Obama's Afghan Speech... Full of Me, Me, Me and Bush couldn't get the Job done...

[Sallow]

As usual this speech was like most any other Presidential speech on an election year - 75% bullshit with just enough truth thrown in to make it easy to swallow the inaccuracies.
Bush just might be the worst war-time President we have had...this is true. He did an incredibly bad job in the initial invasion and even worse after the initial invasion. All because he didn't want to upset European allies and his over-the-top foolish belief that Americans would show up - and Iraqis would line up to kiss our feet.
At the same time - every single word Obama said as a Presidential candidate was the COMPLETE OPPOSITE of what he is saying now. Every promise he made about getting troops out and closing Gitmo has never been met. But because the war LOOKS like it is going well - he is now ready to take credit for the whole thing.
Typical political bullshit that anyone with an IQ over 80 can see right thru.

Oh give it a rest. We are out of Iraq..as per the campaign promise. Obama has also said that Afghanistan was the right thing to do..and that we need to be there. Obama tried to close Gitmo but was blocked by congress. Had he done it via executive order he'd be accused of being a tyrant.

Um no...and you know it.

No to what?

 

[mudwhistle]

As usual this speech was like most any other Presidential speech on an election year - 75% bullshit with just enough truth thrown in to make it easy to swallow the inaccuracies.
Bush just might be the worst war-time President we have had...this is true. He did an incredibly bad job in the initial invasion and even worse after the initial invasion. All because he didn't want to upset European allies and his over-the-top foolish belief that Americans would show up - and Iraqis would line up to kiss our feet.
At the same time - every single word Obama said as a Presidential candidate was the COMPLETE OPPOSITE of what he is saying now. Every promise he made about getting troops out and closing Gitmo has never been met. But because the war LOOKS like it is going well - he is now ready to take credit for the whole thing.
Typical political bullshit that anyone with an IQ over 80 can see right thru.

Oh give it a rest. We are out of Iraq..as per the campaign promise. Obama has also said that Afghanistan was the right thing to do..and that we need to be there. Obama tried to close Gitmo but was blocked by congress. Had he done it via executive order he'd be accused of being a tyrant.

The law blocked Obama.

Closing GITMO is a political issue, not a practical one.

I'm sure he knew it wasn't wise and that it would become a legal nightmare, but reality never stopped him from saying he wanted to do it.

 

[Sallow]

He's the most Credit Taking for shit he didn't do Motherfucker to ever be in Politics...

http://www.usmessageboard.com/reviews/173971-bush-v-barry-on-taking-credit-for-others-deeds.html

And I don't there there has EVER been another President who has Refered to himself more than Obama.



peace...

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PGmnz5Ow-o]Bush: Truly not concerned about bin Laden (short version) - YouTube[/ame]

CIA disbands Bin laden unit | World news | The Guardian

True story.

Do you have Evidence that our Military was told to stop looking for him?... Did we in Fact stop looking for bin Laden under (43)?...

You know the Answer...

Did the System Bush put in place in Afghanistan find and Kill bin Laden?

Don't be that person Sallow.



peace...

Stop looking? No. But it became a low priority. And the "system in place" was in shambles. It was Obama that re-generated the effort..and had to do it from the ground up.

 

[asaratis]

What a Shameless Shit he is:

THE PRESIDENT: Good evening from Bagram Air Base. This outpost is more than 7,000 miles from home, but for over a decade it's been close to our hearts. Because here, in Afghanistan, more than half a million of our sons and daughters have sacrificed to protect our country.
Today, I signed a historic agreement between the United States and Afghanistan that defines a new kind of relationship between our countries -- a future in which Afghans are responsible for the security of their nation, and we build an equal partnership between two sovereign states; a future in which war ends, and a new chapter begins.

Tonight, I'd like to speak to you about this transition. But first, let us remember why we came here. It was here, in Afghanistan, where Osama bin Laden established a safe haven for his terrorist organization. It was here, in Afghanistan, where al Qaeda brought new recruits, trained them, and plotted acts of terror. It was here, from within these borders, that al Qaeda launched the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 innocent men, women and children.

