Pajamas Media

528 Comments

Linda Frank:

Unbelievable!!!

That guy Stoltz is one unfriendly fellow.

Aug 4, 2007 - 8:38 am AJK:

Wow, must be tough to “debate” when you are a factless, angry Kossack.

These nutroot bloggers should just be honest and admit they loathe the military, Israel and America. That Democrat candidates attend this balderdash is VERY telling. Really, folks who still vote Dem in 2008 have to explain themselves if they claim they support military, Israel and America. This is not a fringe group, either. The Dem party is moving farther left as that is where the $ and influence is, controlled by these lunatics. It’s basically fascism in so many ways. Just watch the video.

Aug 4, 2007 - 9:39 am jdkchem:

AJK, That should be “factless, angry Kossack” with “mob courage” supplied by the rest of the chattel.

They’re nothing more then a persistent mob. They need each other to validate their existence.

Aug 4, 2007 - 9:56 am Pablo:

Stoltz seems to think he’s still in a position of authority, doesn’t he? Props to that Sergeant, who wasn’t talking politics, just presenting facts about Iraq and challenging lies.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:04 am disgusted:

why don’t we give up and become socialists now. I love long lines and poor health care. I also enjoy not having to think for myself - burns too many calories.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:35 am Jan:

This is a perfect example of freedom of speech according to liberals: You can say anything you want as long as you agree with me! Disgusting but not surprising.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:38 am Greg:

Are active duty military memeber permitted to attend politcal functions in their service uniform(s)?

I don’t think so.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:38 am Big Bubba:

A uniformed soldier had no business attempting to take part in the kossack event as an individual. Doesn’t matter what his viewpoint, conservative or pseudo intellectual progressive liberal demoracist. Whether presenting facts or opinion, it was improper for a uniformed soldier.

Off duty in civilian clothing? Jump right in and have fun.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:38 am Leoniadas:

It was okay in Democrat handbook for Sen. John Kerry to protest the Vietnam War in his military uniform and even attend clandestine meetings with the North Vietnamese in Paris.

http://www.vietnamveteransagainstjohnkerry.com/t_ken_ker.jpg

Now, the Democrats use threats and intimidation when a US serviceman has the temerity to address yKos with facts.

Talk about hypocrites.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:39 am A patriot:

This is truly disgusting. The left wing of the democratic party and the radical socialist groups they pander to is simply beyond belief. We are living in a time when socialists disguise themselves as progressives. Unfortunately so many Americans are lemmings who are unable to think for themselves. These democrats play to these people’s emotions with feel-good distortions of reality. These people are not Americans. They need to be recognized for what they are: enemies of America. They have infested every facet of our lives and have embarked on transforming this country in their image. Heed the warnings, this cancer must be purged one way or another. Time is not on our side.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:42 am fred lapides:

Big deal. Was he invited and on a speakers list? I do not know. A gathering of anti-war folks and the same would happen if it was a pro-war group and Cindy Sheehan started to speak.

Is Iraq getting better? NO. The “leaders” are now on a mon th-long vacation and many are killed daily and face it: Iraq is not getting better.

So all the name calling in these comments does not change anything in the Iraq war.

Call me this or that if you will but I have served a few terms in the US Army.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:42 am Matt S.:

Well, I don’t know the circumstances, but if it involved politics, they’re not allowed to make any comments while in Uniform. That rule is clearly explained at Basic Training or in ROTC on college campuses. Look it up!

Hell, for all I know, that guy could have been doing the “unidentified soldier” good by getting him out of there before he got his ass chewed by his commander.

Just a thought!

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:42 am Greg:

Where is it written that I need to support Israel to be considered patriotic and/or a good American? Ther is lots that Israel does that I cannot support.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:43 am blue_penquin:

I watched Senator Dodd make excuses for the KOS factless facist company he keeps. Dodd is emblematic of self serving far left politics he embraces with Kennedy; Durbin and many others of their ilk. This lot will not cease or desist their distructive attack upon America until America is a powerless shell unable to protect its interest and its citizens. Oh! excuse me America doesn’t protect its citizens thanks to Kennedy-Bush Amigo.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:44 am SEW:

“It was okay in Democrat handbook for Sen. John Kerry to protest the Vietnam War in his military uniform and even attend clandestine meetings with the North Vietnamese in Paris.”

Well what about Francois Kerry slandering the Swift Boat Vets all the while claiming he was being slandered, yet won’t produce his military records. Decorated veteran my a.., in the same class as Beauchamp. Correction, much lower class.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:48 am bowncr1212:

??? in ONE paragraph Pajams Media says the soldier is UNIDETIFIED.

in the Next Paragraph they SAY they INTERVIEWED him.

SO, me thinks Pajamas media KNEW who this GUY WAS… ALL ALONG… surprised??

An as yet unidentified uniformed soldier attempted to address the panel on the subject of the “Surge

exclusive PJM Video by Andrew Marcus, who also interviews the soldier

Please Explain

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:51 am Greg:

Wow, this is just like those events George Bush and the RNC had leading up to the election when people were arrested and tossed out for wearing a T-shirt, speaking out, carrying a sign, or anything else that did not toe the Neocon Republican party line. Amazing how the right wing nut jobs scream, rant and rave when the tables are turned and question the patriotism of everyone that belongs to a different party.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:51 am M. Bright:

What a nauseating story. But at least it goes to show just who and what these so called “activists” really are all about - unreasonable, close minded idiots.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:53 am Outback:

I can guarantee you that if the Nutroots had a soldier who supported their position, the uniform would be no problem. Rank hypocrisy.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:55 am Steve:

What is most surprising is that on the panel was a retired general. Now that general that should be the focus of all the anger

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:56 am Don:

Objectively I can say: As a veteran of the Marines, I can tell you that we were not authorized nor allowed to attend political events in uniform.

Without knowing the facts about John Kerry’s protesting days, I can only summize that he wore the uniform after discharge, or the UCMJ was changed after Vietnam.

Subjectively however: I doubt these left wing loons verified the duty status of the person.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:56 am bnelson44:

Greg,

Is YearlyKOS a political function or as it was advertised: a blogger’s convention?

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:56 am Harry:

The left wing always believes in free speech and open media coverage,–of other people’s activities.

Their right to the privacy to undermine our nation is of the greatest importance to a free people,–who agree only with them!

Harry Lime

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:57 am 1st Lt, USAF:

Just so everyone knows — it is a violation of the Uniformed Code of Military Justice to make political speeches or attend political events while wearing the uniform of the US military. This soldier could be prosecuted by the Army. He is free to attend any event and even speak as long as he doesn’t do so in the name of the military (i.e, wearing the uniform). Everyone in the military is taught this.

Aug 4, 2007 - 10:59 am Mick Russom:

Radical leftists are authoritarians as well. You see, left or right of center thinking doesn’t matter if you don’t support the suppression of speech, and free thoughts.

The fascists want to put a camera on you 24/7, the leftists want to take your guns, and neither side wants to let you get a word in edgewise.

There is a sickening rapid increase in people being unable to leave other people the hell alone.

Let the man speak, and disagree with him. Don’t try to suppress what he said for fear of him possibly saying something that challenges your line of thinking.

I think Iraq is a huge debacle, and this government is robbing the taxpayers and funning taxpayer money to companies which used to trickle down and pay taxes themselves, now they all shelter the money, fleecing the American people and driving America further into debt, but I still would let a soldier voice his opinion.

You don’t run from Bush to Hugo Chavez to get what you want. Both are authoritarian autocrats.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:01 am Tomahawk:

Ahhh yes the tolerant left…..supporting that soldiers right to free expression with threats and intimidation. Kos convention only tolerates views as long as it fits their socialist agenda. Don’t they know that if we lose the war with islamo-fascizm they they would be the first to have their heads smitten from their bodies. What a bunch of usefull idiots.

I for one am proud to be an infidel!!!!

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:01 am Miracle Max:

This is a dumbass headline. “Censorship” refers to government suppression of speech, which sometimes is legal, if abhorrent.

Nobody has any right to walk into any meeting they like and say whatever they please when they please. (Evidently the session was concluding.) We could name a few big conservative blogs where perfectly civil dissenting remarks are routinely expunged.

The uniform point is right — Dems and liberals exploit people in uniform too.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:02 am Virginia Goettelman:

General Wesley Clark (ret) was seated next to Stoltz on the podium. General Clark has appeared on many TV programs in uniform giving his political opinions. Why wasn’t an enlisted soldier allowed to speak??? General Clark has been an outspoken liberal democrat.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:03 am Jim Coupe:

This again makes the case… Why are the Democratic Presidential candidates attending such a radical extreme base of the Democratic Party convention. This should stick to every candidate speaking there as an left wing liberal progressive.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:05 am Lee:

I agree that it is improper to talk politics in uniform. The soldier deserves the military punishment he will get. However, it’s always been the lefties who hated that policy when they found an anti-war soldier. It’s always worked in their favor. Pro-war soldier are to busy being soldiers, and when given a platform are seen as loyal to the administration, trying to move up the ranks. Anti-war soldiers are portrayed as hero’s for standing up to the oppressive military code, that they must be silenced. Well, who was silenced Friday?

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:06 am Jeff R:

FASCINATING! So, according to the lefties, saying “the war is going well” is now political speech?

God, you sad sacks are parodies of yourselves.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:06 am John:

TITLE 10, Subtitle A, PART II, Chap 49 of the US Code spells out misc prohibitions imposed on active duty military personnel. There is no prohibition against speaking at political functions while in uniform. This does get into some complicated water, as many times such speech would amount to insubordination against proper authority. In this particular situation, however, the member was merely attempting to provide information. Had he been advocating for or against individuals in or seeking office, it might arguably be a different story.

