I feel compelled to speak out about the comments made by the President of the United States in regards to the arrest of Harvard Professor Gates. I respect the President and the difficult task he has of leading this country. That being said, I don't always agree with his views.
There are several things that bother me about his comments that the Cambridge Police "acted stupidly" when arresting his friend.
The first, and most obvious, is his own declaration that he did not have all the facts. We are currently fighting two wars, being threatened by other rogue nations, and at home are in a rush to vote on a health care bill that no one has read nor has had time to fully consider the implications it might have on future generations. All the while we are in an economic crisis, and growing deeper in debt, and unemployment is at an all time high.
It certainly makes me wonder if many of the decisions our government makes is without first having the facts to support their policies. Patience is a virtue and cooler heads should prevail.
Secondly, the label of "racial profiling" being used to describe the response to a reported home burglary by the Cambridge Police Department is way off. Racial profiling is something that is initiated by the police, not one in which they are obligated to respond to a citizens complaint. Third, I am disappointed that the President would intentionally, or unintentionally, inflame a situation by implying that it is somehow excusable that a black man would react with anger "given the history of abuse at the hands of American Law Enforcement Officers". We are living in unprecedented times. We have elected a black President named Barack Obama to the most powerful position in the world. This is progress. I am not naive, I know there are still racial issues out there. I also know they are not all originating from one race. Furthermore, I know that we as individuals are responsible for our behavior, our own personal biases, and the things we say.
Finally, I personally do not believe the President was speaking out on social injustice as much as he was simply defending a friend. That can be an admirable trait for sure when doing so with the full knowledge of the circumstances. Even if you know the friend is guilty a friend should support a friend. However, it still begs the question of whether or not our President should be critically commenting on local issues in which he is not informed nor involved.
I don't care what color you are wrong is wrong, right is right, and we as a people should always seek to be on the side of right.
In the end I will say this, the President of the United States should be on a mission to unify the people of the United States during difficult times. His job is challenging and very difficult and my prayers are with him. He is often attacked and criticized and faces increasingly tough issues everyday. It is not a job for the faint of heart. On the other hand, it is our job as citizens to hold him and our congress accountable.
In Proverbs 16:32 it says "He who is slow to anger is mightier than the warrior and he who controls his spirit than he who captures a city". We all must practice this kind of self control. We must control our spirit, we must control our sinful nature and we must join together on a mission to unify, encourage, lift up and support our Nation, no matter one's ethnicity, position in life, or financial status. We must not seek to divide based on personal and selfish endeavors and fact less harmful opinions. In the end it is not about me, or you, but about us as Americans.
God bless the President, God bless the United States of America and God bless us all as one Nation under God!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
A Belated Thank You
"Most soldiers live a quiet life, never elaborating on what went on during their service years and that is pretty much as it should be.
The career soldier, like me, doesn't look for thanks from people for our service, though it is appreciated, the military is our chosen career and whatever lumps comes with it, we take proudly, although sometimes you must gripe a bit to stay happy, I am told."
"The military has been very good to us and to me in particular, it gave me a direction and a goal to excel in and if I had not had medical problems, I am sure that I would have made CSM and stayed in until I was forced out."
The preceding words were written by a soldier long since medically retired after more than 20 years service and well on his way to making CSM-Command Sergeant Major. In fact, just prior to the medical issues that sidelined this career soldier he completed a deployment essential to his assuming the next step, CSM.
His words, I believe, reflect the vast majority of our soldiers serving today, although significant time has passed since the last war this warrior fought in, which was Vietnam. In fact, I believe they would hold true for the brave men who fought and died to secure the freedom and independence of our Nation and in all the wars since. They don't seek recognition, other than career advancement achieved for a job well done, and they don't look for thanks, although they certainly appreciate it. They do it out of a calling to serve a higher purpose than themselves.
They don't do it for the security of a paycheck, but the security of a Nation. These guys are not paid near what they are worth I assure you.
Well today I want to say thanks to this soldier in particular. The one that penned the above quotation. I should have done it years ago, but honestly I didn't realize his sacrifice, or just didn't take the time to consider what he and his fellow soldiers did. Like so many others enjoying the fruits of their sacrifice, freedom, I took it all for granted.
Thanks Dad. Thanks for everything
The career soldier, like me, doesn't look for thanks from people for our service, though it is appreciated, the military is our chosen career and whatever lumps comes with it, we take proudly, although sometimes you must gripe a bit to stay happy, I am told."