And so, 10 years ago, the United States and our allies went to war to make sure that al Qaeda could never again use this country to launch attacks against us. Despite initial success, for a number of reasons, this war has taken longer than most anticipated. In 2002, bin Laden and his lieutenants escaped across the border and established safe haven in Pakistan. America spent nearly eight years fighting a different war in Iraq. And al Qaeda’s extremist allies within the Taliban have waged a brutal insurgency.

But over the last three years, the tide has turned. We broke the Taliban’s momentum. We’ve built strong Afghan security forces. We devastated al Qaeda’s leadership, taking out over 20 of their top 30 leaders. And one year ago, from a base here in Afghanistan, our troops launched the operation that killed Osama bin Laden. The goal that I set -- to defeat al Qaeda and deny it a chance to rebuild -- is now within our reach.
Still, there will be difficult days ahead. The enormous sacrifices of our men and women are not over. But tonight, I’d like to tell you how we will complete our mission and end the war in Afghanistan.

First, we've begun a transition to Afghan responsibility for security. Already, nearly half of the Afghan people live in places where Afghan security forces are moving into the lead. This month, at a NATO Summit in Chicago, our coalition will set a goal for Afghan forces to be in the lead for combat operations across the country next year. International troops will continue to train, advise and assist the Afghans, and fight alongside them when needed. But we will shift into a support role as Afghans step forward.

As we do, our troops will be coming home. Last year, we removed 10,000 U.S. troops from Afghanistan. Another 23,000 will leave by the end of the summer. After that, reductions will continue at a steady pace, with more and more of our troops coming home. And as our coalition agreed, by the end of 2014 the Afghans will be fully responsible for the security of their country.

Second, we are training Afghan security forces to get the job done. Those forces have surged, and will peak at 352,000 this year. The Afghans will sustain that level for three years, and then reduce the size of their military. And in Chicago, we will endorse a proposal to support a strong and sustainable long-term Afghan force.

Third, we’re building an enduring partnership. The agreement we signed today sends a clear message to the Afghan people: As you stand up, you will not stand alone. It establishes the basis for our cooperation over the next decade, including shared commitments to combat terrorism and strengthen democratic institutions. It supports Afghan efforts to advance development and dignity for their people. And it includes Afghan commitments to transparency and accountability, and to protect the human rights of all Afghans -- men and women, boys and girls.

Within this framework, we’ll work with the Afghans to determine what support they need to accomplish two narrow security missions beyond 2014 -- counter-terrorism and continued training. But we will not build permanent bases in this country, nor will we be patrolling its cities and mountains. That will be the job of the Afghan people.

Fourth, we’re pursuing a negotiated peace. In coordination with the Afghan government, my administration has been in direct discussions with the Taliban. We’ve made it clear that they can be a part of this future if they break with al Qaeda, renounce violence and abide by Afghan laws. Many members of the Taliban -- from foot soldiers to leaders -- have indicated an interest in reconciliation. The path to peace is now set before them. Those who refuse to walk it will face strong Afghan security forces, backed by the United States and our allies.

Fifth, we are building a global consensus to support peace and stability in South Asia. In Chicago, the international community will express support for this plan and for Afghanistan’s future. And I have made it clear to its neighbor -- Pakistan -- that it can and should be an equal partner in this process in a way that respects Pakistan’s sovereignty, interests and democratic institutions. In pursuit of a durable peace, America has no designs beyond an end to al Qaeda safe havens and respect for Afghan sovereignty.

As we move forward, some people will ask why we need a firm timeline. The answer is clear: Our goal is not to build a country in America’s image, or to eradicate every vestige of the Taliban. These objectives would require many more years, many more dollars, and most importantly, many more American lives. Our goal is to destroy al Qaeda, and we are on a path to do exactly that. Afghans want to assert their sovereignty and build a lasting peace. That requires a clear timeline to wind down the war.

Others will ask, why don’t we leave immediately? That answer is also clear: We must give Afghanistan the opportunity to stabilize. Otherwise, our gains could be lost and al Qaeda could establish itself once more. And as Commander-in-Chief, I refuse to let that happen.

I recognize that many Americans are tired of war. As President, nothing is more wrenching than signing a letter to a family of the fallen, or looking into the eyes of a child who will grow up without a mother or father. I will not keep Americans in harm’s way a single day longer than is absolutely required for our national security. But we must finish the job we started in Afghanistan and end this war responsibly.

