AP: Obama to Skip Wreath Laying Ceremony at Arlington on Monday

By Doug Powers  •  May 25, 2010 11:20 AM

**Written by guest-blogger Doug Powers

President Obama went to Arlington Cemetery to lay the wreath last year, but this year Obama’s handing the wreath to Plugs and heading off to the more welcoming political climes of Chicago:

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama plans to spend a long holiday weekend in Chicago.

The White House says Obama and his family will travel to their hometown on Thursday and stay through the weekend. It will be their first trip back home since a visit for Valentine’s Day weekend in February 2009.

On Monday, Obama is scheduled to participate in a Memorial Day ceremony at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Ill.

In Obama’s absence, Vice President Joe Biden will participate in the customary wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington.

Obama will however make it back to Washington in time next week to honor Paul McCartney, who has sacrificed so much for the freedoms we enjoy.

Boy, I’m starting to think that West Point speech wasn’t from the heart.

Update: Obama will alter vacation plans slightly and travel to the Gulf on Friday in a desperate attempt to “plug the damn hole” in his approval ratings.

**Written by guest-blogger Doug Powers

Twitter @ThePowersThatBe

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  1. #101
    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:49 pm, LuxEternam said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:17 pm, chapoutier said:
    Reagan skipped in 1983 and had the Deputy Secretary of Defense go in his place.

    Bush I skipped in 1992 and had VP Quayle go in his place.

    Neither attended ceremonies at alternate sites.

    Reagan was unable to attend because he was at an economic summit of industrialized nations in Williamsburg VA. You forgot to to mention that little nugget Chap.

    He was attending to the business of the USA, not taking his umpteenth vacation in a year. He also called for that Monday to be “a day of prayer for permanent peace.”

    We know how Obama feels about National Days of Prayer….he cancelled the one for this year.

    Pres. George H.W. Bush actually spoke to a group at a local American Legion in Kennebunkport.

    So your statement that they did not attend ceremonies at alternate sites is at best misleading.

    And has been stated before, neither of these Presidents had the reputation that Obama has for being virulently anti-military.

  2. #102
    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:51 pm, BOB said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:24 pm, chapoutier said:
    No so bad for Reagan and Bush, neither one had the well deserved “hate America” reputation of Obama Rama Lama Ding Dong.
    So you are not really angry about the act. You are just angry because you already have a preconceived notion that he is unpatriotic and disrespectful and this fits that narrative.

    Both actually, I’m not trying to make Obama’s act OK by looking back at history and saying “Bush did it too”, either.

    I didn’t say it wasn’t bad for Reagan and Bush, but that it was “not so bad”.

    Did you miss that?

  3. #103
    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:56 pm, chapoutier said:

    Reagan was unable to attend because he was at an economic summit of industrialized nations in Williamsburg VA. You forgot to to mention that little nugget Chap.

    You know how close that is to Arlington by helicopter?

    Pres. George H.W. Bush actually spoke to a group at a local American Legion in Kennebunkport.

    A speech is not a ceremony, so your statement that my statement was misleading was erroneous, at best or worse. Also, Bush golfed after that speech. Are there no national cemeteries in Maine?

  4. #104
    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:56 pm, chapoutier said:

    I didn’t say it wasn’t bad for Reagan and Bush,

    Now’s your chance. Was it bad? Disrespectful? Unpatriotic?

  5. #105
    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:57 pm, Stoutcat said:

    Is anyone here claiming, this is per se unpatriotic or disrespectful?

    Chapoutier, not necessarily unpatriotic, but certainly non-traditional for what is an intensely traditional day of remembrance. Also, it displays a certain “me, me, me” mindset that is perfectly consistent with President Obama, but not so much with regular Americans, especially those who honor our military men and women.

    Since he will be placing a wreath at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, I’m willing to cut him a bit of slack on this, but:

    Unpatriotic? Not exactly.
    Tin ear? Exactly.

  6. #106
    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:58 pm, Flyoverman said:

    There is a wreath laying ceremony annually at Great Lakes NTC. Pehaps The Annoited One Barry can put down his copy of Das Kapital long enough to go there and do his duty as CINC.

  7. #107
    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:58 pm, rightwingmom said:

    1. Wouldn’t wear the American flag lapel pin.
    2. Didn’t place his right hand over his heart during the Pledge.
    3. Apologizes to the world for America’s short-comings.
    4. Allows socialists, communists, and Marxists to advise him.

    *** I DON’T KNOW WHERE I EVER GOT THE IDEA THAT HE MIGHT NOT LOOK FAVORABLY ON THE MILITARY. /sarc

    Anyone have other examples???

