Veterans for Bill Russell for Congress

Biggest Dem Scandal You've Never Heard Of

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 19:03:00 +0000

by Justin Elliott, TPMMuckraker: Three years after Dems rode Nancy Pelosi's promise to "drain the swamp" to a congressional majority, a potentially big scandal has been simmering that threatens to cause problems for the party going into the 2010 midterms.

It's a story involving what was one of D.C.'s biggest lobbying firms (until it was raided by the Feds and closed up shop), several powerful Democratic appropriators, and the defense industry. And it appears to be considerably more serious that the allegations of financial misconduct that have dogged Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-NY) -- allegations that have gotten the lion's share of press coverage focusing on ethical transgressions. . . .

The investigation appears to have two focal points, according to reports: that PMA may have funneled sham donations to members of Congress through so-called "straw donors" who would be reimbursed, and that there may have been a quid pro quo, exchanging defense earmarks for campaign donations.

PMA's lobbying activities centered on winning earmarks doled out by the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, chaired by John Murtha of Pennsylvania. It was founded in the late 1980s by a former aide on the committee, Paul Magliocchetti.* And it was staffed over the years by ex-aides for Murtha, Rep. Pete Visclosky (D-IN), and Rep. James Moran (D-VA). . . .

The FBI raided PMA's offices last November, and its top lobbyists scattered after the episode became public (the Feds have also reportedly raided Magliocchetti's home). The firm went under this spring. The amounts of money involved -- including plenty of taxpayer dollars -- are staggering. Seven lawmakers who are under scrutiny by two House ethics panels steered $200 million to PMA clients in the past two years, according to watchdog groups.

What kind of projects was the money for? This year, some of PMA's former clients received federal contracts for "next-generation precision-airdrop capabilities" and "submarine navigation decision aids."

The lawmakers received fistfuls of cash from PMA and its clients over the years -- reportedly $1.75 million to Murtha alone over the past three election cycles. And, the Washington Post recently noted, PMA's services didn't come cheap . . . [Full Story]

The Arrogance Of John Murtha

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 03:56:00 +0000

by Danny Glover, The Enlightened Redneck: In the opinion of the hearing-impaired chair, the ayes have it. He counts like he went to the Ma and Pa Kettle Mathematics School. Oh, and in case you were wondering, “The chair’s decision is not subject to question.”

Episodes like this will make cynics of the most trusting of Americans. If liberals won’t even play fair on a simple procedural vote, there is no hope for a return to statesmanship while they are in office.

Why We Need Term Limits: Rep. John Murtha

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:39:00 +0000

Glenn Beck examines the CORRUPT John Murtha (D)- PA. This is a perfect example of why we need term limits. Fox News: . . . transcript from "Glenn Beck," November 19, 2009 . . . GLENN BECK, HOST: On Saturday, there is a vote to debate the Senate health care bill.

They're going to say: Hey, this is just a debate; this doesn't make any difference. And they're going to try to convince you and good people in the Senate that you've got to let debate go through and we'll not play any tricks.

But really, can you trust them? Let me show you the kind of people, the decent people that we have elected. Watch this:

. . . BECK (VOICEOVER): That's how cap-and-trade will be passed. John Murtha has served in Congress for 35 years; 19 terms worth of shenanigans just like you saw. They've earned him a spot on the list of the most corrupt members of Congress according to the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington.

And Murtha's not denying that he's corrupt.

In an interview with the Pittsburgh Post Gazette just this past March, the congressman said, quote, "If I'm corrupt, it's because I take care of my district."

Oh, and he certainly does. Murtha is known as the king of the earmarks in Washington. He secured millions in taxpayer dollars for his 12th district over the years. John Murtha Airport in Johnstown, Pennsylvania alone has received $200 million of your money over the last 20 years and was just awarded another $800,000 in stimulus money.

Three planes leave that airport every day. Three.

