Have other Presidents spoke in front of military audiences?

[mrgorth]

This is so over the top militaristic that it's rediculous. I don't remember anyone else doing this. Anyone?

[davepc]

1. I think you'd have a hard time finding one who didn't.

[LSparkle]

3. During campaigns and for "local consumption" yes but not nationwide

When presidents have addressed the nation, they've usually done so either at press conferences or the Oval Office or some other part of the White House -- I don't remember any other (at least recent) president using the military as props the way Shrub has. Disgusting.

[tk2kewl]

2. I wonder if he will wear his commander-in-chief jacket?

:puke:

[IChing]

5. I had a poll on this last week with another Jacket he wears

He has another one with a V in it. If you like to see the victory jacket

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x1885097

[bullimiami]

6. george w bush space commander more like.

[ArkDem]

4. I don't think you'll be able to find one single historical reference

of a Commander-in-Chief addressing the troops.

[wakeme2008]

7. Well spoke to

Notice: Real War Zone...

No bullet proof vest.....

Dressed casual and not made up....

[Inland]

8. I don't remembert them being used as a primetime backdrop

if that's what you are asking.

[mrgorth]

10. Right.

[ComerPerro]

9. Of course. But it seems to be Bush's specialty

probably because they aren't allowed to express dissent, and because he can use them as props.

"See, Bush supports the troops! Look at the ones standing behind him, and the ones cheering!"

[mrfrapp]

11. I'll go one better

There aren't any western, "democratically" elected leaders who do this. Nor are there any who dress up in military garb (eg. the "mission accomplished" flight suit).

Seriously, Bush is the only leader to do this outside of Stalin, Pinochet, Gadaffi, Hussein, or any number of other dictators throughout the 20th century.

It beggars belief that they think that it's appropriate.

[Bridget Burke]

12. It's not just militarism.

He needs crowds that are 100% behind him so nothing untoward will occur. Like someone asking him a question.

So he has the pathetic handpicked crowds at his fake "town meetings."
And the military, who have been ordered to be quiet. I wonder what expressions will be on their faces?

[Redleg]

13. Yes, but not nearly to the extent Bush has done it.

EOM

[H2O Man]

14. A good example was LBJ.

When the anti-war movement became stronger, LBJ retreated to military back-drops for safety. It is common. Keep this in mind: Bush has never given the democratic left a greater prop film than his silly "Mission Accomplished" skit. It was as if a Saturday Night Live gag was playing prime time. Enjoy!

[SonofMass]

15. Here is one...