand up and sing about the "land of the free".

This speech in the 'movie' to me sums up how the 1st amendment makes us the shining light throughout the world. Nowhere else can you voice your opinion without the fear of governmental persecution. Those of us that have lived the military lifestyle defend this entire notion of free speech - and the right to not agree with what someone else says. Since he is no longer a serving member, he has the same rights to free speech under the 1st amendment as the rest of the American civilian populous.

You can agree or disagree with what the individual said, but it is his right as an 'American citizen' to be able to do it. He made no threats, only comments.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 1:25 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 13:25:44 -0400

He's retired. I have not met one single retired veteran who did not have strong opinions about politics, foreign policy, political leadership etc. You may not agree with what he said or how he said it but we live in a nation that allows him to say it and he paid for that right in blood.

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Mar 16 at 2015 1:49 PM

LCpl Steve Wininger — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 13:49:11 -0400

This shouldn't even be a question. Absolutely, he fought for this country and sacrificed greatly. If he cannot speak out, than one has to ask... what the hell are we fighting for? He was not wrong for anything.

Look at what John Kerry done after he left the service, and he has been a senator, presidential contender and is now Secretary of State. If anyone suggests that a person, especially after leaving service cannot voice their opinion to their leader then they really did fight in vain.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 4:37 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 16:37:39 -0400

He is right weather he isn't using tact is besides the point. SOMEONE MEDS TO VET HIS ATTENTION PULL HIS HEAD OUT ASS. HE NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ANYTHING. HOW BOUT ANYTHING HE PROMISED. Any jerk that supports Obama hates America.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 5:18 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 17:18:42 -0400

Perfectly within his rights, but wrong. His views shouldn't be publicized as the way soldiers feel today. What he sacrificed should be commended, but just because he sacrificed doesn't make him right. There are many war heroes who sacrificed that agree with POTUS and many that don't. His words shouldn't be painted on how Soldiers feel, but how one felt. Loyalty is one of the army values. I'm big on that one. We spend too much time complaining about those that lead us. Sure, there are times to challenge leadership, but you do that with tact! This letter was attacking the president the whole time. And quite honestly, I don't like anyone attacking my president. Sure, I'm not an Obama campaign supporter. I voted for the other guy, twice. I'll still vote for the other guy. But if you do your research, you'll find McCain has been an advocate to cut military pay and retirement benefits. When I retire, I will never use my service to my nation as credibility to speak against POTUS in support of a political side. Pawn blame on who you want. You have earned your right to the first amendment more so than most of Americans, to include me. My sacrifice has not been as much as yours. But if you want me to support your views, learn how to tell the boss you don't like what he's done and use tact. There are many of you that have a political stance that will disagree with me. But what if this happened to pres bush? Wait, it did. And then, I was screaming the same thing. Standards don't change because of your personal opinion about something. Respect the office! Not the man who's in it. Just as Maj. Dick winters told Cpt Sobel. "Respect the rank, not the man"! When you active duty soldiers get out, say what you want. But for now, don't let your opinions get the better of you. You're a Soldier, act like one!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 5:33 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 17:33:34 -0400

BTW, he doesn't speak for active duty soldiers. He speaks for himself. I applaud all of you retired and "out" people. I envy you. I can't wait to be there. But my opinion and views are my own. I don't need you to attack the president for me. I would never attack the president. Even if I don't agree with him. This letter doesn't speak for Soldiers. It speaks for one airman and others who dknt like POTUS.

Response by Cpl Mark McMiller made Mar 16 at 2015 11:43 PM

Cpl Mark McMiller — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 23:43:04 -0400

Yea, he has the right to say it and I think he makes some valid points.

Response by MSgt Tim Parkhurst made Mar 17 at 2015 11:10 AM

MSgt Tim Parkhurst — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 11:10:33 -0400

Veterans should - and do - have all the rights and privileges of any American citizen. If a similar letter had been written by some Hollywod actor (that would never happen), no one would be questioning his right to speak up. Why are we in the military and veteran community so hard on our own? Is it because we're so used to voluntarily living under unusual restrictions to our rights and liberties while on active duty? Do we unconsciously assume those restrictions to our 1st Amendment rights continue after we take off our uniform? The Senior Airmen - right, wrong or indifferent - has every right to say what he wants. And every military man and woman should recognize that these are the very rights we fight to provide for our fellow citizens. At some point, we all take off the uniform and rejoin society. Would you then expect to have your rights questioned? I think not. Agree or disagree with his point, but don't question the man's right to speak his peace!

Response by PO2 Todd Doutre made Mar 17 at 2015 7:41 PM

PO2 Todd Doutre — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 19:41:30 -0400

You bet he has the right to voice his opinion. He Mr. President fought for that right. Kudos to this hero for taking a stand.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 18 at 2015 12:10 AM

COL Charles Williams — Wed, 18 Mar 2015 00:10:42 -0400

While I believe we should all respect the office of the Commander and Chief, I also believe we in the military preserve our rights... one of which is freedom of speech. Brian Kolfage has given more than most of us to this Country, and he more than most has earned the right to speak his mind. President Obama has no concept of real service or sacrifice for the nation.

Response by CW3 Craig Linghor made Mar 18 at 2015 9:46 AM

CW3 Craig Linghor — Wed, 18 Mar 2015 09:46:19 -0400

He is not venting, he is mourning not only his personal loss but the loss of his buddies. He is afraid the sacrifice was in vain and he maybe be right. I challenge all of you not believe for one second that any of our political class gives a rip about anything or anyone. They may talk the talk but they only care about getting re-elected. You see how fast they pillaged the defense department rank and file after the war so they could spend more money on weapons system because the military industrial complex funds their campaigns. Well I'm here to tell them "the American soldier is a weapons system."