Veterans for Bill Russell for Congress

Corrupt leaders excused by people who should know better

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:02:00 +0000

Russel Brigade: Did you read this one yet? A junior staffer for the House Ethics Committee was fired this week for inadvertently posting the names of seven lawmakers currently under investigation by the committee. No surprises - the list includes Mr. Murtha.

For many of Jack Murtha's defenders it's just more evidence that their congressman has been `working hard' and `delivering' for his district. The means, methods and ethics don't seem to matter - not one bit.

Sad isn't it? We've seen this drama play out time and again. Corrupt leaders excused by people who should know better. Instead of hold politicians to account - eyes averted, ears covered - their familiar defense against bad behavior is "that's the way it's always been."

Friends, that argument falls flat. Our expectations and standards for the people who represent us must be higher. We can't concede ethics for some strange definition of effectiveness. Integrity matters.

Watch Bill Russell's Latest Leadership Memo "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington"

Please, don't give up on the idea that the 12th Congressional District can have an honest congressman.

People who love America without the corrupt politicians are invited to Join the Roll Call Against John Murtha. Joining the Roll Call is not an endorsement of a candidate but an endorsement to get rid of a crooked politician!

Murtha at the Center of Big Ethics Probe

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 22:12:00 +0000

The Los Angeles Times is reporting a headline: "Ethics probe so big lawmakers have to take a number -- half the Pentagon spending committee caught in net." The LA Times writes:

We already knew that Ways and Means Chairman Charlie Rangel was under investigation for failing to report some of his real estate holdings and rental income, and a few other goodies, on his financial disclosure forms. And that the Ethics Committee was studying Pennsylvania Democrat John Murtha's ties to defense contractors. Now it turns out that those two were just the tip of the iceberg.

Turns out that nearly half the members of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, which Murtha chairs, are under investigation for funneling millions in federal funds to clients of a lobbyist who used to work on the Hill. The charge: They put earmarks worth $300 million in the 2008 Defense appropriation bill to benefit clients of the PMA Group, a now-defunct .... [Full Story]

The NY Daily News also reported "Congressional defense appropriations subcommittee rocked by ethics probe . . ." The NY Dailey writes:

Nearly half the members of a House panel in control of Pentagon spending are facing a probe by Congressional ethics investigators, the Washington Post reported. . . . Two House ethics offices are probing whether Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.), chairman of the defense appropriations subcommittee, and six other lawmakers funneled millions in federal funds to clients of an influential lobbying firm in exchange for campaign contributions, the paper reported. . . . [Full Story]

End this Murtha earmark racket

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 01:25:00 +0000

Post and Courier: The House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee dispensed $636 billion this year to the Pentagon. Its members must look on the $103 million they earmarked for favored projects as mere crumbs from the table. Outside the defense budget, however, $100 million a year is a tidy sum, and getting a piece of the action is a regular part of Washington's political culture. At the center is a mutually beneficial connection between members of Congress, their former staff members turned lobbyists, and corporations or non-profits seeking federal money -- what some social scientists call "relationship circles." . . .

Control of who succeeds in getting earmarks enacted equals political power in the House. No one has been as aggressive in promoting earmarks for himself and other members in his favor as Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. In the past 10 years he has helped his district obtain more than $400 million in federal funds, including a mostly unused airport named for him. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tried and failed to make him House majority leader, but he still helps her discipline the Democratic majority, and he helps himself, plenty.

Last year the FBI lunched an investigation into allegations that a lobbying group led by former Murtha staffers was illegally promising campaign contributions in exchange for earmarks. The investigation continues, but it does not seem to have had any chastening effect on Mr. Murtha or members of his subcommittee. . . .

Getting campaign funds from earmark beneficiaries ought to be outlawed. Until it is, the Murtha racket will continue bleeding the public purse for political gain.

Corruption, Inc.

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:35:00 +0000

by Leo Pusateri, Murtha Must Go!: In yet anther instance of quid pro quo and pay-to-play politics, Boss John "Jihad Jack" Murtha pours millions of taxpayer dollars to buy even more votes! (emphases added)

Working with two of the most powerful members of a House subcommittee that controls Pentagon spending, the company also hired lobbying firms that employed former top aides of both the Democratic lawmakers and Mr. Murtha's brother. Company executives and their lobbyists donated thousands of dollars to the two congressmen.

Soon, money flowed the other way. Between 2003 and 2009, Mr. Murtha and Mr. Moran helped deliver $12 million to MobilVox in earmarks — money that is set aside by lawmakers for pet projects in the government's annual spending bills. The latest House defense spending bill introduced and pushed through by Mr. Murtha includes an additional $2 million earmark for MobilVox requested by Mr. Moran. The bill is currently pending in conference committee.

Hey PA-12-- do you feel like taking a shower yet?

Murtha, Moran steer millions to software firm using earmarks

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 04:10:00 +0000

by Chuck Neubauer, The Washington Times: When software firm MobilVox wanted to break into the lucrative world of defense contracting, it pursued an unmistakable strategy: It expanded operations from its Northern Virginia base in Rep. James P. Moran's congressional district to the southwestern Pennsylvania district of Rep. John P. Murtha.

Working with two of the most powerful members of a House subcommittee that controls Pentagon spending, the company also hired lobbying firms that employed former top aides of both the Democratic lawmakers and Mr. Murtha's brother. Company executives and their lobbyists donated thousands of dollars to the two congressmen.

Soon, money flowed the other way. Between 2003 and 2009, Mr. Murtha and Mr. Moran helped deliver $12 million to MobilVox in earmarks — money that is set aside by lawmakers for pet projects in the government's annual spending bills. The latest House defense spending bill introduced and pushed through by Mr. Murtha includes an additional $2 million earmark for MobilVox requested by Mr. Moran. The bill is currently pending in conference committee. . . .

But MobilVox's success fits a pattern of doing business in Washington that ethics watchdogs deride as a "pay-to-play" system . . . Mr. Moran's and Mr. Murtha's relationship with MobilVox "raises red flags. . . . [Full Story]

Roll Call of Vets & Friends Against Murtha!

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:15:00 +0000

Roll Call of Vets & Friends Against MurthaAdding your name on this Roll Call is not an endorsement of a candidate!
[Add Your Name]
(To locate someone by name, use the FIND menu on your browser)
[Note: This Post periodically moves to the top of the Blog.]

