VetSpective: Democracy Is Dying — Veterans, We Must Defend It Again

CPT Alex Gallo — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 11:10:06 -0400

Right, left. Republicans, Democrats. Libertarians, Liberals. Conservatives, Conservationists. Trump, Never-Trump.

These are just some of the frames through which we, as a nation, have contemplated American politics and have driven American political discourse. Yet, some believe that politics in the United States is no longer left versus right. Rather, they argue, it is now nationalist versus globalist.

There are certainly structural changes occurring within our politics. But this framing fails to capture what should actually be the dominant frame within our politics.

The great political challenge of our time is between those who support, defend, and believe in democracy — and those who do not.

In short, democracy is dying.

And recently departed national security advisor, Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster said as much in a speech last week in Washington DC:

“Tonight, we celebrate this proud history at a critical moment for our nations and the world – critical because we are now engaged in a fundamental contest between our free and open societies and closed and repressive systems….We are presently engaged in competitions with repressive and authoritarian systems to defend our way of life, to preserve our free and open societies.”

This contest is not just playing out overseas. It is unfolding right here at home.

A recent Washington Post-University of Maryland poll found that negative attitudes among Americans in relation to democracy continues to rise with the percentage doubling in the last three years: from 18-percent to 36-percent. In the same poll, seven in ten Americans said that our country’s divisions are as big as they were during the Vietnam War era. Moreover, 71-percent of respondents said that “problems in American politics” have reached a dangerously low point.

And among Millennials, the retreat from democracy is even more alarming. According to an October 2017 study by Pew Research, 46-percent of Millennials are more likely to prefer technocracy to democracy. Equally concerning, in another survey published in the Journal of Democracy, one-quarter of Millennials agreed that “choosing leaders through free elections is unimportant.” In fact, young people surveyed in both Europe in the United States have such a negative view of democracy that they are open to trying something new. Say, a military coup…

That’s right, shockingly only 36-percent of Millennials in Europe and 19-percent of Millennials in the United States “believe military takeover is not legitimate in a democracy.”

And this is all happening within a context of Russian President Vladimir Putin aggressively pursuing a new form of warfare known as “maskirovka” — a warfare that attacks the most precious assets in the United States — the American people — to amplify and enlarge negative attitudes about our democracy. An insidious strategy of undermining us from within.

As McMaster asserts:

“He [Putin] may believe that his aggressive actions in the parks of Salisbury and cyberspace, in the air and on the high seas can undermine our confidence, our institutions, and our values. Perhaps he believes that our free nations are weak and will not respond – will not respond to his provocations.”

So, what does this all mean for us?

We, Veterans, must defend democracy again — but now here at home.

Veterans must become the unifying voice that protects our democracy. We must support the will of the people by running for and participating in elections. We must advocate for the rule of law over the power of any individual. We must demonstrate the power of free societies to create and build. And we must defend our Constitution and the values and principles of enlightenment that underpin it. Why? Because, simply put, unlike many Americans, we have seen the alternative — up close and personal.

We have been eyewitness to the torture, enslavement, oppression, and murder of communist and authoritarian regimes. We, veterans, must stand up against those who either glamorize or apologize in the unwitting service to authoritarian and repressive regimes.

There is no doubt that democratic self-governance requires an enlightened citizenry. We must also invest in education — particularly civics education. And we must focus on and celebrate the strength and power of democracy and free peoples. Again, McMaster:

“...Russian aggression is strengthening our resolve and our confidence. We might all help Mr. Putin understand his grave error. We might show him the beaches of Normandy, where lingering craters and bullet holes demonstrate the West’s will to sacrifice to preserve our freedom. We might bring him to our concert halls and theaters, where the music and art of our people reveal our freedom to create, imagine, and to dream. We might take him to our universities, where the free exchange of ideas among young men and women displays our freedom to learn, to speak, and to achieve our highest aims. We might lead him to the stately buildings here in Washington, where inscriptions carved deep into stone proclaim that we are free to worship, equal under the law, and opposed to every form of tyranny over the mind of man.”

We have a new mission. A mission to defend our democracy — in our communities, our states, and in our country. Let us become the stalwart stewards of our democracy, chief advocates for our liberty, and thoughtful caretakers of our founding.

My fellow Veterans, our service to the nation is only beginning.

We must defend democracy — from dying.

Alex Gallo is the author of “VetSpective” and a veteran.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Apr 24 at 2018 11:12 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 11:12:28 -0400

I am BEYOND SORRY to hear this news.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Apr 24 at 2018 11:30 AM

MCPO Roger Collins — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 11:30:21 -0400

The so-called danger to our Constitutional Republic is that we have an underground element that believes they know more that the voting public and are determined to effect the outcome of our Constitutionally elected officials. All we, as active duty military, and veterans need to do is be true to the oath you took when you joined the military.

"The deliberations of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 were held in strict secrecy. Consequently, anxious citizens gathered outside Independence Hall when the proceedings ended in order to learn what had been produced behind closed doors. The answer was provided immediately. A Mrs. Powel of Philadelphia asked Benjamin Franklin, “Well, Doctor, what have we got, a republic or a monarchy?” With no hesitation whatsoever, Franklin responded, “A republic, if you can keep it.” (Benjamin Franklin) "

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Apr 24 at 2018 2:27 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 14:27:39 -0400

CPT Alex Gallo This long treatise is along the same lines and worrysome. I DO NOT KNOW WHO AUTHORED THIS….SURE MAKES YOU THINK !
How do civil wars happen?
Two or more sides disagree on who runs the country. And they can't settle the question through elections because they don't even agree that elections are how you decide who's in charge.
That's the basic issue here. Who decides who runs the country? When you hate each other but accept the election results, you have a country. When you stop accepting election results, you have a countdown to a civil war.
The Mueller investigation is about removing President Trump from office and overturning the results of an election. We all know that. But it's not the first time they've done this. The first time a Republican president was elected this century, they said he didn't really win. The Supreme Court gave him the election. There's a pattern here.
What do sure odds of the Democrats rejecting the next Republican president really mean? It means they don't accept the results of any election that they don't win. It means they don't believe that transfers of power in this country are determined by elections.
That's a civil war.
There's no shooting. At least not unless you count the attempt to kill a bunch of Republicans at a charity baseball game practice. But the Democrats have rejected our system of government.
This isn't dissent. It's not disagreement. You can hate the other party. You can think they're the worst thing that ever happened to the country. But then you work harder to win the next election. When you consistently reject the results of elections that you don't win, what you want is a dictatorship. Your very own dictatorship.
The only legitimate exercise of power in this country, according to Democrats, is its own. Whenever Republicans exercise power, it's inherently illegitimate. The Democrats lost Congress. They lost the White House. So what did they do? They began trying to run the country through Federal judges and bureaucrats. Every time that a Federal judge issues an order saying that the President of the United States can't scratch his own back without the judge's say so, that's the civil war.
Our system of government is based on the constitution, but that's not the system that runs this country. The Democrats' system is that any part of government that it runs gets total and unlimited power over the country.
If the Democrats are in the White House, then the president can do anything. And I mean anything. He can have his own amnesty for illegal aliens. He can fine you for not having health insurance. His power is unlimited. He's a dictator.
But when Republicans get into the White House, suddenly the President can't do anything. He isn't even allowed to undo the illegal alien amnesty that his predecessor illegally invented. A Democrat in the White House has 'discretion' to completely decide every aspect of immigration policy. A Republican doesn't even have the 'discretion' to reverse him. That's how the game is played That's how our country is run. Sad but true, although the left hasn't yet won that particular fight.
When a Democrat is in the White House, states aren't even allowed to enforce immigration law. But when a Republican is in the White House, states can create their own immigration laws. Under Obama, a state wasn't allowed to go to the bathroom without asking permission. But under Trump, Jerry Brown can go around saying that California is an independent republic and sign treaties with other countries.
The Constitution has something to say about that.
Whether it's Federal or State, Executive, Legislative or Judiciary, the left moves power around to run the country. If it controls an institution, then that institution is suddenly the supreme power in the land. This is what I call a moving dictatorship.
Donald Trump has caused the Shadow Government to come out of hiding: Professional government is a guild. Like medieval guilds. You can't serve in it if you're not a member. If you haven't been indoctrinated into its arcane rituals. If you aren't in the club. And Trump isn't in the club. He brought in a bunch of people who aren't in the club with him.
Now we're seeing what the pros do when amateurs try to walk in on them. They spy on them, they investigate them and they send them to jail. They use the tools of power to bring them down.
That's not a free country.
It's not a free country when FBI agents who support Hillary take out an 'insurance policy' against Trump winning the election. It's not a free country when Obama officials engage in massive unmasking of the opposition. It's not a free country when the media responds to the other guy winning by trying to ban the conservative media that supported him from social media. It's not a free country when all of the above collude together to overturn an election because the guy who wasn't supposed to win did.
Have no doubt, we're in a civil war between conservative volunteer government and a leftist Democrat professional government.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2018 2:36 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 14:36:34 -0400