My fellow Americans, we’ve travelled through more than a decade under the dark cloud of war. Yet here, in the pre-dawn darkness of Afghanistan, we can see the light of a new day on the horizon. The Iraq war is over. The number of our troops in harm’s way has been cut in half, and more will soon be coming home. We have a clear path to fulfill our mission in Afghanistan, while delivering justice to al Qaeda.

This future is only within reach because of our men and women in uniform. Time and again, they have answered the call to serve in distant and dangerous places. In an age when so many institutions have come up short, these Americans stood tall. They met their responsibilities to one another, and to the flag they serve under. I just met with some of them and told them that as Commander-in-Chief, I could not be prouder. And in their faces, we see what is best in ourselves and our country.

Our soldiers, our sailors, our airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and civilians in Afghanistan have done their duty. Now we must summon that same sense of common purpose. We must give our veterans and military families the support they deserve, and the opportunities they have earned. And we must redouble our efforts to build a nation worthy of their sacrifice.

As we emerge from a decade of conflict abroad and economic crisis at home, it’s time to renew America -- an America where our children live free from fear and have the skills to claim their dreams. A united America of grit and resilience, where sunlight glistens off soaring new towers in downtown Manhattan, and we build our future as one people, as one nation.

Here in Afghanistan, Americans answered the call to defend their fellow citizens and uphold human dignity. Today, we recall the fallen and those who suffered wounds, both seen and unseen. But through dark days, we have drawn strength from their example and the ideals that have guided our nation and led the world -- a belief that all people are treated equal and deserve the freedom to determine their destiny. That is the light that guides us still.

This time of war began in Afghanistan and this is where it will end. With faith in each other and our eyes fixed on the future, let us finish the work at hand and forge a just and lasting peace.

May God bless our troops, and may God bless the United States of America.

^And of course, more of the "God" stuff this guy is always pushing...

He really is just a Slimey Used Car Salesman of a Doucher, ain't he?...



peace...

I don't think the word "me" appears anywhere in the cited text. Were you attempting to be ironic?

No, but the word "I" does...right where he claims that HE is the one that set the goal to defeat Al Kyda. That goal was set before he became President.

What a goddamned narcissist Obama is!

 

[Sallow]

As usual this speech was like most any other Presidential speech on an election year - 75% bullshit with just enough truth thrown in to make it easy to swallow the inaccuracies.
Bush just might be the worst war-time President we have had...this is true. He did an incredibly bad job in the initial invasion and even worse after the initial invasion. All because he didn't want to upset European allies and his over-the-top foolish belief that Americans would show up - and Iraqis would line up to kiss our feet.
At the same time - every single word Obama said as a Presidential candidate was the COMPLETE OPPOSITE of what he is saying now. Every promise he made about getting troops out and closing Gitmo has never been met. But because the war LOOKS like it is going well - he is now ready to take credit for the whole thing.
Typical political bullshit that anyone with an IQ over 80 can see right thru.

Oh give it a rest. We are out of Iraq..as per the campaign promise. Obama has also said that Afghanistan was the right thing to do..and that we need to be there. Obama tried to close Gitmo but was blocked by congress. Had he done it via executive order he'd be accused of being a tyrant.

The law blocked Obama.

Closing GITMO is a political issue, not a practical one.

I'm sure he knew it wasn't wise and that it would become a legal nightmare, but reality never stopped him from saying he wanted to do it.

The "law" put into place..by Republicans.

Gitmo is a travesty and a quagmire that didn't need to be. Simple as that.

 

[Katzndogz]

It was Bush's policies that led to the capture of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and Bush's interrrogation techniques that led to the intelligence that gave us the name of Bin Laden's courier. Until we had that information, the capture of Bin Laden had low priority because there was no information to go on.

obama's policies have made it impossible for an accomplishment like finding a wanted terrorist to happen again. His priority is a drone strike not capture. Even if a terrorist is captured obama's policy is not to make them uncomfortable enough to give up useful information.

As a person who believes that lessons are best learned by experiencing the consequences of one's own actions. We will undoubtably learn valuable lessons from obama's stupidity.

 

[Dick Tuck]

Obama is our God given leader.

He knows what is best for us.

Obama = America

That is all.