The lawmaker has also been sure to secure plenty of taxpayer dollars for his brother Kit's consulting firm; for his nephew's company; for his aide and a slew of his campaign contributors.

But perhaps the dirtiest scandal Congressman Murtha ever took part in as the Abscam scandal of 1980. Three decades ago, the undercover FBI operation led to the arrest and convictions of one senator and several congressmen and others.

The lawmakers were caught on tape accepting bribes from agents posing as Middle Eastern businessmen trying to obtain political favors for a foreign Arab sheik. Jack Murtha was the only lawmaker who avoided prosecution by testifying against the others. He wasn't caught accepting the bribes, but he did consider taking them at a later date. . . .

Dirty Money Watch: Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa.

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:08:00 +0000

by Kevin Mooney: WHO: Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa.

WHAT: Murtha received $10,000 from Rep. Charles Rangel's National Leadership PAC, the political action committee of the powerful New York Democrat who is chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee that writes tax law.

WHY IT'S DIRTY: Rangel is being investigated on multiple issues by the House Ethics Committee, including failure to report income from properties he owns in New York and the Dominican Republic. A company that gave $1 million to a New York school facility that will bear Rangel's name subsequently received lucrative tax breaks, and he has reportedly solicited political contributions on official stationary.

WILL MURTHA GIVE IT BACK? Murtha did not respond to The Examiner's request for comment. . . . [Fill Story]

Murtha Continues to Undermine Troops

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:15:00 +0000

by William Russell: In recent interviews defending President Obama’s slow decision making on Afghanistan, Congressman John Murtha continues to undermine our troops, embolden our enemies, and place our country in greater danger. He does this by drawing on the wrong lessons from his own experience in Vietnam, and endorsing the enemy’s propaganda.

By continually questioning the request for more troops, Mr. Obama and Mr. Murtha are signaling the possibility that America might withdraw as we did in Vietnam. But unlike Vietnam, we do not have the choice of leaving and withdrawing to our own peaceful shores. We have no choice; WE MUST WIN. We are fighting an enemy that attacked the United States and murdered nearly 3000 innocent Americans before our very eyes. Handing this enemy victory is not an option.

Like the North Vietnamese, our current enemy follows the American anti-war movement and politicians to determine if they can defeat us.

The actions and arguments of Mr. Murtha and Mr. Obama are telling the enemy “America’s political resolve is wavering. Al-Qaeda and the Taliban can win.”

As a Marine Intelligence Officer in Vietnam and savvy politician, Mr. Murtha bears special responsibility for this message. At every turn since November of 2005, he has endorsed the enemy's propaganda and undermined America’s Soldiers in harm's way. He openly called for withdrawal from Iraq, he falsely labeled our troops as cold blooded murderers, and he is currently highlighting some of the corruption issues of the Afghanistan government (which are so similar to his own) while ignoring the brutality of the enemy. He should know better as these were common messages of the anti-war movement during Vietnam.

Mr. Murtha is using the enemy’s propaganda as his own political message to pay back President Obama for saving him in the last election. But in doing so, he is telling our enemy that we are not determined to win. By his actions, Mr. Murtha is emboldening the enemy and setting America’s Soldiers up for defeat. He is telling the enemy that if they just keep killing enough of our Soldiers and innocent Afghan civilians to make the evening news, they can win – just like Vietnam.

The Blinders - Jihad at Ft Hood

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:05:00 +0000

Old stream media has PC blinders on. Read the "Jihad at Fort Hood" series for non-Politically Correct insights into the background on the murder of "14" and wounding of 30 American military and civilians at Ft Hood, Texas.

Follows is an insightful cartoon by William Warren

[Source]

Pelosi and Murtha’s Healthcare Plan Could Bankrupt Families

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:47:00 +0000

(JOHNSTOWN, PA) – By a slim margin of just five votes, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a sweeping overhaul of the nation’s healthcare system. Rep. John Murtha (D-12th PA) joined speaker Pelosi and the Democrat leadership in ramming the nearly two thousand page bill through the House in less than one week, despite the opposition of a majority of Americans.