Well thought out and written.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2018 5:38 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 17:38:01 -0400

I looked for articles with a similar sentiment and found this. I don't vouch for or necessarily agree. Just sharing. https://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2018/4/23/17233952/trump-democracy-decay-decline-coup-war-collapse-impeachment

The myth of an ending: why even removing Trump from office won’t save American democracy

It feels like this moment in history deserves a definitive ending. It won’t get one.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Apr 24 at 2018 10:46 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 22:46:02 -0400

Sorry to be the one to point this out, but it needs pointing out. We didn't sign on to defend democracy. We swore to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic". Sadly, we haven't been doing a very good job. The government has grown far beyond the enumerated powers. The three branches of government have been usurped by the bureaucracy and the separation of powers is gone. All powers - executive, legislative, and judicial - are now consolidated in federal bureaus and agencies. It's now like the Cold War. They are at war with us while we pretend that peace reigns. We need a Ronald Reagan to kick us in the pants and put us on the offensive before its too late. I fear it may already be too late...

Response by CPT Don Kemp made Apr 25 at 2018 12:31 AM

CPT Don Kemp — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 00:31:45 -0400

Agree 100%, CPT Gallo. The sad thing is, Nikita Kruschev laid out the Communist plan of attack more than 50 years ago. They have destroyed the moral fiber of society through war on families, promiscuous sexual behavior, taking over our colleges and school system with progressive thought, extolling the virtues of socialism while downplaying the beliefs of our Founding Fathers. To stop the damage, we must restore our belief in God, rebuild the family, and take back our schools.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Apr 25 at 2018 9:13 AM

PO3 Phyllis Maynard — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 09:13:43 -0400

CPT Alex Gallo you highlighted spot on, nationalism, globalism, our political system going self-definition awry, trying to regulate cyberspace, and who is left to fight for resturation of the country we fought for, the ideals we defended, and the sacrifice we made - we the veterans. Active duty members are bound by the government it serves (whatever it happens to be at the time); but, we, veterans can advocate for what was fought for and speak those words active duty cannot. The proof is in the pudding, the government is slowly putting veterans back to a priority set many years ago before the establishment of Veteran Service Organizations.

Response by Susan Foster made Apr 25 at 2018 9:56 AM

Susan Foster — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 09:56:41 -0400

One of the most important parts of this, to me, is "....requires an enlightened citizenry. We must also invest in education — particularly civics education. And we must focus on and celebrate the strength and power of democracy and free peoples." If millennials (and many people I know who were born and raised here) don't understand how the 3 branches of government work and what they do, what the Constitution says, how we develop policy and how that relates to law, how Congress works (or is supposed to), etc., we end up with a citizenry that only cares about what they want at the moment--and it's usually what is the most financially beneficial for them.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2018 1:13 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 13:13:43 -0400

Your posts always get me to thinking Alex.

Freedom...which has many definitions, for many different people, requires maturity to endure. A society has to "agree" on limits in order to find the compromise that allows citizens of many various principles, beliefs, desires, experiences and fears to live under one law.

I believe that when our Founding Fathers drafted the Declaration of Independence, there was no more "unity" among the colonial populace then, there is among our population today. Neighbors, even relatives fought against and killed one another in the Revolution...many people left where they were born, never to return. An otherwise brave, capable and honorable leader even "turned his coat" at the last gasp. Our birth as an independent nation was by no means without "complications"...and many of those were addressed in the Constitution; though it too was hotly contested. Some felt to "grant" any rights, was to admit to un-spoken restrictions on others. Their opponents feared that a failure to detail our rights under law would leave too much ambiguity whereby legislators...or the masses...could become tyrants in their own right.

What they came up with at last wasn't a poetic piece of rhetoric written by "out of touch" fops...but a serious framework for uniting people in a common precept of law. Despite this noble beginning, it came with two unavoidable, and perhaps mortal flaws...First, it left many unprotected, and second, it assumed a commonality of "moral law" that has never been adequately resolved. The former left wide subsets of peoples without rights...leading to the systemic annihilation of one race, and the institutional enslavement of another. The latter has left us unable to answer the most basic questions regarding limits on what is "right" vs. what is "wrong"...at least in any way that can be universally accepted.

We paid for the first flaw in blood as brother fought against brother, and as society has continued to war among ourselves even into the present; seeking vengeance every bit as much as justice. We will see where the second takes us; will the balance between loyalty to the divine...and to state be tested? Should that ever happen, how can people choose between a King in Heaven...and a government of men?

To preserve the fragile balance of our freedoms, especially as veterans, I believe we have to be willing to admit the wrongs of the past...but so too the great steps made at great sacrifice to rectify them. If we've shared service under duress...perhaps we can lead in sharing a brotherhood that transcends race. If we've known the risk of death, perhaps we can show respect for those who hope for life beyond death...even if some among us choose not to expect it as such. Maybe we can agree that real freedom is the right to live in accordance with individual conscience...rather than insist upon a world where all live under the oppression of collective thought, even when demanded by a majority.

If we can do that, then again...it requires our society to be mature enough to make compromises. So too, would it require leaders with the integrity to avoid using the hammer of law to stamp their own currency of greed, fear and reprisal.