A
John Alden, HMC, USN (1976-2000), AZ
Lynn H. Allen, E-5, USN (1956-1960), CA
Mary K. Allen, Civilian, WI
Janet Sells Allkins, Pvt, WAAC WWII (1942-1943), MI
John M. Allison II, USMC (1965-1969), AR
John M. Allison III, CPL, USMC (1991-1995), AR
M. D. Amick, CWO, US Army (Ret.), (1983-2008) MO
Patricia M. Amtmann, TSGT, USAF (1977-1989), MD
William D. Anderso, USAF (Ret.) (1949-1971), FL
Mark G. Andren, SSgt, MNARNG (1997-Present), WI
Gregory Anderson, 1SG, US Army (Ret.), (1968-1980) SD
Carl Andrews, Plymouth, PA
Frank Ashby, US Army (1965-1970), SC
Autorotate, WO1, Army National Guard, 2000-Present, PA
B
Roy H. Baird, AEC, US Navy (Ret.), (1956- 1977) TN
Sonny Barber, Capt, USNR (Ret.), (1967-1995), FL
Juanita Y Bassett-Hansen, Civilian, Father, US Army Sgt/Maj (1940-1969), Husband, E-7, CO
Kevin Beacon, NY
Richard R. Beauregard, US Navy (1983-1991), PA
John W Bell, SSGT, USAF (1982-1990) MI
Michael J Bell, LTC, US Army (Ret.), (1965-1993), FL
Kieran J. Bergin, Cpl, USMC (1977-1981), NJ
Linda A. Bergin, Sgt, USAF (1982-1986, NJ
Ken M Binegar, SSgt, USAF (994-2007), OH
Joseph Blaettler, Sgt, USMC (1980-1984), NJ
Joshua D. Blankinship, SSgt, US Army (1999-Present) Overseas
William A Bloomer, BGen, USMC (Ret.) (1955-1986), KS
Pastor Ed Boston, Sgt, US Army, (1980-1984), IN
Bob Bowman, CW-3, USMCR (1961-1982), FL
Joseph J. Boyce, Capt, ARMY (1966-1969), PA
Fred C Breese, Cpl, USMC (1966-1970), SC
Thomas C Bridgen, US Army / AFR (1968-1971)(1985-2003),PA
Dave Brown, COMM2 USCG (Ret.), (1983-2004), WA
Franklin K. Brumfield, SSgt, USAF (1964-1968), CA
J Burkholder, SSgt, USAF (1971-1977), TX
Arthur H. Fesler-Butts Jr. Army/Navy (1972-2000), IL / AZ
C
Chris Campbell, CWO, USMC (1994-2007), IN
Jason Castano, Civlian, TX
Jason G. Castillo, LCPL, USMC (1995-1999), WI
Gerald Chandler, SP5, US Army (1966-1970), PA
William, E. Cheek Jr., USAF (1992-1996), SC
James H. Christman, LCPL, USMC (1961-1965) PA
Glenn D. Clark, Father of a U.S soldier serving (2008-2009)in Iraq, PA
Travis H. Clark, SPC, ARNG SPC (2004-present), AL
Jerry D. Clapper, Sgt, USMC (1965-1969), OH
Ashley, L. Colburn, E-3, US Army (2005-2007), MD
Edward L. Coleman, Colonel, USMC (1986-Present), TX
Mike Conchewski, SP4, US Army, (1971-1973), PA
Michael C. Conklin, FCI (SW), US Navy (1979-1999), FL
Robert Conrow, Civilian, CA
Darren E. Cooley, Sgt, USMC (1984-1992), MI
Eric M. Cooper, SSgt, USMC (1984-1993), VA
David B. Cormier, E6, US Navy, (2001-Current), VA
Patrick S. Corning, CPL, US Army (1984-1991), IL
Albert, A, Coritz, TSgt, USAF (1984-1994), PA
Lowell (Rick) Cox, Sgt, US Army (Ret.) (1977-1999), FL
Beth Ann Coyle, Civilian, Daughter - WW II Vet, Cousin - USAF, Gulf War Vet, TX
Joseph R Crotty, E8, US Navy (1943-1973), CA
Monica Cullen, CPL, USMC (1987-1995), CA
Dan Curley, PFC, US Army, (1988-1991), WI
Michael D. Cummo, SPC4, US Army (1968-1969), NY
Darryl Currie, Navy (1979-1999), FL
Alan Curtis, Lt, USMC (1968-1971), PA
D
Edward J. D'Alessandro, LT, USN (1987-1993), NY
Brian R. Daetwyler, HM2, US Navy (1999-2007), PA
Gary Davis, US Navy (1963-1969), AZ
Rob Davis, USNR (1983-1992), IL
Stephen H. Day, SGT, USMC (1969-1973; Vietnam 70-71), TN
Jeffrey W. Dean, Col., US Army (Ret.), (1967-1996), WI
Stephen M. DeVito, SFC, NJARNG, (1987-2007), NJ
Michael C. Diersen, USAF (Ret.), (1978-1995), TX
Coby Dillard, PO2, US Navy (2000-2006), VA
Jim Dillard, Commander, US Navy (1972-1995), NH
G.R. Dinius, US Navy (1962-1966), MI
John Ditmars, P02, US Navy (1981-1984), TX
Andy S Dlinn, LCDR, USNR(Ret.) (1974 - 1995), PA
Richard Disney, Capt, US ARMY (1989-1999), NV
Oliver P. Ditch, Col, USAF (1959-1983), VA
Stephen, M, DeVito, Spc, NJARNG, NJ
John R Dobson, Jr, CPL, USMC (1964-1968), WI
Dwight Doolan, Capt, USMC (1951-1959), NY
James Dowling, AG3 US Navy (1975-1980); QM3 USCGR (1985-1989); AG3 USNR (1991-1995), MI
Wayne C. Doyle, LtCol, USMC (Ret.), (1964-1988), KS
Carl D. Duda, CPL, US Army (1988-Current), PA
Frank E. Duffy, CPL, USMC, (1963-1967) FL
Philip L. Dunmire, CAPT, US Army Reserve, (1967-1978), FL
E-F
David A. Easley, MSgt, USAF (Ret.), (1965-1986) OK
Napoleon J. Ebarle, Spec., US Army (1984-1987), CA
Philip B. Esper, SSG, U.S.Army (Ret.) (1975-1999), PA
Brad Fletcher, E5, USN, (1974-1979), TX
James K. Engstrand, Army NG (1987-Present) MN
Ryan Evans, AT2, US Navy (1999-1904), WI
Kristofer Evanoff, Civilian, IL
Mike "Iron Mike" Farquhar, LTC, USAR (Ret.), (1961-1998), MA
Donna M. Ferguson, Civilian, Father, Daniel Dickson, retired, USAF, CA
Arthur Fesler-Butts, SFC, US Army & US Navy (Ret.),(1972-2000) AZ
Barry L Fetzer, Sgt (E-5), USMC, (1966-1970), PA
Joshua R. Findney, AFROTC Cadet (2007-2011), MI
William C. Fisher, SGT, US Army (1988-1996), AZ
Brad Fletcher, . . .
Wayne A Fogel, LCDR, USN (1963-1968), FL
John Foresman, US Army (1942-1971), CA
Sarah J Foley, Civilian, MN
Linda J Fraioli, Father - Army WWII; Brother & Others - USAF NJ
Branden K Folger, USNA (2000), NH
Sheridan Folger, US Army (1990s), NH
Vincent Franco, Major, USAF (1981-2003) FL
G
Randal W. Garfield, CW3, US Army (Ret.), (1970-1972 & 1981-1999), SD
Danny R Garner, SFC, US Army (Ret.), (1977-1999), GA
Ernest Gajdusek, SP5, US Army (1960-1968) FL
Glen J. Gasior, Sgt, USAF (1971-1973) IL
Douglas V. Gibbs, PO3, US Navy (1984-1988), CA
Douglas L. Gilbert, USAF, 1971, AL
John Gilham, Lance Cpl, USMC (1988-1992), CA
Wanda F. Gladwill, Daughter - USMC, WWII, CA
Lee S Gliddon Jr, E5, USN (1957-1963), NV
Patrick P. Grady, SGT, USMC (1965-1969), AZ
J. Scott Grass, CPL, USMC, (1089-1993), OK
Larry A. Granger Jr, E3, US Army (1985-1987 & 1994-1996) GA
Barry A. Goldsmith, Major, USAR (1962-1970), CO
Wayne H. Golwitzer, CW04, USMC (1981-2005), VA
James, W, Gonsalves, SSgt, USAF (1984-1993), FL
Doy D. Gorton, Capt, USMC (1994-1997 & (2000-2004), MO
Beryl Gosney, PO, US Navy (1971-1977), GS-12 Civ, (1077-1998), WA
Matthew Gottshalk, CPL, USMC (1985-1991), VA
John G. Gomila, Jr., E5 US Army (1969-1971), LA
Stephen J Goniea, US Navy (1987-1995), PA
James L. Goodwill, MSG, US Army (Ret.)(1975-1996), PA