Regardless, it seems terribly disingenuous to argue that Stoltz’s reaction to this individual was justified out of some feigned regard for the proper application of Title 10 restrictions. Indeed, what seems most lacking from our national dialog is an honest assessment of the situation “on the ground.” The truth is, few Americans truly appreciate the fact that the Iraqi government is functioning at a fairly high level of sophistication and effectiveness in many arenas. Life, though certainly unacceptably brutal in many regions of the country, is moving toward a sense of routine. Military plans never unfold completely as expected, nor are objectives often completely met–these situations are simply too dynamic and complex. However, adaptations are consistently implemented and progress is undoubtedly being made. As with any such endeavor, the final question boils down to a cost/benefit analysis. Considering the profound trust placed in America’s promises by those in Iraq who are invested in securing a more stable and civilized nation, and the certain torture and death that awaits our friends should be abandon them, there seems to be no question as to the necessity of a sustained commitment.

If the greatest traditions of liberalism are based in compassion and progression toward an idealized society, then why is the abandonment of like-minded Iraqis so utterly unchallenged among the left?

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:07 am jar jar binks:

Ugh. This “Sergeant” is a mind-numbed Bushbot.

Just a note, son: 1) the surge is a failure per every deployed soldier I’ve talked to, and 2) stop quoting Bushisms like “that’s what the terrorists want.”

Unless you want to keep digging that hole to China.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:09 am Bob Collins:

Too funny how the soldier asks a non political question, can you show the troop surge is not working (basically). This so called liberal would not address the question and continued to say politics should not be addressed by soldiers, it is supposedly against the law. It is the liberals who politicize everything, and the surge question is a matter of statistics and strategy, not political.

Of course liberals who are so open to everything, are completely closed to anything they disagree with. They are so duplicitous and dangerous.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:10 am lee:

This is just sad. These people are using the way he is dressed as a reason to shut him up. At no point did they make an effort to discuss his point and because they don’t like what he had to say they are going to attempt to destroy his career.

If he were advocating their position they would place him on a pedestal and give him credibility based on the way his is dressed.They would be posing for pictures with him hoping that they would be published by the media. He would make the evening news as a brave outspoken soldier who has risked his career to bring the american people the truth. He would have a publicist and an agent and, most likely a six figure book deal. He would be on the talk show circuit and camped out outside the Bush ranch. And, finally, he would attempt to run for office to displace a war mongering republican or even a democrat who doesn’t lean far enough left. The final blow would be that he would suffer a disgraceful loss and realize that he was a wack job all along but surrounded by like minded people who told him that he was the smartest person in the room.

How many people in that room have been to Iraq? How many listen to the facts regarding the war rather than each other? I was under the impression that these people supported - even advocated diversity of thought.

Stoltz did not want to learn or discuss - he only wanted to dictate and perpetuate his point of view.

This is why air america and other left leaning media, that provide dialog rather than monolog, fail. Their issues, statistics and what they consider facts based on consensus amongst similar thinking people do not stand up to scrutiny. If they can not dictate thought and supress facts then their positions fail.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:14 am RAY DUNNING:

Stoltz,

You sat behind a desk in Iraq. Where do you get off trying to intimidate an E5, you sanctinmonious dirtbag?

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:14 am didi:

It is against regulation for a military member in uniform to appear at a political event, or to make political comments while in uniform. It is a very clear reg, that might even be in the book the soldier was holding….

I have been a military spouse for 18 years. We never even put bumper stickers on our personal vehicles that have the base access sticker on them. Maybe that’s overkill, but it has been how we have done things.

Off duty, in civilian clothes - do as you wish.Stoltz was a jerk, though, and used the uniform to stuff an issue he couldn’t argue…..unless he was doing him a favor before the young man got in trouble…that I doubt.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:16 am Al Maynes:

These left wing weenies never let FACTS get in the way of THEIR point of view.

How can ANYONE even thinlk of voting for ANY candidate that attends such a function is beyond comprehension.

Freedom of speech to these FOOLS does NOT exist. You are only allowed to speak and think as they do, if not……well this story PROVES they are not interested in another point of view.

As for this person attending in uniform, well why not. What does being in uniform have to do with speaking up? This person is fighting for peoples rights to free speach and yet he/she is kept from speaking? NOT RIGHT!

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:16 am simba:

Should anyone be surprised when the Left praises Iran, Cuba, Syria, Venzuela & Palestine while denouncing the US, UK, Israel & Australia? Theyu no longer engage in public debate but instead use violence and censorship (think college campuses) - exactly the same methods as those they praise.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:18 am Buzz Patterson:

Jar Jar

And you’re not a Kosbot? Every deployed soldier you’ve talked to says the surge is a failure? BS. You don’t know any deployed soldiers. One deployed soldier, Gen David Petraeus, says its working. I’ll trust him, thank you.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:19 am Pablo:

“It is against regulation for a military member in uniform to appear at a political event, or to make political comments while in uniform.”

It was a panel discussion at a blogger convention. It is not a political event, and the Sergeant was not talking politics.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:20 am Kathaleen:

This is how low our democrats have stooped. The truth that the soldier was trying to bring to them is bad news for the democrats who only worry about power and greed. I am afraid of where our country is going and what will happen if the democrats get in. Kos only promotes hatred and unfortunately alot of Amercians read it. We are in trouble politcally and GOD better bless America before it is to late.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:20 am Jeff in Miami:

Big Bubba: Though the rules of conduct by the military prevent the soldier from discussing politics it in NO WAY prevents him from correcting lies and mis information. Why shouldn’t he wear his uniform? With the pay an Army Non Com is making it is probably the best suit he owns. Jon Stolz has way too much invested in the Democrats side to be any where near objective. His view of John Kerry as being a great presidential candidate shows a very skewed sense of history. Then his position of serving in Kosovo where there was one peace keeper to 5 people in risk also shows that had he been alive in WWII he would have never fought the war with Japan where the US was out numbered and manned in over 80% of the Pacific battles. NO ONE is asking the Democrats, “With an open borders policy toward seemingly every one how are you going to protect the US from terrorism?” Since the Democrats seem to suggest a cut and run policy, what do we say to our ally’s like Israel, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Afghanistan, Pakistan and God (I keep forgetting the Democrats don’t recognize God) knows who else in the region?

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:21 am Jim Vertein:

The fact that all of the Socialist (Dem) candidates were there to speak is living proof that radical,liberalism has become the new mainstream, or should i say “progressive” ( you can use socialism, toltaliarinism(sp), communism here as well. This view has now become the Democratic position on views for that party. It has gone so far to the left, that they view Hillary as a moderate and have manged to silence DNC chair Howard Dean.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:22 am John:

Interesting, if this had been a right wing group and Republicans had attended the press would be all over the candidates with negative coverage. Editorials in the New York Times and other papers would have blasted the candidates for attending such a conference.

If your from the left you can get away with almost anything. The press will turn the other way.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:24 am Big T:

There’s no fascist like a liberal fascist.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:25 am Anonymous:

John,

While the section of the US Code that you quoted may not cover the wear of military uniforms DoD Directive 1334.1 does. It states that the wear of the uniform is prohibited “during or in connection with furthering political activities, private employment or commercial interests, when an inference of official sponsorship for the activity or interest may be drawn.”

(Section 3.1.2)

http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/133401p.pdf

The bottom line is that regardless of the nature of the politics involved the wear of the uniform implies approval of participation by the Department of Defense and is therefore prohibited.

Thanks for you time.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:27 am Hellsbane:

When John Kerry was protesting the Viet Nam war while in uniform, he was still a member of the US Military as a Reservist. Therefore, John Kerry was still subject to the USMCJ. Also, when he gave his little ” testamony ” before the Congress, his hair was way to long for someone still in the Military, ” as a Reservist “. This is one of many reason i beleive John Kerry received a ” Less Than Honorable ” discharge from the Navy, and why he will never allow the full disclosure of his Military Records.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:30 am J B:

If it is true that it is against military rules to attend a political event while wearing a military uniform, then why did KOS let the man in in the first place? Secondly, why did they let him talk? It would seem that they must hold a double standard and assumed he was politically liberal. If he was and he talked politics, do you think we would even be discussing this issue?

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:31 am GeeDub:

“They can be heard hear…”

Could you make that “here” for all your non-public school-educated readers?

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:32 am sergeantmajorbill:

The man clearly states he is a Reservist - the regulation about politics only applies to Active Duty personnel - not National Guard or Reservists. If it did good old Murtha would not be in politics. (He was in the Reserves).