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Apr 25 at 2018 2:38 PM

SPC Erich Guenther — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 14:38:30 -0400

I totally disagree with the premise Democracy is dying, all signs are it is reasserting itself after some significant post 9-11 erosion (which started under George W Bush and got worse under Obama). We are going through a period of change for the better and we will have a stronger country as the final outcome. Some peoples feelings will be hurt along the way and definitely a lot of rotten politicians will be shoved by the wayside. Change is for the better.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Apr 26 at 2018 12:09 AM

SSG Warren Swan — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 00:09:18 -0400

I see what you're saying, I'd agree with what you're saying, and on some points, I'd personally support some of your ideals. Having veterans as the "sole defenders" or even implying such places us on a pedestal and back into that "if you're not one of us, you're against us" mentality. Works great and is needed in combat, but I don't think that is the way forward back at home. I believe as a veteran, we would need a unifying message beyond the rally cry of the National Anthem and use of the Flag to wrap ourselves around.

McMaster was screwed from the start. You cannot be the "star" of the show when the actual "star" of the show doesn't recognize your intellect and places his own desires before your experience based knowledge. All of the former Flag officers who were seen as either "rising stars" or "adults in the administration" have all been minimalized by the very administration that supposedly made them "bigger" and "better". This is not unseen by the younger population, and is another nail in a large coffin when you look at what is coming into the military and what is leaving it. Enlisting has always been a variety of various reasons and that is how it should be. When you see the reasons why folks are leaving becoming more and more of the same, Houston we have a serious problem, and the Eagle has missed it's mark. We've allowed fake "patriotism", being "heroes", and "self entitlement" due to the wearing of the uniform, trinkets and flair bestowed upon the uniform, and a worsening political climate to erode the very fabric that made the military great. This isn't a Trump issue, it's been long in the making. We've allowed the uniform to "segregate" us from those we're supposed to defend, and made those who would normally support us feel they "have" to do it to justify being "Murican" rather than being American and respecting those that are sent forward to fight, and us loving and respecting them in return...not by force. Mattis when he made his "Hold the line" speech spoke the absolute truth, but we're not holding our end. AD, RET, Vets, whatever. We're failing ourselves and failing those who come behind us.

Having a coup serves no one. None have lasted without serious uses and abuses of force. We've lasted over 240yrs of crooked legislators, prejudiced legislators, legislators who actually wanted to serve the nation for the good of the nation and legislators who have inspired the nation. We need to find those who are in the latter two being we have a boatload of the first two sitting in various political parties, both parties in congress and lower legislators, and have fallen to the point where you cannot be in any office without being a part of the partisan political process. We are not electing those who represent us. When that day comes, you'll begin to see independent thinkers who aren't tied to party over country, bought influence, or influence from outside nations to include those we call "allies". IF the US were to actually have a "coup" it would need to come through the ballot box, the use of legislators who are actually "of the people", and through voters who finally see that the last 100yrs have only hurt the masses and made certain elements of the US stronger when they definitely should be weaker. At no time should a billionaire control a parties mission through their purse strings over the needs of the masses. The "coup" the US needs is through intelligence, the open ability to debate, the truth in holding leaders accountable to the rule of law, NOT to the tune of their bank account or last name. Make them as equal at their levels as the poorest person in this nation.

We don't need more vets in office. They're already in there in good numbers on both sides of the isle and have gone on a steady stream of failing not just us, but the nation as a whole. The very ones who we saw with hope as a means to "turn it around" and "instill discipline", are the very ones keeping the country on a collision course with stupidity the same way those in office who never served are. Just because you were a commando, officer, or even wore the uniform does not make you a leader, an effective legislator, or even a decent human being, you're just another asshole in a suit who got lucky and used your service as a stepping stone into office.

The military needs to again be apolitical in everything we do. We need to reinforce that belief and rule in the veteran community to reinforce it in the ranks who are still in. Sure we got out, but many still have the ability to influence and should continue to do so within the framework and structure the military gave them. It gives us credibility. We didn't forget where we came from. McMaster and Mattis are the closest things we have to look at to see that being political and military CAN work without actually being political. Both place country over party, and that is what our core mission should be as veterans. We OWE the country this, and we too are failing.

The military should serve the nation....not the nation serve the military.

Response by SSgt Tim Pokrywka made Apr 26 at 2018 2:32 AM

SSgt Tim Pokrywka — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 02:32:13 -0400

This madness has to stop.

Response by PO1 Ted Jagen made Apr 26 at 2018 10:20 AM

PO1 Ted Jagen — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 10:20:18 -0400

TM1/SS Ted Jagen - Barring the politics of it all. Actually see which side is removing rights or changing rights that we have all had since written in the Constitution. To me, the side trying to persuade people that the government is the best protector and provider of the people is a major alarm. Listen to those politicians that speak of taking things from people and saying the government can provide for all people. IF you believe the government knows best, then we have a problem. If you think your life will be better, think again. Even in socialist countries, their are different social levels. Venezuela is going through socialist change now and just removed guns from all people. Genocide is next. I will always stand for the side that is least likely to limit my freedom.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Apr 26 at 2018 1:10 PM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 13:10:28 -0400

Most Americans go on about their lives & tolerate the stupidity that passes for government with great patience.

Ask any parent & they’ll tell you eventually patience wears thin and foolishness is brought to an end.

Patience is wearing thin...

Response by 1LT Jason R. Clark made Apr 27 at 2018 8:56 AM

1LT Jason R. Clark — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 08:56:52 -0400

The United States of America is a Constitutional Republic not a Democracy.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Apr 27 at 2018 9:25 AM

Capt Tom Brown — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 09:25:26 -0400

I'm doing all I can at my end and will continue to do so as long as I can!

Response by SFC James William Bolt [ 40 Yards ] made Apr 27 at 2018 10:45 AM

SFC James William Bolt [ 40 Yards ] — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 10:45:01 -0400

When they is no right or wrong When you have no rudder as you sail through life . when you take vows that you do not keep them when you have children that do not know their is a family life out their with both a mother and father that care for them and keep them safe , when you have been brain wash to the point that you have no thought of your own you just parrot words from other source when you live your life by conning your way through life . when life get hard you take the easy out or blames some one else with all of this their is very little to defend. Sign 40 yards

Response by PO1 William Puckett made Apr 27 at 2018 3:42 PM

PO1 William Puckett — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 15:42:06 -0400

We as retired and active duty military no matter what branch need to speak up and vote against this liberal political agenda in all states

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Apr 28 at 2018 1:25 AM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 01:25:14 -0400

Unfortunately it is from within as much or more than from external enemies. We have to lead by example and more of us need follow on careers in the public school system. We have to educate America's children.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Apr 28 at 2018 3:16 PM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 15:16:22 -0400

I disagree... different societies sociologically evolve at different rates, I perceive the rationale for the concept, though I disagree with the conclusion, to me, democracy is by no means dying...it might evolve, it won’t die, of that I’m quite certain,,,,

Response by SGT Keith Wise made May 1 at 2018 8:24 AM

SGT Keith Wise — Tue, 01 May 2018 08:24:15 -0400

Two things

1) Anonymous Quote:
There is no one in government that represents me, and whether I vote or not, this will not change. I am governed by leaders I did not choose, that enact policies I do not believe in, that are paid with money I earned, that I did not consent to give them. In every meaningful way, I am completely and utterly disenfranchised… and so is 99% of the public, voters or not.

2) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made May 2 at 2018 5:12 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Wed, 02 May 2018 17:12:42 -0400

Someone who knew this better than anyone :

Extract from Thomas Jefferson to William Stephens Smith

Paris Nov. 13. 1787.

the people can not be all, & always, well informed. the part which is wrong [. . .] will be discontented in proportion to the importance of the facts they misconceive. if they remain quiet under such misconceptions it is a lethargy, the forerunner of death to the public liberty. we have had 13. states independant 11. years. there has been one rebellion. that comes to one rebellion in a century & a half for each state. what country before ever existed a century & half without a rebellion? & what country can preserve it’s liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? let them take arms. the remedy is to set them right as to facts, pardon & pacify them. what signify a few lives lost in a century or two? the tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots & tyrants. it is it’s natural manure.

Response by SPC Jon Rogers made May 2 at 2018 9:56 PM

SPC Jon Rogers — Wed, 02 May 2018 21:56:29 -0400

Capt Gallo has illuminated the situation here in America today. Has any of you seen the YouTube video by KGB Defector Yuri Bezmenov? Google him and watch it. The Interview was 30 years ago and you can see the results all around in our country. News Media peddling propaganda and calling it News. University students demanding dissenting opinions to be stopped. New words like "MicroAggressions" for which Universities have Officers to enforce these non-criminal acts such as calling someone a word that THEY disagree with. Millennials demanding gun confiscation. Organizations funding foreign immigrants to violate our borders. Not to mention Government Officials being judged by a different standard than Citizens. I could go on and on but Bezmenov lays it out clearly. WE'VE BEEN CULTURALLY ATTACKED and have not defended ourselves. YES, we Veterans know the price everyone will pay if we descend into Civil War which is exactly where they are trying to shove us (stage 3) so they can "Normalize" us into a Socialist commune. Gentlemen, we're not TRAINED for this because this wasn't foreseen. This is a philosophical/psychological battle style mission. But I agree, only Veterans can save the country now. And we need to start by defending Moral Americanism and taking back our Education system. WE need to organize to do this. I can see by the comments and the agreement many understand the gravity of our situation. If any of you are interested, I'm preparing a Philosophical Basic Training Manual for use by any GROUP who wishes to defend our Liberty. (Yes, Cpt. Durish, it's not Democracy, it's Liberty and our Republic that we're losing) God bless America.

Response by PO1 Ted Woitazek made May 2 at 2018 11:18 PM

PO1 Ted Woitazek — Wed, 02 May 2018 23:18:51 -0400

We don't live in a democracy, we live in a constitutional republic. A republic is where we send people to represent our interests in the government. Our US Constitution contains how our government is set up and runs. Within the Constitution is the Bill of rights, those rights protect those of the individual over those of the state. WE AREN'T A DEMOCRACY!!

Response by PO2 Marty Sharpe made May 4 at 2018 10:30 AM

PO2 Marty Sharpe — Fri, 04 May 2018 10:30:52 -0400

It is. The latest generation knows nothing about communism and socialism. They believe it is great to be taken care of.
I am trying to be positive but that is difficult.
Glad I am 75 and don’t have to watch this for too many more years.
In other words I think we have lost it.
I hope I am wrong.

Response by SGT Tj Casiano made May 4 at 2018 11:34 AM

SGT Tj Casiano — Fri, 04 May 2018 11:34:54 -0400

It's really disheartening to see the division in our country, as well as the attacks on the first and second amendment since our current president took office. I'm a veteran so I feel that I can speak freely on political matters. I supported our president during his campaign and knew that he was the one to lead the country and our military. President Trump is decisive and does not speak out of both sides of his mouth whenever he does speak. It's refreshing after 8 years of President Obama to see someone who has the confidence and decisiveness to lead our country and our Armed Forces. unfortunately, there is a backlash in our country because we didn't have a president who was straightforward and honest with the American people before President Trump. I think a lot of light weights are in a State of Shock. I am just happy that we have a Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces who leads our country the way a did commander and leader in the military leads their troops. As a veteran it's very refreshing to see that type of leadership, but I think it frightens a lot of people who support the Establishment and status quo. I know that our country is being led in the way it ought to be, but a lot of Americans seem to be more concerned with what the President says rather than what he does.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made May 4 at 2018 1:16 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Fri, 04 May 2018 13:16:18 -0400

I wish democracy would die. We do not live in a democracy, we live in a Republic. There is a difference. We pledge allegiance not to a democracy but to a ...Republic.

Response by PO3 Grant Skiles made May 7 at 2018 9:42 AM

PO3 Grant Skiles — Mon, 07 May 2018 09:42:37 -0400

I do not feel that Democracy in itself is dying. What we as citizens of the United Staes are doing is allowing it to get stale. We keep on voting in the same individuals even when we know that they are not doing anything to help the people. We are supporting other countries before we take care of our own people first. We are supporting illegals before we support American citizens first. we have allowed our media to become a propaganda outlet for the Left. We need to have term limits. written in. George Washington started the idea of term limits and this was followed until the early 1900's. Roosevelt was the first and only President to run and win an election for President 3X. This was followed by adding an amendment allowing a President 10 years only. This helped stop greed and a possible formation of a dictatorship or other form of government. We now need to do the same thing with our Congress as well as Supreme Court. Without new leadership our government gets stagnant. This is were a Democracy turns bad for the people.

Response by LCpl Jason C. Willis made May 8 at 2018 2:30 PM

LCpl Jason C. Willis — Tue, 08 May 2018 14:30:35 -0400

Republic. Our forefathers did not swear their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to create a democracy. Democracy is 6 wolves and a sheep voting over what is for dinner.

Had you paid attention in history class earning that commission I wouldn't have to explain rudimentary shit to you.

Go have a talk with Benjamin Franklin.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made May 8 at 2018 3:59 PM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Tue, 08 May 2018 15:59:47 -0400

not to be disrespectful Mr Gallo - but you deliberately misconstrue our countries government with democracy - which is disingenuous to say the least - The United States is a representative republic, based upon the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Please spare the strawman arguments as well, theres not enough straw in world to stuff all the ones in your piece. Are there issues in the United States - absolutely - political polarization fueled by a dishonest media designed to keep the masses in opposition to each other - the whole notion of identity politics is to keep people focused on what makes them different as opposed to what makes us all the same, thus continuing the "tribalism" efforts of the race baiters (Sharpton, Spencer), Soros funding the socialist progressive left and antifa, the medias subtle endorsement of Antifa and people like them utilizing violence in order to silence political discourse. How the left has effectively condemned over 300 million citizens as racist, bigots, homophobes, transphobes, Nazis, fascists, misogynist, sexist, basement dwelling , deplorable incels that live in "flyover" states in order to dehumanize,isolate, and denigrate these people instead of having real dialogue, how our education system teaches our youth what to think instead of how to think critically. How the right has absolutely no idea what to do now that they have control of all three branches of government - the whole thing is a shitstorm - and as long as big money can contribute to a political candidate, its not going to change.

Response by PVT Raymond Lopez made May 11 at 2018 7:39 AM

PVT Raymond Lopez — Fri, 11 May 2018 07:39:53 -0400

I have spent my whole life since I was seventeen years old in the military and law enforcement and I have lost count of the number of times I sworn an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America against all enemies foreign and domestic. One of our basic rights is that we are innocent until trial by a jury of our peers. Now if in excess of passion we want to forego that then we open the floodgates to everything including summary execution, death squads and even concentration camps!! THINK VERY CAREFULLY ABOUT IT!!!

