Obama Snubs Medal of Honor Recipients (Updated)
Here it is less than 72 hours into a new administration and the blogs have already been burning up the internet over a major snub by our new president.
What is the slight that they’re feeling? What’s got them all bunched up? A party — one the new president failed to show up for.
Every four years during inauguration evening (the galas began in 1809), groups vie for a visit from the incoming president, his wife, and anyone from his ticket. For decades, the “official” and “unofficial” galas have hoped to get a short visit from the president. He would take a few turns on the dance floor, say a few words to those gathered, and move on to the next one. Typically, these galas and balls consist of groups of people that have a common theme or background — from youth groups (H.O.P.E. Inaugural Youth Ball) to the National Council on Women ball. Which ones the new president attends say much about his priorities (right or wrong) and which demographics he may hold in high esteem.
In this case, the American Legion, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and the Paralyzed Veterans of America, as well as other veteran’s groups, were sponsoring their gala that has coincided with the inaugural evening since Eisenhower took office in 1953. In total, nine presidents and 56 years have gone by, and each inaugural evening the new president arrived to thank the veterans and Medal of Honor recipients in attendance. As one of the “unofficial” balls, it meant quite a bit to have the president show up and make an appearance.
Except this time.
The president and first lady, for the first time in those ensuing 56 years, did not make an appearance at the Salute to Heroes Inaugural Ball. In attendance at the gala were 48 of the 99 living recipients of our nation’s highest honor. Of the 99 who are still with us, not even half are in any condition or possess the wherewithal to travel to such an event. And by the next inauguration, likely half of those won’t be with us.
Making this evening even more special was the fact that it is the 50th anniversary of the Medal of Honor Society, which has been working hard to reach out to people to educate them about its members.
Are we really surprised?
I thought He was Everywhere….
BBB
Because President Training Pants and his handlers have not to a person spent a day in military service to our country they brush off the importance of such service to our country. They think only their kind of service–being a politician–is worthy.
Unfortunately this comes as no surprise. I warned my brothers in arms that this was coming. We have already received memos directing commanders to prioritize their civilian positions in preparation for a possible RIF.
NOT THE OBAMA I KNEW
The Democrats never fail to demonstrate their beliefs. They have been reasonably honest about the contempt they hold for the military, for military people and the mission they do. I don’t understand the outrage. If there is anger to unleash, direct it at the American voters who knowingly put Democrats into office.
“”"Two days into his job as president and he’s already got a lot of ground to make up with those who truly count — the ones who’ve laid down their lives for their country.”"”
Get used to disappointment. Military values are magnetic opposites to Democrat values. They actively repel each other.
It’s a ball, please grow up. It’s not like George Bush was loved by veterans anyway. He administration hasn’t done anything for them, that’s why they backed Obama. Stop nitpicking, you sound like whiny far left liberals.
As a wounded veteran I care more about what he does in office than some symbolical magical ball. Move on..
Why would he attend a function of an ideal he is on the verge of dismantling? I guess Beyonce in concert took priority. Wonder why? Any guesses?
This is change you can believe in. He cares not for those in uniform, he is doing a dog and pony show to feign care, while he is loading up to repeal “don’t ask, don’t tell” . Even though the majority of the troops are against repealing it, he doesn’t care about what they think, they live the life he hasn’t and doesn’t.
President George W. Bush was the last AMERICAN President.
The Oval office has been ceded to those who hold this country and our Constitution in contempt and so they should be held in twice that contempt.
As a vet, I’ve come expect this from modern Democrats. Murtha, Durbin, Kerry… all have slandered and falsely accused our troops.
I would have considered Obama disingenous if he had appeared.
…it’s only just begun. And y’all thought they hated CLINTON!
That’s just not right. Shame on him.
America was warned at least on the internet and Sean Hannity on Fox. No one listened. You know nothing about Obama, all his records are sealed. The first call he made as our new president was the Palestinian president Abbas. Care to imagine where his loyalties actually lie. I do not believe a Christian as he professes to be would not celebrate Christmas as he told everyone on the campaign trail. This was a coup and our country is now in the hands of a Muslim. Look for Soros and others to keep pumping the money in. Look at the latest demonstrations by Muslims over Gaza and their thirst to kill the Jews and we will be next. I for one am disappointed that more Republicans did not come out in support of John McCain. He may not have been the one they wanted but at least he loves America.
Nothing shocks me any more about this creep.
What a disgrace.
As a person with family who served this great country this made me actually want to cry.
Ugh.
Flavor Country -
You’re WAY off base here, boy. As a THRICE-wounded veteran, I care what a President does BOTH symbolically and materially. (By the way, the majority of veterans did NOT vote for Obama. Maybe the majority of the phony veterans…like John Murtha or John Kerry, for example…but not the REAL veterans who came home proud of their service.) It’s no real surprise to me that he’s the first newly-sworn-in CinC to snub this affair in 56 years! His desire to visit with real troops is predicated entirely on how much of a photo op it’ll provide him. When he was in Germany on the way back from his “whirlwind” tour during the campaign, he snubbed the wounded veterans there because the Army wouldn’t let him take in his retinue of reporters and cameras, too. The man has no real character and is going to be VERY dangerous to the nation over the next 4 years. Hopefully, the American people will wake up long enough to send him packing in 2012…back to the obscurity he richly deserves.
There are two alternatives 1. You want to avoid talking aobut the critical issues of the day, becasue your have not solutions -2. You don’t know anything about the critical issues of the day and you do not want to make a fool of yourself. So you focus on trivial issues that feed the irrational beliefs of the wingnuts.
I have to second Flavor Country. Judge the man by his actions in office and how he handles events, not some dance. Certain types always look for something to be perpetually OUTRAGED about to bulwark their predispositions, no matter the times. We’ve had 8 years of anti-Bush puffery, we don’t need 4 years of this.
You will be safe once we move murderers, terrorists and psychopaths with a sixth century barbaric mentality into your neighborhood………move along….nothing to see here.
Wow, people are griping that he didn’t appear at the veterans ball. What he actually does in office for veterans should be what he is judged on. Back in 2007, the shoddy and despicable care of wounded American vets at Walter Reed was exposed, prompting Shalala and Dole to head up an investigation. Where was George Bush’s leadership then? That was a real failure and Mr. Wolf has the gall to criticize Obama for not going to an inauguration ball. Grasping at straws.
Oopsie, somebody will get in trouble for this. And, to think, they’ve worked so hard to make people think the Obama’s care about the military. (Michelle Obama’s web page on the whitehouse.gov site talks about how “Michelle Obama looks forward to continuing her work on the issues close to her heart — supporting military families…” Like, since when did this become an issue close to her heart? I guess about the same time that she became proud of America for the very first time. Hypocrites!
But, hey, at least they’re trying to act like they care about the military, and not just ignoring them.
Perhaps he thought he did not deserve to be in the same room.
http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=60160
er?
No surprise. Change, not hope.
I think it’s great. Lots of the military supported him, especially the younger ones… and the wives who are tired of the frequent war deployments. They’re part of why he managed to carry VA. This should wake them up to what they’ve done. I’d sure hate to be one of them right now!
when he didn`t show to me that was him being disrespectful to our service men and women. if it wasn`t for our military past and present then he would never have had the chance to run for president yet alone be elected for it. to me he and his family are very disrespectful and they do not ever deserve to be respected.
Pappadave:
Flavor Country -
You’re WAY off base here, boy. As a THRICE-wounded veteran, I care what a President does BOTH symbolically and materially. (By the way, the majority of veterans did NOT vote for Obama. Maybe the majority of the phony veterans…like John Murtha or John Kerry, for example…but not the REAL veterans who came home proud of their service.) It’s no real surprise to me that he’s the first newly-sworn-in CinC to snub this affair in 56 years! His desire to visit with real troops is predicated entirely on how much of a photo op it’ll provide him. When he was in Germany on the way back from his “whirlwind” tour during the campaign, he snubbed the wounded veterans there because the Army wouldn’t let him take in his retinue of reporters and cameras, too. The man has no real character and is going to be VERY dangerous to the nation over the next 4 years. Hopefully, the American people will wake up long enough to send him packing in 2012…back to the obscurity he richly deserves.
why wait for 4 yrs. hopefully someone will have the common sense to have him impeached way before then.
#23 – that was a different ball.
This incident is more evidence, though circumstantial, that Hussein is not an American citizen!!!
He was born in Kenya and later as a child became a citizen of Indonesia, the largest Muslim populated country in the world.
Hussein has never shown any credible proof, the BC on his website being proven to be a forgery, that he was born in the U.S. (No Hawaiian hospital has ever confirmed that he was born in that hospital) or later became a naturalized citizen. (Hussein open your sealed records at Occidental College, Columbia and Harvard).
All in all Hussein’s actions in this matter are consistent with him not being an American citizen. Ayers and Wright among others must be over joyed regarding this.
As a 100% disabled veteran I feel insulted by what I could only call an evil lawyer or maybe a zero
Well, he did promise change, didn’t he?
You mean he wasn’t ‘present’?
http://michaelshawblog.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/obama-not-saluting_11.jpg
You mean even Clinton, who wrote how he “loathed the military” attended, and Obama didn’t? Shameful.
The report after his visit to Iraq was that he didn’t acknowledge or shake hands with the military except for photo-ops. As Commander-and-Chief he is supposed to return salutes. Did he yesterday? I remember seeing Clinton totally flub salutes and trying to stay in step with some soldiers at Arlington was just pathetic. Give me a military man everytime. Pathetic elite metrosexuals just don’t “cut the mustard”.
I can’t find any reference to this ball being held this year at all. It is not listed on any list that runs down all the balls. It isn’t even listed on the American Legion’s website and the only reference to this seems to be about the snub itself and from Blogs or online news journals that regurgitated the same article about “TSO” attending this ball. I can only find an old news article announcement of the ball being held in 2001. I also see a reference to a Luncheon by Gates honoring the Medal of Honor receipients ont he defense site. But nothing else. Something stinks.
An embarrassment and a man with no honor. The Obamanation clearly hates America, the constitution and our freedoms. His superficial oratory lacking in substance has been spoon fed to America by the MSM. We now have a man running this country, yet totally devoid of ethics, experience, credibility and valor.
God help us all, and please, bless those wonderful men and women that protect our country in the armed services — you are truly our heros!
and look the more demented post of 33? robert hurley.
it’s too good to sit on your ass and typing while others do the dirty job like going to war isn’t it?
the problem is not zerobama, the problem is people like robert hurley.
It comes as no surprise to see the vapid nonsense on this post. Like moths to the flame the wing nuts fly to right wing nonsense. The economy is in trouble – oops Obama did not attend a ball – A call to arms! Actually, this is quite amusing – The more time you spend on silly issues like this the less time you have to discuss the consequential issues of the day
Why should B. Hussein waste his time on some military gala? Military personnel to him are nothing more than a bunch of chumps. If they were smart like him, they wouldn’t be in the military. Although individually they are paid relatively little for the sacrifice they make, overall they require big dollars he’d rather spend on really use things. You know, things that buy him votes and political power. You will see the military’s budget gradually be whittled away over the next eight years. In the meantime, he can use them as required. They are always useful for things like crewing Air Force One, carrying his entourage’s luggage, running Camp David and protecting him overseas on his tax-payer expensed vacations.
This is the change that all the cowards wanted when they voted this coward into office!! just wait and see what him and his cronies have in store for us in the future. Anybody here for your second amendment rights?? They will be coming for your guns very soon. The America we know and Love will be gone soon!! Our Military deserves better. God Bless our Soldiers.
Bush can show up to a ball………but never once attended a soldiers funeral like Reagan. But he cares right? Really honoring Veterans would be going to a funeral, not showing up for a press photo and a sip of champagne. What conditions are the VA hospitals? How are Vets treated, that’s more important.
History of Presidents and Funerals
Not stopping by to meat the MOA recipients is big oversight. My guess is that it was a result of an incompetent staffer who came up with Obama’s schedule. It might have been Obama’s decision not to go, but I think his advisers and aides failed him here. They were either too stupid or partisan pieces of crap. Its hard enough to do a good job with competent aides, nearly impossible with useless people.
28. John Galt:
Please shut up about Obama not being an American citizen. The point is moot, wrong, and it makes you look like an idiot. Conservatives and libertarians distinguish themselves from Liberals through critical thinking, personal integrity, and not wasting time or effort on irrelevant issues long past. Please at least follow one of the three.
you know that little white speck in chicken poop?? no matter what the color is it’s still chicken poop…..
He could’nt attend because he was too busy conversing with the ghost writer of his memoirs and self-professed unrepetent terrorist Bill Ayers. I bet that excrement is selling like hot cakes at your local bookstores.
Anyone notice, at the neighborhood ball, he said, I paraphrase, “nighborhood, that’s what it’s all about, we’re all neighbors”. Odd he left out the “HOOD”, what about that?
It’s time for all U.S. Veterans to fly the U.S. flag upside down until Obama is out of office.
He’s an arrogant idiot. Time for a change!
38. Robert Hurley:
You talk like a fertilizer salesman with a mouthful of samples.
40. All Hope is Gone:
All hope is not gone. We will just be living in a more dangerous world, instead of confronting trained soldiers, terrorists will get more free shots at women and kids. The Dems will take us off offense and put us on defense, treating terrorists like citizen lawbreakers so that trial lawyers can enrich themselves.
It’s time to put on your big boy panties now and accept that more innocents will die than is necessary. It’s an outrage, yes, but there’s nothing you can do to stop that. The trick is just make sure you and your loved ones are not amongst them. Despondency will not help you do that.
Expecting that this Obama government can or will keep you safe is delusional. They will be even more lax than open borders Bush. Expect United Nations grade effectiveness out of this bunch and plan accordingly.
I hope the Vets had a better time without him!
Excuser in Chief above, who is responsible for Obama’s staff who failed to send Obama to greet the honor medal of honor vets? Obama is. Libertarians and conservative don’t make lame excuses, scapegoating the President’s “staff” when he screws up. Liberals do that for their Presidents.
Second, we don’t know what nationality Obama is because he refused to present his long form birth certificate, school records and passports as requested in lawsuits. He could be Indonesian through adoption. That is some facts for you. If I were a liberal, I would call him a stupid “chimp” peppered with a stream of vile cuss words.