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:32 am KBK:

OK, remember this the next time the Democrats trot out someone in uniform to support one of their positions.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:32 am Pistol Pete:

What few people realize, is that the term “Progressive” in American politics came about during the 1930s. The CPSU (Communist Party of the United States) adopted that word in order to hoodwink the American public into to supporting them. Communists in the USA were a big problem then, as now, and shielded their true intentions from the folks who were hurting from the Depression. The US government was mindfull of the threat and was cracking down on the Reds (hense, the name change). Today’s “Progressives” are no different than those 70 years ago and have the same goals. It has only been in the last 6 to 7 years that the far-left, and so called “moderate” Dems, decided they could use that word once again because the general public is clueless to their own surroundings. Progressives are communists.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:33 am ET:

KOS & Co. are not interested in facts. Just the nuances of Socialist Leftist idiology. They meet to “discuss” nothing, considering their agenda has already been written by Karl Marx & Frederik Engles. Bottom feeding slugs who’s freedom is protected by that very soldier they banished.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:33 am jack kehoe:

Did Kos need that big room? Seems theres so many empty seats maybe next year they can rent just the janitors closet

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:35 am Jeff Friedberg:

None of you, I’m sure, “remember” the Weather Underground, or other “left wing” bomb throwers (literally)from “ages” past. Given the absolute lunacy of these Kosacks, how far away might they be from…fill in the blanks yourselves, amigos. Keep Watching The Skies.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:37 am smarter than you:

And yet there’s never this much noise out of you people about “Free Speech Zones” when Bush or Cheney go do their thing. I guess both sides are equally retarded and hypocritical.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:38 am Jeff in Miami:

John,

You are absolutely correct in all points except one. I think the section 3.1.1. is much more accurate! At any meeting or demonstration that is a function of, or sponsored by an organization, association, movement, group, or combination of persons that the Attorney General of the United States has designated, under Executive Order 10450 as amended (reference (c)), as totalitarian, fascist, communist, or subversive, or as having adopted a policy of advocating or approving the commission of acts of force or violence to deny others their rights under the Constitution of the United States, or as seeking to alter the form of Government of the United States by unconstitutional means.

I really belive this meeting meets at least some if not all of the policies mentioned above, especially denying others their constitutional rights of free speech, oh I guess it is now called the fairness doctrine.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:41 am Hellsbane:

I beleive the USMJC still applies to Reservist where the uniform is concerned. If you are wearing the Uniform of the US Military at a purely political function, then Reservist or full Active Duty, you are violating the USMJC.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:45 am KGB:

He should bring back a few of his friends and take things into his own hands. PS bring the trops on and turn them on congress and very left.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:45 am Charles:

It’s true, you cannot engage in political debate while in uniform. You cannot show up to any political rally, etc. You can participate, in limited fashion, while on active duty, in your civilian attire.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:45 am TouchStone:

Making political comments in uniform is a violation of the UCMJ, however, I’m not so sure that addressing that “convention” qualifies as “politics”.

What the Sergeant did was foolish but ballsy.

Negotiating with terrorists is a fool’s errand…as is trying to find a “middle ground” with American fanatics.

He had a point, was silenced, threatened, and “invited out”.

Actions speak louder than words, and what stoltz and the other conventioneers did spoke volumes.

The fact that EX-general clark was on the panel comes as zero surprise.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:48 am Paul:

Intolerant Bolshevism at work

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:49 am J B:

Smarter than you, first off your name is a perfect description of how liberals view everyone else. How arrogant are you? Second, when Bush or Cheney get heckled or yelled at or protested, people usually don’t get haulled away unless they are disruptive (which most of them are). This man was speaking in a controlled and respectful manner. In this case, there was no reason to not listen to the man in uniform. The only reason John Stoltz cut him off is because he didn’t want to hear the truth.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:49 am Jeff in Miami:

I hate to correct you because I like your point but Murtha was a Marine and served honorably in Korea. That was before he found the Washington Pork Barrel like so many other good men on both sides.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:50 am Rick InMukilteo:

HERE’S THE POINT

Fueling divisions between Americans benefit only those seeking power.

The grass-roots on each side of the political spectrum are almost entirely made up of good people who could bridge divisions face to face if they decided to do so.

The terrorists want us divided, because it also gives them power.

The soldier knows this and has a message of unity that the politicos and the terrorists both want silenced.

The soldier practiced civil disobedience based on his heart-felt desire to bridge divisions and bring us together face to face.

I admire a man that fearlessly acts out of his convictions in a spirit of love.

God heal our land…

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:50 am William Thomas:

You rightwing nuts on here can complain all you want. We’ll be taking another 5-10 seats in the House next year, 2-3 seats in the Senate and the White House. Your days of ruling are over and so soon will be our long national nightmare.

I FEEEELLL GOOD!!

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:50 am Dan in California:

That was unbelievable!! This shows their version of Freedom of Speech. On by the way Mr. Stoltz the SGT was NOT on active duty. An individual that is on ACTIVE duty is restricted from participating in a political issues and since he was NOT on active duty “OH-WELL”. So you can threaten all you want!!How do I know?? It’s because I am retired from the Navy an know the rules. So what he did was perfectly legal. Look at all the Vietnam Anti-war protester’s (Kerry, etc…)

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:51 am bnelson44:

Hellsbane,

YearlyKOS doesn’t advertise itself as a purely political function. It advertises itself as a bloggers convention.

YearlyKos Convention - n. yier-lee-KOS k&n-’ven(t)-sh&n An annual convention gathering people from all walks of life who belong to the Netroots community, the US-based (but globally focused and inclusive) non-partisan grassroots political action community that uses the Internet and blogs as primary tools for: expressing viewpoints, building consensus, acting to change the status quo, mobilizing huge numbers of people and informing each other and the world about current events, grassroots actions, networks, meetings, policy and more. The YearlyKos Convention is a project of bloggerpower.org with the generous support of the Netroots Arts and Education Initiative (NAEI).

http://yearlykosconvention.org/

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:51 am Oomgala:

If Bush was as evil as those dogs claim he is, he would nuke their meeting site. Good idea, do it, Georgio!

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:52 am David Crockett:

A man who was there tried to tell the truth and was TAKEN into a back room to be told he was going to be

“IN TROUBLE”

unless he shut up.

He was there…he was IN the war..but this odd ball group of tired far left folks would NOT let him shine the light on what is going on.

They and hundreds like them are scared to death of this surge working…reason is simple..they are a one trick poney when it comes to 08…and they so know it.

Thanks to the young man who came into the teeth of the lion and tried to speak the truth.

As for those who said they would get him in trouble…it will NEVER happen.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:53 am E Scott:

As a progressive liberal, I am pretty appalled by John Stoltz’s behavior. This is exactly the kind of behavior I would expect from the other side: churlish and defensive. Let’s not become what we are fighting against.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:55 am don:

I agree with the soldier but he should not be in uniform at political gatherings. Wish he could have made his point in civilian clothing.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:56 am Mike:

The remarkable fact of the left so-called progressives is that under the covers they are deeply intolerant of other viewpoints.

You see it everywhere: environmentalism - if you disagree with global warming you are a fool or mad; if you think they maybe the Iraq war was justified you are a right wing bigot; if you argue that Christianity has done many positive things (in America) they remind you of the Crusades and the Inquisition; if you think the border should be protected you are a racist and on and on.

Stoltz increasingly reflects the main stream of the progressives and Democrats. They believe they know better than the man in the street.

The whole thing is frightening.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:56 am chip williams:

These are the same traitors (Well-their kids too) that caused us to leave the Nam in shame and subsequently millions were slaughtered.

We have only ourselves to blame-we allowed wimpy republicrats to be voted into office, then gave up during th 06 election and allowed the dems to take control.

Fortunately the dems are showing their true colors and this may be the last we see of these traitors as far as controlling any of our government.

With an approval rating worse than GW, this is the time to put the final nails in the dems coffin.

Chaney/Rice in 08.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:56 am bnelson44:

E Scott,

I have found it is typical behavior. Just try expressing anything but a very progressive view on any of the prominent progressive forums and see what happens to you.

Don’t take my word for it, try it yourself.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:59 am Don:

I’m in Baghdad with military… I can say that most here think the surge is having a positive impact. There’s surely a lot more work to do in the political arena, but progress is being made. The al Qaeda leader that organized the bombing of the Samarra Mosque was killed today and the al Qaeda leader of Mosul (3rd largest city in Iraq) was killed earlier in week. The surge is hurting the al Qaeda and there’s no mistake about that.

Aug 4, 2007 - 11:59 am Rich711:

Gee, censorship among communists, really? He probably just needed to be re-educated. I imagine they set up little mini camps for that at the convention.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:01 pm chip williams:

Don-stuff it puppy-that man may have bled to give you the right to burn flags and tell others what to wear when.

Others died to give you the rights you abuse-

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:02 pm T. Vio:

I am a conservative Republican, and I thought that the soldier was given all the time he needed to make a point.

By the way —it IS against regulations to use one’s unior at a political event. If you want the military involved in politics, don’t cry when someone you do not agree with is in charge and there is no way to get them out.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:02 pm Paul from Florida:

Jeff,

Murtha was never in Korea. He served months in Vietnam as a hang around old fart map dressing in battalion S-2 shop while he a-la Kerry(ed) for badges. He was ticket punching and has been riding that train forever. Probably still walks with a limp today. (snicker)

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:02 pm bnelson44:

There is an appeal that active duty service members can sign here:

http://www.appealforcourage.org

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:03 pm Bernie Medina:

How can people such as Mr. John Stoltz call themselves “progressives”? What a joke! I became a proud Conservative after years of watching the Democrat Party fossilize, and become regressive. There is nothing “progressive” about killing the weakest and most vulnerable members of our society (the unborn) and by undermining our basic family values, with insane policies such as gay “marriage”. Kos and Mr. Stoltz owe that fine American soldier an apology.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:05 pm David:

Absolutely true, these people are completely out of line. The Soldier, hit a nerve with this group. He did this by presenting facts. These nutty people re-acted like they always do. With emotion and anger.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:09 pm J. Clark:

The scariest part about all if this is that half of the country believes what the psychopaths are saying.

If you claim to be a liberal, you have some pretty strange bedfellows.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:09 pm Captain America:

Finally, a “skunk” at their garden party.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:09 pm BWilde:

Thanks for posting the video, so we can see real socialists, exposed for what they are: Traitors. Nutjobs. Whackos.

Clinically, they are undeveloped and narcisissistic… beyond belief.

We owe a debt to that soldier.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:12 pm Catherine:

This soldier wasn’t speaking politically. He was analyzing military actions based on a combination of hard data and personal experience.