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2018 8:40 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 May 2018 20:40:15 -0400

This is beautifully worded, but it gives no specific concerns and has no solutions.

Paul Harvey's "If I Were the Devil" has a similar tone to it, and that was back in '64.

Response by CPL James Scollard made May 12 at 2018 7:02 PM

CPL James Scollard — Sat, 12 May 2018 19:02:20 -0400

The government of the United States is by definition a Democratic Socialist Republic. We elect representatives to representour interests in the day to day decisions that provide social programs for our citizenry.
Money in politics has modified it into an oligarcy, where the wealthy control popular opinions by using their wealth to influence the population, hold leverage over our elected representatives, and slant policies to their own preferences. Both parties are subject to this influence.
We pay more out of pocket than other countrues because our government does less for the citizenry than other countries. This only further solidifies the oligary's piwer over everything.
Stating that social programs (the socialist agendas we hate like bridges, roads, schools, police and fire departments) are the downfall of democracy is an agenda of the wealthy and powerful to trick you into fighting against your own best interests. Its literally what the Tea Party was created to do in fact. In fact these programs are the only reason to have a government at all. Healthcare, education, defense.
Dont be fooled brothers and sisters.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made May 15 at 2018 9:38 AM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Tue, 15 May 2018 09:38:36 -0400

A Republic is governed different than a Democracy. The key part of our nation's governance is that in the end the citizens decide - not the Rulers, regardless of what title they are given or what title they assume. Citizens vote. Non-citizens do not vote. If a person that has the franchise of the vote but does not vote - they are declaring themselves as non-citizens.

Response by LTC William Bridgeman made May 16 at 2018 1:52 PM

LTC William Bridgeman — Wed, 16 May 2018 13:52:43 -0400

How many times must it be repeated - WE DON'T LIVE IN A DEMOCRACY!

Our founders loathed and despised democracy as ultimately unworkable. That's why they created a representative Republic and the electoral college!

“Democracy will soon degenerate into an anarchy, such an anarchy that every man will do what is right in his own eyes and no man's life or property or reputation or liberty will be secure, and every one of these will soon mould (sic) itself into a system of subordination of all the moral virtues and intellectual abilities, all the powers of wealth, beauty, wit and science, to the wanton pleasures, the capricious will, and the execrable cruelty of one or a very few.” —John Adams

"The known propensity of a democracy is to licentiousness which the ambitious call, and ignorant believe to be liberty." —Fisher Ames, speech in the Massachusetts Ratifying Convention, 1788

"We are now forming a republican government. Real liberty is neither found in despotism or the extremes of democracy, but in moderate governments." - Alexander Hamilton

"Democracy is nothing more than mob rule, where 51% of the people may take away the rights of the other 49%." .”—Thomas Jefferson

Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote. - Benjamin Franklin

Response by CPT George Langley made May 27 at 2018 12:21 PM

CPT George Langley — Sun, 27 May 2018 12:21:54 -0400

I disagree. I'm not going to argue about every detail, but the bureaucracy is a fact of life for any government, and ours has done as good a job as any in staying apolitical. Where the politics enters into it is that Congress both passes the basic laws that authorizer bureaucracy to do things, and most important of all Congress holds the purse strings, funding or defunding any bureaucracy it wants to. That is part one. Part two is the President appointing the heads of all the bureaucratic agencies.

Nobody in the US government, either politician or bureaucrat, is out to destroy democracy. They differ in where they think we should go, and some of our politicians have been found to be personally corrupt, but they are still responsive to the will of the people. In fact, your tone and that of most others who post here indicates that you should be very happy with what we have right now. Why aren't you?

So, stop whining if things aren't going your way and be a real patriot, not a sniveling malcontent.

Response by SPC David Webster made Jun 5 at 2018 11:40 AM

SPC David Webster — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 11:40:43 -0400

Here's a curios thought ... Why does everyone keep calling our great nation a "Democracy"? After much heated debate in the early days of this country between "republicans" (not the political party we know today, but rather an ideological perspective), "anti-republicans", "federalists", "anti-federalists", and others, our country was founded as a constitutional republic, with democratically elected officials. A republic, where the vote of the majority can NEVER trump or override the God-given rights mostly enumerated in the Constitution of the United States (I say mostly, because they admittedly couldn't have listed them all for the sake of brevity in the founding documents; see the 9th Amendment found in the Bill of Rights). Our original form of government, which celebrated the freedom and sovereignty of the individual equally to the freedom and sovereignty of the individual States, has slowly eroded away and sadly been nearly completely usurped at this point. As our sworn oaths state, we offer our lives in the "preservation, protection, and defense" of the Constitution and the freedom and liberty it seeks to safeguard, against all forms and sources tyranny "both foreign and domestic". What's most frightening, is that for far too long now, we've all been led to believe that the "ever benevolent government" which is supposed to be elected "of the people, by the people, and for the people", is on our side, and has long since not been that at all. Rather, it has become apparent to those of us who are watching with our minds and eyes open to the truth, that our government has evolved to mostly become a government "of the government, by the government, and for the government". It has enabled Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies to instruct their staff and subordinates to undermine and violate these God-given rights freely and without fear of repercussions, for the most part. I urge all citizens, members of the general public and veterans alike, to take stock in the current political climate within which we find ourselves. When big business can coerce government officials to pass laws that stand only in their benefit, and elect to not enforce laws that would otherwise hinder said businesses, we no longer live in such a republic. I fear the potential outcome of where this road leads. Ultimately, it is up to us as citizens, to preserve that which "elected officials" clearly will not. Do NOT be misled or lied to. You don't even have to take my word for it. Do your own research, and seek to find the truth for yourselves.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2018 12:30 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 12:30:14 -0400

The US is not and never was a 'democracy.' It is, and hopefully shall forever remain, a representative republic.

To misrepresent our republic, and call to protect an invented democracy that only exists to strip away protections, is sedition, as it would have been viewed 100 years ago by any of our countrymen who haven't been "under-mis-educated."

Response by SFC Dennis Pettitt made Jun 7 at 2018 9:00 AM

SFC Dennis Pettitt — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 09:00:57 -0400

Yeah, about that... whoever authored this needs to go back to PLDC and review military correspondence. Of course this is a weighty matter, and after about the second whiney paragraph, I gave up reading it! Get to your damn point sir. I skipped down to the bottom and your point is 'participate in elections'

Well damn!!!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2018 1:49 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 13:49:59 -0400

By the responses below, I am clearly preaching to the Choir here, but the problem may not be with us, but with how deliberately we are conveying this to our subsequent generations.

Lot's of confirmation and recognition here. We who swore any military oath whatsoever swore to Defend the Constitution of the United States, right?

So let's start there.

The framers were so horrified at the notion that the US would ever be a Democracy, that they deliberately ensured the word would not be uttered in the writing or discussions of the Constitution - if anyone can find the word 'Democracy' anywhere in the Declaration of Independence or the Constitution of the United States, I will pay them $20 and give them a shot from my best Aged-28-Years-Jameson... it's not there. So given that we swore an oath to the Constitution and the Constitution does not define the government as a Democracy, then I never swore to defend Democracy... neither did any of you.