William H. Graves, AMM 2/c. US Navy (1941-1945), CA
Ronald J Guest, Sgt, US Army (1965-1969), ID
Wayne F. Guraleczka, SK2, U.S. Navy (1969-1972), MD
Jose Guzman, AE3, USN (1959-1963), TX
H
Cecil Hale, US Army (1984-2004), TN
Joshua A Hall, Cpl, USMC (2003-2008 Iraq), OH
David B. Hadley, Sgt, US Army (1983-1989), PA
Don L Hamblin, US Army (1969-1971) MO
Daniel G. Hanke, CPL, USMC (1974-1982), IL
Donald W Hanke, USMCR (1974-1982), IL
Jack H Hansen, Seaman, US Navy (1972-1976), MN
David Harger, 1Sgt, US Army (Ret.), (1986-1908), PA
Dave Harding, SSgt, USAF (Ret.), (1976-1996), PA
Dan Harnett, LCPL, USMC, (1982-1985), NY
Robert P. Harper, SSgt, USAF (1967-1970), MD
Dudney A. Harris, Maj, USAF (1954-1967), GA
Mark L Harvey, A1C, USAF (1980-1984), TX
Joseph D. Helsing, Col., USAF (1965-1996), IL
Matthew G. Helwer, SGT, US ARMY (2004-Present), WI
Rachele, M, Henderson, Sgt, USAF (1998-2005), VA
Kenneth V. Herndon, LTC, US Army (Ret.), (1966 -1988) VA
Buck J Herron, Capt, USMC (1965-1971), OK
Daniel A. Herrera, BTFA, US NAVY (1991-1993), CA
James S. Hessberger, CW3, US Army, (1985-2004), MD
Gary Hill, E-5, USMC (1967-1970), NC
Paul Hill, U.S. Army (1994-2004 Afghanistan & Iraq Veteran), PA
Barry Hillman, SSgt, US Army (Ret.), (1973-1998), PA
Brett, J, Hines, US Army (1986-1999), TX
Norman E. Hooben, USAF (Ret.)(1961-1982), AL
Richard F Hood, SK2, US Navy (1967-1971), FL
Dane B. Hone, CPL, (1997-Present), PA
Marlo L Hone (Allen), SPC, US Army, (1992-1994), PA
John J Hostetter Jr, SrA, USAF (1959-1963), MD
Rusty Howell, U.S. Army, (1966-1973), PA
Maurice E. Hudson, III, USMA - 1976, LTC, US Army (Ret.), (1970-2004), VA
Edward J. Hughes, LTC, USAF (Ret.), (1943-1975), TX
Leonard Hughes, SFC, US ARMY (1989-2003), PA
I-J
Dean Ingalls, USAF, (1988-1997), PA
James . . ., E6 (SS & SD), USN, (1958-1965), ID
Larry H. Jennings Jr., EN3, USN (1979-1982), WA
Gordon J. Johnson, Col, USAF (1951-1973), CO
Johnny L. Johnson, CWO4, USN (1969-1990), TX
Roger A Johnson, US Navy (1957-1966), PA
William D. Johnston, US Army (1975-1978), PA
Marvin D Jolly, E-4, US Army (1957-1960), CA
Keith Jones, Civilian, PA
Michael A Jones, Capt, USAF (1964-1968), SC
Robert A Jones, MSgt, USAF (Ret.), (1985-2005), GA
K
Gerald J. Keller, Col, USMC (1962-1986), VA
Gerald M. Keller, SFC, US Army Reserve & USARNG (1981-2001), NY
Benjamin E. Kelstrup, USMC & USN (1992-1996/2000-2009), MT
Norman D. Kemmerer, SSgt, USMC (1955-1064), MD
John Pat Kenny, Capt, USMC (1968-1974), WA
Dan Kessler, Civilian, WA
David J Kilby, GySgt, USMC (1983-2005), OR
Dennis S.Q. Kim, CAPT, US Army, (1964-1969), HI
Richard L. (Dick) Klein, USAF (1966-1989), CA
Andrew B. Kletzing, Capt, US Army (2003-2008), IL
Edward O. Klumpp Jr., PR2, US Navy (1959-1963), NJ
Ronald W. Kosh, Sgt, USAF (1962-1968), PA
Stan S Kulak, Sgt, USMC (1964-1971) CA
Larry Van Kuran, SSG E-6, US Army (1965-1969), CA
L
Justin Landry, CPL, USMC (2000-2004), OH
James C Langtry, UT3, US Navy 1963-1969), NJ
Joseph H Lake, US Army/ VA ANG (1989-Present), VA
Andy Lauman, US Army, RLTW, (1991-1995), NC
Joseph Leblanc, LCDR, USN (1944-1950) USNR (1951-1960), AR
Ashley L. Lee, Proud Marine Wife (2005-Present), PA
Bill Lefevre, CPL, USMC (1966-1969 - Vietnam), OH
David A. Legier, US Army (1969-1971), AL
Deborah B Leonard, Proud Army Mom, VA
David Loberg, LT, US Navy, (1986- current), MN
Stuart M. Lockwood, LT, USN (1962-1966), GA
Jerry Lubeck, civilian, WA
Thomas J. Lukasik, US Navy. (1975-1979), SC
M
Robert W. MacPherson, CWO, US Navy (Ret), (1972-1994), PA
Rhob MacRobyn, USMC, (1954-1962), NC
Robert A. Madayag III, PO3, US Navy (1990-1996), GA
Justin A. Madore, SSgt, US Army (2001-2007), NC
Michael A. Main, ST1, US Navy, (1968-1974), TX
Michael D. Malinowski, E-6, U.S. Navy (1992-2002) VA
Samuel l. Mallory, SP5, U.S. Army, (1966-1968), CA
Bruce C. Malone Jr, 1SG, US Army (Ret.) .(1982-2006), PA
Donald H. Malone, SP4, U.S. Army. (1963-1965), PA
John E. Maloney, RD3, U.S. NAVY, (1956-1959), NY
Dr. Stephen Maloney, PA
Eric M. Mantion, LT, US Navy, (1988-1999), AZ
Alan C Marble, E4, USAF (1961-1966), OR
Jack L Marshfield, USNR (1972-1993) NC
C. Ryan Martin, QM3, USCG (1989-1993), PA
Jay C Mastrud, E-5, US Navy (1987-1992), MN
Frank Maughan, LTC, Us Army (Ret.), (1965-1993), UT
Andrew McAllister, E-4, US Army (1996-1999), PA
Barb McCarthy, Civilian, PA
Chuck McCarthy, Civilian, PA
Jessica A. McClain, E4, US NAVY, (1991-1995), PA
Brian. D. McCluskey, SGT, US Army (1996-2005), TX
Glenn B. MacDonald, Maj, USAR (Ret.) (1966-1999, AZ
Pierre McGraw, Civilian, LA
Tommy O. Meeker, LTC, USAR (1965-1995) VA
Tom Meredith, USMCR (1960-1968), LA
Bobbi J. Miller, TSgt, USAF (1997-Present), KS
Phillip G. Miller, SPC3 US Army (1953-1955), PA
Marc G Miller, LTC, USA (1978-1998) IL
Rick Miller, Civilian, VA
Dwain T. Moentmann, LtCol, US Army (1958-1978), MO
John J. Molloy, Sgt. US Army (1966-1968), PA
Karl P Monger, Major, US Army (Ret.), (1983-1997), KS
John C. Moore, LtCol, US Army, (1986-1989) (1992 - Present), VA
Pat J. Moore, Corp, US Army (1958-1961) TX
Brad Monhaut, Capt, US Army (2002-2007), MI
Michael M. Mullen, RM2, USN (1974-1978), MA
Ted Murray, US Army (1958-1961), SC
N
Warren G. Nash, LCDR, USN (Ret.), (1973-1993), FL / NH
William L. Nash, Army, (1990) TX
David Nazarian, Capt,USMCR (1965-1973), VA
Reynier Negron II, SPC, USA FL
Robert S. Nelson, Sgt, US Army (1986-1994), TN
Ben Newton, Major USMCR(Ret.), (1953-1974) PA
Navid Nia, Civilian, DoD Intel, VA
Douglas F. Nichols, E-6 USN (1974-1994) VA
William C. Nobles, USN (1964-1969), VA
Gunner P.C. Nole, CW2, US Army (1987-1996), PA
George E. Norman, SGT, US Army (1984-1998), PA
Novis E. North, SFC (Korea & Vietnam) US Army (1948-1968), & SGM, USAR, NC
Sharon C. North, HM3, USN (Korean: 1952-1954) & SFC, USAR (1972-1981), NC
Wendy Nowak, Daughter of WWII Navy Vet, Aunt of Active Navy man, NY
Richard P Nowell, Family of many veterans, IL
O
Jerry O'Halloran, Sgt, USMC (1951-1954), CO
Jeff O'Neal, Capt, US Army (1979-1984), WA