He was elected, without the Supremes jumping in. He represents us. He may or may not know what's best for us. I agree with this agreement to get American troops out of the hassle of dealing with Afghanistan's problems, and leaving it up to them. I agree that having a small special forces presence makes sense.

Why exactly should I shit on Obama's decisions, on this?

 

[iamwhatiseem]

Oh give it a rest. We are out of Iraq..as per the campaign promise. Obama has also said that Afghanistan was the right thing to do..and that we need to be there. Obama tried to close Gitmo but was blocked by congress. Had he done it via executive order he'd be accused of being a tyrant.

Um no...and you know it.

No to what?

We did not get out of Iraq as he promised while campaigning. Remember the "this is the first act I will make as President..."
And he only tried to close Gitmo as a token measure...he knew all too well it would never happen. And his proposal to close it only moved the prisoners from Gitmo to somewhere else. So even if he did manage to close it - it was a relocation anyway.

 

[ClosedCaption]

What a Shameless Shit he is:

He really is just a Slimey Used Car Salesman of a Doucher, ain't he?...



peace...

Disgusting isnt it?

Oh wait, thats different right?

 

[Katzndogz]

What a Shameless Shit he is:

THE PRESIDENT: Good evening from Bagram Air Base. This outpost is more than 7,000 miles from home, but for over a decade it's been close to our hearts. Because here, in Afghanistan, more than half a million of our sons and daughters have sacrificed to protect our country.
Today, I signed a historic agreement between the United States and Afghanistan that defines a new kind of relationship between our countries -- a future in which Afghans are responsible for the security of their nation, and we build an equal partnership between two sovereign states; a future in which war ends, and a new chapter begins.

Tonight, I'd like to speak to you about this transition. But first, let us remember why we came here. It was here, in Afghanistan, where Osama bin Laden established a safe haven for his terrorist organization. It was here, in Afghanistan, where al Qaeda brought new recruits, trained them, and plotted acts of terror. It was here, from within these borders, that al Qaeda launched the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 innocent men, women and children.

And so, 10 years ago, the United States and our allies went to war to make sure that al Qaeda could never again use this country to launch attacks against us. Despite initial success, for a number of reasons, this war has taken longer than most anticipated. In 2002, bin Laden and his lieutenants escaped across the border and established safe haven in Pakistan. America spent nearly eight years fighting a different war in Iraq. And al Qaeda’s extremist allies within the Taliban have waged a brutal insurgency.

But over the last three years, the tide has turned. We broke the Taliban’s momentum. We’ve built strong Afghan security forces. We devastated al Qaeda’s leadership, taking out over 20 of their top 30 leaders. And one year ago, from a base here in Afghanistan, our troops launched the operation that killed Osama bin Laden. The goal that I set -- to defeat al Qaeda and deny it a chance to rebuild -- is now within our reach.
Still, there will be difficult days ahead. The enormous sacrifices of our men and women are not over. But tonight, I’d like to tell you how we will complete our mission and end the war in Afghanistan.

First, we've begun a transition to Afghan responsibility for security. Already, nearly half of the Afghan people live in places where Afghan security forces are moving into the lead. This month, at a NATO Summit in Chicago, our coalition will set a goal for Afghan forces to be in the lead for combat operations across the country next year. International troops will continue to train, advise and assist the Afghans, and fight alongside them when needed. But we will shift into a support role as Afghans step forward.

As we do, our troops will be coming home. Last year, we removed 10,000 U.S. troops from Afghanistan. Another 23,000 will leave by the end of the summer. After that, reductions will continue at a steady pace, with more and more of our troops coming home. And as our coalition agreed, by the end of 2014 the Afghans will be fully responsible for the security of their country.

Second, we are training Afghan security forces to get the job done. Those forces have surged, and will peak at 352,000 this year. The Afghans will sustain that level for three years, and then reduce the size of their military. And in Chicago, we will endorse a proposal to support a strong and sustainable long-term Afghan force.

Third, we’re building an enduring partnership. The agreement we signed today sends a clear message to the Afghan people: As you stand up, you will not stand alone. It establishes the basis for our cooperation over the next decade, including shared commitments to combat terrorism and strengthen democratic institutions. It supports Afghan efforts to advance development and dignity for their people. And it includes Afghan commitments to transparency and accountability, and to protect the human rights of all Afghans -- men and women, boys and girls.