I swore to defend the Republic of the United States as it is defined by the Constitution which established it. So let's all think twice (or maybe 10 times) before we utter that dastardly phrase "...there outta be a law..." and ask ourselves if the Constitution really needs that amendment, addendum, appendix or can maybe the State or Municipal Government, within the Federal System, handle the issue at hand.

Response by MSgt Willie Stovall made Jun 10 at 2018 8:39 PM

MSgt Willie Stovall — Sun, 10 Jun 2018 20:39:19 -0400

While I agree with many of your points, I must point out that our country is a Republic, not a democracy. The fact is Like CPT Durish has pointed out, we signed on the defend the Constitution. Like many enemies though history, ours has come from within and over a long time. One small change at a time. As you have pointed out, we, as a country, really need to put this buss in reverse and get back on the right road.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2018 12:51 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 00:51:26 -0400

I agree.

Response by SSG Leander Metcalf made Jun 13 at 2018 3:54 AM

SSG Leander Metcalf — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 03:54:14 -0400

I guess you have forgotten history The United States is a republic, not a democracy. Accurately defined, a democracy is a form of government in which the people decide policy matters directly--through town hall meetings or by voting on ballot initiatives and referendums. The US is a republic of independent, sovereign states who work together through a representative republic. Each state within the Union is a sovereign government in and of itself (hence, republic) which has delegated some amount of their authority to the Federal government and which sends representatives to govern the relationships between those states as a part of the Federal government (hence, representative republic). Further, all states currently also operate as representative republic's with regard to their own sovereign interests.

The balance of what you are saying is however correct in regards to our oath and responsibilities to the country.

Response by Maj Eric Gumz made Jun 16 at 2018 4:25 PM

Maj Eric Gumz — Sat, 16 Jun 2018 16:25:58 -0400

Democrats have been importing new "for life" voters for decades and relocating them in red states to change the outcomes of elections. It's not a coincidence that the borders and immigration policies have remained weak, undermanned and underfunded. States continuously "redistrict" voting districts to change political lines to win elections, politicians are not held accountable, there is a lack of transparency across the board, liberals have taken pages directly out of the Marxist playbook to destroy reputations and careers of prominent conservatives through slander and legal battles. We live in a multicultural society that is divided and fractured, all wanting something different and entire sections of the country that are so different from each other it's like going to another country. There are hate groups of every race against each other. This is a result of globalism and the belief that multiculturalism works. This goes against human nature. Why are Wars fought? Why do countries exist and have borders dividing groups of people by their language and cultures? Because they don't mix together well. It has worked in America for the better part of 200 years because we have done a good job of naturalising our immigrants and making them "American" and bringing them into our culture. Now people come from all over the place and hang the flags of other countries in their cars and homes and are more proud of where they came from than where they are, and if you try to send them back to that country it's a crime and "terrible" and they go kicking and screaming. Our own natural born citizens trample the flag and hate the country they live in, history and social studies are no longer taught in schools like it used to be and the education system is controlled by draft dodging America/military hating liberals who poison the minds of our children. The divorce rate in America is around 50% with broken families and divorce laws favoring women making men financially unstable and giving rise to multiple generations of children being raised without two parents. We wonder why America has a gun problem? It's not the guns, we have a CULTURE PROBLEM and the politicians exploit that problem at every turn.

Response by SPC Tom DeSmet made Jun 17 at 2018 7:34 PM

SPC Tom DeSmet — Sun, 17 Jun 2018 19:34:22 -0400

Universities are supposed to produce "enlightened citizenry" without prejudice as to right or left. It sure seems to me in recent years the left has taken control of what is produced by these institutions. Every now and then the truth slips out. And the institutions themselves have done everything they can to keep honest debate squelched in the name of "safety" for those with opposing views. There is a war being fought in schools for the minds of our youngest citizens and little is being done about it. The MSM will keep this fight off the front pages and headlines to keep the current state of affairs. What will it take to bring about change? The current regimes go about their business with an arrogance and fear nothing. They are winning!

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jun 19 at 2018 7:29 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 07:29:25 -0400

Excellent share sir, thank you.

Response by SN Kristi Kalis made Jun 20 at 2018 7:38 PM

SN Kristi Kalis — Wed, 20 Jun 2018 19:38:52 -0400

We took the Oath to defend against enemies foreign and DOMESTIC. Obviously, some vets have decided Russian agents are okay. I do not. We have a domestic terrorist in the WH.

Response by SSG Lee Kujawa made Jun 21 at 2018 6:38 PM

SSG Lee Kujawa — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 18:38:45 -0400

Sorry, don’t agree. Change is a natural progression. Either accept it or get out of the way.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jul 11 at 2018 3:16 PM

TSgt James Carson — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 15:16:45 -0400

Sad to admit you are right. Congress and the Senate have given their power to the justice department, NSA, ansd the FBI. To get things done we allowed the President to make temperary laws which make additional problems with immigration and police actions which are actually wars. The states are to blame too, because they don't demand and take back the powers they should be in control of. The American people have gotten soft, and so lazy that they demand the government take care of them from cradle to grave. As long as these things go on we will loose our Decloration of Independance and our Bill of Rights. Get the three branches of the Government working as the were intended and state governments doing their jobs and we may just save our Democracy.

Response by PO1 Jeffrey Pennala made Jul 13 at 2018 3:30 PM

PO1 Jeffrey Pennala — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 15:30:08 -0400

We really don't live in a "democracy" we live in a "Republic" governed by democratically elected representatives. Here's the difference (let's use a 100 person republic for easy math) in a republic 99 people cannot tell 1 person what to do as long as they are acting within the boundaries of founding agreement. In a democracy 51 people can tell 49 people what to do including taking all their wealth, sweat equity, and their liberty. Democracies are mob rule and all end up consuming themselves and the nations wealth. The media has duped most Americans into thinking we are a democracy, it allows them to push an agenda which works against the constitution in the name of the "people".

The constitutional republic is being eroded away all these socialist democratic agendas, name a republic which has killed millions of their citizens in the name of the "people".....none. Name the modern socialist governments that have killed tens of millions of their citizens...the USSR, WW2 Germany, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Venezuela, South Africa, and of course North Korea in the name of socialism. I included some "communist" socialist as well as "democratic" socialists. It is the "socialism" that kills folks, takes their liberties and imprisons them, in order to ensure their rule and steal the wealth of their citizens..

Response by SSgt Robert Prest made Jul 20 at 2018 12:34 PM

SSgt Robert Prest — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 12:34:15 -0400

WHY WOULD ANYONE WANT TO BE A SO CALLED CONSERVATIVE?
RANT (I’m not yelling, I’m emphasizing)

So called CONSERVATIVES have compromised away every freedom lost in the last 60 to 70 years, by moving to the left to pick up more votes from the left and often siding with them.

Political Parties on a Federal level are Non-Constitutional. No where does it call for the establishment of Political Parties. The first two meetings of Congress did not have political parties, only CONSTITUTIONAL, MORAL, CAPITALISTIC AMERICANS, doing what was best for America and all its CITIZENS, not themselves.