I have to cry at you people who do not care about the history of our country!!!! We are a nation of great people. We are here for a reason. That reason would be our hero’s who have served this GREAT NATION that you so freely live in!!!!! YOU should be ashamed of yourselves…..We in America have a Constitution, Bill Of Right and Declaration of Independence for a reason. We have laws to protect us. We have moral and values for a reason!!!! This Great Nation Is Going To Hell!!!! Just watch the news….I have to say to all Veterans AND THEIR FAMILIES Of This Great Nation, THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICES THAT YOU HAVE MADE AND TO HELL WITH THE REST….
GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!!!
17. Robert Hurley:
“There are two alternatives 1. You want to avoid talking aobut the critical issues of the day, becasue your have not solutions -2. You don’t know anything about the critical issues of the day and you do not want to make a fool of yourself. So you focus on trivial issues that feed the irrational beliefs of the wingnuts.”
Actually Mr. Hurley, I and others here talk about what we want to. It’s called freedom of speech. Get used to it. There’s going to be a lot more of it. The DailyKos pointed the way and lots of conservatives are going to exercise their rights. The shoe is on the other foot now.
———————————
Who is John Galt?
Just finished Bud Day’s autobiography not too long ago… now, there is an American! We have in this country the unfortunate circumstance of leaders (so-called) not being worthy of the members of the military past-and-present whom they lead.
John McCain has his (political) faults as do we all, but let no one doubt his heroism, or the spirit of service he embodied as a navy pilot held captive behind enemy lines. He suffered the unimaginable and triumphed.
My uncle is a combat veteran of Vietnam, a carrier pilot, and guys like him are less and less common than they used to be, to the detriment of our nation. It isn’t only the heroism of men like these, but the values they embody – the integrity, the love of America and their fellow citizens, and their humility. Leo Thorsness is another example of one of these exemplary Americans, just the most gracious person one could meet and possessed of a wisdom that someone like Obama can’t match.
Perhaps it is disrespectful to say so, but perhaps I know why Obama didn’t make the MOH event; he knows better than anyone he’d be in the company of men better than he.
Did anyone else catch how Obama disrespectfully referred to McCain as “John” during the last Presidential debate? McCain should have brought him up short, and said “It’s Senator McCain to you,” or he should have used “Barrack” instead of Senator Obama.
There is no litmus test of military service as a pre-requisite for the presidency, nor should there be, but someone like Obama is dangerously ignorant of that culture, and its values. I shudder to think he is the CIC of our armed forces during this dangerous time. I hope he has good advisors around him, and has the good sense to listen to them. He will be tested, that’s certain.
Thank you, veterans, for your service.
Flavor Country – Pres. Reagan attended funerals of those who’d given the ultimate sacrifice while Pres. ‘W’ Bush hadn’t because Pres. Reagan didn’t have soldiers fight in a theater as large as Iraq!
Think before posting, Country. Collectivism retards individual, intellectual thought and discussion.
I hope the entourage of vehicles carrying Obama & co. were hybrids. At the very least Obama instructed to have none of the vehicles use heat for that would cause the vehicle to work harder. is he going to have all AC’s removed from the Presidential vehicles too? Environment first!
The country ‘broke’ many traditions this past election. 56 years being one of many.
Motivational rhetoric is alive and well. I thought that was used solely in grocery store ‘huddles’ prior the store opening?
When you tell someone you have quit smoking, yet you also say in the same breath you’ve broken down from time-to-time, you really stopped smoking!
Apparently former cocaine user is par for the course in requirements for POTUS (see: Obama, Bush, Clinton ‘respectively’). Obama will correct that stipulation in the Constitution in the near future..
Insulting the POTUS leaving office is fair game in the Inaugural speech nowadays (classy!).
Apparently, man-boobs are in style nowadays. Anyone for a ‘bro’ or ‘manzeer’, operators are standing by.
Oh, the country elected a man who is both black and white, yet goes only by the ‘black’ moniker. Wow. I’m 1/2 Italian, 1/2 Irish but I love Guiness beer. That’s it, I am now Irish! Dropkick Murphys or..
I believe it was a scheduling mix up. The President does support the troops. see http://veterans.barackobama.com/page/community/post/president/gGxKLD
Sooo…
It was a scheduling error just like when he refused to visit the troops in Germany. Poor Mr. Obama is such a victim of his staff.
“President Training Pants” hahahahahahahahahaha, that’s the funniest description of Obama I’ve heard yet. Funny but true………
Hey (3. Ms.Apprehension): You deserve a medal for that one. Really good. I’ll be chuckling about that for weeks. If anyone has any more good ones, let’s hear them. Maybe Pajamas Media can kick in a few bucks for the winner of the most descriptive term for our new Savior. God Bless, 3. Ms.Apprehension !
To flavor country: I can’t verify that GW did not indeed attend any vets’ funerals, but everyone should recall that he did fly into Iraq unannounced to serve thanksgiving dinner to Soldiers, and his visits to Walter Reed did not go unnoticed either. He visited and hosted families of vets who died in theater. He showed a deference and regard to service, and was fully aware of what he sent his country’s youth to do. I can only hope that Obama has the same presence of mind, and that he regards soldiers as professionals, not laborers.
Additionally, the veterans’ hospital issue was corrected very shortly after being made public (with some firings, as I recall, which is more than Obama will ever do (Flaveau, anybody?)), and the state of veterans’ health care now is, to the best of my knowledge, quite nice.
– An OEF vet
hurley, you make me want to hurl-i’m not surprised tat a proud member of the koolaid swilling moonbat cult has no respect for our medal of honor recipients…heroism is a dirty word on the left-i’m just surprised that you took the time out from kissing zsa zsa huffington’s sagging behind to log onto the site
While I believe the new President to be astoundingly unqualified and very likely try to take us down some very dangerous paths, I think this a matter on which he deserves some slack. Dozens of worthy groups would have liked to touch the hem of his garments. It would have been physically impossible for him to go to 25% of them, and I doubt that he, personally, reviewed the list and made the choices. He’s going to make lots of more damging mistakes, so don’t go ballistic..
I’m uneasy about the rapid spread of the Obama-Hatred Virus in conservative circles. It is is just as deadly and counter-effective as the BHS. It is to be hoped that PJM followers be critical and hold Obana’s feet to the fire, because he shows evidence of being weak under pressure. But let’s avoid the foaming-at-the-mouth vitriol of Robert Hurley and his ilk on the mindless left.
Pajamas Media got punked with a fake story. Ironic since their very name came from a dismissive remark made by a CBS executive about people sitting around in pajamas on the Internet thinking the great Dan Rather would put out fake stuff.
Well. PJM just did the same.
It’s not surprising that much of the low-quality commentary here is just like those Venters of the Left who screamed about Bush’s “desertion” from the guard based on a 1973 document written using 1998 font version of Miscosoft Word.
The usual fools on the Right. The respected figures on the Right’s media are not going with this dreck. PJM swallowed it hook line and sinker.
A simple check would find that the Legion gave a luncheon for MOHs that President Obama could not attend because he was committed to another luncheon of Americans grateful he could be with them. There was no Salute to Heroes Ball There was the Commander in Chiefs Ball which Obama did attend.
At that Ball, which he spent the most time at, he posed for pictures with invited MOH recipients or their survivors since no living recipient has been awarded in almost 40 years…He also met a few of the invited purple heart guests recuperating at Walter Reed and some spouses invited because their other half is overseas and serving. His remarks at the Ball were directed to all under his command and to all Vets.
Prior to this Ball he had visited injured soldiers and visted the Tomb of the Unknown soldier.
Posters who really got Punk’d? Quite a list of guillable fools. Only “V”, in post 35 and Dave Apperson in post 56 displayed critical thinking, smelled a rat, and rejected Right Wing lemming behavior.
Of the posters that were not lemmings – who best displayed intelligence, and dug like the “hooligans” that discredited Rather and Mapes I’d say “V” won. He or she dug and found the story was crap, first.
. V:
I can’t find any reference to this ball being held this year at all. It is not listed on any list that runs down all the balls. It isn’t even listed on the American Legion’s website and the only reference to this seems to be about the snub itself and from Blogs or online news journals that regurgitated the same article about “TSO” attending this ball. I can only find an old news article announcement of the ball being held in 2001. I also see a reference to a Luncheon by Gates honoring the Medal of Honor receipients ont he defense site. But nothing else. Something stinks.
The claim is the Blogosphere is self correcting, but it is hard when for every “V” there are 20 brainless right wing ideologues that swallow everything a rightwing pundit, even an anonymous columnist a “Mr. Wolf” (homage to Pulp Fiction) shovels out…
PS – The “charge” that Obama “dissed” wounded soldiers by not adding them to the purpose of his NATO country, Iraq trip last year is also bogus. As it would be if someone pointed out that Bush visited Texas for stopovers and stays 40-50 times in his Presidency but failed to visit wounded soldiers at Brook Burn Center or the “heroes” at 6 other VA care centers – disrespected them. Especially since Landsruhe is a transit care facility to stabilize casualties before they get transferred to Walter Reed or other US facilities where they DO get frequent VIP visits..
It would be nice someday if Obama does get a schedule that didn’t require dropping meetings with European leaders or shortening his visit with soldiers in Iraq and Landsruhe would not be a 400 mile, half day chunk of time his itinerary couldn’t support during his last trip. Because while the wounded soldiers are in transit, the permanent staff of Germans, Americans at the hospital that save lives and do heroic things as nurses, doctors, techs, and in transport DO deserve a big attaboy!
I think the military embarrasses him. He does not even know how to render a proper salute, and if you are going to salute troops then at least have the respect for them enough to know how to do it properly. He and Clinton have no love for the military. They got maybe 20% of the military vote, so you can guess what they think of Obama and Bill Clinton.
Obama is not really what bothers me. What truly bothers me are the people who voted for him, especially the ones who spent eight years slandering, savaging, and running down President Bush. The strength or weakness of this nation is its people, not its President. And that’s a point that I KNOW President Bush would agree with me on.
Now the military knows what their new Commander in Chief really thinks of them. But it’s no surprise to me.
To 42. e
“The point is moot, wrong, and it makes you look like an idiot. Conservatives and libertarians distinguish themselves from Liberals through critical thinking, personal integrity, and not wasting time or effort on irrelevant issues long past. Please at least follow one of the three.”
The point is not moot or wrong…. the only ppl that look like idiots are ppl that refuse to obey or expect ppl to obey the constitution… IE YOU.
Never has obama been shown to have been born in hawaii… Never has any court reviewed his duel citizenship issues, Never has any public official that has seen obama birth cert stated that he was born in hawaii…
Thing that have happened though… a non-US citizen has run for president… not once but TWICE. Obama is one of the most unknown presidents to date… you can look up bush’s grade from college along with a host of other info… we know nothing about obama college info.
What we do know… obama spent most of his early life outside of the US… obama father was a huge commie smacktard… obama repeatably has gathered with anti-US ppl and has a wonderful family history of genocide and anti-US actions…
Even if obama is legit for POTUS shouldn’t all POTUS’s be checked out… mccain was… for months… but obama gets a complete pass.
The thing is if obama’s birth cert comes out and it says he was born in kenya do you have any idea the problems that will cause. Every single law he has signed… every single action he has done MUST BE UNDONE for it was unconstitutional… can your simple mind even grasp the billions of lawsuits that would follow… the country would be paralyzed for years trying to sort the mess out… or would you prefer that it be sweep under the rug?
I pray that our new president fails. I don’t want our country to be dragged further into socialism aka communism. We don’t need big governments footprint on more things for them to screw up, ie, national health care (by the way I have been to Scotland and England 3 times and talked to the people on the street and their healthcare sucks supreme), more government run banks, auto companies, etc. I don’t want to see our constitution fraked with.
What these heroes really need to worry about is the knock on their door informing them that they are being charged with war crimes by the Obama administration. I’m sure it’s coming.
cedarford, Regarding your ‘..low quality commentary’ or ‘gullible fools..’ jabs.
Apparently were to research the story of a writer who supposedly did research of an event to prove its validity and posted on a media site? Sorry, pal. I like to stay informed but I also have a life.
To pass judgment on a whole political thinking group as ‘brainless’ shows your ‘far reaching’ intellect. Tell me, how does it feel to have a fair and balanced take on everything? Here’s a lil’ surprise, you don’t. No one does. Your self righteousness, importance had always come on a bit strong, oh warrior of thy internet.
I may not have gone into as much detail in my roasting of this article in my post, though I’ve have the common decency, common sense and respect for ALL in avoiding a holier than thou diatribes you crank out. Though this 1 takes the cake.
Congratulations, buddy. Your gloating and ‘I told you so’ ahem, demeanor speaks volumes. Can’t wait to read your following opuses – sarc off
To cedarford….
Hey hows that conspiracy working out for you…these ppl are in on it too…
http://talkmania.trenzter.com/2009/01/salute-to-heroes-inaugural-ball.html
http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20090121/NEWS01/901210334
“After the inauguration, Williamson attended the Salute to Heroes Inaugural Ball at the Renaissance Hotel.”
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090121/ap_on_go_pr_wh/inauguration_balls
“and a separate Heroes Red White & Blue Ball.”
Worst behavior by a President on inaugural day EVER.
cedarford – these people would rather believe in fantasy. Don’t confuse them with facts
http://www.redstate.com/josh_painter/2009/01/22/wounded-vets-walk-out-on-onaugural-ball/
http://washingtontimes.com/weblogs/inauguration-blog/2009/Jan/21/InauguralVets/
More ppl joining the conspiracy in pretending that this “event” happened…
No Robert, If being corrected or addressed, I’d rather it be carried out with some type of decorum, dignity. unfortunately, that’s neither here nor there in your chemical make-up.
Many people come to sites such as this to attempt discussion in a respected, well thought out manner. Not to be slung arrows and put down. You revel in such dissension/ division. Your not recognizing, acknowledging that aire apparent commonality – well you, and cedarford revel in attempting superioroty and self importance for what? To feel grandiose on a site where a small number of the public wish to discuss today’s topics the common man/ woman set aside to watch Grey’s Anatomy?
You curtail the topic at hand in the bigger hope of getting someone’s goat. This is done because in essence, and you know it, you’re a mental midget, unable to have a lucid discussion with one of differing views. Which is why you go to a site where you loathe the mindset and spew your visceral. That’s something to be proud of champ.
paul_unalaska -
Despite what you say, like with the 60 Minutes story, us ex-military smelled something wasn’t right with this tale, right away.
Those that didn’t and lack knowledge of the military while proclaiming their undying love for the “Heroes in uniform” or lack critical thinking skills?
All joined the March of the Lemmings.