Within this framework, we’ll work with the Afghans to determine what support they need to accomplish two narrow security missions beyond 2014 -- counter-terrorism and continued training. But we will not build permanent bases in this country, nor will we be patrolling its cities and mountains. That will be the job of the Afghan people.

Fourth, we’re pursuing a negotiated peace. In coordination with the Afghan government, my administration has been in direct discussions with the Taliban. We’ve made it clear that they can be a part of this future if they break with al Qaeda, renounce violence and abide by Afghan laws. Many members of the Taliban -- from foot soldiers to leaders -- have indicated an interest in reconciliation. The path to peace is now set before them. Those who refuse to walk it will face strong Afghan security forces, backed by the United States and our allies.

Fifth, we are building a global consensus to support peace and stability in South Asia. In Chicago, the international community will express support for this plan and for Afghanistan’s future. And I have made it clear to its neighbor -- Pakistan -- that it can and should be an equal partner in this process in a way that respects Pakistan’s sovereignty, interests and democratic institutions. In pursuit of a durable peace, America has no designs beyond an end to al Qaeda safe havens and respect for Afghan sovereignty.

As we move forward, some people will ask why we need a firm timeline. The answer is clear: Our goal is not to build a country in America’s image, or to eradicate every vestige of the Taliban. These objectives would require many more years, many more dollars, and most importantly, many more American lives. Our goal is to destroy al Qaeda, and we are on a path to do exactly that. Afghans want to assert their sovereignty and build a lasting peace. That requires a clear timeline to wind down the war.

Others will ask, why don’t we leave immediately? That answer is also clear: We must give Afghanistan the opportunity to stabilize. Otherwise, our gains could be lost and al Qaeda could establish itself once more. And as Commander-in-Chief, I refuse to let that happen.

I recognize that many Americans are tired of war. As President, nothing is more wrenching than signing a letter to a family of the fallen, or looking into the eyes of a child who will grow up without a mother or father. I will not keep Americans in harm’s way a single day longer than is absolutely required for our national security. But we must finish the job we started in Afghanistan and end this war responsibly.

My fellow Americans, we’ve travelled through more than a decade under the dark cloud of war. Yet here, in the pre-dawn darkness of Afghanistan, we can see the light of a new day on the horizon. The Iraq war is over. The number of our troops in harm’s way has been cut in half, and more will soon be coming home. We have a clear path to fulfill our mission in Afghanistan, while delivering justice to al Qaeda.

This future is only within reach because of our men and women in uniform. Time and again, they have answered the call to serve in distant and dangerous places. In an age when so many institutions have come up short, these Americans stood tall. They met their responsibilities to one another, and to the flag they serve under. I just met with some of them and told them that as Commander-in-Chief, I could not be prouder. And in their faces, we see what is best in ourselves and our country.

Our soldiers, our sailors, our airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and civilians in Afghanistan have done their duty. Now we must summon that same sense of common purpose. We must give our veterans and military families the support they deserve, and the opportunities they have earned. And we must redouble our efforts to build a nation worthy of their sacrifice.

As we emerge from a decade of conflict abroad and economic crisis at home, it’s time to renew America -- an America where our children live free from fear and have the skills to claim their dreams. A united America of grit and resilience, where sunlight glistens off soaring new towers in downtown Manhattan, and we build our future as one people, as one nation.

Here in Afghanistan, Americans answered the call to defend their fellow citizens and uphold human dignity. Today, we recall the fallen and those who suffered wounds, both seen and unseen. But through dark days, we have drawn strength from their example and the ideals that have guided our nation and led the world -- a belief that all people are treated equal and deserve the freedom to determine their destiny. That is the light that guides us still.

This time of war began in Afghanistan and this is where it will end. With faith in each other and our eyes fixed on the future, let us finish the work at hand and forge a just and lasting peace.

May God bless our troops, and may God bless the United States of America.

^And of course, more of the "God" stuff this guy is always pushing...

He really is just a Slimey Used Car Salesman of a Doucher, ain't he?...



peace...

I don't think the word "me" appears anywhere in the cited text. Were you attempting to be ironic?

