I feel sorry for people like you. You need to go live with your friends, the Al-qaida’s. we have one grandson in the marines we are very proud of him without him and our other wonderful boys serving our great country ware would we be today? we would be going thur the same things some of these other countrys are going thur. it should tell you somthing when those people are trying to come over here. we will pray for you berkeley ca. because if they do get over here you people in berkeley may find your sleves needing the marines and if there not here for you o will you were told what could happen and i would say sink or swim BERKELEY the al-qaidas hate you just as much as they dislike the whole country here. maybe your town of berkeley should take a trip over there and visit your freinds over there and see if you would make it back in one peice. Ifor one hate having my tax money go to support ungratfull and ungodlly people like your town of berkeley ca. i feel bad for our next generations to come what a roll model you people are it will be a sad sad day in our country. GOD BLESS OUR MARINES ,ARMY,AIR FORCE AND NAVY

Mayor Bates and his city council should be ashamed of themselves and need a review of history. Our military has served nothing but noble causes around the world; protecting our interest and sheding more blood than all other countries combined. The Marines should have every right to recruit interested young men and women to serve their country. While the Mayor and his team’s support of Code Pink is their constitutional right, they have no right to intentionally promote this hostile environment toward these Marine recruiters. This is such a tragedy and I believe Berkely should be stripped of ALL Feferal support until they mend their ways.

I agree with most Americans that Ferderal Funds should be pulled from Berckley. In addition, Berckley should be heavily fined for everyday they do not allow the US Armed Forces to recruit within their community. If these action fail to produce the desire results, the United States should treat the city coucil, mayor and code pink organization as an organization that is attempting to overthrough the US Government. The state of California should condemn the city in the best interest of the country and state, remove it’s corporation and disolve the city council. If California fails to resolve the issue the Federal Government should impose fines on the state of California.

As noted by Greg above: “Marines from Berkley and the surrounding area are currenly serving throughout the world, including the combat theater of operations.” Furthermore since the University of California has a military recruiting program and allows military recruiting that would mean students from this university have also served. The broad brushed denunciations of anyone who happens to live or work in Berkeley are out of place, and unAmerican.

I’m curious about Mayor Tom Bates military service. Was he drafted? Did he retire as a reservist? How do you spend twenty years in the service and retire as a Captain??

I’m for cutting federal funding to the City of Berkeley and will continue to weekly email congressmen.
If you want your children to eat more nutritious lunches, get off your fat butts and do something about it. I disagree with providing a private business (corporation?) with federal funding for something that is a parental responsibility. Maybe Code Pink could sponsor Berkeley’s children’s education since they know better than parents what they need. I want my tax dollars to go to the Marines.

Marines from Berkley and the surrounding area are currenly serving throughout the world, including the combat theater of operations. It is remarkable that in a time were these young people are sacrificing, the Berkley city leaders would take such a stand. I would venture to say that none of these city leaders has a family member currently serving. I would be very surprised to find out that any of them have ever served. If they had shared that experience, they would have been much more careful before making such rediculous statements, and would be much more sensitive about Marines, their families, and the veterans in their area of influence.

We are a military family, now retired. After 32 yrs of military service by my husband and I had the honor to be with him for 28 of those years, it make me furious to think that my children did without their father through the years to defend a community with the mentallity of Utopia… Your shores, borders and “free” speach is paid for by others. You are ungrateful for the rights that you have. Then you put your hand out to reap the benefits of the federal government to maintain your city. You have through the years made it very clear that you do not want to be part of America, well, you live on a shore, easy access to leave. GO… Like it or not you are Americans and you are on American soil. Your land was bought and paid for with previous lives and your “speech” should reflect the pride you have in their sacrafice. Freedom of speech is your right, but you are offensive… We will never “give you the land” so start respecting American soil… you do not own it, it is on loan to all of us who should cherish and respect it. I for one am for cutting or reducing your funds as a penalty for causing mayhem. I am sure your city does not wavier the cost of a ticket because your city rules are not being followed… the American people are “ticketing” you for not abiding by America’s rules.

Berkely, San Francisco, Boulder and all these other America hating cities should be cut off from the rest of America. Equally sickening is the way conservative leadership fails time after time to make a constant example of people and communites that despise America and have no respect, love or appreciation for America and the best of its people, the military who make it possisble for Berkely to exist in peace.
To me, Berkely, the disgraceful people who lead it and its followers are traitors. But tomorrow if there was a crisis in one of these cities, Bush would send troops there to do the dirty work for these satanic ingrates….that is just as disgusting as the city of Berkeky itself and that is why these America haters do what they do because they know the republicans are too dang wimpy to tell them to stuff it up their rear end.