Further alerted by “V”‘s excellent post #35, it took me all of 2 minutes to Google the American Legion site and see mention of a luncheon to honor MOH people, but no Salute to the Heroes Ball. And realize PJM editors and posters were snookered by a Fake Story submitted by the anonymous Mr. Wolf.
unalaska – Collectivism retards individual, intellectual thought and discussion.
It would behoove you to follow your own advice, rather than defend the duped rightwing lemmings -as having more important things to do..
Take the test.
FIRST QUESTION: Who IS the actual and lawful 44th President of the USA?
ANSWER: Joe Biden
Biden was initially the Acting President for at least 5 minutes under either the Constitution’s Article 2 or the Constitution’s 20th Amendment, from 12:00 Noon 1/20/09, having already taken his Oath of Office and before Obama completed his ‘oath’ at approximately 12:05 PM, 1/20/09. Under the 20th Amendment if the President-elect shall have failed to qualify, or alternatively under Article 2 if the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties, at the time fixed for the beginning of the term, being 12:00 Noon 1/20/09, which ability and/or qualification includes that he take the Article 2 oath “before he enter on the execution of his office,” then either the Presidency shall devolve on the Vice President under Article 2 or the Vice President shall act as President under the 20th Amendment. (The importance of the oath in ‘commencing’ an ‘Obama Presidency’ — rather than merely the 1/20/09 Noon time — is confirmed by the re-take of the ‘oath’ by Obama at the White House on 1/21/09 after the first ‘oath’ was NOT administered by Justice Roberts NOR recited by Obama in the words as required under Article 2.)
This is significant because at such time that the Supreme Court finally rules on the merits on Obama’s disqualification as not being an Article 2 “natural born citizen” (clearly he is NOT), Biden’s automatic status (without needing to take a separate Presidential Oath) of being President would be predicated upon four different bases: First, having been Vice President under Article 2; second, having been Vice President-elect under the 20th Amendment; third, having been actual President in the hiatus before Obama took the ‘oath(s)’; and fourth, retroactively deemed President during the full period of the Obama usurpation so that the acts of the Federal Government under the usurpation can be deemed authorized and/or ratified by Biden’s legitimacy.
SECOND QUESTION: Who will be the 45th President?
ANSWER: Hillary Clinton
One must assume that Bill and Hillary Clinton have been aware of all of the above. Biden’s wife recently “let the cat out of the bag” on the Oprah Show that both Biden and Hillary had considered alternatively Veep or Secretary of State, in either case, setting up Hillary to be President on a vote of the Democratic Congress if need be.
THIRD QUESTION: Is Obama an unwitting victim of this troika or a knowing participant?
ANSWER: Yet undetermined.
To 73 cedarford
Funny how you have no link and no such info can be found at http://www.legion.org/homepage.php...
add in the fact that what does a luncheon have to due with a ball held hours later….are you saying that because he couldn’t make the luncheon(which I’m not even sure he would be invited to)he can’t 6 hours later make it to the ball…
It nice in the fact their are tons of eyewitnesses to the ball happening… plus news coverage…(with links provided) but hey it never happened.(with no links provided)
Whatever Obama’s excuses were for skipping/missing this event, it seems sadly fitting to me that Obama should snub the last remaining men men who defeated Hitler, even as America now passes into its Weimar phase.
“Even in his inaugural address to the nation, he mentioned the sacrifices of veterans of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, but failed to mention (or deliberately ignored) the veterans of our current sacrifice in Iraq and Afghanistan. That gives more credence to the feeling that he just no longer cares about the sacrifices being made on behalf of our country and the service that so many Americans have made over the years.”
—————————————————
Which makes me wonder if this author is dishonest or just lazy. From Obama’s inaugural address:
As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves.
cedarford – You’re missing the point altogether. There’s a certain type of candor, a broaching of one’s finding. Does that require anymoer detail?
You could’ve alerted the masses with your findings. Instead, upon discovery of the legit itinerary you go an unnecessary step and belittle another person’s opinion? Finding the certain individuals opinions who were more scathing or differed with yours, called ‘em out and insulted them?
I too was in the military and there’s no honor nor respect gained with the aforementioned. That kind of behavior got weeded out and squashed quickly. Dissension, elitism didn’t bode well when building morale and camaraderie.
As for your pasting my comment regarding collectivism. Touche. Though I’d grazed over myriad of points in my short message. I needn’t go into detail at that time for it’d be futile. If I’d gone way of the lemming temporarily, Alexander Pope had written in an essay, regarding criticism of all things, “To err is human..”
This is a site to discuss, voluntarily, the days current events in a rational and mature manner. Blending both lucid and concise opinion, knowledge to further educate one another. Not equating this information highway to a chess match, whereas the victor gloats upon ‘checkmate.’
Nonetheless, my intention was never to drag this out. Have a nice evening.
Obama is evil but not stupid.
This smells to me like an unintentional staff foul-up.
Look for some upcoming White House event to make amends for the mistake.
To robotech master:
Your link came up with an “Error 404″ response. So I searched the American Legion website for “Salute to Heroes” and came up with nothing.
So could you please provide another link?
By the way, a search of the Medal of Honor Society’s website also yielded nothing but a reference to the 2005 ball.
http://www.cmohs.org/
So what’s the big deal. We’ve been around for 232 years. And for only 56 of them this has been done. Just because one president decides to start a trend doesn’t mean they all have to follow suit.
PS to robotech master:
I did pull up the American Legion’s calendar of events for January 2009. Nothing shown for January 20.
http://www.legion.org/event/2009/01/01/month/all/all/1
To robtech master:
Your first link at #68 is to a story about the 2005 Salute to Heroes Ball.
Your third link at #68 and both your links at #71 are to stories about the Heroes Red, White, and Blue Ball…which is sponsored by a nonprofit called “Citizens Helping Heroes” dedicated to helping military families. It is not associated with any event sponsored by the American Legion or the Medal of Honor Society.
http://heroball.org/
They’re bringing back the draft. Obama could give a lick about our country’s heroes.
No unalaska, we are talking ignorant lemmings here – who want to think the worst about their knew leader. Ignorant of Obama’s military picks so far, of his visiting wounded troops and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier the day before Inauguration, or all the news coverage of his 1st and longest appearance at the Commander-in-Chief’s Ball for the US military. (It was well-covered, and you could see him posing for pictures with some MOH winners)
Only ignorance of what Obama has done so far with the military, intellectual laziness, sheer dumbness, or a simple unreasoned loathing of him would lend any credence to charges that he would “stiff the heroes”. As was, the aforementioned MOH winners showed up at the Commander-in-Chief Ball as well as some wounded, other highly decorated soldiers and even some spouses of those now deployed.
What I am doing is calling “lemming behavior” what is is, when I see it. And commenting that most of the people proclaiming their endless devotion to the “hero military people” were quite ignorant of Obama’s diligent cultivation of good relations with the military since being elected, or of the facts about the inaugural Balls.
Like similar people on the Left, they simply chose what they wanted to believe about any bad story about Bush and trotted off like good little lemmings and vented…
Being in the moderate ranks, I have little respect for loud, ignorant ideologues on the Left or Right. I’ll happily insult both factions as fools who damage comity and bipartisanship….America is badly damaged from events in recent years, and we need less demonizing and more thinking….
************
I will add that there is a problem with perpetuating MOH ceremonies as a prominent, national big deal – exclusive of others decorated with other medals signifying high valor. And exclusive of other vital constituency groups that seek to have the Inaugurated President honor their constituencies, knowing he or she will only have time to attend a few of the informal Balls on top of the 10 official ones.
That is demography. The Pentagon has been refusing to award it to living heroes over the last 40 years. That means what were once hundreds of young men who were MOH awardees and half a hundred middle-aged men from WWI at a party in 1953 in their honor, it has now dwindled down to about 20 awardees with the inclination or simply in adequate health to attend, most if not all over the age of 60.
The Legion recognizes this problem.
I second the possibility of an unintentional staff foul-up. That was one of my first thoughts, and it is a much more likely possibility. Nevertheless, the fact that the ball slipped their minds shows that it is a very low priority for them. I guess they really dropped the ball here.
To 80/82 skylark
The link added the period at the end which is why its not working. Nothing shows for the legion calendar period expect historic dates…you can flip through a few months and see theirs nothing on it.
The first link is dated jan 21 2009… maybe it is of the 2005 ball however the date suggests other wise.
The 2nd link does name it by name.
As for the other links being that their seems to be some confusion on the issue figured I’d just post them as well… since obama didn’t make that one either.
So far however I see alot of eyewitness statements saying the ball took place… and no one providing a single ounce of proof that it didn’t…
Unless someone has a statement from the legion or other groups saying it was canned(which on 18 different sites with ppl saying it was canned) no link has been produced from anything expect a navy time story that says the “veteran’s ball”… which as we know their only about 30 of those going on.
If this guy http://thisainthell.us/blog/ is writing and making up the fake story he’s gone through a whole lot of effort for it.
bio data on MOH winner… http://thisainthell.us/blog/?p=7063
Supposed pic of him and MOH winner and talk/interview…. http://thisainthell.us/blog/?p=7249#more-7249
lot of effort into something that was supposedly canceled… and a simple phone call to the legion and so forth could debunk him.
To robotech master @87:
Actually, the American Legion calendar shows plenty of legion events. As you say, you can flip through the calendar:
Jan. 9,10, and 16: legion activities and deadline
Feb. 1, 25-28: legion observance, trainings, and meeting
March 1-4,14: legion meeting, conference, assembly, and contest deadline
———————————
Regardless of the date of the blog posting you linked to, the event it describes is the 2005 ball. Hint: it mentions “President Bush.”
The article in the second link does use that name, however, there is no way of knowing whether that came from Williamson himself or was secondhand – don’t forget there was at least one military ball with a similar name. The article doesn’t describe the event at all, and neither does any other article anyone can find.
There were at least 70 inauguration-related balls and galas that night. Most of them – including the Heroes Red, White and Blue Ball – did not have any expectation that the President would attend.
———————————————
So far you see one second-hand reference in an article and some claims made on message boards. But no articles about the actual ball itself.
GUYS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Stop it.
Obama took on immense campaign contributions from a wide variety of players. They all deserve a DANCE. Guess the Vets just got overlooked.
What part of the “held every 4 years” do people not understand?
http://www.defenselink.mil/specials/outreachpublic/hosts.html
http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=24307
Only the military reports about this ball. They’re probably wondering how the hell to report that the cinc and vp didn’t bother showing up for the first time in 56 years and how to put in quotes from moh winners without being disrespectful to the potus.
Pappadave, thanks for smackin down flavo flav. I agree with you brother.Hey did you all notice he made the B.E.T ball. Glad he has his priorities in tact! Prepare for a draft, He’s gonna need it. Nobody is gonna stay in under this fool. (at least i wouldn’t) God bless.
Obama is an effing bum.
TSO of “It Ain’t Hell” blog told a fib that now has gone so big and viral he is scared to retract it. Now it is elevated to a widespread hoax and TSO and his Confederate Jonn Lilyea are looking like the Scott Beauchamps of the Right.
Other blogs have noted that the Legion helped sponsor the 2009 Commander-in-Chief Ball, and nothing on the Legion’s website says anything about a 2009 “Salute to the Heroes Ball”. They had none. Other blogs have examined the list of all official and unofficial blogs listed in the Washingtonian and Washington Post and Obama’s Inauguration Website. No listing for “A Salute to Heroes”. No reason why the Legion dropped it from the ranks of 70 or so unofficial Inauguration Balls.
Stars and Stripes reports that MOH awardees were invited to the C-i-C Ball and their website has pictures up of Obama posing with MOH awardees at that event.
I don’t cut and paste, BTW, I dig. Renaissance has no record of a Salute to the Heroes Ball in 2009.
We know the MOH itinerary that day. Obama’s Inauguration Committee honored them with 40 seats immediately below Obama’s podium. They then had a lunch hosted by DOD Secretary Gates. That evening, they went to the C-i-C Ball and were interviewed by Stars and Stripes and photo’d with Obama. And we know that “TSO” just didn’t stumble in and mistake it for a Ball by a different name because it was one of the 3-4 most exclusive places to be, by invitation only, and under high security.
And the MOH awardees like everyone else but the Presidential and VP details, were in security lockdown and would not be able to float between balls – especially to one that not a single media source reports existed in 2009 but one person, TSO of the “It Ain’t Hell” Blog.
If there is any disrespect and dishonoring of MOH awardees, it is by Jonn Lilyea and TSO for using them as tools to stoke up anti-Obama outrage in the Blogosphere over what is looking more and more like a bald lie…
If you do a Google or LexisNexus search, you find only one report of a “Salute to the Heroes” Ball happening in 2009. All other reports are derivative of that one. By “TSO”. Nothing in any Vet publication or local story about someone who went to a “Salute to the Heroes” Ball in 2009.
I notified PJM staff that they had been “Dan Rather’d” by a guy that regurgitated a story by the only person in America who claims he was in attendence at such a Ball.
Oh for god’s sakes; from Stars & Stripes:
“But at the Commander-In-Chief’s Ball, hundreds of military men and women and their dates held their positions for hours, waiting anxiously for the biggest star of the day: President Barack Obama.
When the president emerged waving from a giant backdrop lit with stars and stripes, the troops, including 300 invited wounded warriors from Walter Reed Army Medical Center and their families, erupted in jubilation.”
Is this really all the opposition has; a “fake” Ball that Obama supposedly skipped? Pathetic. Oh, for the poster who “prays” that Obama fails? Lucky for you and “fat bastard” that we no longer tar and feather traitors in this county.
Cedarford…I’m with you in spirit brother.
This is only the beginning, guys.
Only the beginning.
Two years ago, I had the distinct honor and privilege to perform as part of a choir and orchestra at the Medal of Honor Society convention that was held in Green Bay, Wisconsin. I have met and talked with Kenneth Stumpf (MoH recipient from Vietnam) on a couple of occasions, and this snub by the President (it galls me to call him that, but the honor does not rely on his deserving it, but on the office itself) is truly disgusting.
These men and women more than any others deserve his respect and thanks. They certainly have mine.
Mdter, your links only show the reports on the 2001 and 2005 balls. Where’s the report on the 2009 ball? And where is the proof that every POTUS since Ike has been to this ball?
CEDARFORD:
An apologist from the Left? Only someone who truly does not understand the word ‘sacrifice’ would try to minimize what these gentlemen have done. You sir, are an ass, and we’re calling you out on it…
THERE WAS A SALUTE TO HEROES BALL.
You can reach me at the.mr.wolf@gmail.com. Be prepared to go public with every accusation you make. Cause I’m calling you out, punk.