George A. Oldham, SP5, US Army & 2 yrs NHNG (1966-1970), NH
Cullen S. Olejniczak, E4, USAF ( 2002-2007), WI
James L. Olin, PFC, USMC (1967), IN
Ron Oliver, CPT, US Army (Ret.), (1977-2000) KY
Frederick R. Olsson, U.S. Navy (1961-1963), FL
John O'Malley, USMC (1966-1968), IL
Alan M Oprsal, MAJ, USAR (1984-Present), MI
P-Q
Donal L. Pace, LTC, US ARMY (Ret.) (1956-1982) VA
Chris Packard, Civilian, GA
Danna S. Palmer, Marin eMom of Cpl. Cory L. Palmer, USMC (2003 - 2006) DE
William B. Page, US Army (1971-1973 RVN), LA
Louis G. Papp, MI
Frederick B. Parsells, Sgt, US Army (1966-1969, NH
Ralph K. Park, USNC (1953-1983), FL
Shelly L. Parks, USAF (1989-1993 - Desert Shield/Storm), TN
Steve Lee Parsons, SP-4, USA (1964-1970), PA
Richard F. Pendleton, LTC, USA (Ret), (1963-1990), AL
Thomas J. Pentecost, USMC (1945-1971), FL
Bill Perkett, USAF (1977-1987), GA
Marshall A. Peterson, MSgt, USAF (Ret), (1985-2007), NE
Malcolm R. Powell, Col USAR (Ret), USN (1956-1964) USAR (1982-1993), CA
George E Pratchett, Sgt, USA (1952-1954), CO
Pat Propert, Mother - Iraq & Afghanistan US Army Vet (2001-2009), PA
Leo Pusateri, MN
Wayne A. Price, SP5, US Army (1967-1969) IL
Richard J. Polson, S1c, US Navy (1944-1946), VA
Austin M. D. Quick, RP3, US Navy (1999-2007), IL
R
Timothy R Randle, IV, Capt, USA, (1993-2002) AL
Lloyd, A, Ray, 1Lt, PA ARNG (1988-1996), PA
Mark A Raymon, PFC, USMC (1992-1995), MN
Philip J. Rechnitzer, USAF, FL
Paul A Redburn, LCPL, USMC (1975-1976), WA
Christopher D. Renner, CPL, USMCR, (1999-2006) PA
RJ Rich, USAF (enlisted) & US Army (officer Ret.) (1973-2004) WI
Daniel C. Richert, MSgt, USAF (Ret.), (1984-2006), IL
Ted L. Ridings, US Navy (1955-1962), TN
Matthew, A Riordan, Capt, US Army ( 2004-Present), IN
Kenneth L. Roeder Jr., SPC, U.S. Army (1987-1991), IL
James F Rogers, HM2, US Navy (1983-1993), MO
Yolanda Rogers, Major, USAF (1987-Present), CA
Thomas L. Rohosky, CPl, USMCR (1978-1984), PA
Lawrence D. Romack, USMC (2001-2007), TX
Carl W Rotunda, MT1, US Navy (1978-1988), PA
John W. Russell, A2C, USAF (1960-1964), FL
S
Gabe Salazar, Major, ANG, (1998-Present), TX
Matt Salisbury, US Army (1991-1995) (2000-2005), ID
David C. Schlachter, Col, USAF (Ret.) (1965-1989), FL
John P. Scholl, USAF, (1969), PA
Darryl Schulte, US Army (1957-1960), KY
Carl F. Schwab, III, 1LT, US Army (1970-1971), TX
Willis M.(MEL) Scott, SSgt, ANG (1958-1964), AR
Donald R. Sessoms, CMSgt, USAF (Ret) 1963-1990, MT
Thomas M. Sexton, E5, USN (1975-1980), AL
Raymond D. Shelley, US Army (Ret.) (1971-1978; 1981-1996), IA
Melissa Sheperd, U.S. Army Spouse, (1990-Present), PA
James Edward Sistrunk, E-4, US Army (1996-2002), TN
Charles D. Shauger, LCDR, USNR (1963-1971), OR
Jenn Sierra, Daughter of a Korean War Vet (1951-1953), OK
Edward L Silverthorn, SSgt, US Army (2002-Present), MI
Richard L Silverthorn, Sgt, USAF (1951-1954) MI
Christopher Semler, LTC, USAR 1982-2008), NY
Brad Smith, HM3 USN (1976-1982, CAJeff Smith, Nescopeck, PA
James O. Smith, Civilian, 30 yr employee in defese industry, AFROTC/OSU, Columbus, OH
Scott J. Smith, SSGT, USAF (1978-1988), TX
John A. Smith, Jr., HTC, US Navy (1955-1975), NC
John S. Smith, US Navy (1960-1966), IL
Steven M. Smith, MSgt, USAF (1979-2005), WA
Dr. William (Bill) Smith, Major, USAF (Ret.)(1966-1988); 2 Fathers WWII; Son Capt, USAF AR
Sidney E. Snook, LT, US Navy (1967-1974), FL
Dave Souders, A1C, USAF (1959-1962), IL
Patricia A. Sowers, Civilian, VA
James R. Sowers, CDR, US Navy, (1970-1990), VA
Roberta (Bobbi) Spillane, Captain, US Navy (Ret.), (1978-2001), NH & FL
Rick J Spina, Father of Ex Navy (2001-2007), NY
Charles O. Stapleton III, Lt, US Navy (1966-1970), USAR-R (1987-1990), CSMR (1990-2008), CA
Dan E. Starkey, Msgt, USAF (Ret)(1973-1993), OH
Ursula Stein, Civilian, FL
Mark Louis Steele, Civilian, TX
Ronald D. Stevens, SFC US Army (Ret.), (1951-1973), MD
Tim Sumner, SFC US Army (Ret.), (1974-1994), PA
Josh Sutton, E7, US Army, PA
Karen T. Swanson, Daughter of WWII Marine PFC James Elmer (1942-1945), AZ
William H. Szych, LtCol, USAF (Ret.) (1975-1995 & 2002-2005), VA
T-U-V
T.R. Thompson, US Navy (1967-1969), PA
Dennis M. Thun, LCPL, USMC (1966-1969), GA
Nancy Tilton, Daughter of infantryman, ETO, (1942-1943),GA
James L Tippins, Major, USAF (1971-1991), FL
Joseph E. Tout, USMC (1959-1963), PA
Michael Tran, SSGT, USAF (1994-2007), TX
Rudy S Turnsek, SSgt, USMC (1987-1995), PA
Godfredo "Doy" Valero, HM2 US Navy (1973-1979), CA
Eric R Vandehey, SSgt, US Army (2002-Present), WI
Micahel Eugene Vandt, PFC, USMC (1996-1997), KY
Nathan J. Verkade, CPL, USMCR (2004-Present), NJ
Gerald Vincent, Us Army (1983-2005), NY
W
Dennis J Waldinger, SAr, USAF (1994-1998), NJ
Brad Walker, SPC, USAR (2002-Present), MN
Jere T Wallace, Col (Ret.), (1964-1987), VA
Tom Wannamaker, EM2(SS), US Navy (1966-1971), CO
David A. Ward, HM3, US Navy HM3 (1990-1994), UT
Russell Ward, E-5, US Army (1965-1969), MD
Lewis A. Waters, E-5, US Army (1969-1977), WA
Thomas D. Watkins, II, Major, US Army (Ret.) (1958-1979), NC
Roderick H Watson, ETC, US Navy (1978 - 2004), ID
David A. Weary, Civilian, AZ
Richard Webb, E5, US Army (1967-1969), PA
Phillip R Weigandt, HM1, USN (Ret.), (1979-2000), PA
Jon O. Weiss, 1SG, U.S. Army (Ret.), (1976-1998), KY
Doug Welch, Father Army & Grandfather Army, WWII & Vietnam, IL
Raymond P. Weldon, SFC, US Army (Ret.), (1983-2004), VA
Daniel Wells, NC
David P Wetter, SFC, US Army (Ret.), (1982-2006) MI
Nelson Whipple, SK2, US Navy Seabees, (1951-1955), NC
David Keith Whipple, Ph-3, US Navy (1964-1967), NM
John Whitcomb, 1st Sgt, USMC (Ret.), (1980-2002), CO
David L. White, CPL, USMC, (1983-1987), PA
Nils L. Wirstrom, GMG2, US Navy (1968-1972), TX
Michael J Witsell, USMC (Ret.), (1954-1974) WA
Patricia Witten, 1LT, US Army (1967-1970), VA
David M. Wyatt, SSgt, USAF (1968-1971) WI; Proud Father of:
Daniel R. Wyatt, LCPL, USMC, KIA Oct 12, 2004, Iraq, WI
X-Y-Z
Daniel M. Yaciuk, CPT, U.S. Army (1998-2003), CO
Donald Yannacci, US Army, (1953-1956), PA
John, F, Yeager, US Army (1991-Present), MT
Thomas A Yost, Civilian, PA