  8. #108
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:06 pm, RobM1981 said:

    Ah, President Thin Skin is at it again.

    Evidently he didn’t get the reception he felt he deserved at West Point, and is now witholding his respect for their fallen predecessors.

    Par for the course, no?

    So, what do you think of President Petulant’s new gays-in-the-military policy: “ASK AND MAKE THEM TELL – WATERBOARD THEM IF NECESSARY”

    Progressive enough for you?

    I understand that he’s also pushing to replace the M4 with the Red Ryder Range Model BB Gun, and most of our drone fleet with Cox R/C planes.

    Remember: The Emperor is from Chicago. He’s only interested in hearing that his new suit looks GREAT.

  9. #109
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:15 pm, Rogue Cheddar said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:24 pm, chapoutier said:
    So you are not really angry about the act. You are just angry because you already have a preconceived notion that he is unpatriotic and disrespectful and this fits that narrative.

    No preconception here! I conceived he was unpatriotic and disrespectful by the lame-ass actions Obama keeps perpetrating! Stop denying it chap, you voted for a slimy doofus, and no amount Devil’s Advocate is going to change that fact!

  10. #110
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:19 pm, chapoutier said:

    No preconception here!

    Conceived prior to this (non)incident, right?

  11. #111
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:20 pm, 24Klady said:

    Pouty guy and his bride from h#ll not showing up at Arlington is a break I hadn’t counted on – the military dodged another lecture and the whole country can mourn our fallen in peace.

    Besides, I’m sure ‘Bambi’s anxious to get home to visit old cronies before they report to jail.

  12. #112
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:21 pm, Ragspierre said:

    Conceived prior to this (non)incident, right?

    If by “preconceived” you mean “amply proven”

  13. #113
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:22 pm, Major O said:

    And has been stated before, neither of these Presidents had the reputation that Obama has for being virulently anti-military.

    You might also add that we have 2 hot wars going on right now with folks dying that we didn’t back then. You might also add that Bush I was a WWII vet and so his bona fides wrt the military were not in question. Reagan also had an unquestioned pro-military reputation. Obama doesn’t. Not fair? Tough. It comes with the job.

    It’s all about perception and BHO has to learn how to manage it.

  14. #114
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:25 pm, Sanddog said:

    Skipping Arlington for a vacation?

    The Narcissist in Chief strikes again.

  15. #115
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:26 pm, chapoutier said:

    It’s all about perception and BHO has to learn how to manage it.

    Manage what? He goes there and guess what? Everyone here will STILL be talking about how he is unpatriotic this and disrespectful that and instead the talking point will be how he shouldn’t have show up in the first place.

    There is managing perceptions and there is navigating Catch-22s.

  16. #116
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:27 pm, spaceycakes said:

    What did this prez do last year? On Memorial Day?

  17. #117
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:27 pm, Rogue Cheddar said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:19 pm, chapoutier said:
    No preconception here!
    Conceived prior to this (non)incident, right?

    Okay Ziggy, you got me! My conceptions came before this typical tone-deaf incident, granted. But I think your use of preconceived meant that we already judged him without any prior knowledge of his rap sheet.

  18. #118
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:28 pm, Republicanvet said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:19 pm, chapoutier said:

    No preconception here!

    Conceived prior to this (non)incident, right?

    (non)incident. The leftist thinking of such a solemn day in a nutshell.

  19. #119
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:28 pm, chapoutier said:

    But I think your use of preconceived meant that we already judged him without any prior knowledge of his rap sheet.

    That is not what I intended, in any case. But that is my bad. I should have been more precise.

  20. #120
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:29 pm, chapoutier said:

    (non)incident. The leftist thinking of such a solemn day in a nutshell.

    Since when does “incident” mean “day”?

  21. #121
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:29 pm, Flyoverman said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:27 pm, spaceycakes said:

    What did this prez do last year? On Memorial Day?

    Same thing he does every day. He looks in the bathroom mirror and admires his glistening pecs.

  22. #122
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:30 pm, Major O said:

    Manage what? He goes there and guess what? Everyone here will STILL be talking about how he is unpatriotic this and disrespectful that and instead the talking point will be how he shouldn’t have show up in the first place.

    There is managing perceptions and there is navigating Catch-22s.

    I’d have to disagree. There are things he could do to improve his image vis-a-vis the military and this is one of them.

  23. #123
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:30 pm, Major O said:

    Manage what? He goes there and guess what? Everyone here will STILL be talking about how he is unpatriotic this and disrespectful that and instead the talking point will be how he shouldn’t have show up in the first place.