I think Berkley should be ashamed of themselves. If it wasn’t for our “men and women in uniform” they would not be permitted to do such a thing and would be thrown in jail. I strongly urge the government to take away their aid and grant money for such action, that would make them think twice about such actions.

To the Citizens of Berkley, Wake up!! We need our military. These men and women who serve our country are to be proud of, not put down. Over the past several years my husband and I have boycotted S.F. and we are now adding Berkley to the list. We come to northern CA for 3 months every summer (Sacramento and Lake Tahoe area). The money we no longer spend in your area isn’t much, but there are plenty of people who feel the same. It adds up.

As a retired member of the US Air Force, I have written to my state senator requesting the earmarks for Berkeley California be removed. Haveing spent 13 years overseas and during the Vietnam war in Vietnam, I find your response to the marine corps recruiting center reprehensable. If I should meet people from Berkeley in Florida, I will not hesitate to tell them they are unwanted in our state and to please go elsewhere. You are not welcome in the state of Florida. I respectfully request you move to Canada if this offends your “moral values”.

The largest cut off in funds under the Semper Fi act would be to the Robert Matsui center of the University of California. However, the university is a state institution, separate from the city, it has an ROTC program, allows military recruiting, and its chancellor denounced the city council action. It makes no sense to punish the university for the actions of a city council over which it has no control. Furthermore, the lunch school program has been mischaracterized by promoters of the Semper Fi act, particularly Senator DeMint. The purpose of this program is to provide healthier food to school kids, not a bad idea, especially now, when about 37 million pounds of tainted beef are being recalled from school cafeterias across the nation.

Gentlemen, Ladies; city council, mayor and citizens of Berserkly:

Leave the Marines alone. they are just doing their job, in a WAR YOU WANTED OR DID NOT BOTHER TO STOP.

You might need them someday. Afther Vietnam, it should not have taken this long to figure out what was going on in this B.S. war. Just another war for the military-industrial corporation profits.

Charles R Ross
USMC 1964-1968

I am disgusted by the particpation and the support the city of Berkley has displayed in this sham of a protest. It is obvious that none of these people have served their country or believe in what our country stands for but are quick to enjoy the rewards. The only reason they can even begin to exercise the opinions they have is because of the men and women who have fought, are fighting, and have died FOR MYcountry. Yeah, my country becasue these people do not deserve to be included in my country. I am a veteran as is my husband. My father was a marine and died being proud of the service he provided to his country. Berkely’s city council members actions are horrible and they should be held accountable. I would support pulling all federal funding from the city if this is the type of appreication they have for our armed services.

They don’t deserve to receive any type of aid for a service they don’t support. They should be a shamed of themselves and their lack of values for the armed services who are responsible for the priviledges they enjoy today. Let them go to Iraq or Iran and enjoy the type of “freedom” those folks have for a while. Maybe they would appreciate what they have a little bit more if they live to tell the tale.

The marines should be allowed to stay and if the citizens of Berkley do not want to join the service then stay the hell away…. but allow everyone to make their own decision.

GOD BLESS OUR MEN AND WOMEN OF THE UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES!

To hell with Tom Bates, Berkley’s City Council and it’s federal funding! GET RID OF IT ALL!

Sincerely,
A Proud Air Force Veteran

Get with me on the logic train a second.

Did the Marines set up a recruiting center in Berkeley to irritate the city council and code pink?

No.

Ok, did the Marines set up a recruiting center to get recruits?

Yes.

Ok, Are the Marines holding a gun to anyone’s head or otherwise coercing recruits?

No.

So, the recruits the Marines are getting are volunteers and actually want to join?

Yes.

So, what this comes down to is the city council of Berkeley is offended that their OWN CITIZENS want to make a choice that they, the council doesn’t approve of. There’s a name for this type of government, where the government assumes the right to tell it’s citizens how to think and what they can do. It’s called Totalitarianism. You know, like Stalin in the Soviet Union. You can have free choice, as long as it’s a choice the state approves of.

Whether you think the Marines are knuckle-dragging Neanderthals and killers, or defenders of our freedom and (along with Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen) among the best and bravest of our country, the action by Berkeley denying their own citizens the right of free choice, is something every person with two or more brain cells should think about.