MR. Wolf
Mr. Wolf – Typical of the right wing nuts you live in the fantasy world. When you are called onthe insanity of your fantasy, you want to call peopple names – This a tactic most adult have left behind in their playgound days. Grow up!
I don’t know what to say that could be any more profound than what has been said by the vets and other folks responding here, but I feel I have to throw my two bits in. I am a vet myself, and Conservative/Libertarian in my “leanings”. I feel like we have almost fully transitioned into a nation (the youth and many middle-agers at any rate) whose heroes are on stage and screen. The men who perform real acts of bravery don’t get the attention yet those who PLAY heroic characters in the movies and on stage get the attention. And rock/entertainment stars likewise. Older generations learned about George Washington and Paul Revere and U.S. Grant and R. E. Lee. Now they know the latest song lyrics or who’s dating which band member’s member, but if you ask them about a particular new movie with a historical theme, they see the movie stars as being the stars and often don’t take away the historical significance. I heard over and over again from different people about Gerard Butler and the other cast member’s six-pack abs and pec muscles in the movie “300″, but not one was interested in the historical significance, they may have seen the movie, but they just noticed the stars. I think my generation (which is Obama’s ) is the leading edge of a new wave of superficialism that makes the 1980′s look like child’s play.
Just got the official response from the American Legion, contrary to what left wing trolls are putting out the story does have a basis in fact. Cedarford is a known troll and anti-Semite. If his ability to spread lies is damaged and he gets thrown off every respectable site then this episode will have done some good. Here is the Press release.
In answer to your inquiry:
The American Legion, as it has on every inauguration evening since 1953, hosted the Salute to Heroes Inaugural Banquet & Ball on January 20th. The quadrennial event is co-sponsored with fourteen veterans service and military service organizations and honors recipients of the Medal of Honor. Forty-seven of these heroes attended this year’s event which was held in the Renaissance Washington DC Hotel.
President Obama was invited but did not attend. Vice-President Joe Biden did appear, however, and was very warmly received. The new President’s absence was understandable considering the unprecedented logistical challenges presented by the vastly increased number of visitors to this inauguration and the necessary attendant security measures. The American Legion, as an organization, does not feel offended or “snubbed.”
Thank you,
Craig
Craig Roberts
Media Relations Manager
The American Legion
1608 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
Why would this “no show” surprise anyone? When he went to Iraq during the campaign he snubbed our brave soliders who were wounded and in the hospital! He is all about himself. Our brave men and women in the military deserve a better Commander In Chief! God Bless our US military.
If you people continue to live in a fantasy-Land where only those on the radical right are patriotic, clueless Sarah Palin is considered Presidental Material, Israel is always right, and a centerist like Obama is a dangerous “lefty”, you will continue on your downslide to irrelevancy. I haven’t read one original thought on PJ in months. Personally I support a strong opposition party, but the way that the Republicans are going the GOP isn’t it. Bring on the Libertarians!
Cedarford, I look forward to your apology later today.
You’ll know when.
54. paul_unalaska
If you have joined me in Iraq and seen your friends die around you and wonder what you are fighting for, eating spoiled food, looking at dead children in the streets and then wonder why your president won’t even allow the press to show coffins of my fellow soldiers because he knows he is wrong, then you can tell me why he didn’t show up to a funeral for even one of us. I could care less the size of the war, that to me makes it more important to show respect at least once, a symbolic ceremony for all for all the fallen and their families, anything. Action speaks louder than words. F*ck a ball
US Army 36th Infantry Rgt, Iraq, 2006
“Mr. Wolf – Typical of the right wing nuts you live in the fantasy world. When you are called onthe insanity of your fantasy, you want to call peopple names – This a tactic most adult have left behind in their playgound days. Grow up!”
note to all
the deranged liberal who says to everybody to grow up is a self declared 70 year old nut who has nothing better to do than spewing nonsense on a message board of people who he hates and political positions he despises.
Who is the one who should grow up?
Where exactly did this “alleged” ball take place?
“Mdter, your links only show the reports on the 2001 and 2005 balls. Where’s the report on the 2009 ball? And where is the proof that every POTUS since Ike has been to this ball?”
Your lack of military service is pretty obvious because you’d know that the military and the particularly the vsos are not web savvy. Expect official pictures/writeup shortly before the next ball.
If liberals don’t believe the defenselink stories I’m not seeing how any story, on any site would convince them that this ball exists. None of your favorite lefy sites would ever bother covering it.
#38 Robert Hurley: OHB IS THE BIGGEST FRAUD EVER TO DUPE THE AMERICAN PUBLIC!!! You worry about the more important issues such as the economy??? GUESS WHO CAUSED THIS PROBLEM??? DO YOUR RESEARCH & FIND OUT WHERE, WHEN, HOW, WHY & WHO WAS BEHIND THE DESTRUCTION OF OUR ECONOMY. IT WAS ALL INTENTIONALLY PLANNED BY THE LEFT..THE COMMIES ARE IN POWER WITH OUR MONEY!!!!
It still odd to me that there is very vague information about this ball and no mention of it on the American Legion’s site. You would think it would be a big deal.
LifeoftheMind,
So is that the reason why he invited the MOH vets to the Commander in Chief Ball instead and Joe Biden went to the STH ball in his place?
If he honored all the MOH vets at the CinC ball, whats the big deal?
This is a non story. He didn’t snub anyone.
And a “AMEN!”to Flavor Country. All this about a ball.
I see ODS(Obama Derangement Syndrome) has set in bigtime. And I thought BDS was bad. I thought conservatives were suppose to be mature and above all that?
Thanks for the update. I appreciate your sincerety Wolf.
namaste
99. Mr Wolf:
CEDARFORD:
An apologist from the Left? Only someone who truly does not understand the word ’sacrifice’ would try to minimize what these gentlemen have done. You sir, are an ass, and we’re calling you out on it…
THERE WAS A SALUTE TO HEROES BALL.
You can reach me at the.mr.wolf@gmail.com. Be prepared to go public with every accusation you make. Cause I’m calling you out, punk.
MR. Wolf
105. TSO:
Cedarford, I look forward to your apology later today.
You’ll know when.
See now its getting good I can’t wait for the pwnage…someone needs to mail Chuck Pelto and info him of the impending cedarford pwnage event.
To 106. Flavor Country
Actions do speak louder then words… and not attending is a big actions… also bush spent hundreds of hours at walter reed and with fallen soldiers family just because he wasn’t at funerals doesn’t mean he didn’t do alot for soldier both wounded and who were killed…
Also could you post more detailed info on your military posting/assigned to because frankly I find you story a bit on the BS side.
“If he honored all the MOH vets at the CinC ball, whats the big deal?
This is a non story. He didn’t snub anyone.”
The cinc ball is primarily for active if I remember correctly. The salute to heroes ball is for veterans, which is why it’s hosted by the vsos.
The balls and attendance are about tradition. It’s hard to believe that he was unaware of how it would look.
Interesting to these Fingertips is that his personal non-attendance to a particular function, in this case one that all other newly sworn presidents before him are purported to have attended, once again involves an event that very actively includes persons with (physical) disabilities…….
Just observin’ out loud.
Glad to see Mr. Wolf has produced something to back up his claim. Which makes one wonder how hard it would have been to contact the American Legion and request a statement before he wrote this piece. I also wonder why he didn’t bother to mention that the Vice President and his wife did attend on behalf of the new administration.
Given his habit of misstating facts – evidenced in this very article – it’s understandable that readers would request substantive back up for his claims.
Helen:
You are off your meds again
Susan – I hate to disappoint yu, but I served in the Army for three years 1962-1965. What have you done?
#102 Lifeofthemind – Thanks for getting the verification. I wasn’t buying the it’s-not-on-the-internet-so-it-didn’t-happen meme.
To those who think it was no big deal: The problem is that you simply have no idea just what a living recipient had to do to get the award. The stories of their heroism are simply incredible and moving. If I’m President, I don’t send my VP in my place. They are my first visit, period. If I can’t honor their heroic service above all other things, how can I ask others to serve me as CinC? The military does not serve the VP. They serve the Prez.
#38 Robert Hurley – The idea that this is less important than the pressing issues of the day is just foolish. Do not confuse the urgent with the important. Honoring our customs, traditions, and our heroes is important. These are the foundations of our society.
It’s kind of hard to blame Obama. I mean, to be in a room with 48 guys that remind you you’re a lesser man, that would be an awful trauma for an overweening ego like his. Biden could come because he “knows” that he’s a greater man; provoke him and he’ll tell you a war story. His Medal is secret. He has two actually. His records burned in the fire. He is the only survivor from his SEAL brigade. He is a genius, and was top in his class in law school. Chuck Norris was based on Joe Biden until he started hanging out with Huck.
As far as Cedarford is concerned, he’s an all-purpose troll at this and at other sites. Pity PJM doesn’t have an ignore button for the trolls. He never adds substance, just bile and occasionally (as in this case) fraud. Trust a man with no integrity to come to the defense of a man who has committed a great and damaging breach of integrity.
Robert Hurley is also a many-threaded troll although he doesnt’t plumb Cedarford’s depths of dishonesty; but in either case, nothing is gained by feeding trolls except fat, contented trolls.
I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the rapid-responding dishonest trolls (like “V”) are still on Soros’s and Axelrod’s payroll like so many of them were during the campaign. Cedarford, though, has been around for an awfully long time and has been a troll every day.
News flash:
We must lower our standards and expectations so The One can meet and exceed them. In the next four years we will alll get an education on what a dysfunctional behavior looks like. There is no ego payback for a narcissist to attend an event honoring some old men from a war long ago or even recently wounded vets. This man did not serve in the military and neither did his dad.
Furthermore, the handlers would rather put soldiers in jail and let the Muslims out on the street.
To 116. skylark
Thats alot of goal post moving in that comment….
ROBERT HURLEY IS A TROLL
Your bogus press release is not in the Legion’s press releases.
http://www.legion.org/whatsnew/releases
It wasn’t a press release, Steve, it was an email. The same email you would got if you had the gumption to ask American Legion yourself – and probably would have received in less time than it took you to go trolling off in the wrong direction. be careful! You might actually be able to answer your own stupid questions if you ever figure out this internet thingie.
{Kevin R.C. O’Brien:}
Yeah, pull out your tinfoil hat. The black helicopters are flying low. Of course I’m on David Axelrod’s payroll!
Duh…
Where the Medal of Honor recipients invited and honored at the CinC Ball?
Well robotech master, aside from pointing out an obvious uhm, “misstatement” by Mr. Wolf (#77), you’ll have to show me where I’ve done anything but request accurate information on this event. As a matter of fact, it was you I requested it of.
Jonn:
Here is a link to Stars and Stripes coverage of the Commander in Chief’s ball.
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/search/web?query=web+design
Notice the photo of the Medal of Honor recipients in attendance at that ball. The American Legion ball does not show up on any of the lists of inaugural balls.
There appears to be no credible evidence that the Legion held a ball this year.
Ahh. Love it when i paste the last link I looked at instead of the right one.
http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=60160
Can’t everyone wait till Obama does something substantive that we can argue about?
This reminds me of people criticizing Bush for not going to vet’s funerals.
The only heavy-handed persons that haven’t weighed in are Pelto and Cindy Sheehan.
The focus ought to be on the substantive matters, not this stuff.
To 128. skylark
Which of course you did in 77… then you make many other statements to imply something is up…such as
Glad to see Mr. Wolf has produced something to back up his claim.(you know since only he’s required to prove anything to backup a claim and he did since he provided a release of all the balls obama attended and currently he didn’t attend the MOH ball…)
Which makes one wonder how hard it would have been to contact the American Legion and request a statement before he wrote this piece.(which you or cedarford or others who didn’t believe the story could have done)
I also wonder why he didn’t bother to mention that the Vice President and his wife did attend on behalf of the new administration.(maybe because the story isn’t about biden…)
Given his habit of misstating facts – evidenced in this very article – it’s understandable that readers would request substantive back up for his claims.(habit… yeah wheres this habit…?)
#131 Blackwell…Wait for more substantive matters? You mean like bringing the animals in Gitmo to the mainland to clog up our justice system? I always knew liberals were anti-military but as the President, he should have shown some respect and gone to the Hero Ball. He paid more respect to Ellen by dancing on her show. See anything wrong with that?
Sorry robotech master, you’re not making any sense. Please go back and read what I said again.
You people had better forget this garbage in chief. He and the lowest half of society have taken a broke and destroyed nation, Prepare yourselves for a time worse than the Civil War. American blood will run in the streets soon, let by other Americans. We can not continue to have a group of parasites in charge.
Yeah, Steve, that question was answered earlier today. Are you stuck in a time warp and unable to read the update?
Oh I dunno, ThinkingPerson. These MOH recipients seemed perfectly happy to be at the Commander in Chief ball:
http://www.stripes.com/articlephoto.asp?section=104&article=60160&photo=4&count=5
http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=60160
Fake Ball or no Fake ball, the man shows little respect for those that served.. You know they say you have to earn respect, well some have to be taught respect.
He needs to get a prescription for a large dose of that respect, and old saying of mine that I try to live by is “Pride it’s Free, Get Some”.
Work on it Mistah President
I apologize – though I did look very hard and pored the Legion site and looked at the lists given to the Washingtonian and Washington Post of lists of all official and unofficial Balls, apparantly the Salute to Heroes was omitted from the lists, but existed.
In hindsight, some of the other official and unofficial Balls that were listed also didn’t get much media attention..so no media record of such an event and no listing of it with the other Balls should be construed as other than a probability it didn’t happen….No coverage or mention by the Legion on its website of it was also a problem in assessing credibility..
No stories were on Google or Lexis-Nexus on the VP attending that Ball on behalf of Obama, who used his time to attend the C-i-C Ball. Which was a tradition started by George Bush in 2005 to honor active duty in time of war, address all the troops overseas, and disabled vets, decorated heroes of present and past conflicts, spouses separated by long and frequent tours of duty, and wounded active duty – which one report had almost 300 casualties and their guests in attendence at the C-i-C Ball.
If you are Commander in Chief as well as President, and your time is limited, which constituencies do you honor as a priority? Should your focus be only on 48 Vets who won the most prestigious medal, who have already been recognized face to face and feted in a places of prominence ever since they were awarded…or do you do your best to try to recognize all Americans at your Inaugural? Especially troops now on duty in wartime…
As was, as I wrote, the MOH awardees went to the C-i-C Ball wearing MOH neckgear and were photo’d there. Before that they were given a place of honor at the Inauguration ceremony directly below the President’s podium, then a luncheon specifically in their honor by President Obama’s DOD Secretary Bob Gates.