He didn’t endorse a party or a candidate - THAT would be political.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:12 pm theduke:

If you scroll halfway down the page at the following link, you will see John Kerry in uniform adorned with medals testifying before a Congressional Committee in 1971:

http://www.vietnamveteransagainstjohnkerry.com/page2.html

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:13 pm Bob Petersonh:

Vote Democrat and get inline for your welfare checks and food stamps. For we lowly conservatives, its higher taxes to pay for all this garbage that the hilda-beast and obama are pushing. kucinich can run the dept. of peace.

ciao comrades

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:14 pm bnelson44:

Jon Soltz, himself, is in uniform on his political website:

http://www.votevets.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=199&Itemid=80

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:15 pm Big Brother:

It is extremely ironic that former Army Cpt. Jonathan Soltz (aka Jon Soltz and John Soltz) to anoint himself as arbiter on the military legality of the public use of the uniform when Mr. Soltz was the Pennsylvania state coordinator for Veterans for Kerry during the 2004 presidential campaign.

The very same Sen. John Kerry (D) that infamously testified before Congress in 1971 in uniform which subsequently led to the tarnishing of Vietnam veterans for years to come. John Kerry who Mr. Jonathan Soltz found (and finds) so endearing that used the words “murderers” and “baby killers” to describe the actions and character of those who served on the ground in Vietnam while testifying “in uniform” before Congress. Those very same words that put the future lives of 100s of POWs that still remained in Hanoi because of the words of Sen. John Kerry and wherein the subsequent ramifications of Kerry’s lies thus created the misinformed foundation of the Vietnam experience of these men and distorted history of The Vietnam War that exists to this day.

It is perplexing that Mr. Soltz would find it so objectionable that an ordinary sergeant speaking in uniform before a public gathering (and apparently not posing any threat to our nation) while having supported John Kerry (whose words tarnished veterans, endangered POWs, and America’s reputation after having spoken at a Congressional Hearing in uniform) for the highest office of the land.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:19 pm Mustapha:

Who’s actually interested in what soldiers say? A soldier’s job is to shut up and do as he’s told.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:20 pm RJ:

HELLO:: to the person who wrote the Iraqi’s leaders are on a MONTH long vacation.. SO ARE those in the USA House and Senate..They worked today to get items passed BEFORE they took the month off.. So why are we upset the Iraqi’s are taking a month off.

WHY are we trying to put our views on them to begin with?? We should be training their forces to take over for us and after we leave, whatever happens will happen. It will not matter WHAT Party is in the WH when that happens. People say that Nam was Nixon’s war, err WHAT! So whatever happens in Iraq will be GWB war. He will always get the blame for it.. PLEASSSSSEEEE.. The nut heads who thinks we took out the WTC , will be saying it is GWB’s falut the bridge fell..

WHICH if we look at it, could have happen. I mean for years the Dems have wanted to know where GWB was during his time in the AF Reserves.. WELL I have tracked his path down and FOUND that he was a member of the Const Crew that was building the bridge that fell..hmmmmm

HEY I am only kidding here, BUT mark my words, someone will believe this did happen..

Black Helicopters Black Helicopters every where I see, Black Helicopters Black Helicopters looking back at me…..Follow the yellow brick road…

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:25 pm Erik:

Since when is it political speech to say that the army’s policy is working and helping the Iraqis political speech??? These people are insane, and have not only turned it into a political position to support your country, but a political position they disagree with and want to silence! What will become of us?

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:27 pm Rick Diehl:

I don’t care if the Sgt was for the war, against the war, or whatever.

It is completly inappropriate and above that, against the UCMJ for a member of the military to make a political display while wearing his uniform.

The Sgt deserves to be punished for his actions and it is as simple as that, no matter if you agree with him or not.

Or are you folks saying that the troops shouldn’t obey orders if it fits the “proper” politcal aggenda?

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:28 pm reactionary:

Typical Stalinist lefties.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:29 pm Kevin:

Typical leftist fascism. They accuse the right of fascism but its the left who repeatedly try to silence and censor anyone with an opposing point of view. Right wingers encourage debate (most times) because they have facts and reason on your side. When you’re on the left and don’t use reason, common sense or facts to support your argument you must resort to censorship. But we do have to admit that leftist are also escorted out of right wing events by security. But the left is notorious for silencing opponents or degrade them, insult them, call them Hitler etc., rather than engage in serious and lucid debate & discussion. Typical. And to insult a uniformed solider is just beyond the pale.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:30 pm country cuz:

I am truly surprised to see the carelessness this soldier demonstrated. No doubt, he deserves at the very least a good talkin to from his CO. He probably wasn’t thinking. With all the traitors and backstabbing radicals attending this confederacy of dunces, he would have been alot safer in mufti!

By the way, doesn’t this remind you of that scene from Forrest Gump. As I recall the movie portrayed the worthless left as narcissistic buffoons during the 60’s . I guess the times don’t change.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:30 pm Jeff Wolfe:

I hate to break it to everyone, but “freedom of speech” doesn’t apply to members of the armed forces when they’re in uniform. We have no right to put our uniforms on and speak at a political gathering. It’s a clear violation of the Uniformed Code of Military Justice and is not tolerated. It gives the false impression that we are somehow “spokespersons” for the military. I mean, it’s fun to say things like “see, progressives are mean people” but what this soldier did is against the UCMJ. Does that matter to any of you? Would it matter if he had said “hip hip hooray for Clinton and Obama?”

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:31 pm Bob:

What does Israel have to do with ANYTHING? The United States is not Israel. Israel is another country we spoonfeed with billions of dollars.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:32 pm clazy:

Stolz probably believed what he said. Even conservative milbloggers like Uncle Jimbo at Blackfive assume there’s something at least technically wrong with the fact that the sergeant was wearing his uniform. But that doesn’t make Stolz any less of an a$$, and it doesn’t make him correct, either. Just ask yourself: does a man in a uniform stepping out of the audience to make a comment ever suggest his opinion is the “official position” to you?

3.1.2. During or in connection with furthering political activities, private employment or commercial interests, when an inference of official sponsorship for the activity or interest may be drawn.

On the other hand, you can see the guy is really a soldier — that, or breaking federal laws by impersonating one. Considering the number of fake vets out there, I, for one, appreciate the visible evidence.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:33 pm Mustapha:

RJ -

We put our beliefs on Iraqis b/c we can. Might makes right, always has.

Besides, those people were living in tents 40 years ago. They can’t be expected to know what’s in their best interests. It’s up to us to tell them how to run their country.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:34 pm bnelson44:

Jeff Wolfe,

Was it a bloggers convention or a political event?

see:

http://pajamasmedia.com/2007/08/soldier_censored_at_kos_conven.php#c059510

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:35 pm Abu Jamaar:

Having wasted quite a bit of my life attempting to discuss politics online with people, often times of other political disposition, this doesn’t surprise me.

To quote Al Gore “The debate is over”

I have had liberals attempt to contact my employer to have them fire me for posting optionated posts online. I went to my boss and told him flat out, I did this, they posted your personal info online and have encouraged everyone in opposition to my view point to call and get me fired.

If your view point does not agree with theirs, they hate you, and will go for your knee caps in an attempt to shut you up.

This is nothing new, and none of you should be surprised at this behavior.

Abu Jamaar !!!!

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:37 pm Bob:

As an American, this soldier trying to intimidate everyone with his uniform—spouting political propoganda, is an insult. Let him come before the people at this convention in his street clothes and let the argument take place in an orderly way and I’m sure he would have had a platform. But as it was…get him out of here—his behavior is a disgrace.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:38 pm Rick Diehl:

Stolz probably believed what he said, because what he said was 100% correct.

The military don’t want to see a guy in uniform talking about politics one way or another and the UCMJ makes this very clear.

Certainly the Sgt was welcome to his opinion and certainly he shold have been welcome to speak, but as Stolz told him before he spoke, if he said anything about the war, pro or con he would be breaking the law and would be reported.

So the Sgt had plenty of warning about his actions and almost certainly knew in advance that he was breaking the law.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:40 pm scooby:

There’s nothing in the UCMJ that specifically bans speaking at political events. Article 91 prohibits speaking disrespectfully or treating with contempt a non-commissioned officer, warrant or commissioned officer while that person is executing official duties. Since the sitting President is considered a commissioned officer and is always executing official duties, that’s why we can’t criticize the President. (Article 91 is also where “general military authority” comes from, as NCOs all learn in PLDC / WLC.)

Now, there could be an Army regulation prohibiting attending such a meeting, and in that case it would be an Article 92 offense.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:41 pm Immigrant:

It’s been confirmed that the guy was sent in by the right wingnuts. Who was involved ( Malkin, LGF, Pajamas, Freepers ), will be out by tonight. Keep tuned in.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:42 pm Keith F.:

He should not have been in uniform, but if Soltz had an objection to the speaker doing so while in uniform, the proper time to make it is before he speaks. As this went down it is clear that it was the content, not the form that Sltz objected to.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:43 pm Jeff:

I am an active duty officer. I would not condone what this Soldier did, moreover, I would have reprimanded him. However, I would, on the same token, applaud him for standing up for his fellow Soldiers. I would love to be able to stand up in front of those who oppose what we do out there, however, even I am getting dangerously close to the line for posting on this thread. Soldiers are supposed to be apolitical. We support and defend democracy, we don’t practice it. On my own time, not representing the U.S. Military, I will practice it. My year in Iraq was replete with congress talking on both sides of their faces. They would sit with us and tell us all about the great work we are doing, and then they would turn around and say how senseless our work. Good for this Citizen for speaking his mind but shame on the Soldier for speaking his mind.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:43 pm bnelson44:

Rick Diehl,

Stolz appears on his political website in uniform, how do you explain that?

see:

http://www.votevets.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=199&Itemid=80

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:45 pm B.A.Hokom:

What more can I add to this forum? Stoltz and company opened the discussion for the audience, one man in uniform asked an easy non-political question and he was remanded and siolenced by a group who proudly waves the first amendment for soldiers. hypocracy at its finest… there’s a reason stoltz is not in the military, they don’t want his kind in their ranks…loser!