No, but the word "I" does...right where he claims that HE is the one that set the goal to defeat Al Kyda. That goal was set before he became President.

What a goddamned narcissist Obama is!

Your red highlight is also untrue. Al Quaeda is not nearly defeated. obama is negotiating with the Taliban to return Afghanistan to Taliban rule and Al Quaeda is stronger than ever in Yemen, Somalia and now the Sudan and Nigeria. Rather than victory over Al Quaeda (victory is not a word in obama's lexicon) obama has succeeded in in spreading Al Quaeda further than it was.

The Afghan security forces are strong enough to kill Americans on American bases rather than the field, that's how strong they are.

It's disturbing that obama and democrats find this debacle a success.

 

[mudwhistle]

What a Shameless Shit he is:

He really is just a Slimey Used Car Salesman of a Doucher, ain't he?...



peace...

Disgusting isnt it?

Oh wait, thats different right?

A picture bothers you more than all of the bragging Obama does 24/7.

Good deal. Lol

 

[mudwhistle]

I don't think the word "me" appears anywhere in the cited text. Were you attempting to be ironic?

No, but the word "I" does...right where he claims that HE is the one that set the goal to defeat Al Kyda. That goal was set before he became President.

What a goddamned narcissist Obama is!

Your red highlight is also untrue. Al Quaeda is not nearly defeated. obama is negotiating with the Taliban to return Afghanistan to Taliban rule and Al Quaeda is stronger than ever in Yemen, Somalia and now the Sudan and Nigeria. Rather than victory over Al Quaeda (victory is not a word in obama's lexicon) obama has succeeded in in spreading Al Quaeda further than it was.

The Afghan security forces are strong enough to kill Americans on American bases rather than the field, that's how strong they are.

It's disturbing that obama and democrats find this debacle a success.

We can't get out if the public feels he's failed.

 

[ClosedCaption]

What a Shameless Shit he is:

He really is just a Slimey Used Car Salesman of a Doucher, ain't he?...



peace...

Disgusting isnt it?

Oh wait, thats different right?

A picture bothers you more than all of the bragging Obama does 24/7.

Good deal. Lol

The fact that Bush played dress up then claimed that the Mission was accomplished bothers me more than Obama bragging. See, Obama actually did something and bragged about it, Bush put on a ken doll flight suit then bragged about something that wasnt true.

I see how you're eager to give one a pass tho

 

[Katzndogz]

No, but the word "I" does...right where he claims that HE is the one that set the goal to defeat Al Kyda. That goal was set before he became President.

What a goddamned narcissist Obama is!

Your red highlight is also untrue. Al Quaeda is not nearly defeated. obama is negotiating with the Taliban to return Afghanistan to Taliban rule and Al Quaeda is stronger than ever in Yemen, Somalia and now the Sudan and Nigeria. Rather than victory over Al Quaeda (victory is not a word in obama's lexicon) obama has succeeded in in spreading Al Quaeda further than it was.

The Afghan security forces are strong enough to kill Americans on American bases rather than the field, that's how strong they are.

It's disturbing that obama and democrats find this debacle a success.

We can't get out if the public feels he's failed.

Just to put obama in his place, the taliban had a major attack in Kabul. How about all that Afghan security the presidebt says they have?

 

[JakeStarkey]

Victory Lapse - The Daily Show with Jon Stewart - 05/01/12 - Video Clip | Comedy Central

 

[mudwhistle]

Oh give it a rest. We are out of Iraq..as per the campaign promise. Obama has also said that Afghanistan was the right thing to do..and that we need to be there. Obama tried to close Gitmo but was blocked by congress. Had he done it via executive order he'd be accused of being a tyrant.

The law blocked Obama.

Closing GITMO is a political issue, not a practical one.

I'm sure he knew it wasn't wise and that it would become a legal nightmare, but reality never stopped him from saying he wanted to do it.

The "law" put into place..by Republicans.

Gitmo is a travesty and a quagmire that didn't need to be. Simple as that.

Far as I know the Bil of Rights was passed before Republicans even existed.

That is the part of our founding documents I'm speaking of.

So Swallow, obviously you're making this up.

 

[mal]

What a Shameless Shit he is:

He really is just a Slimey Used Car Salesman of a Doucher, ain't he?...



peace...