    There is managing perceptions and there is navigating Catch-22s.

    Oh and regardless, he still should go because it’s THE RIGHT THING TO DO as well.

  24. #124
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:32 pm, chapoutier said:

    Oh and regardless, he still should go because it’s THE RIGHT THING TO DO as well.

    You do know he is actually going to another wreath-laying ceremony, right?

    Or are only the people buried at Arlington worthy of Presidential attention?

  25. #125
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:37 pm, WaterBoyz said:

    Probably better he stay away.

    Just how much of a heartfelt message can he give while reading TOTUS.

    Sorry TOTUS, nothng personal.

  26. #126
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:39 pm, Ragspierre said:

    Oh and regardless, he still should go because it’s THE RIGHT THING TO DO as well.

    Yessir. Certain duties devolve on a guy who aspired to be “Commander-In-Chief” of a military in which he never served, and for which he shows amazing contempt and callousness. He’s happy to enjoy the rites and incidents of his office, many of them provided by the military. It seems but a very small thing to miss a golf date

    curtail a hoop-shooting session delay a selfish trip.

  27. #127
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:40 pm, BOB said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:56 pm, chapoutier said:
    I didn’t say it wasn’t bad for Reagan and Bush,
    Now’s your chance. Was it bad? Disrespectful? Unpatriotic?

    I thought I made it clear before, am I talking to a lawyer or something?

    I’ll go with “bad”, but nowhere near as bad as with Obama, who, as I said before, already carries a well deserved reputation for disliking the US military, and America in general.

  28. #128
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:43 pm, stillontheroad said:

    Now correct me if I am wrong -Arlington National Cemetery is where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers is at? And is it or is it not on Memirial Day that Wreaths are placed and those men honored? As well as all the dead at Arlington? El Zippy takes a vacation and well that dolt should. His presence dishonors those men and women who rate far and above this Cheese ball of a President.

  29. #129
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:44 pm, chapoutier said:

    I thought I made it clear before,

    No, you didn’t. You said you didn’t say it wasn’t bad. Glad you clarified.

  30. #130
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:45 pm, chapoutier said:

    I’d have to disagree.

    El Zippy takes a vacation and well that dolt should. His presence dishonors those men and women who rate far and above this Cheese ball of a President.

    See what I mean.

  31. #131
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:45 pm, Major O said:

    You do know he is actually going to another wreath-laying ceremony, right?

    Or are only the people buried at Arlington worthy of Presidential attention?

    I do and that’s appreciated but Arlington is the biggie. Nowhere is it being stated that only the Arlington dead need to be honored. At least that I’m aware of.
    It’s symbolism. Arlington is THE PLACE, the symbolic center when it comes to the nation’s military dead. That’s why it is such a huge honor to be buried there (hence the flap over things like JFK Jr being interred there).
    It’s that type of symbolism he needs to learn to manage when it comes to the military. Of course, he could find a VFW somewhere in East Cupcake NJ and participate in their ceremony but this is the big one.

    Obviously, presidents come into office with some things going for them and some things going against them. BHO, just as a Democrat alone, has to swim against the impression of being weak on defense (which many think stems from a dislike of the military). On top of it, he’s never served (no dishonor there, just a factor to work with). Not to mention he campaigned against a war that was overwhelming supported by those doing the actual fighting. I’m not arguing right now whether any of these facts around him are right or wrong but I am arguing that that’s what he has to work against when people perceive him.

    I can tell you that if I was advising him I would have said without hesitation, “Sir, I would make the trip to Arlington. You have enough bad press/feelings around your relationship to the military. You don’t need another needless point for your detractors to hit you with. And, it’s the right thing to do. This is the big day and that is THE place for that big day. You should be there if at all possible.” This stuff is not rocket science.

    Could Bush have gotten away with it? Probably. Fair? Again, probably not. But it’s also not fair that no matter how many minorities Bush placed in high office, no matter how much he did for people of color, many of my fellow blacks still questioned his “equality” bona fides. It’s a reality Bush had to deal with, a perception he had to attempt to manage. Obama has his.

  32. #132
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:48 pm, ssnark said:

    I’m of two minds here. On the one hand, I’m happy not to hear Mr. Obama pontificate upon things he knows nothing about as he did at West Point and I’m sure the Old Guard won’t mind either.