Earmark Probe

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 19:14:00 +0000

The Washington Post is reporting on an earmark probe related to\ a former top aide to Rep. Peter J. Visclosky (D-Ind.). The story addresses that "Investigators have gathered evidence that Charles E. Brimmer, Visclosky's former longtime chief of staff, suggested to some lobbyists that companies seeking Visclosky's help in getting Pentagon funds would need to commit to a program of donations to the member of the Appropriations defense subcommittee." The reason for the probe is identifies, "The federal probe has swirled for 18 months around the Appropriations defense subcommittee and zeroed in on its most controversial practice -- the earmarking of Pentagon funds by members of Congress for favored companies. Earmarks are added to the budget by committee members and do not go through the competitive or approval processes required for most government contracts."

Then the Post links Visclosky and Murtha: "Visclosky's earmarks were among $299 million in defense appropriations that PMA secured for its clients in 2008. PMA was founded by Paul Magliochetti, a friend of the defense subcommittee's chairman, Rep. John P. Murtha (D-Pa.), and company officials and their relatives became major campaign contributors to subcommittee members. They gave their largest volume of donations over the past 10 years to two lawmakers: Murtha ($2.4 million) and Visclosky ($1.4 million)."

Pelosi's swamp of corruption

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 01:22:00 +0000

The Snooper Report: Pelosi's swamp of corruption - Check this cess pool out:
1. Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO) Caught Swearing at Republicans on the Us House Floor!
2. From the Augusta Chronicle: Pelosi's swamp of corruption: During the recent congressional campaigns, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., promised as speaker to "drain the swamp" of Republican corruption if her party won control of the House.

What she didn't say is that she'd fill the swamp up with a type of Democratic sludge that, if not corrupt, has an awful stench about it - enough of a stench to draw fire from some good-government watchdog groups that generally favor Democrats.

Her support of Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., for majority leader was particularly distressing. He's popular with the anti-war crowd, but not the anti-corruption crowd.

"Pelosi's endorsement (of Murtha) suggests ... she was interested in (cleaning up) the culture of corruption only as a campaign issue and has no real interest in true reform," said Melanie Sloan, executive director of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington.

As a longtime senior Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, Murtha has been accused of directing federal money to defense lobbyists who contribute to his campaigns, after which he uses his clout to block ethics investigations into his activities. Then there's Murtha's fishy involvement in the 1980 Abscam bribery scandal. He didn't take the bribe, but he didn't report it either - and even left the door ajar to accepting it down the road. [...] . . .

3. . . . [Full Story]

Reagan responds to Obama and his supporters like Jack Murtha

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 19:06:00 +0000

From the archives: worth viewing again and again!

ARRA News Service

Murtha: King of Wasted Taxpayer Dollars

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 20:58:00 +0000

by Leo Pusateri: Of course, we at Murtha Must Go!! (as well as other outlets) have been rightly portraying Murtha s the "King of Pork." While this is wholly accurate, I believe that once in a while it is more than worthy to point out that "porkbarrel" spending is invariably the spending of other people's money--Yours and My money, to be exact. Take this story by the Washington Post:

INDIANA, Pa. -- The buzzer is broken at the John P. Murtha Institute for Homeland Security, and a note invites visitors, "Please knock." On a summer afternoon, a lone intern answers the door of the mostly empty basement offices that through the years have overseen $50 million in federal money awarded to projects designed to make the nation safer.

Named for the chairman of the powerful House Appropriations subcommittee on defense, who has shepherded most of its funding, the Murtha Institute was supposed to embark on projects to protect the country from terrorists and clean up environmental dangers. Much of the work went to companies and friends close to the congressman, and few of the projects met their goals, a Washington Post investigation shows.

But its spotty performance and internal turmoil have not deterred Murtha (D-Pa.) or his alma mater, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, which houses the center, from seeking more money or dreaming big about the future.
Plans are underway to move the Murtha Institute from its dormitory basement suite to a $53 million IUP athletic arena and conference center now under construction. Murtha secured a $3 million federal earmark for the building two years ago, and he sought another earmark this year before abruptly changing course as investigations of his defense appropriations and lobbying connections heated up. Murtha redirected some of that request to IUP research.

This largesse, folks, is not only made up of "other people's money," it is financed with YOUR taxpayer dollars.

Folks, in these trying times, "politics as usual" shouldn't cut it.

If Jihad Jack had pulled his ponzi schemes anywhere outside what should be the hallowed halls of Congress, Jack Murtha would be now be sitting in the John P. Murtha Penitentiary.

It's now more apparent than ever that Murtha Must Go!!