Disgusting isnt it?

Oh wait, thats different right?

Hey flew jets in the ANG for years... True Story.

Like Bodecea, would you like to start shitting all over those who Served our Nation in the ANG?...



peace...

 

[mal]

What a Shameless Shit he is:

THE PRESIDENT: Good evening from Bagram Air Base. This outpost is more than 7,000 miles from home, but for over a decade it's been close to our hearts. Because here, in Afghanistan, more than half a million of our sons and daughters have sacrificed to protect our country.
Today, I signed a historic agreement between the United States and Afghanistan that defines a new kind of relationship between our countries -- a future in which Afghans are responsible for the security of their nation, and we build an equal partnership between two sovereign states; a future in which war ends, and a new chapter begins.

Tonight, I'd like to speak to you about this transition. But first, let us remember why we came here. It was here, in Afghanistan, where Osama bin Laden established a safe haven for his terrorist organization. It was here, in Afghanistan, where al Qaeda brought new recruits, trained them, and plotted acts of terror. It was here, from within these borders, that al Qaeda launched the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 innocent men, women and children.

And so, 10 years ago, the United States and our allies went to war to make sure that al Qaeda could never again use this country to launch attacks against us. Despite initial success, for a number of reasons, this war has taken longer than most anticipated. In 2002, bin Laden and his lieutenants escaped across the border and established safe haven in Pakistan. America spent nearly eight years fighting a different war in Iraq. And al Qaeda’s extremist allies within the Taliban have waged a brutal insurgency.

But over the last three years, the tide has turned. We broke the Taliban’s momentum. We’ve built strong Afghan security forces. We devastated al Qaeda’s leadership, taking out over 20 of their top 30 leaders. And one year ago, from a base here in Afghanistan, our troops launched the operation that killed Osama bin Laden. The goal that I set -- to defeat al Qaeda and deny it a chance to rebuild -- is now within our reach.
Still, there will be difficult days ahead. The enormous sacrifices of our men and women are not over. But tonight, I’d like to tell you how we will complete our mission and end the war in Afghanistan.

First, we've begun a transition to Afghan responsibility for security. Already, nearly half of the Afghan people live in places where Afghan security forces are moving into the lead. This month, at a NATO Summit in Chicago, our coalition will set a goal for Afghan forces to be in the lead for combat operations across the country next year. International troops will continue to train, advise and assist the Afghans, and fight alongside them when needed. But we will shift into a support role as Afghans step forward.

As we do, our troops will be coming home. Last year, we removed 10,000 U.S. troops from Afghanistan. Another 23,000 will leave by the end of the summer. After that, reductions will continue at a steady pace, with more and more of our troops coming home. And as our coalition agreed, by the end of 2014 the Afghans will be fully responsible for the security of their country.

Second, we are training Afghan security forces to get the job done. Those forces have surged, and will peak at 352,000 this year. The Afghans will sustain that level for three years, and then reduce the size of their military. And in Chicago, we will endorse a proposal to support a strong and sustainable long-term Afghan force.

Third, we’re building an enduring partnership. The agreement we signed today sends a clear message to the Afghan people: As you stand up, you will not stand alone. It establishes the basis for our cooperation over the next decade, including shared commitments to combat terrorism and strengthen democratic institutions. It supports Afghan efforts to advance development and dignity for their people. And it includes Afghan commitments to transparency and accountability, and to protect the human rights of all Afghans -- men and women, boys and girls.

Within this framework, we’ll work with the Afghans to determine what support they need to accomplish two narrow security missions beyond 2014 -- counter-terrorism and continued training. But we will not build permanent bases in this country, nor will we be patrolling its cities and mountains. That will be the job of the Afghan people.

Fourth, we’re pursuing a negotiated peace. In coordination with the Afghan government, my administration has been in direct discussions with the Taliban. We’ve made it clear that they can be a part of this future if they break with al Qaeda, renounce violence and abide by Afghan laws. Many members of the Taliban -- from foot soldiers to leaders -- have indicated an interest in reconciliation. The path to peace is now set before them. Those who refuse to walk it will face strong Afghan security forces, backed by the United States and our allies.