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:47 pm Britton Jandrey:

What is unfortunate is that there are quite a few brats in military that signed on to get college paid for. Any military personel that is serious with their profession knows not to get involved with politics.

I didn’t agree with everything when I was in the marine corps, but it’s not your job to question, you may exercise sound judgement, and make split second decisions but you do not question your superiors during a time of war. That is the key phrase there…TIME OF WAR. Something I believe people in this country need to remember.My friends say “Freedom of speech, freedom of speech!”…when the founding fathers declared freedom of speech people spoke respectfully of our fellow man and made decisions based on the good of their country not of their political career.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:47 pm bunnymud:

Liberals hate our soldiers.

Our soldiers know this.

kos is filled with simple minded communist lemmings.

Screw’em all

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:48 pm larryccf:

quote: “disgusted :

why don’t we give up and become socialists now. I love long lines and poor health care. I also enjoy not having to think for myself - burns too many calories.”

if that statement wasn’t so sadly accurate, i’d be rolling on the floor laughing - the hypocrisy of the liberals, err, progressives is beyond comprehension and defense - just more proof that, as one radio talking head sez, liberalism is a mental illness

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:49 pm Rick Diehl:

Of course there isn’t any UCMJ rule banning people from attending political events, nor is there any rule against wearing a uniform at one.

But there is a clear ban on making politcal staments at a political event while in uniform.

So no speechs, making comments, carrying a sign or anything else involving political speech.

It just isn’t done.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:50 pm WTFO:

Hey William Thomas what exactly were you trying to say you friggin moron “and so soon will be our long national nightmare.” The flag you live under was bought with American Blood what is yours. All you lefties want is entitlement that’s why you vote the way you do. Your train of thought is and has always been “Who will give me more”. Your wonderful party is going to break the back of the American Taxpayer look at the way they spend money in Congress who is controlled by the dems right now. People like you should just go away and not come back.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:50 pm JRowe:

Stoltz, by using his typical pseudo-knowledge of military affairs and his standing as ex-military, was trying to back up his political agenda by silencing a well spoken and well prepared young soldier. That young man was well within his rights as a citizen and privileges as a soldier. He did not give the appearance of official sanction by any entity other than himself, so Stoltz basically just screwed any credibility he had by his ignorance of the regulations in question.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:52 pm s.c.:

i dont really support israel or the troops. it’s my american right. i would never join the military to support someone else’s political and imperialistic tendencies, especially israel’s. when did it become unamerican to not support israel?

i dont oppose “what the soldiers do out there” because they’re just following orders…from people i dont support. why is that so hard for people to realize and accept?

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:52 pm Thomas J. Coyne, Ph.D.:

Delusions of adequacy continue cloud socialist thinking. Too bad, of course, but worse yet: many of them consider themselves to be self-made men/women and each, in turn, worships his/her creator.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:55 pm Rick Diehl:

bnelson44

First off, Stolz is no longer in the service, so the UCMJ no longer covers his actions.

Secondly if while on active duty Stolz DID choose to make a political speech while in uniform he would deserve to be punished for exactly the same reason as the Sgt at the KOS convention.

Believe it or not, for some of us who have worn the uniform it really does go beyond Left & Right.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:57 pm HarryBalls:

Typical Democrat nonsense. They may have changed the way they characterize themselves from liberal to progressive, but it’s the same old socialist, hate America, hope for America to fall on its face claptrap. This demonstrates, once again, their intolerance for people that have views different from theirs. Just a thought. HB

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:57 pm Alex:

In response to Mr. Diehl: I am a veteran and also a liberal. I have to agree with your comments, but I don’t think Mr. Soltz had any business silencing the Sgt. Mr Soltz gave up the right to enforce UCMJ when he left the service. Leave military discipline up to the military.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:58 pm Bubba:

You people are real amazing, this is private event not paid for with tax dollars, the sponsors of the event have every right to determine the contents and the forum. If you don’t like it don’t go.

Maybe you should try endorsing a White Aryan group at a NAACP meeting, if they stop you would that be violating your “Freedom of Speech”?

It’s never a problem when the wingnuts set up free speech zones, uh remember those?

How do you even know that person was a legit soldier? Did anyone check his CAC card? Could have been a prank by the likes of some Swift Boat group.

Of course many soldiers might have a different opinion, but so what, our country is still run by the CIVILIAN government, not the military.

Analogy:

The football players thought their team was winning.

The fans in the stadium could clearly see they were not going to pull it off this time.

Why would that be? Think about it.

Aug 4, 2007 - 12:59 pm Bernie Medina:

Mr. Stoltz you should NEVER censor or offend a military MAN who would take a bullet for you. That fine soldier did not state anything partisan. Your actions proved you Libs are socialists in disguise. You also proved that our Leftist Democrats are very invested in America’s military defeat. Shame on all of you cowards and enemy ennablers at Kos.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:01 pm CHUCK:

MY, MY, AND ALL THE DEMOCRATIC WANTABES WILL BOW TO THESE PEOPLE, BUT YET THEY ARE AFRAID TO HEAR FROM THE MILITARY. IT MUCH BE A REAL SCARY LIFE TO BE AFRAID OF FOX NEWS DEBATES, DEBATES WITH THE MILITARY, AND AFRAID TO ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM ORDINARY PEOPLE ALL AT THE SAME TIME. I GUESS IF ONE OF THE BAD GUYS IN THE WORLD SAY BOO, THEY WILL ALL RUN OFF INTO THE CORNER AND HIDE OR CALL THEIR MOMMY TO PROTECT THEM FROM THE BIG BAD WOLD. WHAT A JOKE THESE PEOPLE ARE.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:02 pm bnelson44:

Rick Diehl,

A few points to consider:

1) I think Stolz is in the reserves, just like the SGT he was chastizing.

2) I think YearlyKOS is advertised as a bloggers convention and as such it would be OK for someone in uniform to attend.

3) I think, speaking up in uniform in support of the mission is allowed, if not there is a lot of DOD video that needs to be scrapped.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:02 pm Ivan Lenin:

People here forget that the uniform issue is completely besides the point. The point is that Mr. Stoltz was pathetic enough to change the subject and focus on the soldier and his uniform, because he didn’t have the guts or brains to answer the question.

Focusing on the soldier is nothing but changing the topic - a tactic very typical of crowds who live in a community-based reality.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:02 pm antishock8:

It is absolutely not against Army regulation to make a statement at a political gathering; unless the gathering is extremist in nature (perhaps KOS fits that description?). Please, folks, get your facts straight before spreading false information. It’s just a Google search away.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:03 pm Steve:

A “The Military and Progressives: Are They Really That Different?” discussion, and no one from the military is allowed? I think I’ll have a “Steve is Wonderful” discussion, and only invite myself. Now that will be truly “progressive”!

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:04 pm Morton Doodslag:

Wesley Clark, the basilisk eyed Eurocrat impersonating an American did a nice job standing up to the goon on his left, NOT. This is the hatefest the Democractic candidates are pandering to… Do the math.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:04 pm Rick Diehl:

Alex

I do agree with you actually that Solz really has no business trying to enforce the UCMJ personally.

And I also have no doubt that Solz was using those rules for his own advantage.

However, I feel that the Sgt set himself up for trouble and most certainly should take responsibility for breaking a military law that at his rank he most certainly would have been aware of.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:05 pm M. Simon:

So the question you have to ask is:

Is the Iraqi government doing better than the US Congress? How about the Illinois legislature?

I’d say yes on both counts.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:05 pm syn:

Is asking a question while dressed in uniform at a blogger’s convention considered political speech?

I’m not familiar with military dress codes so I cannot comment on protocol of the soldier; I respect the military’s stance and would not want to see the uniform abused in a manner unbecoming to those who wear it.

That said, to me the issue is whether or not the Kos Convention is a political convention and if it is, is it not violating McCain/Feingold campaign reform by falsely advertising itself as a blogger convention.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:06 pm Rick Diehl:

antishock8

Once again, it isn’t against the law, unless they make that political statement while wearing their uniform.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:07 pm scooby:

I clicked “Post” too soon: article 134 is a catch-all for “doing bad things.” Speaking in support of the military, however, hardly seems like it would discredit the armed forces.

So a number of posters have claimed that the UCMJ “makes [it] clear” or that this is “against” the UCMJ. The simple fact is that the UCMJ doesn’t specifically prohibit political speech or appearances. Google “UCMJ” and read subchapter X, it simply isn’t there.

It might be against a general regulation. If you want to sift through the ARs, be my guest because I’ve got better things to do with my weekend.

I’ve never seen a general order prohibiting it, and I have taken the time to read my post CG’s orders and my BC and CO’s orders and they never prohibited it that I can recall. Most restrictions on speech have to do with Operational Security (OPSEC), the whole “loose lips sink ships” thing. The brass is (understandably) more concerned about drunk driving than some private griping about the Army.