It's time to once again start voting for CONSTITUTIONAL, MORAL, CAPITALISTIC AMERICANS and bring back a Federal Government made up of civilians and not PROFESSIONAL POLITICIANS, the way it was intended to be in the first place. Don't vote for the right or left on a Federal level, vote for the person that will best represent the Constitution as written not interpreted.

Either you are CONSTITUTIONAL, 100% for the Constitution as written (not interpreted) which by default makes you Fiscal, which by default makes you constitutionally conservative, or, you are left of the Constitution, starting with Social Conservatives, (the Fiscals’ and the Socials’) together make up over half of the Republican Party, then the RINOs, then Blue Dog Democrats, then Democrats, then Socialist and so on farther to the left.

What are you? Fiscal or Social on a Federal level? You can’t be both. I’m 100% constitutional as written (Not Interpreted) which by default makes me Fiscal, which by default makes me constitutionally conservative on a Federal level, not a Conservative. I’m non-affiliated. I vote for the person that best represents the Constitution on a Federal level, not my personal and social beliefs. That’s handled on a State level. On a State level I lean fiscal, but I back a few social issues.

People cry because the Republicans took the House and the Senate and have not done anything they said they would do. You must realize that half the Republicans you put into office are Fiscal and the other half, (fighting against the Fiscals along with the Democrats), are SOCIALIST. You can not have both in the same party on a Federal level and expect anything to get done. Half is CONSTITUTIONAL and the other is SOCIAL. You can’t be Social and FISCAL at the same time on a Federal level and be 100% Constitutional.

In short, the closer you are to having 100% CONSTITUTIONAL REPRESENTATION the closer you will be to getting anything done to your liking on a FEDERAL level. In A shorter short, until we can get every voter on the right to vote for only 100% Fiscal Representatives and no Social issues we will never win. It is this or Socialism, there is no other options.

Added on later in the day.

You may say the level of socialism in the United States at the time of it's founding was much lower (0%) than it is now (roughly 50/50). All most 100% of the people immigrating from another country today are from a Socialist orientated country and are inclined to vote socialist. The main problem today, unlike in the past, these people are not educated about the Constitution, Capitalism and what it means to live in a free country. Hell, even the kids born in the US today are not educated to the point required to stem the tide of Socialism.

Just my opinion.

Response by SP5 Arthur Ben Ephraim made Jul 29 at 2018 8:07 PM

SP5 Arthur Ben Ephraim — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 20:07:05 -0400

I hope the democracy tyranny of masses dies..... YOU have a constitutional republic IF you can keep it. attributed to Benjamin Franklin

Response by SPC Christopher Waldrop made Aug 18 at 2018 10:19 AM

SPC Christopher Waldrop — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 10:19:43 -0400

We have and have always had a representative republic, mob rule ( rather Democracy) is not our form of government. We have a government of laws not popular opinion. Please do not continue to send out ignorant posts or updates.

Response by SPC Mike Davis made Aug 18 at 2018 1:15 PM

SPC Mike Davis — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 13:15:43 -0400

Interesting string here. Captain Gallo is concerned this nation is about to lose it national commitment to its roots as a democracy. Others are stating America was never a democracy rather a republic. One individual stated (correctly) a member of the military swares and otah to the constitution. Not to any democracy. The truth is for the past twenty years no military member has sworn an oath to the constitution of the United States in it's original meaning and content. All military members have (in the last few years) sworn an oath to a non existent P.C. philosophy. An oath to a political belief system that can be voted out tomorrow or next week. If the constitution was originally written in the Swahili language and then translated backward from that language into english. One could still not find one letter, one period, that would support a human perverted lifestyle. Let alone demand that such a perversion against decent human social intercourse be accepted in such a constitutionally governed society. Not to mention its armed forces. Yet, the armed forces of the United States is leading the charge in forcing this unconstitutional lifestyle on the American people. The armed forces have no ability to define or understand the simple concept of human perversion. Nor murder! It is now legal in the military to murder one's own personal . Command cannot be ignorant of the fact that physical fitness is of prime importance in combat. The strongest unit is no stronger than its weakest member. Placing a biologically inferior female in command of a unit in combat is a recipe for defeat and nothing less than murder. As Patton said. "let that other dumb bastard die for his country." Today's soldier gets to be that dumb bastard." and die needlessly for his P.C. (not constitutional) country. Not one...not one, of America's potential enemies embraces one of the above mentioned P.C. concepts. They are either rank stupid for not embracing our armed forces P.C. culture when it comes to national defence ...or they want to win! It cannot be both.

Response by CPT Dennis Stevenson made Aug 23 at 2018 2:52 PM

CPT Dennis Stevenson — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 14:52:38 -0400

One of my favorite saying is by Thomas Jefferson: "I hold it that a little rebellion now and then is a good thing, and as necessary in the political world as storms in the physical." (cite: https://www.monticello.org/site/jefferson/little-rebellionquotation). Rebellion does not necessarily mean burning tires in the streets. There are lots of ills in the Country right now, and I think we should put our efforts into fixing those ills. The rebellion will come from the free people.

Page not found | Thomas Jefferson's Monticello

Response by SPC Don Wynn made Aug 24 at 2018 2:04 PM

SPC Don Wynn — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 14:04:26 -0400

I'm seeing this post for the first time, so forgive me for jumping on late.
I am very disturbed by some of the posts in reference to this. Especially in light of the fact that they come from vets and service members. And primarily from the conservative/'classical liberal' side! As the author points out, we must defend our constitution, NOT a party or ONE specific political ideology. Our oath states 'I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same.....' it does NOT say anything about political parties, politicians, judges or political philosophies. If you state that liberals/Democrats are opposed to our democracy and that only the GOP/conservative/libertarian ideologies are 'true' American ideals, then you have effectively stated you believe in one party rule. Which is NOT democratic!!

Response by SGT Sean Lynch made Aug 26 at 2018 4:33 PM

SGT Sean Lynch — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 16:33:00 -0400

Impeach Trump now!

Response by SSG Pete Fleming made Sep 8 at 2018 8:25 PM

SSG Pete Fleming — Sat, 08 Sep 2018 20:25:13 -0400

Well this is an interesting perceptive and has much merit... except... we aren't a democracy.

Response by PO1 Gerald Sutton made Oct 14 at 2018 10:06 AM

PO1 Gerald Sutton — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 10:06:58 -0400

Absolutely right. This administration and the weakest link, congress, are taking the country down the road to facism. It's about time we defend the constitution that we swore to defend. The current residents of the white house have violated the law and constitution and could be impeached for any one of them. Our country and our congresses are owned by the russian banks, meaning putin and the russian mafia. Follow the money.

Response by PO1 Gerald Sutton made Oct 14 at 2018 10:19 AM

PO1 Gerald Sutton — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 10:19:50 -0400

This site is not a equally site. What's this shit that you have to have 15,000 points to thumbs down a post. Fuck it, I'm done. I'm tired of seeing old fucking white men stand up for the second most corrupt fucking president in history, only trailing Andrew Jackson.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Feb 5 at 2019 3:32 PM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 15:32:27 -0500

It's easy to see where the slime trails lead. Follow the money.