    On the other hand, this smacks of what he did at Landstuhl during the 2008 Presidential campaign when he snubbed the wounded because he couldn’t bring a press entourage in addition to his campaign entourage. A vacation (among the usual one a week), is I suppose far more important than to pay his respects to not just our fallen who bought with their lives the freedoms he enjoys and is so quick to wish to destroy but of the rest of the military who must out of duty serve him.
    In this he shows he lacks the noblesse that the position of civilian commander of the worlds premier armed forces requires. One who has never been one of those standing the thin line between our way of life and chaos and thereby proved himself worthy of that command.
    Of the Presidents I’ve served under, Gerald R. Ford served in the USN, James Earl Carter USN, Ronald W.Reagan USA, George H.W. Bush USN, George W. Bush USANG, only William J. Clinton did not serve but whatever I have against him, he was most punctilious about his duties as Commander in Chief.
    Only Mr. Obama has been lackluster in his visible respect for both country and its military.

  33. #133
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:50 pm, Major O said:

    See what I mean.

    But again, that’s coming from a history of actions that lend to the perception, some of which actions Obama has incurred himself. It’s not as if he is a blank slate right now.

    My point is that this is a needless, self-inflicted PR wound. Sure, you’d find some that would crack on him if he even showed up, especially if he chose to pontificate. Reasonable folks on this side of the aisle, though, would be able to see dignity and class if he just showed up and gave the customary honor. Obviously, you’ll have those who will dog him regardless, but I would argue they don’t comprise the bulk.

  34. #134
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:51 pm, chapoutier said:

    It’s symbolism. Arlington is THE PLACE, the symbolic center when it comes to the nation’s military dead.

    And don’t you think that is kind of a shame? Arlington DOES get all the attention, often to the detriment of the dozens of other National cemeteries, filled with people equally worthy of respect.

  35. #135
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:51 pm, Major O said:

    On the other hand, this smacks of what he did at Landstuhl during the 2008 Presidential campaign when he snubbed the wounded because he couldn’t bring a press entourage in addition to his campaign entourage.

    I forgot about that one. Excellent point and your entire post is well stated.

  36. #136
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:54 pm, Major O said:

    And don’t you think that is kind of a shame? Arlington DOES get all the attention, often to the detriment of the dozens of other National cemeteries, filled with people equally worthy of respect.

    Not in the least. I know the president can’t be everywhere at once so that’s why we have a symbolic place that stands as representative for all such places. And those other places have dignataries visiting them as well. States have governors that can honor the fallen in their states’ cemetaries. Arlington is special in its national significance.

  37. #137
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:57 pm, chapoutier said:

    On the other hand, this smacks of what he did at Landstuhl during the 2008 Presidential campaign when he snubbed the wounded because he couldn’t bring a press entourage in addition to his campaign entourage.

    That is what some say happened. Others say that he was told there were concerns that the visit would be seen as potentially exploitative political campaigning because he had a certain Major General with him. Again, a Catch-22 based more on spin than substance.

  38. #138
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:58 pm, 24Klady said:

    I cannot remember whether it was Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day last year that he clearly didn’t know the difference and got them mixed up. Sharply pointed to his lack of understanding of America and it’s traditions.

  39. #139
    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:58 pm, Major O said:

    I can’t believe I spelled cemetery incorrectly. The spelling bee champ in me is ashamed.

  40. #140
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:01 pm, chapoutier said:

    I cannot remember whether it was Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day last year that he clearly didn’t know the difference and got them mixed up. Sharply pointed to his lack of understanding of America and it’s traditions.

    Ahhh…this is when Obama laid a wrath in Arlington on Veterans Day. I recall quite the hubbub about him not understanding the difference.

    Don’t recall quite the hubbub here, though, when Cheney did the exact same thing the year prior.

  41. #141
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:01 pm, Major O said:

    That is what some say happened. Others say that he was told there were concerns that the visit would be seen as potentially exploitative political campaigning because he had a certain Major General with him. Again, a Catch-22 based more on spin than substance.

    A risk he has to take to do the right thing. Landstuhl is where the seriously wounded are taken from the theater. It is what presidents do. He could easily have had the 2 star find something to do at Ramstein or wherever while he visited alone.

  42. #142
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:03 pm, Major O said:

    Don’t recall quite the hubbub here, though, when Cheney did the exact same thing the year prior.

    Different guy, different set of perceptions.

  43. #143
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:04 pm, Major O said:

    I can’t believe I spelled cemetery incorrectly. The spelling bee champ in me is ashamed.

    AND “dignitary”!
    Ok, lunch is over but I obviously need a nap and reboot.

  44. #144
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:05 pm, chapoutier said:

    It is what presidents do.

    And in fact he did visit since becoming President. The question is whether or not it is what presidential candidates should do.

    Different guy, different set of perceptions.