This guy’s a Sergeant, E-5. That means he’s senior enough to have a little credibility but junior enough that he can just say he didn’t know better. If I were him, I’d do it in a heartbeat. I can understand the moral argument that one person shouldn’t use the uniform to claim to speak for all of us. But the practical consequence of this silence is that we have been shafted repeatedly by the anti-war crowd. It’s beyond ridiculous that we can defeat tyrannical empires while being stopped in our tracks by whiny teenagers and brain-dead celebrities.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:12 pm Rick Diehl:

bnelson44

Just for the record before I go on, I want to make clear that I am not supporting actually Solz, I just object to the Sgt’s actions.

As for your points, honestly I don’t really have all the answers, but if Solz is still in the active reserves, then I am pretty sure that he is not allowed to make political statements while in uniform either.

As for the whole bloggers convention thing, I don’t think that what they call it actually changes the political nature of the event itself, and on top of that no matter what the event was the Sgt still was making clear political statements while in uniform.

As for the support of the mission statements, I am pretty certain that solders still need to have those kind of statements cleared before they are allowed to make them.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:12 pm Peter J. Fonte; AME1 USN (ret):

In accordance with the UCMJ and military regulations, no one is permitted to make public political statements of ANY kind in uniform. However, I think this fine young man should have kicked the liberal’s ass just for GP.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:14 pm Charlie:

This is why I became a Republican not too long ago. The republicans may not be right all the time, but for a party that prides itself on free speech and expression and personal liberties, I just didn’t see the Democrats practicing what they preached. So I joined the other guys. But there should be a distinction made between Democrats and the extreme left wing at this convention. I’m just sad that so many of the big name Democrats are participating in it. It would be like if Giuliani went to a neo-nazi gathering. Politicians: stay away from the extreme wings of your parties. It’s just bad business.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:14 pm Osamas Pajamas:

“Big Bubba” thinks a uniformed soldier [or cop, no doubt] should be unable to express a public opinion while in uniform — as if he is not an individual citizen with the right to speak and publish — by reason of the fact that his uniformed profession requires him to endanger his life to protect the right of freedom of speech? Someone somewhere’s got their head jammed up their ass all the way to China.

Democrats behave like jihadi loonytoons — they cannot tolerate genuine debate and their preference is to shut-up their critics — and preferably, permanently.

In short, the Demos are piss-poor debaters when they don’t control the cameras and microphones, and they reach for their AK-47s or any other method of censorship when it appears that the public might actually have a chance of hearing dissenting views.

Little wonder that the Demos despise Fox News, where Republicans are put on an equal footing with Democrats, i.e.: the deck is not stacked in favor of Democrats.

Yi Ha ***

Minister of Information

Peoples’ Capitalist Republic of Whizbangistan

*** Pronounced “YEEEEEEE HAAAAAAA!!!”

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:16 pm RightStuff:

Everything the Kos does is nothing by bilge. Pond scum. I can see the Kos idiots doing what is reported. Mental midgits. Get the book “The Liberal Mind: The Psychological Causes of Political Madness”, by Lyle Rossiter to see just why these psychopaths act the way they do.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:17 pm T. Keagan:

Typical Daily Kos tactics of shutting down anyone who dares disagree with their hatred for the military, the USA, religion, etc. etc. I dare say if the soldier had stood up and agreed with their hate mongerering rectoric the soldier would have been loudly applauded.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:19 pm John:

What is amazing is that the liberals say they speak for the majority yet when you look at the video, the room is almost empty.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:19 pm Philip Saenz:

The Democrat Party is like Islam. With the Democrat Party, it is their socialist agenda, and nothing else. With Islam, it their religion and nothing else. And both the Democrat Party and Islam will fight to the death for their “rights.”

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:22 pm Rick Diehl:

T. Keagan

In all fairness it should be pointed out that Solz very clearly told the Sgt before he began to speek that regardless of what he said, Pro or Anti, if he spoke while in uniform he would be reported.

So you might want to check the facts before you make such a broad statement.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:25 pm Linlithgow:

So, let me see..

The left made a hero of Jesse Macbeth, including a video of him spouting his lies.

Many ‘progressives’ have deleted the reference to his video, but others haven’t; nor have any of them (to my knowledge) apologised for being a platform for that lying sack of scum and regretted being taken in by him without properly vetting his story. Didn’t Watada also claim (while in uniform) that the war was illegal? Like Macbeth, Watada is a darling of the anti-war crowd, in spite of the fact that he blatantly violated several rules, abandoned his fellow soldiers, and courted the press while he did so, and that he signed up for duty with his eyes open about the war.

Enter yKos; an obviously unrehearsed reservist goes to a ‘blogger convention’ and challenges some claims about military operations that he has some frame of reference for. He stands up for his country, his military and the people he fought with. He is herded someplace privately and threatened, in essence, and his concerns are dismissed out of hand with the excuse that he is violating the USMJ, ergo his points are invalid.

I am aware of the restrictions, (from friends who serve), placed on the military with regard to wearing their uniforms; I would say at best this Sgt. walked a thin line. He wasn’t discussing politics; he was arguing about whether the facts supported the contention that the surge wasn’t working. I would argue if this situation took place during WWII, or if support for Iraqi operations weren’t drawn fairly close along party lines, there wouldn’t be much to say about it. It is BECAUSE politicians have made the surge a political ’cause celebre’ that Stoltz’ argument is getting any kind of support on this board and elsewhere.

Personally, I think if the Sgt had shown up out of uniform the discussion would have gone differently; I think Stoltz’ tack would have been ‘how do I know you served when you did’ and he would have censored him pending review of the Sgt’s DD214.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:25 pm brerol:

Just wondering if the likes of Cindy Sheehan in the same circumstance would have received the big boot from Stoltz

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:26 pm paulnashtn:

I did not have time to read all posts but did not see one that pointed out that KOS is NOT a political gathering, it is a social gathering for political wonks, therefore it is NOT out of line for a serviceman to be there in uniform(dumb maybe)

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:27 pm mikem:

Well, hats off to the guy who says he served a few “terms” (chuckle) in the Army. Welcome to the world of the wannabe.

There is absolutely no prohibition against expressing an opinion about the war, in uniform or not. Be real. You are not supposed to campaign, as in political campaigning, not as in saying the war is going well. (Duh)

Even with that, the only restrictions I ever heard mentioned during the 70’s were on officers and command enlisted (SgtMajors and the like), not on regular enlisted.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:29 pm bob:

RE:Jan :

This is a perfect example of freedom of speech according to liberals: You can say anything you want as long as you agree with me!

” You have got to be kidding me,this from the conservative side where if you disagree you are branded a traitor. Give me a big break. I used to be a full blown republican, now, at best I am an independent, there is not 5 cents worth of difference between Bill Clinton and George Bush, 2 peas in a pod, and neither worth a damn.”

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:29 pm Head Bustin Hank:

When did these communists start calling themselves “progressives”?

That’s like calling manure a boquet of roses. Smells the same too.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:29 pm Randall Vorisek:

The “anti-war” movement in this Country is now becoming tactically and ideologically similair to the brownshirts of the 1930’s.

This can’t be good.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:35 pm BobE-VADemHawk:

Wow, are you conservatives really that angry for losing in 2006 that you’re reduced to hurling baseless accusations? I see the facist wing of the GOP is well represented here.

DailyKOS is a fine example of the 1st Amendment in action. Should we shut down Fox News because it is conservative or CBS becuase it is center-left? Of course not! But yet, conservative post after conservative post advocate just that kind of behavior.

The Democratic Party will save this nation from these knuckle-dragging, war-mongering, money-worshipping Republicans whether they like it or not.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:36 pm Gabe:

The Liberal terrorist loving blame America groups ought to be ashamed to treat the brave men and women in uniform this way.The freedom they have to speak out their sick views is owed to the military that fights against oppressive regimes.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:37 pm Gabe:

The Liberal terrorist loving blame America groups ought to be ashamed to treat the brave men and women in uniform this way.The freedom they have to speak out their sick views is owed to the military that fights against oppressive regimes.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:37 pm Gabe:

The Liberal terrorist loving blame America groups ought to be ashamed to treat the brave men and women in uniform this way.The freedom they have to speak out their sick views is owed to the military that fights against oppressive regimes that liberals love.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:38 pm DC Nudist:

Lots of empty tables…

Sounds like a great conference! ZZZZzzzzzzz

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:40 pm Mr. Beamish:

Someone who actually knows something about the topic being discussed at a leftist circle jerk?

Throw the bum out!

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:41 pm Boghie:

The soldier is - or should - get a light reprimand. And, he knows it.

His speech was initiated as a question he wanted answered, his responses were factual, and his demeanor was respectful. I am intrigued by the commenter who reminded us that Stoltz did not object to the uniform until questioned on a topic he was reluctant to answer.

The Sergeant never mentioned a political figure, a political party, or even a political system. He was at a Leftist event.

For you lefties out here please understand one thing. This Sergeant may be cleaning dishes soon but he will not be sent to Leavenworth to await a firing squad. He knew the ‘dangers’ and seems to be accepting of the ‘punishment’.

Now Lefties: If we bail from Iraq and hundreds of thousands - or millions - are murdered, are you accepting of the consequences of your actions? Would you even accept a single mess duty quota when the expected atrocities are initiated if/when your surrender is implemented? Did you accept them in Southeast Asia? That was the Sergeant’s question. I think it should be answered. Remember, Libbies, the net is forever.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:41 pm Kossack:

Has anybody that is posting these hateful comments ever gone on the DailyKos web site? If you had and spent much time there you might start to enjoy the intellectual stimulation. That is if you are not a brain dead fascist wannabe.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:45 pm Ryan:

Okay, first, the governing document concerning military conduct is first it is the UCMJ: Uniform Code of Military Justice. Not the military dress code, not the USMJC. Quit talking about things you do not understand.