Red Carpet, VIP treatment all the way.
Lets not forget the President also honors Vets every year on days specifically set aside for them – Veterans Day, Memorial Day for those who served, many who paid a price, many decorated for heroism or should have been – of which the MOH can be best seen as the tiny tip of an immense pyramid of heroes.
With the truth that most, even with the most prestigious decorations for valor, are not given lifetime VIP privileges the MOH awardees get.
Mr. Wolf argues it is never enough. Almost as if every Inauguration should put tribute to 48 elderly awardees of a medal not presented to a living person in the last 40 years 1st and foremost over all other Americans…That the huge VIP treatment they got at Obama’s Inaugural wasn’t enough. Maybe Mr Wolf is right…Each special interest group has people convinced that they or certain “victims” they pretend to champion to empower themselves and imbue them with “moral authority by proxy” deserve special Presidential attention, and whatever is given, not matter how considerable, is never enough.
Though I was wrong about the Salute Ball, so far Mr Wolf and his henchmen have not produced a single complaint from a single MOH awardee about their “treatment” by Obama…That somehow their place at the grandstand, their special luncheon, their invite to and attendence at the C-i-C Ball, or the VP showing up at the Salute Ball, wasn’t enough, it “dissed them”.
The “outrage” such as it is, seems to have been initiated by a few in the fringe Right Wing that hates President Obama and decided to use these unwitting MOH awardees, without their permission, as tools to smear the new Commander in Chief, and rile up similar Right Wingers. If there was any “dissing” it was by those using heroes as pawns in their agenda.
Wow – Have we all been educated by all this nonsense. It is like the debate in the Middle Ages about how many angels could fit on the head of a pin. Except for the wingnuts – no one cares
All things considered, he probably did them a greater service by NOT attending and bringing along his America-hating, military-insulting sicophants. Truth be known, he would probably have been as welcome as Benedict Arnold at George Washington’s inaugural balls…and I understand that Washington really had some balls….
Robert,
Defend your doofus to the end.
If this is all so insignif’ then why do you feel you have to be an Obama defender on an obviously right leaning website?
Good grief, man! I’m OVER the OBAMA balls.
lol
He came through my base while I was deployed last year. He not only didn’t shake hands, he had everyone chased out of the chow hall at noon so he could give a speech to his lapdogs in the press. By my count, he was on the ground about 6 hours total. The rest of it was spent having dinner with the Emir of Kuwait and staying in a very fancy hotel.
He cares about nothing except his ego. Remember that.
So ‘the ball never happened’? That’s right up there with ‘fire can’t melt steel’.
Well, we’re off to a good start.
The demography of avtive duty personnel in 5 white males,2.3 white females, 1.7 native american or hispanic, 1% all others, that makes it pretty clear the afroamerican communities are not interested in defending the USA. It may be possible something like medal of honor recipiants or the American Legion itself is not something high on the agenda of Obama, Although due to affirmative action, the afroamerican community is inproportionately represented as employees at all the Veterans hospitals I have ever seen or been to. Its sad to see homeless veterans serviced by personnel that disrespect this great country. I hope, it was just an extraordinary oversight on the part of the new commander and chief not to attend the most honored ceremony in the land. I really don’t want things to get out of hand, what with the ethnic cleansing of most of americas innercities, say what you see, its still a free country. The day that ends is the day the war begans, and I’m hoping somebody is not starting a fight they can’t finish. I’d hate to see this economic recession get worse by adding this to the plate
http://www.armytimes.com/news/2009/01/military_veteransball_hayes_012209w/
http://www.clevelandleader.com/node/8627
Any outrage about this is that the potus broke from tradition by snubbing the ball that the vso’s put on.
The way this would be perceived had to be known to his staff. He is either surrounded by incompetents or chose to not go.
Does it really, truely matter? No. But it sets the tone and it sets the precedent for his time as cinc. The military and veterans are trying to figure out what to make of the new cinc and every action or failure to do something is scrutiniazed.
What President Obama did wasn’t just a disgrace, it doesn’t make a lick of sense.
I mean, the troops are his main source of power, and he’s not going to be withdrawing them from Afghanistan or anywhere else anytime soon. Does he realize the Presidency isn’t mere rhetoric? That his entire credibility depends on whether we’re safe, whether we win wars or not?
He would be very wise, if he doesn’t want to apologize to save face, to spend some of that money earmarked for abortions internationally to bring a bunch of those Medal of Honor winners together to the White House, and thank them personally.
139. cedarford:”I’m wrong but still right because I’m always right and now I’m moving the goal posts way over here”
Your a tool cedarford…
Well it is bad that he missed that particular ball but the veterans have been screwed since the Revelution do I need to remind anyone about the WW1 vets that a president ordered Federal troops to remove by FORCE from their tent city.He has only been in office a few vdays give the guy a break.Nobody got killed or died from his mistake like G w Bush mistake in Iraq so until it does lets wait and see.
President and Mrs. Obama should have personally greeted and thanked each of the Medal of Honor recipients. President Obama has achieved high office and is thus deserving of respect. Medal of Honor recipients have received the highest level of human recognition because they unhesitatingly risked all.
Barack Obama has repeatedly snubbed and apparently purposely insulted our military heroes. He has chosen political exposure to the honoring of our troops.
President Obama has promised repeatedly to weaken our military and our national security. We hope that these words were only empty political rhetoric spoken to appease his supporters on the far Left. Weakening our military and our national security in a time of war would give immense aid and comfort to our many enemies.
According to our Constitution, President Obama’s primary duty as President is to be the Commander in Chief of our military.
“Mr. Conservative”
http://blogs.lubbockonline.com/conservative/2009/01/24/obama-again-snubs-our-military/#comments
“Wow – Have we all been educated by all this nonsense. It is like the debate in the Middle Ages about how many angels could fit on the head of a pin. Except for the wingnuts – no one cares”
you just described the feel we all have when you post “no one cares”.
you are just a pathetic and sad (and obviously lonely with no life) 70 year old buffoon.
Wow, such a non-story. Why the need to drum up phony hysteria over whether or no the guy goes to a ball?
Are you sure I am shocked I was sure he was going with Murtha.
Cedarford- You’re only half-right. At the ‘CiC’ ball (CINC has been the term since forever) only 3 recipients were there. ‘Token’ compared to the FORTY EIGHT that were at the other ball. Again, going against tradition (and TRADITION is a hallmark of the services- yeah, change is necessary but tradition serves a purpose in building shared experiences over LONG periods of time- like, generations) he didn’t recognize them. Staff snafu? Possibly. From what I’ve heard along the grapevine, it’s even more egregious than that.
These gents, TO A MAN, are too soft-spoken and reverential to EVER place themselves into a fray such as this. That’s why we, as other veterans, are willing to stand up in their stead. They could be pelted with eggs and tomatoes, but you’d NEVER hear a complaint, publicly. EVER. Its not in their makeup.
BTW- these men didn’t ‘win’ the award- they were RECOGNIZED for their achievement. Valor medals are not to be ‘won’; it is not a ‘contest’. They are RECIPIENTS- and there is a HUGE difference.
As you point out, the ones that attended the CiC ball were photo’d there- again, Mr O playing to the photo-op ONLY.
He’s got a LOT to learn. Change goes only so far.
Apology accepted….
Wolf
I THINK OUR NEW PREZ NEEDS HIS DIAPERS CHANGED, THERE FULL OF YOU KNOW WHAT!!
To respond to some of the latest comments:
“What’s the big deal?” If you have to ask, there’s no explainning it to you, and that’s why you support Obama.
“He’s only been in office a few days.” I’m sick of this meme already. I hear it voiced again and again. To what kind of standards do you hold the POTUS? Me, I expect him to get it right from the word go. He campaigned for almost two years. Also, Bush made the transition very smooth. Obama’s had more than two months to prepare, and all the help in the world… and he’s been screwing the pooch the whole way. That’s change we can believe in.
Don’t forget they want to take away our guns.
remember Canada; only 500 were registered volutarily and the RCMP refused to enforce the law. The socialist government lost!
In our America, the dims will try to do the same.
No Law Officer I know will enforce it and 89% of the military backs the People.
“The DailyKos pointed the way and lots of conservatives are going to exercise their rights.”
Well, the stuff I’m reading here makes about as much sense, and is about as grounded in reality, as the crud the DailyKos has been vomiting up for the last eight years. I thought we were the thinking party.
Nice choice of role models, guys.
I am reminded here of all those lefty bug-wits who thought it was “no big deal” that Chelsea Clinton, shortly after moving into the White House, decided to tear the ribbons off of one of President Clinton’s military aides because SHE’D been educated to also “loathe the military” by her parents, and of how First Lady Hillary Clinton decided to have those same, uniformed military aides act as waiters and pass out canapes at one of her White House soires. Obama has shown that same disdain for the military time and again and, no doubt, will try to do the same damage to our military preparedness that Clinton did when HE was CinC. Remember,there was a time during Clinton’s presidency that our troops were reduced to pointing their weapons on the range and saying “bang” to “simulate” firing them because there was a shortage of ammunition! They also had to use jeeps during field excercises with signs on them that said “Tank” because there was a shortage of diesel fuel to use REAL tanks. Look for much the same from THIS guy. He’s a VERY dangerous man and has surrounded himself with a cabinet of VERY dangerous, corrupt people.
All I can say to those that voted this socialist muslim extremist into office that wanted change – well get ready, hold on because this nation is about to embark on a roller coaster ride like none ever dreamt of before. It would not surprise this Veteran if this radical nut came out wearing that blue turbine we’ve all been told of. If That’s the case hold on you “nut case voters” that voted him into office. It’s a sad day in America when you have a “non American” leading our country.
Logic and reason are clearly not strong suits of the majority of posters on this site. Only on very rare occasions do I visit this site to learn what the extreme right wing is up in arms about. This one was beyond silly. Still, they are entitled to their opinions no mater how silly those opinions may be. I had no intention of rejoining the fray until I stumbled upon post #145. But my deep and abiding love of mathematics compels me to respond to the mathematically absurd statement in post #145:
“The demography of avtive duty personnel in 5 white males,2.3 white females, 1.7 native american or hispanic, 1% all others, that makes it pretty clear the afroamerican communities are not interested in defending the USA.” [sic]
The percentage of blacks in the US military has been greater than the percentage of blacks in the general population for more than three decades, and is far greater than 1%. The percentage of blacks in the US military is in decline now, but is still greater than the percentage of blacks in the general population and still greater than 1%.
http://www.prb.org/Articles/2005/ArmyRecruitmentGoalsEndangeredasPercentofAfricanAmericanEnlisteesDeclines.aspx
http://www.prb.org/Articles/2005/AmericasMilitaryPopulation.aspx
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2007/10/07/military_sees_big_decline_in_black_enlistees/
I also did research this and there was in fact a Salute to Heroes Inaugural Banquet and Ball this January 20th, and that person who is now living in the white house did not attend. He is not my president, will never be and I cannot imagine him tring to be Commander in Chief.
In answer to your inquiry:
The American Legion, as it has on every inauguration evening since 1953, hosted the Salute to Heroes Inaugural Banquet & Ball on January 20th. The quadrennial event is co-sponsored with fourteen veterans service and military service organizations and honors recipients of the Medal of Honor. Forty-seven of these heroes attended this year’s event which was held in the Renaissance Washington DC Hotel.
President Obama was invited but did not attend. Vice-President Joe Biden did appear, however, and was very warmly received. The new President’s absence was understandable considering the unprecedented logistical challenges presented by the vastly increased number of visitors to this inauguration and the necessary attendant security measures. The American Legion, as an organization, does not feel offended or “snubbed.”
To 163. realitycheq
Convenient that some noob shows up posts something completely false and you then show up to correct him… funny how that is…most of all since you appear to have said you already posted in this “fray”.
Obama derangement syndrome much?
You people would believe anything in print. This is a blatant LIE. Think about who is reporting this garbage…use your damn heads instead of being so f****g vile! Sherrie, retract your claws and have some respect for the commander in chief. He hasn’t even been in office a week and your all ready to lynch him. Grow the hell up!
The thing that makes this truly unconscionable is that these aren’t mere veterans; these are Medal of Honor Awardees. These are men that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff must salute, even if the recipient in question retired as a mere E-4 (besides the fact that a typical enlistee would achieve E-4 before the first enlistment expired, a MoH arwardee would generally be immediately meritoriously promoted to E-4 if he hadn’t already achieved that rank or higher, so it’s extremely unlikely anyone with a MoH would have a lower rank than that).
Joe Biden was not the real 44th President. We don’t count those who held the Presidency temporarily while retaining the permenant title of Vice President. Dick Cheney was Acting President during Bush’s colonoscopy, but we don’t count him in our list of Presidents.
Medal of Honor, Schmedal of Honor.
Maybe I’m blinded by all of the MOH bling but..It looks like there are SEVEN (7) Medal of Honors recipients pictured at the Commander-in-Chief ball…Now according to Mr Wolf (#156) “only 3 attended”…Either my eyes or your arithmatic are SOL..If we have seven Medal of Honors winners at the CINC ball, why would there be others at another ball??..Since the CINC ball became a reality (during 43′s term) it appears that the Heroes ball is somewhat redundant..Either way, the facts SHOULD matter and the facts are that there were a group of Medal of Honors winners at the CINC ball. Mr Wolf never even MENTIONS the CINC ball…Maybe it’s because Obama spent more time there, than any other ball that he attended that evening?…As POTUS 40 said: “facts are funny things.”
http://www.stripes.com/articlephoto.asp?section=104&article=60160&photo=4&count=5
http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=60160
That’s just a mystery isn’t it? Especially after American Legion memebers were SO supportive during the campaign season.
Obama Hails Troops, Families at Commander in Chief’s Ball
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Jan. 21, 2009 – President Barack Obama saluted U.S. troops and their families, paying special tribute to wounded warriors and families of the fallen, during an inaugural ball last night that included a live videoconference with deployed Illinois National Guardsmen.
President Barack Obama dances with U.S. Army Sgt. Margaret H. Herrera while first lady Michelle Obama dances with U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Elidio Guillen at the Commander in Chief’s Ball at the National Building Museum, Washington, D.C., Jan. 20, 2009. The ball honored America’s servicemembers, families, the fallen and wounded warriors. DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley
(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.
