Sorry, I had to do this

Sorry, I had to go there. This article appeared in the AJC recently. This is another example of the vast abyss between the priviliged class and the 'regular folks'. Actually, this type of behavior has gone on for generations, the rich kids always bought their way out of military service. But our Fearless Leader says we must sacrifice for 'freedom in Iraq', but seems to me the only ones sacrificing are the National Guard, the military forces and families and the consumer at the gas pump.

Yes, I guess I've turned this into a Bush Bashing session, but he opens so many doors! The 'War against Terrorism' started out on the right foot, with the US building worldwide support for the effort, and countries aligning themselves with us. But then came Iraq, and Bush did what he wanted, without building a coalition, just 'Damn the Torpedos and Full Steam Ahead'! His ideas of Democracy in the Middle East was a good one, but not realistic. Their culture is not ready for a democracy. But Dick Chenney saw a great business opportunity with no bid contracts and off we went. But no political children are in the military and have no desire to join. The British monarchy even requires military service, so Prince William is off to Iraq. What a shining example! Yes, he's a kid, a very good-looking, rich kid with a reputation for partying, but he's off to Iraq. Think he might be growing up?

The Red Lady has trashed other public figures and philantropists for not paying US taxes, but here's Haliburton opening a corporate office in Dubai. On their webpage, they have a PR release explaining the opening of the 'regional' headquarters. Think they will still pay US Taxes? They also mention opening a manufacturing plant in Mexico. Can you say cheap labor?

Now, I know that a business that doesn't make money doesn't survive. That is the sole reason for a business to exist. And getting out of US taxes would save tons of money. And opening a plant in Mexico would save tons of money. But some appologists think this administration can do no wrong, they are above suspicion. This smacks of hypocrasy considering Dick Chenney's connections with this company, and the administrations issues with opening documents on the energy issue.

Anyway, back to Iraq and the rich kids. Military service has always been up for bid, even back in Medievil times. The rulers, the kings and princes, always led the force over the hill into battle. A king was a successful king if he won many battles. He motivated his kingdom by appearing in full battle regalia at the front of the battle lines, kinda like Bush and his flight suit. (Yea, right) Since politicans today don't have to lead the troops into battle any more, it's easy to send people to their deaths when you don't know any of them. Battles used to be fought over lands, and in recent history, sometimes moral reason. We kicked Japan's butt because they attacked us, and we helped get rid of Hitler, but that was over land, too. But in more recent history, why have we had wars? What was the reason for Vietnam? (I'm asking, I don't really know, except we took it over from the French). So why are we in Iraq? To kick Terrorist Butt, but ben Ladin is still out there, isn't he?