UCMJ prohibits military personnel from wearing uniforms to political functions, and/or identifying themselves as such during a political event.

You will notice that the moderator made mention of the soldier’s commanding officer and first sergeant, suggesting to me that the moderator was familiar with the military. Judging by the way he chewed that sergeant’s butt, and his haircut, I think it is a good chance that the moderator himself was a member of the military. He simply did what he did to prevent this misguided soldier from embarrasing himself and getting himself into serious trouble.

That soldier had no business to be there in uniform. Any military member worth their own salt would have done exactly the same thing.

Military personnel give up certain rights when they join the military. It is part of the price we pay in order to be those who are lucky enough to defend freedom. In many case, this seems archaic, even draconian by civilians, but the bottom line is that “it is what it is” and the Sergeant knew better than to walk into a political event with that uniform on.

And YES the fact that he is there, at a political event, in a military uniform, is against UCMJ.

Plus, the Hatch Act for Federal Employees says exactly the same thing. Same rules apply. So he’s violating at least two sets of guidelines, probably on multiple counts.

Period.

Read your code, know your code.

And shame on Matt Drudge for posting this link. Matt, you should know better than this.

Out.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:46 pm Former Combat Veteran (USA):

fred lapides:

“A gathering of anti-war folks and the same would happen if it was a pro-war group and Cindy Sheehan started to speak.”

FYI, anti-war speakers normally are not hassled at anywhere near the intensity that Leftists typically verbally and physically attack conservativee speakers across the country and in a variety of forums. You might be able to point to an isolated case here or there, but the Left owns the domain of preventing speech by its opposition.

“Is Iraq getting better?”

Virtually ANY objective source, including traditional Leftists, have recognized the positive shifts that have taken place this year, as well as the positive cumulative effects of our intervention there. The critical remaining problems center on the lack of intyernal political progress by the Iraqis themselves, as they fail to come to parlimentary agreement in solving their deep religious and tribal differences.

“Call me this or that if you will but I have served a few terms in the US Army.”

I’ll not call you anything, but in all my years in the military, I’ve never ONCE heard a veteran refer to his time in military service as a “term.” Not ONCE.

I can’t prove or disprove your assertion, but this extremely unusual nomenclature raises strong suspicions that you’ve never served in the US Army or any other military service.

Cav

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:47 pm Wllatty:

I wish I could be locked in a room with that traitor Stolz for a few minutes.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:52 pm Dirty Harry:

When I first started following politics in the last ’70’s Democrats were, of course, liberal. But now, their party has been takem over by these far-left, nutty bloggers. If the mainstream media accurately & fairly covered politics hardly anyone in America would vote Democrat. But because the MSM portrays the democrats as “caring for the poor, the children & less fortunate” people are deceived.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:52 pm JR:

Regardless of whether or not he violated military code, there was no one at that gathering that had the power to ENFORCE it against him!

It’s also laughable to imply that Soltz gave a crap about that. Painfully obvious he was shutting the man down, by any means necessary.

Pathetic.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:52 pm USAF Vet:

Sounds like a Bush-Cheney “event”. At least he wasn’t arrested.

Aug 4, 2007 - 1:56 pm Iraqi War Vet:

That E-5 may have more balls than brains to go into that hornets nest. I’m not sure if he will get in trouble as he said he was trying to argue FACTS, not OPINION and not political views. I hear from my buddies that are still there, in Baghdad and elsewhere, the surge is working, fewer Americans and fewer Iraqis are dying. Soon even the press will be unable to hide these FACTS. I think 90% of the anti-war sentiment is just anti-Bush sentiment going back to the 2000 election. Yes, there are true pacifists out there that oppose all conflict but if this were Al Gore’s war, or John Kerry’s, or Bill Clinton’s, most opposition would simply vanish.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:00 pm T. Goebel:

These same people trying to silence this soldier, afraid to address him in front of cameras and complaining about his uniform are of the same ilk that praise John Kerry during Viet Nam, and his equals today who are opposing Iraq, for speaking out as soldiers and former soldiers WHEN THEY AGREE WITH THEM THAT WE SHOULD CUT & RUN.

This soldier is willing to stand up for what he believes and let the chips fall where they may as far as his future in the military because he believes in what he is saying and is willing to do so in front of the whole world, why do these defeatocrats have to hide away in back rooms and make threats when confronted by such a person, why are they afraid to stand toe-to-toe and debate him in the court of public opinion.

COWARDS!!!

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:07 pm Bob Loblaw:

It was not a political event. At least it’s not billed as one. Even if it has been it would be up to the military to bust this soldier’s ass, not Komrade Soltz.

Libs are all for free speech until you disagree with them.

God help the USA.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:08 pm RXJ:

This is why I love America… The majority can’t even speak 1 language, yet we manage to have elitist conventions like this that pride themselves in hating America and every accomplishment the opposing party has had.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:11 pm CAVTrooper:

“fred lapides :

Big deal. Was he invited and on a speakers list? I do not know. A gathering of anti-war folks and the same would happen if it was a pro-war group and Cindy Sheehan started to speak.

Is Iraq getting better? NO. The “leaders” are now on a mon th-long vacation and many are killed daily and face it: Iraq is not getting better.

So all the name calling in these comments does not change anything in the Iraq war.

Call me this or that if you will but I have served a few terms in the US Army.”

You served a few “terms” in the U.S. Army did you? OK, what was your MOS? When and where did you do Basic and AIT? Where were you stationed?

Oh BTW, you are dead wrong about Iraq.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:13 pm Egfrow:

It’s ok that the Democratic Left will use Uniforms to elevate their political agenda of a Communist utopia but when real soldiers want to speak in their own defense then it’s wrong for a soldier to be political. What a a B.S. propaganda tactic. A complete double standard.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:14 pm merealtor:

I have to say as a republican that it is nice to hear once in a while a democrat stand for what is right and speak out against those who simply want to silence truth. The majority of dems and libs (synonymous)I have ever read from or listened to would lie and cater to those that do even with the truth directly in their face. So Im not sure if you want to take this as a compliment or a critical assesment. I guess it depends on whether or not you are a true believer in exposing lies and revealing truths. Godspeed

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:18 pm Jason:

It is literally illegal for the soldier to appear in uniform at that event. If you live off post, you are not supposed to stop at the grocery store or anywhere else on the way home. The uniform is the property of the U.S. military, as is- technically- the soldier and he became U.S. property when he VOLUNTARILY signed up.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:18 pm Shane:

For all you people claiming the UCMJ forbids a sodier from wearing a uniform to a political event, please state that reg. I beleive you are misinformed concerning the content of that reg. I did 7 years and I think everybody and their brother just “knew” there was something in the UCMJ for just about everything. There isn’t. About all you could do is Ariticle 134 “unmilitary like conduct” but I don’t know how you would push it. Secondly, there is no difference in wearing the uniform or informing the audience that you are a retired general. Both are showing the audience that you have experience and both imply a view point of a military individual.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:20 pm C. BRIAN YOUNCE:

When the facts are on your side, argue the facts. When the facts are against you, argue the person.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:21 pm Larry Brewer:

I had a go with dailykos about 2 yrs ago. I blogged my ass off. Then one day I fell out of favor. Next morning I couldn’t login. I had been tossed. I guess the open forum doesn’t include certain ideas or questions. Haven’t been back. Screw’em.

Larry Brewer

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:22 pm CAVTrooper:

“jar jar binks :

Ugh. This “Sergeant” is a mind-numbed Bushbot.

Just a note, son: 1) the surge is a failure per every deployed soldier I’ve talked to, and 2) stop quoting Bushisms like “that’s what the terrorists want.”

Unless you want to keep digging that hole to China.”

That Sergeant has more guts than you can ever dream of having.

Oh yeah “every deployed soldier I’ve talked to” says the surge is failing. Hold on while I throw out the BS flag. My bet is that you probably wouldn’t know a Soldier from a Good Humor icecream man.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:22 pm Lester:

Check out who is using a uniform for political proposes! (Jon Soltz)Too funny!

http://www.votevets.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=199&Itemid=80

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:23 pm november1981:

Jon Soltz says: “You will never use MY uniform for the sake of political purposes”

“MY uniform”?- he actually says this twice; once at the beginning of his Bitch-Fit and once at the end.

This guy is a Supreme Turd

Listen again to the end of his tirade, just before he storms off stage he actually thanks the panel “for the sake of the Army”.

“FOR THE SAKE OF THE ARMY”!

-as if Capt. Jon Soltz is thanking them ON BEHALF of the Army.

It seems to me that Capt. Jon Soltz, in uniform or not, is seeking to give the impression that he represents the Army by using that phrase.

The Yearly Kos is a BLOGGERS’S CONVENTION, not an official political gathering; and the SGT. in uniform is NOT giving a politcal speech- merely speaking in support of military endeavors.

If this came up before a military court I would think that the uniformed Sergeant would be completely exonerated, but Capt. Soltz would be in some hot water for attempting to give the appearance that he represents the Army before this convention.

If anyone wants to see this turd Soltz in action, click on the following link-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxTe6_iezLI

He’s appearing on Hannity and Colmes on some panel discussion arguing with Duncan Hunter. Several times, Congressman Hunter refutes Soltz’s assertions whereupon Soltz shoots back with something like: “Hey I’m the guy in the field, your’e up there in Congress what do you know!” blah blah blah etc.

It’s disgustingly obvious what kind of game this Soltz is playing here- using his record of service to bolster his credentials in the anti-war movement.

“Hey guys, I’m ex-military! When I speak out against this war and against our military, who are you to argue with me! That’s right! Stand down!”

I bet the Kos Girls swoon over this guy.