Fifth, we are building a global consensus to support peace and stability in South Asia. In Chicago, the international community will express support for this plan and for Afghanistan’s future. And I have made it clear to its neighbor -- Pakistan -- that it can and should be an equal partner in this process in a way that respects Pakistan’s sovereignty, interests and democratic institutions. In pursuit of a durable peace, America has no designs beyond an end to al Qaeda safe havens and respect for Afghan sovereignty.

As we move forward, some people will ask why we need a firm timeline. The answer is clear: Our goal is not to build a country in America’s image, or to eradicate every vestige of the Taliban. These objectives would require many more years, many more dollars, and most importantly, many more American lives. Our goal is to destroy al Qaeda, and we are on a path to do exactly that. Afghans want to assert their sovereignty and build a lasting peace. That requires a clear timeline to wind down the war.

Others will ask, why don’t we leave immediately? That answer is also clear: We must give Afghanistan the opportunity to stabilize. Otherwise, our gains could be lost and al Qaeda could establish itself once more. And as Commander-in-Chief, I refuse to let that happen.

I recognize that many Americans are tired of war. As President, nothing is more wrenching than signing a letter to a family of the fallen, or looking into the eyes of a child who will grow up without a mother or father. I will not keep Americans in harm’s way a single day longer than is absolutely required for our national security. But we must finish the job we started in Afghanistan and end this war responsibly.

My fellow Americans, we’ve travelled through more than a decade under the dark cloud of war. Yet here, in the pre-dawn darkness of Afghanistan, we can see the light of a new day on the horizon. The Iraq war is over. The number of our troops in harm’s way has been cut in half, and more will soon be coming home. We have a clear path to fulfill our mission in Afghanistan, while delivering justice to al Qaeda.

This future is only within reach because of our men and women in uniform. Time and again, they have answered the call to serve in distant and dangerous places. In an age when so many institutions have come up short, these Americans stood tall. They met their responsibilities to one another, and to the flag they serve under. I just met with some of them and told them that as Commander-in-Chief, I could not be prouder. And in their faces, we see what is best in ourselves and our country.

Our soldiers, our sailors, our airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and civilians in Afghanistan have done their duty. Now we must summon that same sense of common purpose. We must give our veterans and military families the support they deserve, and the opportunities they have earned. And we must redouble our efforts to build a nation worthy of their sacrifice.

As we emerge from a decade of conflict abroad and economic crisis at home, it’s time to renew America -- an America where our children live free from fear and have the skills to claim their dreams. A united America of grit and resilience, where sunlight glistens off soaring new towers in downtown Manhattan, and we build our future as one people, as one nation.

Here in Afghanistan, Americans answered the call to defend their fellow citizens and uphold human dignity. Today, we recall the fallen and those who suffered wounds, both seen and unseen. But through dark days, we have drawn strength from their example and the ideals that have guided our nation and led the world -- a belief that all people are treated equal and deserve the freedom to determine their destiny. That is the light that guides us still.

This time of war began in Afghanistan and this is where it will end. With faith in each other and our eyes fixed on the future, let us finish the work at hand and forge a just and lasting peace.

May God bless our troops, and may God bless the United States of America.

^And of course, more of the "God" stuff this guy is always pushing...

He really is just a Slimey Used Car Salesman of a Doucher, ain't he?...



peace...

I don't think the word "me" appears anywhere in the cited text. Were you attempting to be ironic?

No, but the word "I" does...right where he claims that HE is the one that set the goal to defeat Al Kyda. That goal was set before he became President.

What a goddamned narcissist Obama is!

Yep... He is.

Defeating al Qaeda ALL over the World, not just in our 2 or 3 or 4 Venues of War is the Goal for Bush and Obama.

Obama taking it as his own as if he came up with is just another Example of what Shit he is.



peace...

 

[mudwhistle]

The sticking point is what are these guys.

Are they soldiers or criminals?

If they're soldiers we can't put them on trial.

If they're criminals we must give them rights and protections once they are on US soil.

The question is still unsettled and will remain so until some stupid idiots works up the guts to decide it.

Basically the detainees are in limbo till hostilities cease or somebody grants them a trial and rights to face their accusers.

 

[ClosedCaption]

Victory Lapse - The Daily Show with Jon Stewart - 05/01/12 - Video Clip | Comedy Central

Republicans memory is for shit