    The complaint had nothing to do with perception of the person. It had to do with what some here considered a fundamental misunderstanding of the difference between the two holidays.

  45. #145
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:06 pm, Flyoverman said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:54 pm, Major O said:

    And those other places have dignataries visiting them as well.

    I was once asked to give some remarks at an area cemetary on Memorial Day. I doubt I will ever have an honor any higher than that invitation.

    I looked at those assembled and saw the bedrock of our country. As I think about that as I write this, I realize that Obama and his ilk haven’t got a prayer of succeeding. The people I saw that day will never let it happen.

  46. #146
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:08 pm, FirstSkirt said:

    You’re forgiven, Major O! I was also in the National Spelling Bee (on TV and everything!), but have been known to get creative on the spelling.

  47. #147
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:08 pm, Flyoverman said:

    I cannot remember whether it was Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day last year that he clearly didn’t know the difference and got them mixed up

    Memorial Day 2008 when he was a candidate. It’s on YouTube.

  48. #148
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:12 pm, Major O said:

    The complaint had nothing to do with perception of the person. It had to do with what some here considered a fundamental misunderstanding of the difference between the two holidays.

    I was referring to the lack of “hubbub”. As I said earlier, some folks can “get away” with things other folks can’t with respect to certain issues. When it comes to things military, BHO is going uphill all the way.

    Presidential candidates should try to act presidential, I’d think, and visiting the wounded troops in a war you oppose would be an excellent thing to do, regardless.

    And also to speak to the issue of “Well, it doesn’t matter what he does, he’ll get in trouble anyways” doesn’t excuse not doing those things. There are many things commanders do where I’ve heard folks say, “He’s just saying that because he’s the boss and has to” but for which if we DIDN’T say or do those things, we’d be vilified. At least if Obama was meticulous in his observance of those things, he’d have something to point to and in fact would stand a chance to reverse those perceptions.

  49. #149
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:13 pm, 24Klady said:

    Flyoverman – yes, it had something to do with honoring the ‘Veterans’ on Memorial Day. Methinks TOTUS received 40 lashes and a trip to the brig. ;)

  50. #150
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:15 pm, chapoutier said:

    Flyoverman – yes, it had something to do with honoring the ‘Veterans’ on Memorial Day. Methinks TOTUS received 40 lashes and a trip to the brig. ;)

    Wait…maybe I am misremembering this? I thought it was honoring the dead on Veterans day.

  51. #151
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:16 pm, Major O said:

    I think he said something about seeing some of the fallen in the crowd. LOL.
    At least that’s something I recall around that.

  52. #152
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:18 pm, 24Klady said:

    Chap, could have been the other way around, but in it’s own way explained everything about the man.

  53. #153
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:20 pm, chapoutier said:

    I think he said something about seeing some of the fallen in the crowd. LOL.

    Right, that was also the “My uncle liberated Auschwitz” speech. But that, to me, doesn’t seem like the same as screwing up which is being ohonored on which holiday.

  54. #154
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:21 pm, Truesoldier said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:58 pm, rightwingmom said:

    Anyone have other examples???

    How about Snubs wounded troops to work on his Abs

    So visiting national leaders, going to the wailing wall, giving a wonderful speech about how he Loves America, then goes to the Gym at the Ritz to wind down from all of his world wide recognition and campaigning. The final thing he accomplished is that a Public Relations Officer at both hospitals had to tell the wounded and recovering troops he would be not be visiting them.

  55. #155
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:22 pm, Truesoldier said:

    Then again maybe Obama was afraid to go cause he was worried that his teleprompter would read “Corpseman” on Memorial day…..

  56. #156
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:25 pm, FirstSkirt said:

    Want to see something really stirring from Colonel North in a tribute to our wonderful Armed Forces?
    http://www.nragive.com/ringoffreedom/index.html

  57. #157
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:36 pm, cheapseat said:

    We all know the One will really be in Chicago cutting a deal with the Nation of Islam to “get out the dead vote” in November to save his raggedy (_!_).

  58. #158
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:36 pm, spaceycakes said:

    this is when Obama laid a wrath in Arlington on Veterans Day

    (emph. mine)

    that has got to be one of the funniest Freudian slips I’ve ever seen written! Thanks, chap.

  59. #159
    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:58 pm, rightisright said:

    excellent FS, thanks for posting.

  60. #160
    On May 25th, 2010 at 5:01 pm, WaterBoyz said:

    #163 said:

    Want to see something really stirring from Colonel North in a tribute to our wonderful Armed Forces?
    http://www.nragive.com/ringoffreedom/index.html

    Growing up at Fort Benning in the 60′ and 70′s and having lots of friends and family in the Military, this video brings tears everytime I hear it.