"The military has been very good to us and to me in particular, it gave me a direction and a goal to excel in and if I had not had medical problems, I am sure that I would have made CSM and stayed in until I was forced out."
The preceding words were written by a soldier long since medically retired after more than 20 years service and well on his way to making CSM-Command Sergeant Major. In fact, just prior to the medical issues that sidelined this career soldier he completed a deployment essential to his assuming the next step, CSM.
His words, I believe, reflect the vast majority of our soldiers serving today, although significant time has passed since the last war this warrior fought in, which was Vietnam. In fact, I believe they would hold true for the brave men who fought and died to secure the freedom and independence of our Nation and in all the wars since. They don't seek recognition, other than career advancement achieved for a job well done, and they don't look for thanks, although they certainly appreciate it. They do it out of a calling to serve a higher purpose than themselves.
They don't do it for the security of a paycheck, but the security of a Nation. These guys are not paid near what they are worth I assure you.
Well today I want to say thanks to this soldier in particular. The one that penned the above quotation. I should have done it years ago, but honestly I didn't realize his sacrifice, or just didn't take the time to consider what he and his fellow soldiers did. Like so many others enjoying the fruits of their sacrifice, freedom, I took it all for granted.
Thanks Dad. Thanks for everything
Sunday, June 7, 2009
A Quick Note
Hello everyone! Sorry I haven't blogged much lately, but to tell you the truth the closer we get to leaving this place the busier I seem to get. I have thought about blogging many times, but something always gets in the way. However, tonight I make a special effort to pass on something I heard in Church this morning that may actually have applications to everyday living, but certainly applies to those of us far away and longing to be home.
I have been counting down the days until I come home. I have 15 before I leave on my next vacation and roughly 75 days, after I return from vacation, before I leave this country to be reunited with my family after a long 16 months away. I thought nothing of it until this morning when the Pastor said he too was counting the days until he leaves, which is in the next two weeks. "But, he said, I can hear my commander saying "Don't count the days until you are no longer here, but rather make everyday that you are here count."
I long to be home, but I also long to do what God has for me to do. Let's all make everyday in this earth count.
By the way, this morning before Church on the Mike Huckabee Show Kathy Lee Gifford said that "if you have a pulse you have a purpose". We all have a God given purpose. Let's not waste the time God has given us here looking so far in the future we miss the moment.
As always, pray for our troops and their families and God bless you all.
I have been counting down the days until I come home. I have 15 before I leave on my next vacation and roughly 75 days, after I return from vacation, before I leave this country to be reunited with my family after a long 16 months away. I thought nothing of it until this morning when the Pastor said he too was counting the days until he leaves, which is in the next two weeks. "But, he said, I can hear my commander saying "Don't count the days until you are no longer here, but rather make everyday that you are here count."
I long to be home, but I also long to do what God has for me to do. Let's all make everyday in this earth count.
By the way, this morning before Church on the Mike Huckabee Show Kathy Lee Gifford said that "if you have a pulse you have a purpose". We all have a God given purpose. Let's not waste the time God has given us here looking so far in the future we miss the moment.
As always, pray for our troops and their families and God bless you all.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
The Heat Is On!
Hey Guys,
I am sure the weather at home is starting to heat up, but I have never experienced anything like the heat here in Iraq. The last four days have consistently been hoovering around 112 and the guys who have been here before keep telling me it isn't hot yet. What? You have to be kidding me. You don't think 112 is hot? It literally feels like you are walking outside on a very hot day with a blow dryer in your face. Your skin feels as if it is burning and at times the hot wind makes you lose your breath and it isn't hot here yet.
They tell me the temperature will get up around the 140 mark. I can't even imagine, but I will let you know what it is like when we get there. Now for all of you complaining about the heat at home, when it barely gets in the 90"s, stop and consider the guys keeping you free who are carrying an extra 80 lbs of gear when on patrol in the 140 degree heat. These guys bear so much burden for the things we take for granted. Remember them when you want to complain about the heat, remember them when you go outside in shorts, flip flops and a t-shirt, remember them when you sit in the comfort of your air conditioned home, remember them when you take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean or a pool to cool off.
My point is obvious, remember them always, not just on Memorial Day when you enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers and a ballgame, but everyday.
