I just read the article about it. I'm still fine with it. I think it was a major milestone when "we" elected a black man.

I AM just messing with you. I wouldn't want to be in your shoes, specially when it came to reporting on the dark side of SOME American military over there.

Great to see you back JJ! My nephew in the marines is in Japan now too.

What's his last name?

I think it is important to teach about the president in school. I think the Nation Anthem should be played every morning (hands over hearts) followed by a reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance.

The civilian media does a fine job covering our mistakes to fill their news.

Our job is to counter that by showing the good we do. Network news only thinks bad is good news. You can't blame them. Ratings prove that is what America wants to see. They like things that appall, outrage and piss them off. We try to sooth their anger hungry souls with some real world good that happens daily they are to blind with bloodlust to see.

I still remember going to see movies at military theaters and standing for the National Anthem. And for those that don't know, it's also very cool to be on base at the close of the buisiness day when they play "retreat" over the loudspeakers. Everyone stops where they are, cars included, military and retired military face THE flag, and salute or cover their hearts while the National Anthem is played. Most bases have several speakers, and people hold the salute until the last echo fades.

The National Athem has a very weird effect on me. No matter how many time I've heard it (thousands?), I still get goosebumps.