Visiting Murthaville

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 23:43:00 +0000

Truth through satire! By Rick Horowitz: "Good morning, everyone, and a warm Western Pennsylvania greeting to each and every one of you! My name is Carly, and I'm the assistant tour guide for the Murthaville Chamber of Continuous Commerce, and it's so nice to have all of you with us. Now, what brings you to Murthaville today?"

"A busted axle."

"Oh. Well, sorry for the inconvenience, but we're glad you chose to visit us anyhow while they’re working on your bus. Some of the roads around here do get pretty chewed up, I have to admit, and we certainly see our share of flat tires and damaged rims. But here in Murthaville, we figure it's nothing that some more road-repair money can't fix."

"You repair those roads? It doesn't look like -- "

"Actually, the first thing we do is get the road-repair money. And thanks to Murthaville's great benefactor -- by the way, how many of you know his name?"

"Murtha?"

"Exactly! John Murtha is our congressman, and he's been in the House of Representatives for a long, long time, and he's a very influential man in Washington. Does anybody here know why he's so influential?"

"He's got pictures of the other congressmen?"

"What an amusing answer! No, the real answer is that John Murtha is so influential because he serves on the Appropriations Committee -- that's where the money comes from -- and he's even a chairman of one of the most important Appropriations subcommittees. And that's why we're standing here in the brand-new lobby of the brand-new John Murtha Institute for Applied Generosity."

"Earmarks."

"My, what a clever little boy you are! It's true -- some people call them 'earmarks.' That's when a congressman makes sure that a particular community -- and it doesn't have to be his own community, it could be anywhere -- gets its fair share of government spending. And John Murtha has always been very committed to this community, and this community is just as committed to him. Do you know what they call that?"

"Kickbacks?"

"Loyalty. They call that loyalty. And John Murtha knows some of the most loyal people you'll ever want to meet. And he's every bit as loyal to them as they are to him -- it's really heartwarming."

"What about -- "

"In fact, speaking of hearts, you may have noticed on your way into town all the big signs for the John Murtha Regional Cardiac Research Hub? Right across John Murtha Boulevard from the John Murtha High-Speed Rail Depot and the John Murtha Attack Submarine Test Facility and Senior Center? Well, the Cardiac Hub was all because of a little multi-million-dollar provision Mr. Murtha managed to tuck into one of those appropriations bills. And then he -- yes?"

"We saw the signs for the cardiac thing -- but where was the building?"

"Actually, the building is still in the planning stage. I understand they've even got some blueprints now. Meanwhile, though -- and this is the important thing -- the money from that provision in the bill? It's already bringing plenty of happiness to many of the good people of Murthaville."

"But if there's no -- "

"Here in Murthaville, federal money never sits idle for long. In fact, we like to say that in Murthaville our biggest cash crop is -- "

"Cash."

"Exactly. Whether it's a big payday for a well-positioned lobbyist or a juicy grant to a deserving relative, Murthaville is all about economic growth. And you know what that's called?"

"Corruption?"

"Leadership!"

[Hey, leadership -- leading in taking our dollars and earmarking them for his ego and friends. Time for this scalawag Murtha to be out of office.]

Obama’s decision another insult to our Polish allies

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 22:03:00 +0000

by William Russell: A wise person once said, “If you cannot tell the difference between your friends and enemies, you will have only enemies.” This is true for both individuals and nations, and reflects the realities of the Obama administration’s foreign policy.

The president has signaled his intention to betray America’s most loyal ally from World War II as well as our current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in order to appease Russia’s Vladimir Putin. He has done so by canceling the missile shield that would help protect Europe and its American interests there from a missile threat from Iran, and solidify the American commitment to Poland and the Czech Republic.

With regard to Poland, he could not have picked a worse day to cancel the program: He chose Sept. 17, the 70th anniversary of Stalin’s invasion of Poland at the beginning of World War II. This anniversary marks 70 years since the beginning of Soviet oppression of Poland, which lasted until the end of the Cold War. While Poland has been free and independent of Russia since then, the intimidation of Poland by Russia with threats and constant attempts at coercion on economic, diplomatic and military fronts has continued.

Thanks to rewrites of history to please “Uncle Joe” Stalin in both England and the United States at the end of the war, few Americans and Brits know that no ally sacrificed more for our freedom and the allied victory in World War II than Poland. Two weeks ago, we remembered the surprise German invasion of Poland in World War II. But no one, especially our president, seems to remember that this was under an agreement between Hitler and Stalin. On Sept. 17, Stalin sent his troops into Poland to secure his share of the deal by “helping to defend Poland.” His “gift” to help Poland fight the Germans was the murder of 15,000 Polish officers and cadets at Katyn Forest by his NKVD (later known as the KGB). Every identified Polish soldier in Soviet-occupied areas was sent to the Soviet gulag system.

Under-equipped and undertrained, and invaded from two directions by overwhelming superior forces, the Poles fought extremely well. They inflicted more than 60,000 casualties on the German Wermacht (this is known thanks to excellent German record keeping) and an undetermined, but probably similar, number of casualties on the Soviet Army (thanks to excellent Soviet record keeping) in the opening weeks of the war. But even after bearing the full brunt of the two major military powers in Europe at the time, Poland never surrendered. There was no “Vichy” government in Poland during World War II. Poland remained an occupied territory throughout the war, with the Polish Home Army (AK) inflicting hundreds of thousands of casualties on the Germans.

In addition, many Polish patriots died to provide the allies with key parts of the German Enigma secret code machine. Many Poles also escaped to England and France, where they had to fight for the right to continue fighting for their homeland. These included the pilots who formed the two highest- scoring squadrons in the Royal Air Force during the Battle of Britain.

Although the Polish squadrons made up less than 10 percent of the RAF fighter force, they were credited with more than 40 percent of the kills against the German Luftwaffe (and this was done primarily flying older Hurricane Hawkers rather than the newer Spitfire fighters). The Poles in England also formed the Polish Airborne Brigade, whose purpose was to drop into Warsaw to help liberate the city when the time came. But they were used, instead, to reinforce Montgomery’s debacle at Arnhem (many of you remember the movie “A Bridge Too Far”).

But it was not only the Poles who had escaped to England who fought alongside our forces against Germany. After Hitler turned and invaded Russia, Stalin suddenly decided to use the Poles he had been starving in the gulags to fight against Germany. But instead of fighting under Russian command, 110,000 Poles marched out of Russia and across Iran and Iraq to link up and fight alongside the British in modern-day Israel. They formed the II Polish Corps, the unit that wrested control of the monastery atop the mountain at Monte Casino, Italy, from Nazi hands.

For their contributions to our victory in World War II, our brave Polish allies had one-third of their country given wholesale to Russia by the Yalta Agreement; they were not allowed to march in the Allied Victory Parade in London, to avoid “offending” Stalin; and the members of the Home Army, after all of their suffering and sacrifice in resisting Nazi occupation, were once again sent to the gulags to be starved, tortured and shot. Sadly, for most Americans, all that remains of the Poles brave and heroic struggle is false image, produced by Nazi propagandists, of Polish cavalry vainly charging German tanks with swords and spears.

With his recent actions, Obama just added one more great insult to a long list of injuries. Good job, Mr. President. Do you really think Putin will be your friend now?
------------
William (Bill) Russell is a retired Army Lt. Col and Republican candidate for U.S. Representative for the 12th Congressional District House seat.

Murtha Identified as One of Most Corrupt Members of Congress

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 20:47:00 +0000

AllGov.com: Is corruption within the halls of Congress going down? A quick glance at the latest report by the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) would indicate so, given that only 15 members of Congress made CREW’s corruption list, compared to 24 last year. However, as the group points out, eight members from 2008 are no longer in office, and seven others were left off the list either because no action was taken against them by congressional or law enforcement bodies, or no new charges arose.