    There are so many people today who have no F’ing clue.

  61. #161
    On May 25th, 2010 at 5:13 pm, Flyoverman said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 4:13 pm, 24Klady said:

    Flyoverman – yes, it had something to do with honoring the ‘Veterans’ on Memorial Day. Methinks TOTUS received 40 lashes and a trip to the brig.

    Obama’s 2008 Memorial Day remarks

    “On this Memorial Day, as our nation honors its unbroken line of fallen heroes — and I see many of them in the audience here today – our sense of patriotism is particularly strong.”

    I thought I was watching The Sixth Sense…..

  62. #162
    On May 25th, 2010 at 5:22 pm, 24Klady said:

    Flyoverman
    I’ll never forget my husband’s head swiveling around with eyes bugged – I thought I was watching a rerun of The Exorcist and prayed he didn’t hurl.

  63. #163
    On May 25th, 2010 at 5:30 pm, WarEagle82 said:

    Are people upset about this? NOT GOING to Arlington Cemetery on Memorial Day is probably the most respectful think Obama could do for these proud warriors!

    Oh, wait. Joe is going instead. I wonder if Joe will ask them all to stand up…

  64. #164
    On May 25th, 2010 at 5:33 pm, KVal57 said:

    GREAT! Maybe I can get in there ON MEMORIAL DAY to visit my father’s grave. The SS shut the place down last year (no vehicles allowed…my mom’s too frail to walk the distance from the vistor’s center to Section 60). They shouldn’t have to worry about Plugs: Who the hell wants Stretch to be one heartbeat away from the White House?

  65. #165
    On May 25th, 2010 at 5:59 pm, 24Klady said:

    KVal57
    Plugs was ‘Bambi’s insurance policy. Voters didn’t know he’d acquire a taste for wagyu beef, arugula, washed down with champagne though. I’m wondering if there won’t be a change in running mates come 2012?

    I’m grateful for your sake the D.C. Flash won’t make it this year. Peace and solitude while visiting a loved one’s resting place will be appreciated I’m sure.

  66. #166
    On May 25th, 2010 at 6:28 pm, rambler said:

    Bho belongs in Chicago and never should have left.

  67. #167
    On May 25th, 2010 at 7:36 pm, misterbee241 said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 2:17 pm, chapoutier said:

    Reagan and Bush get a pass as far as I’m concerned. There is no doubt they loved their country and they both served. So set your straw man up someplace else where people dont know any better.

  68. #168
    On May 25th, 2010 at 7:37 pm, AlohaGuy said:

    rambler said:
    Bho belongs in Chicago and never should have left.

    I think he’s dropping by COMEX to buy gold – after all, he’s familiar with his economic plans.

  69. #169
    On May 25th, 2010 at 8:00 pm, Virginia Patriot said:

    I’m wondering if there won’t be a change in running mates come 2012?

    Why should the 22nd Amendment apply when Article II sec.1 does not?

    Pres__ent for Life. No ID required.

    Courtesy of foreign nationals.

  70. #170
    On May 25th, 2010 at 8:28 pm, KVal57 said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 5:59 pm, 24Klady said:

    I’m grateful for your sake the D.C. Flash won’t make it this year. Peace and solitude while visiting a loved one’s resting place will be appreciated I’m sure.

    Thanx Muchly, Ma’am! Hope you have a great and meaningful Memorial Day.

  71. #171
    On May 25th, 2010 at 9:28 pm, DBNinKY said:

    Or are only the people buried at Arlington worthy of Presidential attention?

    Arlington is symbolic: In the collective conscious of the nation, it’s the place where the Commander in Chief celebrates and commemorates the military he commands. It’s a reminder to us all that we should recognize and observe the services of fighting men and women.

    It’s also a way for those few who cannot attend a memorial service to make a personal connection and share in the feelings of appreciation and expressions of gratitude modeled by the president.

    Obama has no valid reason for not personally attending the services at Arlington; plus, to many Americans, he doesn’t have the bonafides of a leader who truly respects the military to able to miss it so blithely.

  72. #172
    On May 25th, 2010 at 9:40 pm, Danceswithdachshunds said:

    Obama will alter vacation plans slightly and travel to the Gulf on Friday in a desperate attempt to plug the blowout in his approval ratings.

    Well yeah, they’re definitely reaching for the bottom but there doesn’t seem to be one in sight, -20 and counting.

  73. #173
    On May 25th, 2010 at 9:52 pm, bjc said:

    I’m wondering if there won’t be a change in running mates come 2012?