Please stop for one moment daily and give thanks for the awesome price paid for your freedom so that you may enjoy time with family and friends. This is not to make you feel guilty, but rather motivate you to action. My wife often tells me she feels guilty when she and the kids are enjoying themselves at home. I tell you what I tell her, don't feel guilty. If you don't live your lives to the fullest you will not honor the sacrifice being made. The men & women of the US Military want you to live, enjoy and take full advantage of your freedom. We just don't want you to forget. Simple as that, remember others always. Celebrate the men & women of the Armed Forces, those currently serving and those who are home now. Don't let this day go by without Thanking someone you know or meet who has served so courageously for the blessings we have.
I am sure the weather at home is starting to heat up, but I have never experienced anything like the heat here in Iraq. The last four days have consistently been hoovering around 112 and the guys who have been here before keep telling me it isn't hot yet. What? You have to be kidding me. You don't think 112 is hot? It literally feels like you are walking outside on a very hot day with a blow dryer in your face. Your skin feels as if it is burning and at times the hot wind makes you lose your breath and it isn't hot here yet.
They tell me the temperature will get up around the 140 mark. I can't even imagine, but I will let you know what it is like when we get there. Now for all of you complaining about the heat at home, when it barely gets in the 90"s, stop and consider the guys keeping you free who are carrying an extra 80 lbs of gear when on patrol in the 140 degree heat. These guys bear so much burden for the things we take for granted. Remember them when you want to complain about the heat, remember them when you go outside in shorts, flip flops and a t-shirt, remember them when you sit in the comfort of your air conditioned home, remember them when you take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean or a pool to cool off.
My point is obvious, remember them always, not just on Memorial Day when you enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers and a ballgame, but everyday.
Please stop for one moment daily and give thanks for the awesome price paid for your freedom so that you may enjoy time with family and friends. This is not to make you feel guilty, but rather motivate you to action. My wife often tells me she feels guilty when she and the kids are enjoying themselves at home. I tell you what I tell her, don't feel guilty. If you don't live your lives to the fullest you will not honor the sacrifice being made. The men & women of the US Military want you to live, enjoy and take full advantage of your freedom. We just don't want you to forget. Simple as that, remember others always. Celebrate the men & women of the Armed Forces, those currently serving and those who are home now. Don't let this day go by without Thanking someone you know or meet who has served so courageously for the blessings we have.
Be thankful also for living in the greatest Country in the world.
One more thing, a special shout out to Juan & Pam & the Johnson family & too Maria Fargione for sharing your love across the world. The Johnson's with their adoption of kids who long for love and who desperately need to know the love of Jesus and Maria for sharing the love of Jesus with the many Military Units she supports across both Iraq & Afghanistan. God bless you all & Thank You!
One more thing, a special shout out to Juan & Pam & the Johnson family & too Maria Fargione for sharing your love across the world. The Johnson's with their adoption of kids who long for love and who desperately need to know the love of Jesus and Maria for sharing the love of Jesus with the many Military Units she supports across both Iraq & Afghanistan. God bless you all & Thank You!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Mens Night Out
OK, I may be wearing a dress, but I can assure you this was very normal for our current environment. Not too long ago the Iraqi Army Captain Omar (Captain Omar is not in this picture, but Staff Sgt. Ali is along with Charlie Company Captain S) invited us to his office for lunch. It was a wonderful lunch of chai and faloppas (sp). A faloppa is basically a sandwich made from the most wonderful flat bread which is cut open. On the inside they put cucumbers, tomatoes, and fried chic peas. It is a great sandwich and one I have now eaten many times.
The casual wear, provided by Captain Omar, is called a misdasha. Again, I have no idea if the spelling is correct and I would bet not before I bet for. The misdasha is common wear for the men of Iraq and understandably so. With the extreme heat here it is very cool and comfortable. The loose fit (not so loose for me) allows the breeze to flow under and provide some relief. In many ways it was sad to close down the Joint Security Station we were on because of the friendships we made with our Iraqi partners. The JSS was closed in preparation of all US troops leaving the cities on June 30Th.
Now I am on Camp Stryker Camp Stryker is a large base and walking here is the only exercise you need. I probably walk an average of 3 miles a day and that is going to and from the office and to chow. However, there are many benefits I am just now starting to enjoy. In my room I have AFN (Armed Forces Network)TV. It is so great waking up in the morning and watching the news. There are 10 channels in all which allow me to watch sports, movies and regular programming. The other advantage is the dining facility. It is huge and the food is terrific. In fact, it is too good. Way too many choices, good and bad. They have any kind of desert you would want or could think of and they have...get this...sweet ice tea. I am in heaven. Well not exactly, but I have learned it certainly can be worse.