What qualifies a lawmaker for CREW’s list? The unethical or illegal use of their position to “financially benefit themselves, their friends and their families. Earmarks for large campaign contributors are commonplace and many members have traded legislative assistance for personal favors,” says the group.

First-timers on the 2009 list are Senators Roland Burris and John Ensign, as well as Congressmen Nathan Deal, Jesse Jackson, Jr. and Pete Visclosky. Twelve of the 15 are under investigation of some kind: Vern Buchanan, Burris, Ken Calvert, Ensign, Jackson, Jerry Lewis, Alan Mollohan, John Murtha, Charlie Rangel, Laura Richardson, Visclosky and Don Young. Calvert, Lewis, Mollohan and Murtha made the CREW list for the fourth year in a row.
Source: The 15 Most Corrupt Members of Congress (Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington)

The Congressional Apology Line Starts with John Murtha, Not Joe Wilson

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:23:00 +0000

by Duane Lester, All American Blogger: Now that all of the problems in the United States have been solved, it’s time for Congress to focus on more minor matters, such as voting to passing a resolution of disapproval against Rep. Joe Wilson for blurting out, “You lie!” when President Barack Obama was lying. Rep. Wilson already apologized to the president for his outburst (actually he apologized to Rahm Emmanuel, who accepted on behalf of the president.)

That apology isn’t good enough for Madam Pelosi, however. She wants Rep. Wilson to come before her and the rest of Congress and humble himself by apologizing on the floor of the House of Representatives. . . . Joe Wilson can apologize if he feels he should, but in my opinion, he should do so only after Rep. John Murtha apologizes to the Marines he accused of killing Marines in cold blood and the attempting to cover up the murders. . . . [See Video] In the middle of a war, where are Marines are trying to win the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people, John Murtha went on television and was adamant about the guilt of these Marines. More than once he said there was no doubt in his mind. His words were replayed across the Arab world.

Since then, all the Marines involved have been acquitted: [Read list of cleared Marines] When confronted by Jason Mattera of the Young Americas Foundation, Rep. Murtha refused to apologize. He has yet to apologize for slandering the Marines involved, he has yet to apologize for damaging the effort to win over the Iraqi people and he has yet to apologize for putting party politics above the safety and security of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines.

Before resolving to disapprove of Joe Wilson for shouting “You lie,” the Democrats in Congress could resolve to support the military by demanding Rep. John Murtha apologize to the eight Marines he repeated slandered as cold, blooded killers.

Pork! Pork! and more Pork!!

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 19:02:00 +0000

Rocklin Placer Herald: Everybody has heard about the "Bridge to Nowhere", but have you heard about the "Airport to Nowhere"? There is an airport in Pennsylvania that fits that description paid for by almost $200 millions of taxpayer’s money. Pennsylvania’s Golden Boy Congressman, John Murtha, the "King of Pork", has arranged to have his name put on this airport that is continuously subsidized by taxpayer money, even though it handles almost no air traffic or passengers.

If Congress would just give up it’s addiction to “Pork”, it could probably pay for the Health Care that the President wants so badly. “Pork”, or “Earmarks” are, after all is said and done, just politicians buying votes with taxpayer money. They are giving the money back to the taxpayers they took it from and expecting to see their name in lights, or at least on bridges, airports, and buildings. As I recall, candidate Obama said he would get a handle on “earmarks” and reduce them significantly. Just wait until next year, an election year, and see how much they are “reduced”(?)

Citizens - “Guard This Nation”

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:58:00 +0000

(JOHNSTOWN, PA) – Republican 12th Congressional district candidate William Russell called on citizens to “Guard this nation” in a speech to a large crowd gathered at Johnstown’s Central Park Wednesday (9/9/09) evening, as part of the National Tea Party Express. Crossing the nation and calling on all Americans to oppose the out-of-control spending, higher taxes, bailouts and growth in the size of government, the Tea Party Express is expected to draw hundreds of thousands to the final stop in Washington DC on Saturday. The following is a text of Bill Russell’s speech at the event:

When the signers of the Declaration of Independence put their names on the Birth Certificate of our nation, it was with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, and a pledge of their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. Let’s recall their words;

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to affect their safety and happiness.”

When we remember 1776, we are like the reader of a book who knows that a story will end with the hero living happily ever after because he has succeeded in defeating his nemesis.

But the men who signed the Declaration had no idea how their stories would end. When Benjamin Franklin said, “We must all hang together, otherwise we will most assuredly hang separately,” he was deadly serious. The hangman’s noose was very real and the British fleet was already in New York Harbor.

The men who gathered in that oppressively hot summer in Philadelphia to create and sign the document we celebrate every July 4th knew that they were pitting themselves against the mightiest empire in the world. They knew they didn’t have the money or the arms or the equipment. They knew that no one thought they had any chance of actually winning their insane fight for independence.

They also knew that what they were doing was right. And because they knew it was right, they were willing to pledge everything they had to fight a battle that everyone said they couldn’t win. As it turned out, EVERYONE was wrong, and the men who honored the pledge they made that July day in 1776 gave us the nation we call America.

The British had lists of their names even before the Declaration was published, and began a manhunt designed to prove that anyone who committed treason against the King would die. They were determined to hunt down and punish every signer, and his family.

From New York, FRANCIS LEWIS watched as his home and estates were plundered and destroyed. His wife was captured and so abused by her British captors that she later died. WILLIAM FLOYD escaped to New Jersey with his family where they lived as refugees for seven years. PHILLIP LIVINGSTONE had all of his property confiscated, dying in 1778. And LOUIS MORRIS was barred from his family and his home for seven years after watching as everything he owned was taken or destroyed.

From New Jersey, JOHN HART tried to return home to see his dying wife. The intense manhunt forced him to hide in caves as Hessian mercenaries captured his children and wrecked his home while his wife lay on her death bed. He died in 1779 without ever seeing his family again. Judge RICHARD STOCKTON was captured, beaten, and starved. He died from his injuries before the war ended.

From Pennsylvania, ROBERT MORRIS raised arms and provisions for Washington using his own resources. GEORGE CLYMER lost his property. Dr BENJAMIN RUSH lent his surgical skills to the soldiers of Washington’s Army, braving death daily.

South Carolina delegates EDWARD RUTLEDGE, ARTHUR MIDDLETON, and THOMAS HEYWARD, Jr were captured and carried as prisoners to St Augustine, Florida. They returned at the end of the war to find their homes destroyed.

And THOMAS NELSON of Virginia personally fired the cannons that destroyed his own home during the siege at Yorktown when he learned that the American Army was sparing it out of respect for him. He died, in poverty, at the age of 50.

Of the 56 men who signed the Declaration, 9 died before the war ended, 5 were captured or imprisoned, several lost their wives and children. Two wives were brutalized. Twelve had their homes burned to the ground. Seventeen lost everything they owned. Lives and fortunes they gave in full measure.

Their Honor, however, THEY KEPT. And by none so well as ABRAHAM CLARK of New Jersey. His 2 sons were officers in the Continental Army. They were captured and sent to the British prison ship in New York harbor called “Jersey” where thousands of Americans died. The Clark sons were singled out for special brutality because of their father. One was placed in solitary and starved. At the end of the war, the British, desperate to break at least one of the men who had signed the Declaration, offered ABRAHAM CLARK the life of his son if he would recant and swear allegiance to King and Parliament. Breaking his own heart, CLARK’s response was “NO.”

This is the gift you honor with your presence here today – The gift of Honor, given to us by men who paid the highest price imaginable.