    *I don’t know about that, but I’ll continue to throw out my prediction that Hillary will run against P-BO for the nomination in 2012!
    *I have walked the grounds of Arlington; Very humbling.

  74. #174
    On May 25th, 2010 at 9:58 pm, Freddy said:

    For a President that has ordered troops into battle to miss this day is quite remarkable.

    No doubt the MSM will find any excuse the Obama administration makes to be acceptable.

    On the other hand, I will accept NO excuse.

  75. #175
    On May 25th, 2010 at 9:59 pm, LuxEternam said:

    Also, Bush golfed after that speech. Are there no national cemeteries in Maine?

    Chap….REALLY????? You are REALLY going to bring up a golf comparison????

    Obama has played more golf in one year than GWB did is his entire eight years as President.

    One assumes that he is trying to get in eight years of golf quick since he will be occupying the White House for four years (or less if the whole Sestak thing blows up in his face.)

    And this is Obama’s SECOND vacation in less than 30 days, and his third since the beginning of the year.

  76. #176
    On May 25th, 2010 at 10:25 pm, ssnark said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 3:57 pm, chapoutier said:

    That is what some say happened. Others say that he was told there were concerns that the visit would be seen as potentially exploitative political campaigning because he had a certain Major General with him.

    Which Major General was that? Do you mean Wesley Clark?

    Again, a Catch-22 based more on spin than substance.

    Hardly a Catch-22 situation at all. He could have done what President George W. Bush did on several occasions at Walter Reed, BAMC and in theater (Iraq IIRC) and visit them privately. There were times that President Bush made visits with no one but his Secret Service detail. It wasn’t about the press or anything else, it was about the troops under his command. Regardless of how I may feel about his fiscal policies and his lack of border enforcement. President Bush at least knew how to be a leader of men.

  77. #177
    On May 25th, 2010 at 11:00 pm, ssnark said:

    Chapoutier, most times I like you as a diablo avocato, but, there are times when you don’t know what you’re talking about and worse than that don’t know that you don’t know.

    The National Cemetary at the former Custis-Lee Estate in Arlington Virginia, represents to all who served the focal point of almost 150 years of tradition, for those who gave all in service of their country. It is a special place, the home of the tomb of the unknowns who represent every unknown military fatality. It is the home to special men whose service to their country is unquestioned and a shining example to those who serve. Men like Audie Murphy, George C. Marshall, William “Bull” Halsey, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Henry H. “Hap” Arnold, Omar N. Bradley and many others whose lives those of us in the military would hold as examples to follow.
    Some also served as civilians. John F. Kennedy earned his place there by his actions in the aftermath of the sinking of PT-109 that earned him the Navy Cross, the nations 2nd highest decoration for valor. Although he is remembered as a Commander in Chief brought down by an assasin’s bullet
    When those of us who serve look upon or think upon Arlington it is this nation’s symbol of all of the National Cemetaries in the US and those military cemetaries located around the globe where men and now women of the United States Military have as Abraham Lincoln so aptly put it, “that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth”

    That is what Arlington means to me and perhaps a minority of others who remember.

  78. #178
    On May 25th, 2010 at 11:48 pm, chapoutier said:

    ssnark,

    You can spare me the lecture and history lesson about Arlington and its symbolism. The fact is that it is all of you, not I, that are cheapening it by exploiting it’s import to score petty political points. The fact is that a President not being at Arlington on Memorial Day is neither unprecedented nor controversial. At least it wasn’t when your boys did it. I guaran-freaking-tee that if it were a Republican President going to another cemetery 95% of the posters here would have absolutely no issue with it. Proven by the fact that, when faced with the fact that the conservative Golden Boy, Reagan, did the exact same thing, the best I could get from one single poster was that it may have been “bad”. The rest was equivocation and stammering to make distinction. Were it a Republican, there would be no inane ramblings about how the only way one can pay tribute to all is to pay tribute in this one specific spot at this one specific time.

    It is transparent and rank and I am officially done with this conversation. Post away what you will. Do not expect a response.

  79. #179
    On May 26th, 2010 at 4:06 am, ssnark said:

    On May 25th, 2010 at 11:48 pm, chapoutier said:

    The fact is that it is all of you, not I, that are cheapening it by exploiting it’s import to score petty political points.

    Am I? Political points for whom?

    Proven by the fact that, when faced with the fact that the conservative Golden Boy, Reagan, did the exact same thing, the best I could get from one single poster was that it may have been “bad”.