“Tonight isn’t simply about the inauguration of an American president,” Obama told the audience at the Commander in Chief’s Inaugural Ball. “It’s a celebration of our military and our military families, so going forward you will have our support and our respect.”
The ball, co-hosted by the senior enlisted advisors of the five branches of the armed forces, and attended by Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the service chiefs, was among 10 official inaugural balls the president and first lady Michelle Obama attended last night.
Obama pledged that he, along with Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki, would work tirelessly to serve thoise who have served the nation in uniform.
“Every single day that I am in the White House, I will try to serve you as well as you are serving the United States of America,” Obama told the group, which included about 300 wounded warriors, families of fallen servicemembers and military families.
“It is wonderful to be surrounded by some of the very best and bravest Americans,” Obama said. “Your courage, grace and your patriotism inspire us all. To you, and to all those watching around the world, know that as president, I will have no greater honor or responsibility than serving as your commander in chief.”
Obama said the celebration was made somber by the knowledge that many U.S. troops are serving in harm’s way.
He spoke to some of those troops — members of the Illinois National Guard’s 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team — during a live video feed from Kabul, Afghanistan.
Army Command Sgt. Maj. Mark Bowman, the top enlisted soldier in Task Force Phoenix, rendered the new commander in chief his first presidential “hooah” and introduced his fellow soldiers, many from the Chicago area.
Bowman invited Obama to return to Kabul to “sit down with some of the great Afghans we work with.”
“As we develop their security forces,” he continued, “come on back when you get a chance, sir.”
Obama bantered with the troops about Chicago neighborhoods and baseball teams, then turned serious as he thanked them for their service and pledged his support.
“No matter where you are from, we are all grateful to you for your outstanding service,” he said. “You make us proud, and we are going to do everything we can to make your work go smoother.”
Obama told the troops they need to know that “every single American, regardless of party, regardless of what their politics are, support you, and will always support you.”
As the United States fights two wars and faces dangerous threats to its security, “we depend on the men and women of our armed forces to keep us safe,” he said.
Obama noted that service and sacrifice extend to the families that stand behind the men and women in uniform.
“Every time a serviceman [deploys], there is an empty seat at the table back home, and a family that has to bear an extra burden,” he said. “And that’s why tonight we don’t just salute our troops, we salute the military families who have earned the respect of a grateful nation.”
The president reiterated the call he made during his inaugural speech for the United States to embrace the deeply held values upon which the nation’s foundation was built. “While the tests we face are new, and the ways in which we meet them may be new, the values on which our success depends are old,” he said.
“Those values — like hard work and honesty, courage and tolerance, loyalty and patriotism — those are values that are embodied in our armed forces,” the president said.
Related Sites:
Photo Essay
President Barack Obama speaks to deployed U.S. service members via satellite during the Commander in Chief’s Ball in downtown Washington, D.C., Jan. 20, 2009. Three hundred wounded warriors from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., attended the ball. DoD photo by James Bowman
“170. JackT:
Medal of Honor, Schmedal of Honor.”
Pretty disrespectful of these men that have risked their lives for your freedom of speech.
And pretty much the line of thinking that our “messiah” has of himself over these brave men.
*spit*
Dino-
If ‘facts are funny things’ then you are completely droll.
Article was about the SALUTE TO HEROES BALL. The CIC ball was well-covered. It was a better photo op.
Now shut up.
Wolf
Duece-
Like I said before, the CIC ball was a better photo op. Dancing with a young soldier, or honoring old vets? That text has been printed all over the place- we got it.
The elderly/boomers in this country are screwed under PBO. He has NO reverence for age and experience. YOU.JUST.WATCH.
Wolf
ps. JackT- if you are trying to get a rise out of us, its working. You forgot the /sarc off tag…
deuce22:
The Commander-In-Chief’s Ball that you may seem to think is a way of covering all of our nation’s heroes, was merely a ball hosted by the “messiah” himself.
From one of your liberal “media” sources:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/01/obama-will-host-commander_n_154676.html
HONOLULU — President-elect Barack Obama will have a Commander in Chief’s Ball during his inauguration with military personnel, their spouses and those wounded fighting in the ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan as guests.
In announcing this Thursday, officials said that tickets for the Jan. 20 military-only ball will be free to guests. The formal event will be at the National Building Museum in Washington.
“It is a privilege to honor our men and women in uniform during our inaugural festivities by continuing the tradition of the Commander in Chief’s Ball. Our troops represent the best America has to offer, and without their dedication and sacrifice we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms that we are coming together to celebrate on January 20,” Obama said in a statement released while he vacationed here in his native Hawaii.
“They deserve our thanks and our gratitude. Michelle and I look forward to attending the Commander in Chief’s Ball and sharing this special evening with representatives of our armed forces,” his statement said.
Aides say most of the guests will be enlisted personnel and junior officers. Others will be active duty military members, active duty National Guard and National Guard Reserve members. The guest list also will featured those injured in military actions, families of those killed in combat and spouses of those deployed.
Obama and wife, Michelle, are scheduled to attend 10 official inaugural balls. Scores of other events are planned for the celebration and crowds variously estimated as high as in the millions are expected to descend on Washington.
President George W. Bush first had a ball to specifically honor the uniformed services.
Officials have not yet determined how tickets will be distributed.
So this was a ball HE sponsored and HE invited guests to.
The question I would like answered, is how many guests decided it was not in their best interest to attend his ball?
It is quite obvious that President Obama simply is not comfortable around military types. He doesn’t measure up to them, and every time he goes near them he knows that he is no commander in chief, and never will be. He’s a media creation whom few people had even heard of four years ago. He’s a punk.
Just get use to calling him your Commander-in-Chief for the next 4-8 years.
Impeach.
typical of this rightwing site to make up stuff. this is what the american legion said:
The American Legion, as it has on every inauguration evening since 1953, hosted the Salute to Heroes Inaugural Banquet & Ball on January 20th. The quadrennial event is co-sponsored with fourteen veterans service and military service organizations and honors recipients of the Medal of Honor. Forty-seven of these heroes attended this year’s event which was held in the Renaissance Washington DC Hotel.
President Obama was invited but did not attend. Vice-President Joe Biden did appear, however, and was very warmly received. The new President’s absence was understandable considering the unprecedented logistical challenges presented by the vastly increased number of visitors to this inauguration and the necessary attendant security measures. The American Legion, as an organization, does not feel offended or “snubbed.”
Thank you,
Craig Roberts
Media Relations Manager
The American Legion
1608 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
202.263.2982 (direct)
First, I must say that I have the upmost respect for anyone that has come under enemy fire and I salute those that have earned the MOH along with those that have received it (as many have earned it that will never receive it). However, expecting the President to attend every worthwhile event is not realistic, regardless of how important you or I think it may be. I can only hope that his decision was based on requirements.
We are faced with a war on two fronts and economic difficulties unparalleled since the Great Depression. It has been a while since the US was under such distress during an inauguration, but he stood up and said that he wanted the job. Not exactly a great time in history to take over – he easily could have waited another four years in hopes to make it a bit easier.
Labeling him, questioning his citizenship, and judging his loyalties with merely 72 hours on the job might be a little overboard. Reading the above comments truly concerns me. Judge him (as hopefully you would anyone) on his accomplishments (or lack thereof) on behalf of the US. He is the President and I believe he will do the best job he can for us based on the information provided him by his staff.
We need to come together and give him the support that the President deserves. He will not make everyone happy – and I doubt he will be able to live up to the heightened expectations he seems to have incurred by not only our nation but others as well. I do believe…things will be better 4 years from now.
“The views expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the US Government”
MAJ Jim Nichols
US Army
CGSC Student
Maj Nichols-
As a vet, as someone who’s faced the White Elephant, I feel able to judge the man (and how he likely will treat the military) based on the following;
1. He associates with known felons (weather underground)
2. Refuses to allow transcripts and certificates to be released, even tho all the other candidates are willing to be open about THEIR backgrounds.
3. He has openly and often made disparaging remarks in regards to those in military service-
4. He was a ‘street fighter’ for such leftist organizations as ACORN and others.
We ARE judging him by his lack of ANY discernable accomplishments- name one company he has run? NAME AN ORGANIZATION he’s run? Polished-looking? Perhaps. The only reason he’s a SENATOR is that his only real opponent decided he’d divorce Seven-of-Nine in a nasty separation. Other than that, he’d still be ‘Barak WHO?’.
No need to try to defend him, or how opposition people view him- we’ve seen it, and its bad. Having been around the military my entire life, and seen what someone like Carter did post-Vietnam, I understand what’s likely to be coming. And it WON’T be pretty.
I hope you have retirement plans. You’ll need them for the RIF.
Mr Wolf
Then why was none of it on any major news? Why is the only places that say that this is true is on small web sites? That’s because the VFW, America Legion and MOH didn’t want to embarrass the new President. The Ball was a invitation only and was never posted. After talking to the PR (first name of) King at the America Legion their was a communication/overbooked problem and Obama wasn’t able to attend, NOT that he was trying to attack vets. The fact that the Joe Biden is attend is not good enough. It’s only the Vice President….sorry that people want to think is an attack on them. You think with a staff like the President that things wont fall through the cracks? You never been the military, happens all the time. The America Legion did say that for next inaugural ball they will post pictures after so the blogers won’t have so many nights of lost sleep…One phone call I got my answer.
I really can’t say as this action by Osama bin Obama (has a catchy ring to it) surprises me or anyone remotely NOT a democrat. His actions/words in the primaries and general election campaign definitely show his disdain for the military and the current conflicts we find ourselves in.
As someone who has served honorably in the US military and received purple heart honored wounds in two separate campaigns, I personally at this point would be offended if Obama DID show up at an event I was at! That withstanding, he did a grave disservice to himself, the military (the vets at the gala) and the country by not going – especially given that Biden made the effort to go.
According to the update in this article, the American Legion IS putting information of the snub on their website, so I don’t agree with those who say that they didn’t want to embarrass the new president. There was no communication error, regardless of who called who; this is a gala that has been attended for 56 years! BHO knew about it, gimme a break! And it wasn’t in the mainstream media, because guess who controls that?? Hmmm, is there any wonder why they all devoted so much air time and column space to Obama? No, not to me.
So as a veteran, and a patriotic American, I am troubled by those who tell me to just support BHO because he’s the new president. Where were these yaks and their support when Bush was in office for 8 years? They seemed free to blast him at every chance, ok even I don’t agree with everything Bush did, but I voted for, and supported him. I didn’t vote for BHO and am personally appalled at those I know who did vote for him. Maybe I need to raise the standard for those I associate with… Mark my words (and those of many, many others), the day is approaching that those who support Obama will rue the day they chose to do so! There is enough about him and surrounding him that warrants so much closer scrutiny, from his birthplace (the Hawaii birth cert. is a joke. No official signature, and why is the cert. number blacked out? IT’S A PUBLIC RECORD!) I’ve got more info on my birth certificate – hospital name, doctor name, legal seal and signature, whether or not nitrate drops put in my eyes, parents full names, addresses and birthplaces… Is it possible that that information is not known? Perhaps because he wasn’t born in Hawaii? I’m sorry, THAT is not a legal document!
So congratulations America (those who support BHO) instead of working towards putting this country back together and lifting us up from the mire we are in, you have weakened this country at a time when strength of leadership is warranted and desperately needed. Of course BHO is surrounding himself with so many “brilliant people”, he NEEDS them because he’s incapable as a CIC (Commander In Chief). How can the joint chiefs even look at him at meetings without shaking their heads in disgust!?
Hopefully in four years America will have woken up and seen BHO for what/who he really is. It’s four years too long and my prayer is that someone truly qualified will step up and assume the mantle of POTUS. Until then, we’re stuck with Comrade Obama…
Klystron-
One READ, dolt, and you’d have had your answer-
HERE: http://www.blackfive.net
Here: http://www.thisainthell.us
And HERE: http://www.ace.mu.nu
We all, separately, talked with these same people. And reported it. Mr King was my first call, as was Mr Roberts at the AL.
I’ve not lost as much sleep as those with BDS; I can sleep well at night. I hear BDS causes rickets. And warts.
I also know why they are not reporting it- someday this, too, shall pass.
Mr. Wolf
I’m just a getting older Vietnam Vet. Reading this crap I’m sure the MOH Veterans are very proud that you freeks are using them to make some kind odd freekish right wing poltical statment. I did not spend 20 months in Vietnam to be insulted by non serving right winger or goofy lefties. I did for my country and my own self respect.
Reading all these comments I find it hard to listen to those one way or the other rationalize Obama’s choice (it was a choice HE made) not to attend. And it’s not that he ONLY snubbed the American Legion and other co-sponsors, he snubbed ALL veterans.
To David above quoting Craig Roberts comments that the AL wasn’t snubbed, this isn’t only about the AL as an organization, it’s about the gala being snubbed, all vets. If every president since it’s inception in 1953 can manage to attend this event, there is a way Obama could have and should have. Please, this crap about logistics, security, blah blah blah. He’s the president for crying out loud! He can go wherever he pleases. It obviously didn’t please him to attend, plain and simple. What can you expect from a dove like that?
Although I read that the AL may be putting something on their website about all this, as of 6:45am EST today I didn’t see anything. Regardless, it wasn’t a smart thing for Obama to do. As the left is known to say, it wasn’t the politically correct thing to do.
And Mr. Veteran above, learn to spell freaks first of all. I can happen to tell you that many vets there DID feel snubbed as I know two people who were there that night who said while they enjoyed the time, and warmly welcomed Biden, there was a little “sting” in the air that night while they all waited in anticipation of Obama’s arrival. This is not some kind of odd freakish right wing statement, it is the truth- stings a little doesn’t it? The facts are these: Obama attended much larger, more publicized and more highly attended, thus harder to secure and protect him, galas/balls. He had the means and opportunity to attend if he wanted. He had motive NOT to attend- his personal views on the war, and military in general attest to that. Geez, motive, means, opportunity- almost sounds like he should be in some criminal case, eh? In the end, it won’t matter. This too shall be swept under the carpet, a blip on the radar, soon to be forgotten by the country at large.