“As someone who has spent nearly my entire adult life defending the American people, I find it appalling that the Mr. Murtha and his fellow House Democrats would so blatantly ignore the will of the people,” said William Russell, GOP candidate in the 12th Congressional district. “The passage of this bill will allow for the government takeover of health care, which is one-sixth of the entire national economy. This is just another example of the Washington elite taking away more of our freedoms,” Russell continued. “This government takeover increases costs, adds to our skyrocketing debt, destroys jobs with tax hikes and new mandates and cuts seniors' Medicare benefits."

Russell also pointed out that the Democrat Healthcare Bill will cost more than one trillion dollars over the next ten years, which will add to the already massive deficit. “This bill also hurts seniors by slashing a half billion dollars from Medicare,” said Russell. “I’m sure the thousands of senior citizens in the 12th Congressional district can’t wait to ask Rep. Murtha why he supported this measure.”

Happy Veterans Day

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

ARRA News Service - This Veterans Day please take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our nations heroes and their families. When our nation called they answered and we will forever be in their debt.

[Video] The quote is from Judge William S. Sessions, former FBI Director and Captain – United States Air Force 1951-1955 - and read by his son, NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions.

John Murtha Votes for Cap and Trade

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:58:00 +0000

Cap and Trade will have a devastating effect on Western PA. Yet, John Murtha voted for it, even when most other republican and democratic Congressmen from PA voted against it. John Murtha may have used to be one of us - but after 36 years in office, John Murtha is out of touch with America and the district.

Just who does Murtha think he is?

editor@arragopwing.com (Bill Smith) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 20:17:00 +0000

Rene Edwards, Galvaston County Conservative Examiner: Democrat John Murtha has represented the 12th District of Pennsylvania since 1974. In 1980, he was one of several Congressmen ensnared in the Abscam Scandal, a moniker for an investigation of congressional corruption by the FBI. Yet, in 2009 he is still representing the 12th District and has been on the House Appropriations Committee, and the Defense Subcommittee, for more than two decades.

Murtha is considered one of the most corrupt members of Congress and is currently being investigated by the Ethics Committee. The magnitude of the corruption surrounding his contributions and the ‘circular fundraising’ performed far surpasses the corruption found during the Abscam Scandal.

In his own words… “If I am corrupt it is because I take care of my district. My job as a member of Congress is to make sure we take care of what we see as necessary.” In fact since serving on the Appropriations Committee, Murtha has sent more than 2 billion dollars to Pennsylvania - 192.5 million of that amount was sent in 2008. The money he sends to his state is his insurance policy for re-election. The only problem is, that this insurance policy has been taxpayer-funded for last twenty-five years. Evidently, as long “Murtha” money keeps pouring in, Pennsylvanians will turn a blind eye to who will be footing the bill. Nothing is for free, even for the Pennsylvanians, yet the “Me First” syndrome prevails.

It is quite evident that he is a smart and careful man. His net worth is the lowest twenty percentile of the House. With all other Representatives getting fat during their tenure in Congress, where is Murtha’s money? If you review the 1980 Abscam video, it is obvious there is some sort of machination in place, but to pin point it is difficult indeed. He was also very careful not to be connect to “the money”, I am sure nothing has changed. The people of Pennsylvania need to ‘do the hard thing’ and get off the government dole. They need to rise up against Murtha to make sure that this career ‘quid-pro-quo’ politician is out on his ‘keester’ in 2010! If they do not, it will be politics as usual, and it will be shame on you, Pennsylvania!

The following videos are self-explanatory and the insolence reeks…. [Visit Original Post]

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
Ted Atmore, A1C, USAF (1955-1958), WA
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
Loren J. Jensen, Citizen, AK
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
Lisa Myers, Civilian, PA
Michael Myers, Civilian, PA
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
Robert D Robertson, E-1, US Army (1976), NC
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”(?)