For any of you wondering, my address is pretty much the same with some minor changes. It is now;
Alan Dale Hamilton
1-63 CAB LEP
Camp Stryker
APO AE 09322
Many of you have written and some I have not yet written back, but believe me I certainly appreciate each and every note you send.
Well, it is time to go, but remember keep our American Heroes in your prayers and thank God each day for the freedom we enjoy.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Putting It All On the Line!
Hey Guys! Have you ever really wondered what it would be like to really put it all on the line? Your faith, your family, your life? I read a story the other day about a Pastor from England who is doing just that here in Iraq.
Pastor Andrew White arrived in Baghdad, Iraq in 2003 which you may recall was the year of our invasion of Baghdad. Pastor White left his family, a wife and two sons, back in England believing God had called him to this place to witness to the few Christians that are here during a time of war. Having no regard for his own safety he answered the call. Wow! I often wonder do I have the faith, the real and tested faith, to follow the call no matter where it leads.
The population in Baghdad is measured in the millions, Christians in the hundreds. They are not, or have not been, welcome here. They have faced real persecution and yet this Brittish Pastor followed a call here where the claim of being a Christian can mean death. In fact, all of his assistants have been either kidnapped or killed or both. Despite the constant threat of danger Pastor White maintains a quick sense of humor. He can only do this with faith in the God who is Love and promises us that perfect love drives out fear.
Understandably it is difficult for Pastor White to hire staff. He says he likes to tell potential employees that "the benefits of this job are out of this world". They are certainly not in this world.
I pray we all come to a faith that will withstand the toughest challenges we may face, knowing that our God is the one who is alive in us and will never leave us or forsake us.
Examine today the challenges that are making it difficult for you to live a life of faith and then give it all to God and begin a new day. The Son will shine on your tomorrow.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Location Update
Hey Guys! Sorry it has been a while, but I have literally been on the go. Many of you know that my base location has changed. I have moved from Mahmudiyah to JSS Yarmouck. Yarmouck is a very small base in the middle of a Baghdad neighborhood. I have no personal computer Internet, but because it is in the middle of the big city I can use the military computers that are made available for personal use and I can now update the blog site myself for the first time since arriving in theatre.
I am really enjoying it so far here. I can look off my building and watch the neighbors in their yard. I don't know if you are aware, but Baghdad has a population of several million people. There are sites and sounds of the city everywhere. I can watch children play, a soccer game in the field next to our base and always traffic. We have a number of Iraqi soldiers that work here with us which is great for the cultural exchange that takes place. We live in Iraqi homes, very nice homes, large enough to house many soldiers. A lot of our patrols are now what we call dismounts which simply means we walk. I enjoy the interaction with the populace and the excitement of being out in the middle of what is happening.
So anyway, that is what is going on with me at the moment. The Iraqi troops are doing a terrific job here as are their policemen. It is truly amazing to see the transformation taking place in this once war torn country.
I ask that God bless this country and people and as always God bless our soldiers and the United States of America.
I also remember those at home with no jobs or who are suffering from lack of work. I know it is tough, but hang in their. We will overcome these times of trouble and God will see us through. His promises cannot be broken.
I am really enjoying it so far here. I can look off my building and watch the neighbors in their yard. I don't know if you are aware, but Baghdad has a population of several million people. There are sites and sounds of the city everywhere. I can watch children play, a soccer game in the field next to our base and always traffic. We have a number of Iraqi soldiers that work here with us which is great for the cultural exchange that takes place. We live in Iraqi homes, very nice homes, large enough to house many soldiers. A lot of our patrols are now what we call dismounts which simply means we walk. I enjoy the interaction with the populace and the excitement of being out in the middle of what is happening.
So anyway, that is what is going on with me at the moment. The Iraqi troops are doing a terrific job here as are their policemen. It is truly amazing to see the transformation taking place in this once war torn country.
I ask that God bless this country and people and as always God bless our soldiers and the United States of America.
I also remember those at home with no jobs or who are suffering from lack of work. I know it is tough, but hang in their. We will overcome these times of trouble and God will see us through. His promises cannot be broken.
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