I wonder who gives the cops their orders at political gatherings around the country.  The police in Denver were none too tender with various groups in the street, and the police at the GOP convention staged preemptive strikes on people expected to protest.

Recently, at a debate site for Obama and McCain, the police again were very “pro-active” about protesters—this time against uniformed veterans who wanted to present a list of questions to the candidates.  So, today’s post is from a letter of the IVAW (Iraq Veterans Against War).  They are asking for contributions for the legal fund, as they were arrested, and some had injuries from being ridden down by horse-mounted police.

Why does it make me think of Cossacks and pogroms in old Russia?  Maybe the idea of armed men on horses riding against unarmed men on the ground?

From the IVAW:

One hour before the final presidential debate of the 2008 campaign, fourteen members of IVAW marched in formation to Hofstra University to present questions for the candidates concerning the occupation of Iraq and the treatment of returning veterans. IVAW had requested permission from debate moderator Bob Schieffer to ask their questions during the debate but got no response.

The contingent of veterans in dress uniforms and combat uniforms attempted to enter the building where the debate was to be held in order to ask their questions but were turned back by police. The ten IVAW members at the front of the formation were immediately arrested, and others were pushed back into the crowd by police on horseback. Several members were injured, including former Army Sergeant Nick Morgan who suffered a broken cheekbone when he was trampled by police horses before being arrested.

(And the questions)    1.  The invasion and occupation of Iraq is illegal based on criteria in our own Constitution, as well as international law and the Geneva Conventions.  Sen. Obama, is it not the right of service members to refuse deployment and participation in the occupation of Iraq?  As President, will you support the rights of service men and women who refuse participation in this criminal war?

2. Sen. McCain, we currently have thousands of veterans returning from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, many of them with severe injuries.  The rate of suicide attempts among veterans is at the shocking rate of up to 1,000 per month.  Sen. McCain, you have consistently voted against an increase in VA funding and other legislation that would take care of veterans.  As President, will you be prepared to fully fund and staff the VA system and how will you address your poor voting record on veteran’s issues?

I like asking McCain why he has sold out the veterans of every war.  I think the first question defies military custom.  Illegal war or not, soldiers do not get to pick and choose.  Voters, alas, SHOULD have more to do with that…to guard the precious lives OF the military members.  Wake up, voters!

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