Retired U.S. Army generals to make TV commercials criticizing Bush's handling of Iraq war

[IChing]

Source: AP

WASHINGTON (AP) - Two retired Army major generals with experience in Iraq will appear in television commercials critical of President George W. Bush's handling of the war. The ads, to begin airing Wednesday, take aim at key Republicans in the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Financed by VoteVets.org, the $500,000 (euro368,785) in ads will feature retired Maj. Gens. John Batiste and Paul Eaton, both of whom have criticized civilian leaders of the U.S. Defense Department in the past. Batiste commanded the 1st U.S. Infantry Division in Iraq, and Eaton oversaw training of the Iraqi military from 2003 to 2004.

The commercials are timed to coincide with congressional debate over the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq.

The media markets chosen by VoteVets are designed to pressure Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, John Sununu of New Hampshire, John Warner of Virginia and Norm Coleman of Minnesota, all of whom are up for re-election next year. The ads also will run in the congressional districts of Republican Reps. Mary Bono of California, Phil English of Pennsylvania, Randy Kuhl and James Walsh of New York, Jo Ann Emerson of Missouri, Tim Johnson of Illinois, Fred Upton of Michigan and Michael Castle of Delaware.

Read more: http://www.nwfdailynews.com/article/4832

[Monkeyman]

1. This will not stop Vets of Iraq will keep fighting to bring them home

[seriousstan]

12. You mean like this "Iraq Vet"?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesse_Macbeth

[Zywiec]

2. I think this will be very effective.

I wonder if they can appear in their uniforms? That would be very impressive.

[Stinky The Clown]

6. No, they cannot wear their unioforms .....

Retiree Uniform Restrictions.

Wear of the member's uniform is prohibited for all retirees:

In connection with the promotion of any political or commercial interests or when engaged in off duty civilian employment. Reserve technicians who are also members of the Ready Reserve may wear their uniform at their option while on duty in their civil service status.

When participating in public speeches, interviews, picket lines, marches, rallies, or public demonstrations, except as authorized by competent authority.

When wearing the uniform would bring discredit upon the Uniformed Services.

When specifically prohibited by DoD Regulations.

Link: http://www.military.com/benefits/retiree/retiree-uniform-regulations

[Toots]

8. When wearing the uniform would bring discredit upon the Uniformed Services.

I guess that would depend on who is the decider as to whether they bring credit or discredit upon the service. I think it is very credible that men of their stature would stand up and say stop the crime spree.

[Sirveri]

11. I was not allowed to wear my uniform to see a movie.

That movie was Annapolis. It was an issue at my command due to it being a training facility with a large influx of students who were required to wear their uniform out in town.

[deepthought42]

15. You know, I never saw that movie...

but the Mids here in Annapolis, MD saw it. I do find a bit strange you couldn't wear your uniform, but I don't pretend to understand the rules regarding the wearing of uniforms.

[EVDebs]

13. But Ollie could wear it while testifying to all his illegal acts during Iraq/Contra

I always thought that the military academies 'will not tolerate anyone who lies, cheats or steals'. At least until graduation day.

[Raven]

3. Great idea! Some of the hold-outs here in NH need to hear from

a few generals. This will make a difference!

[iconoclastic cat]

4. Cool! nt

[Jim__]

5. I think that's great, but ...

IIRC, the last time retired generals spoke out publicly against bush's handling of the war, rumsfeld threatened their pensions. Hopefully, Gates won't pull that bullshit.

[ms liberty]

7. I wish they'd expand that market buy...

and include the NC markets also. I think Dole could be vulnerable here in my state.

[tabasco]

9. I salute these generals for doing the right thing and showing some loyalty to the troops.

:patriot:

[lonestarnot]

10. Excellent!

:patriot:

[flyarm]

14. greatttttt!! wonderful!! k&r..eom

[babylonsister]

16. K&R-hot stuff! I hope they help to wake America, & rethugs, up! nt

[Alamom]

17. Bravo !!!!! I hope many more follow their lead.

:patriot:

[Skittles]

18. looks like the swiftboaters have their work cut out for them

yes INDEED

[bdamomma]

19. good idea.