New View Askew

  War By Any Other Name One of 157 Military Cemeteries in the Country Since 1868, Memorial Day has been reserved for us to take time out from our busy lives to recognize and remember all those who have faithfully served their country, especially those who paid the ultimate price. We fly our flags, attend ceremonies in cemeteries across the country and many dedicate the day to family gatherings. These are great traditions and are appreciated by all and especially those who have served. Sadly, after a brief hiatus, it is yet another Memorial Day with the nation at war. Make that a “Military Conflict.” As with every other military action since WWII, we are told this is not a war.  Also, as with every other conflict since WWII, tell that to the parents of the dead and injured GI’s; such distinctions mean very little. Since WWII we have had several major “conflicts" starting with Korea and then Vietnam - but that is far from all the combat actions that have put US personnel ...

  100% You may have noticed recently that the US has managed to grow our national debt to 38.9 TRILLION dollars. So what, you may ask. Well, for the first time in over 80 years our debt is greater than our annual GDP. Yup, not since WWII have we managed to do that. Again, you may ask so what. Well, for one thing our annual interest payment is now over one trillion dollars per year (and unlike your mortgage payment there ain’t no principle in there.) Well, how did that happen?  You tell me. Social Security costs 1.5 trillion per year (yeah, I know, there’s allegedly a trust fund somewhere that you paid into but that it is just an accounting trick now.) Medicare, another “fund” you paid into, costs 1.1 Trillion per year. (Your contributions are peanuts in relation to our pitiful healthcare system.) Medicaid? Another 600 billion. Don’t forget that our Dept of Defense , er, War also costs one trillion per year – and if our cracker jack administration gets their way it will go to...