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2019 8:20 PM

CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 20:20:41 -0500

Great share.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2019 11:27 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 09 Mar 2019 11:27:21 -0500

Excellent & well written viewpoint, but something that was not pointed out is that we, The United States of America" is a Constitutional Republic, not a Democracy! That is why we have an Electoral College instead of simply a Majority Vote to elect a President! If we did not have the Electoral College, we would basically have two states choosing our President; California and New York...the two most populous states. As CPT Jack Durish pointed out that we all swore to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic". We need to stand tall, behind Our President and do just that, before it is too late!

Response by SGT James Murphy made May 3 at 2019 2:58 PM

SGT James Murphy — Fri, 03 May 2019 14:58:54 -0400

https://youtu.be/GFD2ggNxR1g This is my Take on Arguing with the Left!

Indiocracy - Brawndo : It's got what plants crave!

Response by PO1 Gerald Sutton made May 3 at 2019 11:22 PM

PO1 Gerald Sutton — Fri, 03 May 2019 23:22:17 -0400

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Response by MSgt Robert Gazy made May 9 at 2019 3:30 PM

MSgt Robert Gazy — Thu, 09 May 2019 15:30:58 -0400

I agree that education is key to correcting what ails our country, but (as so many of the comments here confirm) most citizens, veteran or not, find it so much easier to dangerously oversimplify these complex issues and loudly retreat to a "conservative" or "liberal" corner and blame the other side, all while spouting old, worn-out slogans that ignore the fundamental changes that have drastically shifted the ground under our feet over the past 20 years of this Information Revolution. It's hard to admit that our opinions are being carefully cultivated to keep us at each other's throats so institutions of power cannot be challenged. If we can't work things out in a reasonable fashion by actually listening to those we disagree with and remaining open to re-examining our own long-held beliefs to see if they still really hold up in the modern world, we will never gather enough strength to exercise the Constitutional powers "we the people" were granted by the founders. We must seek common ground and be open to compromise instead of being stubbornly rooted by the ideologies of past generations.

History is a good place to start, and maybe my fellow veterans will appreciate the opinion of Marine Corps Maj General Smedley Butler who wrote "War is a Racket" in 1935 after 34 years of service. I believe he was the only Marine to ever be awarded two Medals of Honor and the Brevet Medal all for separate actions. His life and work is worth studying, but you may be surprised to hear him say things like "I spent most of my time as a high class muscle man for Big Business, for Wall Street and the bankers. In short, I was a racketeer, a gangster for capitalism." Does anyone really think this is not still true today, as we claim "moral values" as the reason for our military adventurism when it suits politicians while cozying-up to nations like Saudi Arabia?

Another great lesson would be from Harvard Business School Professor Michael E. Porter who looks at our current social crisis from an economists perspective in his 1.5 hour-long presentation at the Skoll Conference in 2017. Here's a link to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANHvR0sF-y0. I wonder how many of those who say they value education will actually carve out an hour of their busy life to pay attention with an open mind ready to learn.

We really need to ask ourselves if we want our country to truly survive, because there is no guarantee it will. If all we have is the strongest military, we won't make it. If we don't change to meet new circumstances we won't make it. If we don't stop blaming each other and properly identify our real flaws, both personal and political, we'll never make the right choices to ensure our progeny can enjoy the benefits of living in the greatest country the world has ever known.

Porter on Progress – Hosted by SPI #SkollWF 2017

Drawing on insights from the Social Progress Index, Professor Michael E. Porter of Harvard Business School will show how the United States’ current political...

Response by PO1 Gery Bastiani made Dec 3 at 2019 12:10 PM

PO1 Gery Bastiani — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 12:10:29 -0500

A two term limit should be add to the State Ballot that way each state has a say,, and also it should be the people that decides if their elected officials get a raise or not.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2021 3:55 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Apr 2021 03:55:49 -0400

"Our real disease…is DEMOCRACY."
- Alexander Hamilton

"We are now forming a Republican form of government. Real liberty is not found in the extremes of democracy, but in moderate governments. If we incline too much to democracy we shall soon shoot into a monarchy, or some other form of a dictatorship."
- Alexander Hamilton

"A democracy is nothing more than mob rule, where fifty-one percent of the people may take away the rights of the other forty-nine."
- Thomas Jefferson

“Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote!”
- Benjamin Franklin

“Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself.”
- John Adams

"The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government.”
- US Constitution Article IV, Section 4

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Apr 10 at 2021 6:26 PM

MAJ Matthew Arnold — Sat, 10 Apr 2021 18:26:01 -0400

I'm no constitutional expert or doctor of philosophy but I think that our oath to the constitution includes letting the system work thru kinks and challenges peacefully. A two party system inherently will swing back and forth. I think we need to have patience and let those checks and balances, between the branches of the federal government, and between the states and the federal government, work out the imperfections and the extremities in the system. Peace brothers and sisters, peace be unto you. John 13: By this shall me know you, that ye have love one to another.

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Apr 10 at 2021 7:06 PM

SFC Randy Hellenbrand — Sat, 10 Apr 2021 19:06:52 -0400

All I am going to ask is what party tried to overthrow our government again??

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Apr 10 at 2021 7:47 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Sat, 10 Apr 2021 19:47:58 -0400

Democracy would be dieting when no one cared. Democracy is messy

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2021 5:39 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 05:39:06 -0400

The US has always been a Representative Republic.

Response by CPO Kenneth Arbogast made Apr 17 at 2022 6:03 PM

CPO Kenneth Arbogast — Sun, 17 Apr 2022 18:03:13 -0400

Several responses assume that Mr. Gallo is referring just to democracy as American government. As I read his article, I thought he was referring to the larger issue of democracy versus autocracy, which is sweeping back over large parts of the planet; 57 countries on three continents. Other countries have nominal democracies, like Brazil and the Philippines, in which an elected president acts as a dictator. Like the origins of World War II, the spread of autocracy threatens little d democracy elsewhere. Already you can hear in our media and politics praise for Putin, clearly a ruthless dictator determined to expand his empire regardless of the blood loss. One of our major political groups plans to host a convention in Hungary next year, a country with an elected president who has seized all powers. The echoes of Charles Lindbergh and America First are clear. I think we can all identify complaints about our government -- our Founding Fathers warned us of many. Yet the basic principles found in the Declaration, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights are worth defending.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Apr 18 at 2022 2:01 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 02:01:31 -0400

I Have But ONE Thing To Say...
Once The Draft Ended; We've Had A Dwindling
Supply Of Men In This Country,
And It's MEN Which We Need...
Not A Bunch Of Swooshes We Now Have Wandering Our Streets.
I'll Be 78 On My Birthday, This Year, 2022...
I Was Exactly 17 When I Joined The USAF. 06/29/1961.
I've Seen Our Country At It's Best,
And Now, Somewhat At It's Worst...
To Those Of You Whom Are Busy Destroying This Country,
If You Can't Do Something Good For This Country,
At Least Stop The Shit You ARE Doing.

Response by SSG Gregory Mueller made Apr 19 at 2022 8:24 PM

SSG Gregory Mueller — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 20:24:07 -0400

The news media needs to tell the whole truth not a part of what suits their agenda. The US Military leaders need to get out of politics. Our government needs to fix the VA health care system for timely health care. The administration needs to stop dragging its feet with Ukraine. How can we take care of others and not ourselves? Our government needs an attitude adjustment for the people by the people.