They created this nation. But we must guard it – with uncompromising adherence to the truths they set forth in the Declaration long ago. They gave all so that we would have a nation that begins with the recognition that we are endowed with rights by our Creator. A nation where each of us has the right to create our own destiny. A nation where the government is supposed to be the servant and protector, not the master of its citizens. A nation where our rights to life, liberty, and property are protected realities, not just political rhetoric.

Today in America, we are losing control of our lives, seeing the fortunes of our children squandered, and our own and our nation’s sacred honor trashed by a President and Congress charged with protecting them. But WE THE PEOPLE have the right to demand that they adhere to the founding principles and protect our liberty. And if they fail to listen, the Founding Fathers gave us a Constitutional means by which to institute a new government by electing new Representatives, new Senators, and a new President who will do so.

Ladies and Gentlemen, America’s freedom, and her future, depend on us. Let us not fail those who have entrusted this nation to our care. WE MUST ACT. There are approximately 500,000, national, state, and local offices across this nation that need leaders who believe as we do. If you cannot find a candidate who meets these requirements, than step forward and become that candidate. In 1776, a group of men gave everything they had to create America – what will we give to preserve it?

Thank you so much for coming out here today. I have been truly honored to speak with you. May God bless you and may God continue to bless this great nation.

Jack Murtha: Still the King of Pork

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:00:00 +0000

From the Archives: CBS Evening News does a piece on why Murtha's spending spree hurts taxpayers.

John Murtha's pork-barreling habits

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:00:00 +0000

From the Archives: 2008 Americans for Prosperity rally against John Murtha's pork-barreling habits outside of his annual fund-raising dinner.

John Murtha - An Insult to Both Our Republic & to Democracy in the US House

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:11:00 +0000

Below video shows Rep. Jack Murtha presiding over the U.S. House of Representatives and ignoring reality to push through his preferences without a vote. Absolute abuse of power and an insult to Democracy.

Murtha Forecasts Selling Out America's Best Health Care System

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 01:19:00 +0000

Rep. John Murtha (D-PA)is running scared after several town halls met on their own expressed displeasure with Murtha and the proposed nationalized health care bill. Murtha did not host any live in-person town hall meetings in his district over the August recess. Instead, he has visited several health care clinics and held a telephone town hall meeting for district residents in Cambria, Somerset, Indiana, Fayette and Westmoreland counties.Murtha has two potential Republicans 9 Bill Russell and Tim Burns gunning for him in the 2010 election.

The Hill's Blog Briefing Room reports that Murtha is backing away from supporting Speaker Nancy Peleosi (D-CA):

One of Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s (D-Calif.) closest allies has said he wouldn’t vote for any version of the health care bill under consideration right now and predicted Congress wouldn’t pass legislation until early next year. Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.), who is a co-sponsor of a healthcare bill that includes a single-payer provision, told constituents last night during a teleconference that Democrats still have a lot of work to do to produce a viable health care reform measure. . . .

In addition, Murtha said he expects the final version of health-care reform to be passed in the first few months of 2010, and repeated several times that it will be a “uniquely American” plan. “The ordinary person can’t afford [health care]. We have to do something about it, but it’s going to be uniquely American. It is not going to be a plan in like Canada or Germany or England have.”

Did you catch that? Murtha expects us to have a plan like Canada or Germany or England. All of these countries have health care systems far inferior to America's health care system. Thank you John Murtha - creates more national debt by being one of the biggest earmark porkers and then forcasts his selling out American's best health care system!

John Murtha's Airport for No One

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:44:00 +0000

Tyler Grimm , research assistant for The Wall Street Journal, wrote an editorial reviewing Representative John Murtha's egregious earmarks:

If you hate the hubbub of crowded airports, you might want to consider flying out of Johnstown, Pa. The airport sees an average of fewer than 30 people per day, there is never a wait for security, you can park for free right outside the gate, and you are almost guaranteed a row to yourself on any flight. You might wonder how the region ever had the air traffic demand to justify such a facility. It didn't. But it is located in the district of one of Congress's most unapologetic earmarkers: Democrat John Murtha. In 20 years, Mr. Murtha has successfully doled out more than $150 million of federal payments to what is now being called the airport for no one. I took a trip to southwestern Pennsylvania to explore how this small town received so much money and whether the John Murtha Airport is a legitimate federal investment.

There are many in Johnstown who see the airport as crucial. Johnstown Chamber of Commerce President Bob Layo tells me: "If the airport isn't paying dividends now, it will in the future." But those dividends appear to be a mirage. There are a total of 18 flights per week, all of which go to Dulles Airport in Washington, D.C. I was visiting the airport from Washington, but because flights cost a pricey $400, I drove. The drive took less than three and a half hours and cost about $35 in gas—not to mention that it was arguably faster than flying. And this isn't a remote area of the state: Murtha airport is less than two hours from the Pittsburgh airport.

The airport has an $8.5 million, taxpayer-funded radar system that has never been used. The runway was paved with reinforced concrete at a cost of more than $17 million. The latest investment was $800,000 from the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to repave half of the secondary runway. (Never mind that the first one is hardly ever in use.)

Airport Director Scott Voelker admitted in an interview that having a never-used unmanned radar system is "dumber than dirt." . . . The airport was not built in response to passenger or airline needs.

The usually barren airport - there were several times during the day I paced the building for 15 minutes and did not see another human being—has a lot of unused advertising space. But you can't miss the large picture of John Murtha among a collage of Lockheed Martin workers at the airport's center. . . . Tickets to fly to Johnstown are expensive, even though every passenger flying out of John Murtha Airport has a $100 subsidy behind the ticket courtesy of the federal Essential Air Service program, which provides support to struggling rural airports. A woman who had just gotten off a flight told me that there were only four people on her plane. "The plane could have held at least 30 passengers," she said.

In addition to the airport, Mr. Murtha's ability to corral federal funds is apparent in the local medical research center (named after his wife), the John P. Murtha Technology Center, the area's thriving defense contracting industry, and numerous other local landmarks. The unemployment rate in Johnstown is currently below the national average of 9.4% thanks to federal largess and the fact that so many have moved away from the area. . . .

Reagan: An answer for challenging times

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 22:20:00 +0000

Take a few minutes to watch this video from our inspiring young friends at TheYoungCons.com:

In challenging times, Reagan’s voice is clear and timeless. Is anybody listening?
Respectfully,
Bill Russell

Club Gitmo

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 02:41:00 +0000

John Murtha's One of the Most Corrupt Members of Congress

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:05:00 +0000

[H/T AmericasNewsToday1]

Murtha's Earmarks & Actions in the Hawaiian Press

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:17:00 +0000

The Honolulu Star-Bulletin published a story about their Sen. Daniel Inouye using earmarks. However, Inouye has been praised for not making his earmarks secret. However the story, take a unusual turn by addressing at the end of the article. It mentions Rep. John Murtha (D, PA District 12) sort of as contrast. I guess the Honolulu press wanted to show that compared to Murtha, Inouye is a "honest and forthright politician." Murtha, the "King of Pork" in the House, is displayed as not being so forthright in his earmarks and or other news has chronicled in his actions and relationships with defense contractors and lobbyists which have been called into question. The story end by highlighting Murtha:

Rep. John Murtha, D-PA, Inouye's counterpart as chairman of the House subcommittee on defense appropriations, has been sharply criticized for inserting 15 earmarks worth $61.4 million that would benefit companies that have donated nearly $200,000 to him through political action committees. Murtha finally relented and introduced the amendment that stripped the F-22 expenditures from the defense bill this month . . . .