The last thing Soltz needs is to be upstaged by an affable, articulate soldier speaking in support of their mission. He went off on him not because he was violating regulations , but because he was pissing up his tree.

A SUPREME TURD

Soltz actually barked at his co-panelists to “Stand down!” when they attempted to answer the Sergeant

A SUPREME TURD!

SUPREME!

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:23 pm J. Kensen:

So when it comes to dealing with the enemies of the USA such as (Iran and North Korea) Daily Kos is all for sitting down and talking. However, when an American Soldier (or anyone else) disagrees with Daily Kos and wants to talk to them, Daily Kos’s first move is use force to shut them down.

Also, the Daily Kos defense that the reason the soldier was stopped from talking is because it is against the military code to wear a Uniform while engaging in a political discussion does not pass the smell test. If the soldier had stood up and agreed with Daily Kos, the soldier would have recieved a lot of praise and trotted out on their blog to to spew more anti American hate speech.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:24 pm Mark:

Actually, that isn’t Kerry’s uniform. He is wearing it incorrectly (ribbons while wearing fatigues)and at the time, was not still in the service. Therefore, it was his right to protest.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:24 pm mikem:

So now we have heard from all the “veterans” who would have “busted his ass good just like any good NCO” for saying the war is going well… in uniform.

I just love it when people who despise the ordinary soldier feel they have to pose as soldiers to have any legitimacy.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:28 pm Global Engineer:

I agree with the “soldier.” We MUST stop those would destroy the bad name of the United States.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:30 pm Marcus:

The SGT was wrong to appear in uniform. That principle trumps whatever he had to say.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:32 pm Partpooper:

It appears that Jon Soltz was a REMF logistics guy who now believes he was Delta Force.

“Stand Down” - what a clown. Doesn’t he realize that a real general with actual combat experience was sitting immediately to his left.

I don’t agree with General Clarks leftist politics but he displayed the proper decorum and maturity in handling the situation.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:33 pm Trippin:

I agree with you Linda, the manner in which this soldier was silenced is loathsome and absolutely appalling! Unlike the mindless leftwing idiots who get arrested at Republican/right-wing conventions, this soldier was very politely trying to have his views aired. He wasn’t pushing anyone, punching anyone, shouting obscenities, burning anything, trashing anything or trying to “disrupt” anything. It is not his actions that infuriated Stoltz, it’s what he wanted to say.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:34 pm richr:

This proves that O’reilly was right. That must drive you libs nuts.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:36 pm ESQ:

FREE SPEECH ZONES

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:40 pm Trippin:

Well said MikeM. And of course, the same pretend “veterans” trashing this particular soldier would be back here DEFENDING another soldier who speaks out against the war at a Republican convention in uniform. You can bet your ass on that.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:41 pm raybojabo:

We call them liberals, Stalin called them “useful idiots”.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:42 pm Kris:

If he had a political viewpoint that Soltz agreed with would you be hearing about censorship today? Doubtful.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:42 pm SparkS:

If not mentioned before he’s in violation of the Hatch Act.

Speaking of the traitorous Kerry how many days has it been since he said he would release his navy records? I agree,I think he received an OTH or DD discharge. His visit to Paris was also a violation of U.S. law. Why is it that the Left is allowed to break the law with impunity? If a conservative tried the same thing they’d be tossed in jail.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:43 pm Davod:

After reviewing the video a few things are clear: The soldier was off camera; Stolz was clearly frustrated by the soldier and Stolz ratted on the guy for wearing his uniform. Stolz is the face of the anti-war veteran?

Just what did Stolz do when he was in the army?

Why is KOS the least bit bothered with army regulations?

Why would anyone at a KOS convention be intimidated by someone in uniform.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:43 pm Global Engineer:

I wonder if one of you so-called right wing patriots would mind explaining why the Uniform Code prohibits political speech while in uniform.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:47 pm Ronin:

“After the furnace-like heat, the first thing you notice when you land in Baghdad is the morale of our troops … Today, morale is high. The soldiers and marines told us they feel that they now have a superb commander in Gen. David Petraeus; they are confident in his strategy, they see real results, and they feel now they have the numbers needed to make a real difference.”

This is directly from one of the latest reports on Iraq from the left-leaning Brookings Institute.

So all you Moonbats just keep telling us how badly its going over there and don’t let the facts get in the way of your argument.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:47 pm Tracey:

The Left Wants To Change America

The Left Wants Socialism under the control of an Authoritarian Government

The Left Wants To Change America:

“From each according to his ability, to each according to his need.” by Karl Marx, the father of Communism and Hillary Clinton, the mother of the radical left in America.

WILL YOU TURN YOUR COUNTRY OVER TO THESE THUGS NEXT YEAR?

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:49 pm Smooth:

To Greg:

Where is it written that I need to support Islam to be considered patriotic and/or a good American? There is lots that Islam does that I cannot support.

Maybe if you and your leader, Markos Moulitsas Z√∫niga, will stop shoving down our throats your leftist canard that Islam is peaceful, then I can guarantee that the rest of us Americans will be better off.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:49 pm Global Engineer:

Ronin,

Maybe the soldiers’ morale is up because Congress became democratically controlled and Bush is nearing the end of his term.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:52 pm Ron:

WOW! Liberals are all about free speech and equal time as long as it doesn’t conflict with their views or agenda. Every day they prove they are socialists. They can’t win elections by revealing who they are. They run to the center toward conservatism and govern to the left. The wingnuts have taken over the party. Rush knows you guys better than you know yourself. That must keep you up at nights. Via the blogs we are learning more about you every day from your own words and it’s ugly.

Enjoy your moment in power. You are fowling your own nest.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:52 pm Delaware Vet:

That soldier is a hero. Apparently soldiers in uniform are quite welcome when they can be used as props to deliver a leftwing anti- US government message. Wesley Clark should be ashamed of himself for not coming to the aid of a fellow serviceman.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:53 pm Boghie:

Wow,

There are going to be a lot of crying Libs out there.

The Sergeant was at fault. But that fault won’t be severely punished. He wasn’t stumping a polical agenda - he stayed clear of politics. He will be hassled by his command for ‘being an idiot’ - wink, wink…

The Libs on this site seem to think he will be given his BCD and sent to the slammer. In reality, he ain’t going to get punished. He will get a stern warning that he was a bad boy. His reputation in the unit will be enhanced. However, I don’t think it would be a very good idea to have a repeat performance.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:53 pm Rick Diehl:

mikem

Now see, that was really uncalled for.

I certainly am one of the guys saying that the Sgt should be reprimanded, and I certainly am a veteran.

Ph2 Richard Arthur Diehl, attached to FLTAVCENPAC, stationed out at the old NAS Miramar, 1981-1986.

How about you sweetcheeks, are you willing to put up your name, rank and time in service, or are you just a screen name with nothing attached but bluster?

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:55 pm Ronin:

The UCMJ prohibits political speech in uniform because the military as an organization is not Republican, Democrat or Whig; it’s supposed to be politically neutral and therefore its members, of all ranks, are not allowed to make political statements in uniform so that our citizens don’t misinterpret those remarks as an official stance of the military.

Wesley Clarke gets away with it because he is retired and retired members are allowed to wear their uniforms. Personally, he should not be while making overt political statements because it confuses the issues.

As for John Kerry, he was on inactive status but still a part of the military when he committed treason in Paris and directly had meetings with the enemy. He should have been hauled back in leg irons.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:56 pm CAVTrooper:

Soltz is an idiot.

He’s supposedly in the Reserves, which means that he is also in the wrong.

I bet the reason why he got so pissy is because the Sergeant quoted something from the leadership manual that makes Soltz look like a chump.

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:58 pm Big Brother:

Read this interesting yet now somewhat contradictory take on Soltz.

From:

VFW 764 MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION

by Bill Jones

http://www.vfw764.org/Mem_Day_06.htm

“The applause for both is a roar as the VFW committee show a proud confidential smile. The Marching Band and Drill Team show appreciation with a sprite military rendition. As they finish their show and fall back into rows Captain Soltz takes his position

The Captain is back from Iraq, with warrior stories to tell, but he starts by talking to the youth. How important his years as a Boy Scout have been in preparing him for life’s serious truth’s. Then he brings the war home to the adults in the crowd, stirring memories in the uniformed men. He attests to the hell of war as he tells how his sergeant’s life came to an end. **The Captain concludes with a promise that this necessary war will produce success.** Then we know with leaders like Captain Soltz this nation is truly blessed.”

Image of then Army Captain Soltz:

http://web.archive.org/web/20060819162940/http://www.vfw764.org/images/MemDay04LI.jpg

Aug 4, 2007 - 2:58 pm Tracey:

“Rush knows you guys better than you know yourself.” by Ron

Ron you are so right about this. I have been booted off of many leftist websites for expressing something other than the party line. The left does not and never has supported First Amendment Free Speech rights.

Their vile attempt to silence Right Wing Talk Shows like Rush’s are clearly censorship, not fairness.

The “Fairness Doctrine” is government imposed censorship the left wants to use to shut down Conservative Talk Shows so that no one can counter their arguments, or talk against their proposals.

The left wants to silence the opposition by using the so called fairness doctrine.

Aug 4, 2007 - 3:02 pm Rick Diehl:

Boghie

Kind of jumping to conclusions there aren’t you.

Most of us “Libs”, or at least us “Libs” who are vets are quite aware that the offense is the type of thing that gets settled with a non-judicial punishement.

It was called a Captains Mast in the Navy, but I have no idea what the Army calls it.

But it doesn’t change that the Sgt deserves that non-judicial punishment and the fact that he supports your political