Yes, there are other issues now and to come that warrant more discussion that this possibly, but that isn’t the point here I believe. The point is this: This man of change – and I don’t mean that in a good way – is going to bring such drastic changes in foreign policy, military spending, etc. (you can expect a ‘reduction in force’ and possibly more base closures ala Bill Clinton) and that is not what is needed in this critical time on the world scene. Let’s not forget how many people hate the US now. Regardless of who started what war or why, it’s all semantics at this point. There are enough people in the world who hate us to the point of wanting to come over here and attack us again, that if they all organized to do so, we would be nearly powerless to stop them. Expect after military cuts by Obama another attack on the US somewhere, whether continental or an embassy, US interest somewhere – it is coming. What then Barrak? Then will you decide after pressure from all around to beef up the military you just cut back? Too little too late. I suspect Obama should go back to Chicago to do more organizing and leave the politics to people a little more adept than he! But hey, that’s just my opinion, I could be wrong! (Ok, never said that was an original, thanks Dennis).
You mean he didn’t go with Kerry and Inouye? Were they there?
What is the truth? Does it really matter? The truth is we are throwing away our rights and liberty that have been a nightmare to earn! This screaming and accusing is insane! We have assains running all through this country! The only rights that matter are truly dispicable! That people voted for a change, and all they are really getting are the Clintons and Palosi’s! Everyone seems to dumb to see it! The largest corporation is the government. George Sr. was the 1st CEO! I do not want to be global! I want to be American! Let me say this again! AMERICAN!!! Politics have turn into business. The Dems have waited 8 yrs for their turn, and now they are like wild beast! This is not about the people or soldiers! It is about the corporation of the government! George W. may not have been perfect, but he was American! People are so pathetically brainwash by the media, they have absolutely no brains of their own! Did we really believe a home worth $50 one could actually be worth $5M the next? HELLO??? If you were lucky enough to sieze the moment….bravo! How discustingly shallow have we become to say that late term murder is okay? Where are your heads? Why should we fund abortions in other countries? Population controll? Sounds like China to me! Talk about imparting beliefs! I say, stop watching and sleeping with the TV on, and start educating yourselves on American History! Really study it! That is the truth of this country, and I sure hope we have the gut and glory to fight for it all over again, because we will! There is no one world! Someone will always fight for power! The truth is….could Clinton have done what George W. has had to face. NO! These people go to school to become polititions, and live on our money! Has anyone not noticed! Both the Republican Party and the Domocrate Party have become nothing but selfish, money grabbing, consiousless people! Yes I do pray! I pray for idiots to wake up! I pray for moral responsibilty! I pray for our soldiers! I pray for America! Truthfully, I pray for real leadership of this country! Someone that puts the reponsibility of AMERICA before themselves! Just as our soldiers have done! That is why our greatest leaders were militery leaders! Read your history!!!! STOP WATCHING CRAZY PEOPLE ON TV!! I also suggest you purchase your history prior to the rewriting of our history! The primary job of our national government is the security of the country. Why are we giving it all away! George W. was one man! The government is huge! Obama is one man. The government is huge! What about the other black leaders of this country? Personally I would have voted for Condi Rice!
I saw both Obama’s dancing with soliders. Sorry they couldn’t dance with every single one. Bush murdered our soliders over lies though. Good work.
Not surprising unfortunately. Bush did not personally kill our soldiers one by one. Our military is voluntary!!!!!! Bush kept us from anymore terrorist attacks since 9/11 oh yes he did. I’m happy with that. This new president is uhhhh not about any kind of change I’m interested in. The snub is just the start of many things he will do that will be extremely disappointing. He is not a man of any substance at all. No hope here I’m afraid, but I am praying.
TMW
Which ones would you pick?
Many inaugural balls and galas were held in honor of the Presidential Inauguration of Barack Obama throughout the Washington, DC area in January 2009.
Official Inaugural Balls
Ten official balls, planned by the Presidential Inaugural Committee, were held on the night of January 20, 2009 and are the only ones that the Obamas and Bidens attended.
(The Presidential Inaugural Committee,, will organize an inclusive and accessible inauguration that reflects the new Administration’s commitment to leadership that sets aside partisanship and unites the nation around our shared values and ideals.)
1 Neighborhood Inaugural Ball – Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount VernonPlace, NW. In keeping with his commitment to make this inaugural celebration open and accessible to all Americans, President-elect Barack Obama hosted the first-ever “Neighborhood Inaugural Ball” with tickets available free or at an affordable price. It is the first official inaugural ball of its kind to be held during a presidential inauguration. It aired live on ABC 8:00 – 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Read more
2 Commander-in-Chief’s Inaugural Ball – National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. The ball is in honor of the country’s active duty and reserve military. Invited guests included wounded warriors (Purple Heart recipients), families of fallen heroes, and spouses of deployed military. Tickets were provided free of charge to all invited guests. This event was not open to the general public. It was broadcast to American troops around the world on the Pentagon Channel, which is available via cable on 368 military bases and on commercial cable and satellite services throughout the United States.
3 Youth Inaugural Ball – For Ages 18-35 – Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave. NW. This ball celebrated the inauguration and the role young Americans can play to serve their communities. Kanye West, Kid Rock and Fall Out Boy headlined and the ball was broadcast on MTV channels around the world. The show airs at 10:00 p.m. EST/ 7:00 p.m. PST.
4 Obama Home States Inaugural Ball – Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. Illinois and Hawaii invited guests. Tickets: $150.
5 Biden Home States Inaugural Ball – Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. Delaware and Pennsylvania invited guests. Tickets: $150.
6 Eastern Inaugural Ball – Union Station, 40 Massachusetts Ave NE. CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT, PR, and USVI invited guests. Tickets: $150.
7 Mid-Atlantic Inaugural Ball – Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. MD, VA, DC, NY, NJ, and WV invited guests. Tickets: $150.
8 Midwest Inaugural Ball – Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. KS, IN, IA, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, SD, WI, and MO invited guests. Tickets: $150.
9 Southern Inaugural Ball – National Guard Armory, 2001 East Capitol St. SE. AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, and TX invited guests. Tickets: $150.
10 Western Inaugural Ball – Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. AK, CA, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY, AZ, CO, NV, NM, UT, OK, GUAM/AS and invited guests. Tickets: $150.
These are the ones the Presidential Inaugural Committee did not pick for them to go to!!
Doesn’t say anywhere that he or vice pres had a voice in the picking of which balls to attend.
More Inaugural Balls, Galas and Events
Pre-Inaugural and Inaugural Ball Cruises
Jan. 16, 17 and 20, 2009. The Spirit of Washington and Odyssey III invite the public to celebrate with friends and family on special inaugural themed cruises. Only the Inauguration Ball Cruise (on Jan. 20) will be black tie, but all cruises will feature patriot-themed décor, live music and dining. Tickets: $68-101.
A Historical Affair
Jan. 16, 2009. United States Chamber of Congress, 1615 H St., NW. Sponsored by the National Congress of Black Women. Tickets: $135 Dessert Reception, $285 Dinner.
People’s Inaugural Premier
Jan. 16, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St., NW. Celebrating a new generation of grassroots activists. Tickets: $75
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Audacity of Hope Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Fairmont Washington Hotel, 2401 M St. NW. Proceeds benefit Returning Wounded Soldiers from Iraq and their Families. Tickets: $350. Call (702) 893-0401 or email rodgaines@rodgainesevents.com
A Celebration of Change Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Hyatt Regency, 400 New Jersey Ave. Sponsored by The Babyboomer Professionals. Tickets: $175.
Cool Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Josephine Butler Parks Center, 2437 15th Street NW. Sponsored by Cool Capital Challenge and the Washington DC Chapter of the Sierra Club. Tickets: $100 at the door, $75 in advance.
Inaugural Ball – “The Dream Realized”
Jan. 17, 2009. Camelot by Martins, 13905 Central Ave. Upper Marlboro, MD. Formal dinner gala, Live entertainment, special guest soloist, video tribute and more. Hosted by volunteers from the Obama For America organization. Tickets: $75
Green Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, 1301 Constitution Ave. NW. DC’s most environmentally-friendly pre-Inaugural celebration. Headline performance by Wyclef Jean. Organic food and drink, LED lighting, entertainment audio-visual production will be tailored to minimize environmental impact. Tickets: $500.
H.O.P.E. (Honoring Our President-Elect) Inaugural Youth Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Trinity University, 125 Michigan Ave. NE. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to National Network for Youth. Tickets: $75 first 200 sold – $100 thereafter.
National Council of Women’s Organizations Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. President James Monroe Mansion, 2017 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. Commemorating the role of women in President-Elect Obama’s historic victory and honoring women leaders in politics. Performance by 2009 Grammy nominee Wayna. Tickets: $500.
People’s Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St., NW. Celebrating a new generation of grassroots activists. Tickets: $125.
People’s Inaugural Gala
Jan. 17, 2009. Grand Hyatt Washington, 1000 H Street NW. Semi-formal/After-Five event hosted by Iyanla Vanzant featuring music/dancing, exhibits, and live-auction fashion show. Tickets: $150.
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Spirit of Asia in America: Presidential Inaugural Reception
Jan 17, 2009. The St. Regis, Astor Ballroom, 16th & K Sts. NW. The Asia Society invites the public to celebrate the democratic process and the contributions of Asian Americans to this historic Presidential election. Tickets: Members $100 per person, $175 per couple. Non-members $150 per person, $275 per couple.
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African Diaspora Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Harman Center for the Arts, 610 F Street, NW. The Ball features Grammy award winner Angelique Kidjo, Grammy-award nominated Les Nubians, international Haitian songwriter Bélo and more of the brightest stars from the African Diaspora. Tickets: $150 and up.
California State Society Inaugural Fashion Show & Lunch
Jan. 18, 2009, 11:30 a.m. Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 1150 22nd St. NW.
California Bash – California Democratic Party Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, National Mall. Tickets: $150.
Children’s Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009 – FREE Daytime Event. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K Street, NW. Free tickets are required. Sponsored by Every Child Matters Education Fund. Live music, arts and crafts, interactive exhibits, play areas, and a story-time stage. – WAITING LIST.
Disability Power and Pride Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW, 13th Floor. Sponsored by the American Association of People with Disabilities. Tickets: $100.
“Dreams from My Father” American Scholars Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Four Seasons Hotel, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. The black-tie event will bring together notable businesspersons, political figures and entertainers for an intergenerational celebration. Tickets: $350-$550.
Foreign Diplomats Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. The James Monroe Mansion, 2017 I St., NW. Sponsored by Embassies of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Ghana. Tickets: $350.
The 2009 Hope Won Inaugural Gala
Jan. 18, 2009. Westin Annapolis, 100 Westgate Circle, Annapolis, MD. Sponsored by Therapeutic Wellness LLC to benefit the Diane Freeman Foundation. Black tie, four course dinner, live music, silent auction. Tickets: $150.
Junior State of America Inaugural Event
Jan. 18, 2009. Hotel Monaco, 700 F Street NW. Hosted by the Junior State of America and The Junior Statesmen Foundation. Tickets: $75, or sponsorship levels available. Contact alumni@jsa.org.
Lincoln 2.0 Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and F Sts. NW. Sponsored by Destination DC. Celebrate the Obama inauguration in the landmark building where Lincoln celebrated his own inauguration in 1865. Proceeds benefit The American Art Museum and The American Experience Foundation, a charity that develops national programs to educate the public about the arts, culture, American democracy and unique heritage of Washington, DC. Black tie, Victorian attire welcome. Tickets: $375.
Metropolitan Gala on the Georgetown Waterfront
Jan. 18, 2009. 3050 K St., NW. Event located at 3 restaurants along the Potomac River: Tony & Joe’s, Cabanas and Nick’s Riverside Grill. Heated tents will connect the venues as well provide comfortable access along the river walkway. Portions of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Behind the Bench, The NBA Wive’s Association, a charitable organization as well as Peoples Involvement Corporation, a non-profit organization that provides job training and affordable housing to residents of DC. Tickets: $300.
National Association of Manufacturers Gala Celebration
Jan. 18, 2009. Ronald Reagan International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Tickets: $200.
People’s Inaugural LGBT Gala
Jan. 18, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St., NW. Celebrating LGBT grassroots activists. Tickets: $100.
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Red Goes Blue Inaugural Bash
Jan. 18, 2009. Old Ebbitt Grill, 675 15 St. NW. Sponsored by Young Lawyers for Obama- DC Chapter. Dress: Smart Casual. Tickets: $100.
2009 Green Inaugural Ball (Hosted by Al Gore)
Jan. 19, 2009. National Portrait Gallery. SOLD OUT.
American Indian Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 20 and 21, 2009. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA. Three events celebrate Native American leaders, organizations, artists and musicians. Tickets: $110-150.
Arkansas State Society Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW. Tickets: $125.
Dream Makers Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Bobby Vans Grill, 1201 New York Ave. Proceeds will benefit John Lewis Scholarship Fund, National Action Network and Rainbow Push Coalition. Tickets: $250.
Georgia State Society of Washington, DC
Jan. 19, 2009. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, 10th and Constitution Avenue NW. Tickets: $200.
HBCU Inaugural Gala Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Sequoia at Washington Harbour, 3000 K St. NW. Sponsored by Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Tickets: $300.
Historical Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, 801 K St. NW. The ball celebrates the inauguration of Barack Obama and the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. Tickets: $200 (301) 661-1617.
History in the Making, “A Dream & A Change” Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Sheraton Crystal City Hotel, 1800 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington, VA. Sponsored by The Babyboomer Professionals. Gala theme is “On the shoulders of heroes”. Celebrating the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the victory of president-elect Barack Obama. Event is open to all. Tickets: must be purchased before December 15th, $199.
Illinois State Society of Inaugural Gala
Jan. 19, 2009. Renaissance Washington Hotel, 999 9th St. NW. – SOLD OUT
Indiana Society Inaugural Gala
Jan. 19, 2009. Omni-Shoreham Hotel, 2500 Calvert St. NW. Tickets: $295 before Dec. 19, $350 after.
Kentucky Society Bluegrass Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, 2660 Woodley Roads NW. Tickets: $178.50.
Nebraska Society Inaugural Brunch
Jan. 19, 2009. The Columbus Club, Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Avenue, NE. Tickets: $45.
New Hampshire State Society Inaugural Reception
Jan. 19, 2009. Willard-Intercontinental Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW – SOLD OUT
New Mexico State Society Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, 4th St. and Independence Ave. SW.
North Carolina State Society Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Marriott Wardman Park Hotel – SOLD OUT
One People, One Nation United
Jan. 19, 2009. City Club at Franklin Square, 1300 Eye St. NW. Sponsored by the Imagen Foundation which promotes diversity in the entertainment industry. Tickets: $125 before Jan. 16, $155 after. Call (626) 376-9751 ext. 203 or 205; or email info@imagen.org.
Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and Community Healing Network Inaugural Celebration
Jan. 19, 2009. National Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Avenue, SW. Champagne reception with cultural offerings of music, dance, and live entertainment. Tickets: $175 before Jan. 9, $200 after.