    I’ll say this for Reagan, First he served his country in the military before the Second World War. He volunteered when he could have used his near sightedness for a deferral and 4-F status. But he did serve. Mr. Reagan was attending a conference during the 1983 economic summit that you refer to, Mr. Reagan was in a meeting that lasted till late in the day dealing with what were contentious issues of the day and not going on vacation. No, he couldn’t have spared the time not even for something like that something he felt was an important duty.
    George H. W. Bush did likewise you’ll retort and sent Dan Quayle to represent him. Yes, this was a golf day after he’d addressed his American Legion Post in Kennebunkport (He was after all despite protestations of Texas roots a man of Kennebunkport, Maine).

    Big difference. Ronald Reagan was constrained from attendance by official business. George H. W. Bush whose combat awards include a Distinguished Flying Cross and three Air Medals flew 58 missions over the Bonins and Philippines during those campaigns.
    Both men served honorably in their country’s military during time of war.
    Mr. Obama, like President Clinton does not have the honor of serving in his country’s military. Unlike President Clinton,who was punctilious about observing military holidays and functions, Mr. Obama seems not to understand that it is through these small sacrifices, that he earns credibility as a leader of men.

    I don’t expect you to respond. I frankly don’t expect you to understand. I’m sorry for you, that you don’t.

  80. #180
    On May 26th, 2010 at 7:10 am, Chief RZ said:

    As my brother commented, who was a 20 year Army Veteran: “we could spot a phony a mile away”

  81. #181
    On May 26th, 2010 at 8:08 am, stillontheroad said:

    chapoutier said:
    Fearless leader:”Let’s stop “just air-raiding villages and killing civilians” in Afghanistan” Now this statement and this alone strikes me as The Fearless leaders view of the military as a bunch of murderous thugs running rampant in Afganistan shooting anything that moves.
    I am not going to address how wrong Zippys statement is but, this was said while boots were on the ground in Afganistan, this was not the only low life liberal to say such things and yes – he should stay away – maybe he can go visit Camp Douglas in Chicago.

  82. #182
    On May 26th, 2010 at 8:43 am, BOB said:

    Anyone who has watched Obama in action for a couple of years now, and is still making excuses for him, isn’t worthy of the time spent to respond.

  83. #183
    On May 26th, 2010 at 8:59 am, granite said:

    On May 26th, 2010 at 8:43 am, BOB said:

    Dead-on correct.
    The truth in a nutshell.
    Good post.

  84. #184
    On May 26th, 2010 at 9:33 am, USMCgramma said:

    Speaking for voices silenced in WWII and every war since, WHY hasn’t this president been impeached for treasonist acts that are destroying this country? WWII Gold Star Sis with loved one in Afghanistan

  85. #185
    On May 26th, 2010 at 12:22 pm, BOB said:

    On May 26th, 2010 at 9:33 am, USMCgramma said:
    Speaking for voices silenced in WWII and every war since, WHY hasn’t this president been impeached for treasonist acts that are destroying this country? WWII Gold Star Sis with loved one in Afghanistan

    That impeachment of a Democrat “president” can happen with a Democrat Congress is only a theory, it will not happen, no matter what.

  86. #186
    On May 29th, 2010 at 11:20 pm, William said:

    Obama worshippers are so irrational and myopic.

    If he says one thing, he is “brilliant.” If the says the opposite, he is “brilliant.

    If he does one thing, he is “brilliant. If he does the complete opposite he is “brilliant.”

    If he snubs one prime minister, he is “Brilliant.” If he honors another nation’s leader, he is “brilliant.”

    If he trashes our nation and her citizens outside our borders, while he speaks in other nations and to other nations’ leaders, he is brilliant. If he mocks US citizens and foments violence and hatred against them, he is brilliant. If he builds up other nations and their peoples, praising them in his speachers, he is brilliant. If he excoriates US citizens, US military personnel, etc., he is “brilliant.

    In other words, with Obama, anything he does is Brilliant – rudeness, speaking with dictators in glorious tones, mocking good, patriotic US citizens, etc.

    If anything and everything he does is brilliant and good and points to him being a good man, a great man, a great leader, then what is the definition of greatness, goodness, and righteousness?

  87. #187
    On May 30th, 2010 at 2:13 am, tiredofit08 said:

    Well said William (#210)!!!

  88. #188
    On May 30th, 2010 at 3:13 am, kurthanson said:

    Im sure Obama would feel out of place at Arlington – to be among those who died preserving America – while he is actively destroying it.

    Here is my tribute:

    http://vimeo.com/10863699

  89. #189
    On May 31st, 2010 at 8:07 am, Connect the Dots said:

    One word: TRAITOR.

    IMPEACH OBAMA

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