South Carolina State Society Inaugural Gala
Jan. 19, 2009. Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, Independence Ave. at 7th St. SW. SOLD OUT
Texas State Society Black Tie and Boots Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD. The event will feature a “Texas Fair,” with vendors showcasing Texan products, and live entertainment by Tracy Byrd, Jack Ingram, Asleep at the Wheel and more. Tickets: $200.
Virginia’s Inaugural Black Tie and Blue Dominion Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, 14390 Air & Space Museum Pkwy. Chantilly, VA Tickets: $250 per person/ $400 per couple.
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Africa Aspire Inauguration Night – A Celebration of Change for the World
Jan. 20, 2009. Smithsonian Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Ave. NW. The celebration will include African cuisine, music and cultural presentations. Black Tie or traditional attire. Tickets: $500.
All American Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Westin Washington, 1400 M St. NW. Tickets: $250.
American Music Inaugural Balls
Jan. 20, 2009. Marriott Wardman Park, 2660 Woodley Rd. NW. Hosted by Dionne Warwick. Two events featuring a variety of entertainment legends and music icons. Tickets: $350-450.
State Society of Arizona Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009, Historical Society of Washington DC, 801 K St. NW Tickets: $175 per person / $300 per couple.
The Art of Change Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Warehouse Arts Complex, 7th St and New York Ave. NW. Artomatic and Playa del Fuego Inc. are sponsoring an evening of fun, fire, art and music. Tickets: $50.
Baltimore Washington Black McDonald’s Operators Association’s Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009, The City Club at Franklin Square, 1300 I St. NW. To benefit Develop Young Minds, an organization that provides financial support to children with limited resources. Tickets: $200.
Be the Change Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. Sponsored by MTV and ServiceNation, the event will feature celebrities and will be televised live on MTV
Bytes & Books Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street, SE. Sponsored by The National Coalition for Technology in Education and Training
Calvert County Inauguration Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Calvert County Fairgrounds Banquet Hall, Route 4, exit Route 231, Barstow, Maryland. Sponsored by the Calvert County Democratic Club. Attire is semi-formal. Tickets: $40. Call 410-414-3660 or email Calvertdems@gmail.com.
Change Has Come Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Hilton Washington Embassy Row, 2015 Massachusetts Ave, NW. Sponsored by The Babyboomer Professionals. Tickets: $150 Must be purchased by December 15.
Concerned Black Men and Delta Sigma Theta Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Bobby Vans, 1201 New York Ave., NW. Proceeds will support Concerned Black Men youth projects (tutoring, mentoring, health education) and scholarship and service programs sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Tickets: $175, After Jan. 9 $200.
Corcoran Gallery of Art
Jan. 20, 2009. 500 Seventeenth Street NW. Hosted by LINK AMERICAS Foundation, The Alliance for Public Technology, The Children’s Partnership, Education Development Center and the George Lucas Educational Foundation – Edutopia. Tickets: $1000.
Creative Coalition Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Harman Center for the Arts. SOLD OUT
Fallen Soldiers, Inc. “Africa and International Friends Inaugural Ball”
Jan. 20, 2009. Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD. Featuring live performances by Patti Labelle, Raheem Devaughn, The O’Jays and many more, and a special honor presented to Aretha Franklin. Tickets: $250, $500, and $1000.
Florida State Society Inaugural Celebration
Jan. 20, 2009, National Museum of the American Indian, Independence Ave. between 3rd and 4th Sts. Proceeds will benefit all the American Red Cross Chapters throughout the State of Florida. Tickets: $200. (703) 905-9838 or email FL_Inaugural@hayespr.com.
George Washington University Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009, Omni Shoreham Hotel – SOLD OUT
Hawaii State Society Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009 Mandarin Oriental Hotel – SOLD OUT
Health for All Blue Diamond Ball
January 20, 2008. National Museum of Natural History, Constitution Ave. NW between 10th and 12th Sts. Jackson Browne and Graham Nash performances. The Health for All Blue Diamond Ball supports Obama’s vision of change and will secure a prominent place for health on the presidential and legislative agenda by gathering powerful constituencies that passionately believe that health care is a human right. $500 General Admission. $1,000 VIP Admission.
The Hill Ball
Jan. 20, 2009, Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE. Co-sponsored by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Swing dancing with an 11 piece band. Tickets: $85.
Human Rights Campaign Equity Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave. NW. Live entertainment and appearances by Cyndi Lauper, Melissa Etheridge, Rufus Wainwright, Thelma Houston and others. Tickets: $375.
Inaugural Gala – A Formal Affair for Change
Jan. 20, 2009. The Ritz-Carlton, Tyson’s Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard McLean, VA. Gala features a cocktail reception, 3 course seated supper, live entertainment, insightful political discussion, and dancing until dawn. Tickets: $385. Attire: White Tie.
Inaugural DC Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Old Post Office Pavilion, 1110 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Event to benefit Metropolitan Police Boys & Girls Clubs. Entertainment features Washington DC’s legendary Godfather of Go-Go Chuck Brown, DJ, dancing, and more. Tickets: $150-250.
Inaugural Peace Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Smithsonian National Postal Museum, 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE (next to Union Station) Sponsored by Busyboy and Poets and the National Postal Museum. Confirmed speakers and performers include Historian Howard Zinn, Comedian Dick Gregory, Mayor Adrian Fenty, Amy Goodman of Democracy Now, Katrina Vanden Heuvel of The Nation Magazine, Laura Flanders, Barbara Ehrenreich, Anthony Arnove, and many more. Tickets: $165
Inaugural Watch Party Jazz Brunch
Jan. 20, 2009. The Republic, 1355 U St. NW. Watch the inaugural festivities indoors at this gala event. Tickets: $75.
Masonic Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Stars Bistro, 2120 P St. NW. Proceeds from this event will be donated to the Masonic Foundation of the District of Columbia. Tickets: $65.
Minnesota Democratic Farmer Labor Party’s Inaugural Celebration
Jan. 20, 2009. American Legion Hall, Kenneth H. Nast Post 8, 224 D Street SE. Tickets: $100.
New York State Society Pre-Inaugural Parade Brunch
Jan. 20, 2009. Willard Intercontinental Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Tickets: $100-175.
The People’s Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Grand Hyatt Hotel, 1000 H Street NW. Silent Auction, network, dance to music from DJ Jerome Cooper from Coopertunes, and enjoy cocktails from the Premium Bar. A performance by the Vanessa Rubin Quartet featuring Wycliffe Gordon will highlight the evening. Tickets: $350
Pennsylvania Society Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Ritz Carlton, 1150 22nd St. NW. – SOLD OUT
The President’s Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Sponsored by the Maryland Inaugural Special Committee. The Washington Times Building, Arbor Ballroom and Conference Center, 3600 New York Ave. NE. Tickets: Before 12/31/08 – $200, After – $250 VIP Tickets: $300 (410) 521-7001. info@presidentsball.com
Prince George’s County “Ancestor’s Dream Inaugural Ball”
Jan. 20, 2009. Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD. Join Prince George’s County officials and Maryland State representatives for a festive celebration. Tickets: $200 before Jan. 10, $250 after.
The Servant Forge Humanitarian Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. The Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 Union St., Alexandria, VA. The ball will benefit the Alexandria Mentoring Project and Youth Development and Employment Initiative, an art-based program serving pre-teen girls in Nairobi, Kenya. Tickets: $150.
Soccer Moms for Obama Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Chevy Chase Women’s Club, 7931 Connecticut Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD. Tickets: $60. Contact Ruth Brannon at rmbrannon@aol.com.
Tennessee State Society Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. The City Tavern Club, 3206 M St., NW. Black tie or military dress. Tickets: $130 per person, $250 per couple.
Unity in Service Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Top of the ART Great Room/Starlit Terrace and WSV Art Gallery, 1100 16th Street, NW. The unofficial ball gives recognition to the men and women of our military with selected Service members serving as honorary co-hosts and a portion of each ticket benefits military families in need through the Armed Forces Relief Fund. Tickets: $90-175.
Washington DC Fashion and Young Professionals Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. The President James Monroe Mansion, 2017 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. Celebrate in style with other upwardly mobile young professionals representing corporations, financial institutions, law firms, lobbyist groups, trade associations, media, film, fashion and non-profit organizations. Tickets: $300.
We the People Inauguration Gala Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Hyatt Regency Washington, 400 New Jersey Ave. NW. The ball is an initiative by a group of volunteers who worked as part of the “grass roots movement” supporting Senator Barack Obama’s campaign. Tickets: $295.
Think about what’s Obama going to do come Veterans and Memorial Day?????
President Obama did not snub any soldiers. He was at the commander n chief military ball where he thanked all service members and did a live remote with a national guard group serving in Afghanistan. It was warm and heartfelt. This is pure lies and hate about Obama snubbing any military personnel! Geez the guy hasn’t even finished the first day and the bottomfeeders are at him! WHAT A LIE!
ALSO if you want to know who the real snubbers of our military are check out the cut in veterans benefits by the last administration!
So what?
Nothing this person does suprises me. commander and chief. duh
well what do you expect,… he is not My pres~ EVER!
jackie.#193..f.y.i if it wasn’t for us veterans,who blood and guts built a great nation..there would be no gala balls for any president to attend.
Yeah… I saw this movie before. Only it was called something else…what was it? Oh yeah — the Billmy CartClinton administrations. Nonsense and incompetence, excessive government, foreign policy disasters, and higher taxes. Damn, I hate sequels.
What people fail to realize is that this man is our Commander in Chief. The head honcho. The big man. No matter if he’s Democratic or not. The fact that the Democratic Party has contempt for the military is complete crap. Our nation was born out of… oh wait… WAR!!! The Revolution was the event that told the English Crown that we were a legitimate country, and we fought till they caved in.
The Medal of Honor recipients showed a courage beyond anyone could ever fathom. They risked their lives for a way of life that anti-war goons take for granted. Some of those men gave their LIVES for their country! And the President does this?
Democratic or not, he should be ashamed to call himself the President of the United States of America.
found out today,
it was all a hoax,
pushed by fox noise..
check this out..
http://chum.newsvine.com/_news/2009/03/20/2570992-fox-news-promo-falsely-claimed-obama-pushes-a-plan-requiring-vets-to-pay-for-health-insurance
Come on people!!! Get a grip. D0 you think this is the only party he didn’t attend that night? Just because he didn’t go to the party does not mean he doesn’t care about veterans. I would venture to say the budget for the VA goes up under Obama.
Well, in the interim, the president suggested wounded vets pay their own way saving alleged dollars on health care, despicable! Nice to see the optimists supporting BHO, how many of them are vets? The worst thing Nixon did was to eliminate the draft, you all, we all owe something to America, remember JFK? “Ask not hwt your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country!” As for the non-vets who post, my native American ancestors would say to you, “Walk a mile in my moccasins!”
It was warm and heartfelt. This is pure lies and hate about Obama snubbing any military personnel! Geez the guy hasn’t even finished the first day and the bottomfeeders are at him! WHAT A LIE!
if it wasn’t for us veterans,who blood and guts built a great nation..there would be no gala balls for any president to attend.
Hello everyone …. Having served in the U. S. Air Force (1968-1972) I got a four year, first hand view of what Washington, DC and the President of the United States REALLY think
about those who served OUR country. I always respected my BIG brother who served in the
U. S. Marines (1967-1971). We BOTH went to Vietnam, he from 1969-1970, I went as soon as
he returned – and was in Vietnam March, 1970-March, 1971 – as a photographer. I “bought”
the bull from Washington – until our plane landed in Vietnam. For 365 days I learned that
our government lied to all of us, if THEY kept the war going certain people in Texas would
make alot of money. At that time in our nation’s history – you dare not wear you uniform in public, nor even tell many people you were still in the service.
I THINK IF YOU ARE GOING TO BE THE GOVERNOR OF A STATE OR THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES – you should at least have been in the United States Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy or Coast Guard for 2 YEARS – that is not asking to much. Go to Basic Training – show US what you are made of, serve overseas somewhere that isn’t real comfortable – like in my day Vietnam !! Our current President never served – period. Our country treats our Military troops like 3rd class citizens – when I see 18 and 19 year old “young man or women” who are current members of the Military – with arms and legs missing, it just makes me cry. I did my 1 year in Vietnam and got out – that was 1 tour of duty. Many of our brave Men and Women are doing 2, 3 and 4 tours of duty.
All the while they’re underpaid, under appreciated, the divorce rate and suicide rate at an all-time high ….. yet many people care more about what celebrity is sleeping with another celebrity, a sports personality is getting paid more per year than over 100 soldiers make in that same year ….. OUR priorities are all screwed up, most but not all of our U. S. Government Senators and Congressmen/Congresswomen only care about getting
re-elected. The “nobodies” – that serve are Country are truly OUR heroes – yet our
government doesn’t pay them enough – as many lose their homes or are in foreclosure –
while AIG is getting ready to give out bonus checks and/or stocks to the same people
who got this Country in the horrible mess it is in. Since there is NO DRAFT – WHERE WOULD THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BE – RIGHT NOW. When I was a kid my church pastor prior to his sermon – would pray for various groups causes, our Military and he would always close
the prayer by saving a prayer for President Eisenhower and his staff weather you support them or not. I still pray for the President and his staff. Since this is a site for “military families” and issues – THEY TRULY NEED OUR PRAYERS. Go to a Military hospital and make some friends just visiting, if they are handicapped help them write letters, if they have lost a part of their body – DO WHATEVER YOU CAN TO DO – TO HELP THEM OUT.
TO ALL YOU VETS, FAMILY MEMBERS, CURRENT SOLDIERS EVERYWHERE – I SALUTE YOU AND MOST OF ALL I PROMISE TO CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR ALL OF YOU – IT IS SUCH A SIMPLE THING – PRAYING TO GOD ….. LEAVE IT IN HIS HEART AND HANDS – LET HIM SORT IT OUT – ALL OF THIS GOING ON
IN OUR WORLD IS JUST TO HARD TO EVEN UNDERSTAND — SO I PRAY. IF ONE PERSON WHO READS
THIS IS LIFTED UP AND ENCOURAGED – THEN I FEEL GOD PUT ME IN THE RIGHT SPOT, AT THE RIGHT
TIME – TO ENCOURAGE YOU. GOD BLESS EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU IS MY PRAYER TODAY, TOMORROW
AND EVERYDAY AFTER. ROGER C. FROM SAN DIEGO …..
FOR YOU
Conly care about getting re-elected
1.4% look it up
what a bunch of right wing sheep, people please think. don’t be just a bunch of tools
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