Mayor Tom Bates and the City Council Members, you are a disgrace to America! You and your cronies should be deported to France! If I were a United States Marine and your city needed my help I would refuse even if they locked me up in the brige!

Mayor Bates

The picture of you in your “code pink” cap makes you look like the clown you really are.

Federal funding should be cut off.

I read a short article this A.M. that indicates the map makers of this country are considering removing Berkeley from all future graphic representations of California. It is yet to be decided whether the void will be filled with a big old glob of pink or will be cut out and flushed!

Shame on you, our military people are getting killed so you can continue to make stupid decisions!

Way to go Berkeley. Cave in to the anarchists and insult the Marines.

Berkeley is so courageous.(I roll my eyes.)

Until they talked about federally defunding your city.

The only reason these people backed down was in the hope that they would not lose federal funding.

You bitch about the war being a money machine for Halliburton and other entities.

But when they threatened to remove your city from the federal tit, you relented just a little bit.

Because your money machine was about to get broken.

What a bunch of America hating hypocrites you are.

You hate America but you don’t want to lose all those American dollars.

Stick to your guns. Oh, that’s right. Folks like you don’t believe in gun ownership.

When your city is on fire because you chose anarchy, I hope there is not one boot on the ground to give you people any relief. The only thing that will be able to save the decent people of Berkeley will be the “evil right wingers” trapped inside with their guns ready. Because of how you’ve betrayed them, why should they be bothered to take action for Berkeley’s defense?

They probably won’t. But they will defend their own.

The anarchists will burn in the very fires they built! What a legacy for Berkeley.

I fully support ALL federal funding cuts to this town for their harassment of the marine recruitment office/closure. Those pious governmental officials would not have the PRIVILEDGE to protest if it were not for our MILITARY MEMBERS OF THESE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA….If they (Code Pink) and the Berk. governmental officials do not like our military then they can LEAVE…I suggest Iraq or Syria for their new home!

God Bless America and without him we could not stand!

Tina in Texas (God’s counrty)

I oppose the war in Iraq and prior to Bush ordering the invasion of that country. I do not support George W. Bush and did not vote for him in either election. However, I have two sons who are serving in the United States Marine Corps. One has just recently returned from a tour in Iraq and the other is scheduled to deploy there.

If I had it within my power, every Marine Corps installation; base; office; camp and facility would move out of your state and relocate elsewhere. No Marine or Marine Corps supporter ought to soil the soles of their shoes by walking across one half inch of dirt in or near your city.

I do not care what decisions you reverse as to your policies regarding the Marine Corps recruiting station: no one needs to spend one more dime in Berkeley!

The actions of the City of Berkeley and their mayor are very disturbing to me. As Mayor, Bates should be representing all of Berkeley, not just a few liberal, anti-American views. YES, in my mind being anti-marine or anti-military is absolutey ANTI-AMERICAN. If you don’t agree, pick up a U.S. History book and read it!!!

does it get any scummier ……undermining those
gallaant men and women
fighting and dying to protect our very way of life?

Dear Berkeley City Council:

I would encourage you to reassess your spiteful spirit toward the men and women who just freed 55,000,000 people in the Middle East from disrespectful dictators who maimed women, ricin gassed communities who disagreed with their political views, and other atrocities of tyrants. Those 55,000,000 people are at risk if you behave in such a way as to remove the Marines from these countries by cratering to your ill will.

Our marines are heroes. They don’t allow the little people to get bullied by foreign insurgents.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth B. Marsh

As you in Berkeley do not want your fair city polluted by the presence of United States military personnel and are exercising your right of “expression” guaranteed by US military personnel, I also have a right not to support directly or indirectly causes in which I do not believe, at the top of the list of which is any of my tax dollars whether state or federal being spent in, on, or around Berkeley, CA in any way which might benefit the city in any way or your continued occupancy of public office, the stewardship of which you have debauched. Therefore, I support any effort by the US Congress to cut you off from any federal funds no matter how noble their purpose or intent. I will further support any effort at the state level to act similarly.

I am also reminded how much the folks of your persuasion abhor those who disagree with you because you do not like their values and that reminds me also how religious you are in you zeal to perfect irrationalism. That’s why I can take some solace that you have come out of your not too well concealed closet to reveal your nature so that others can understand how to recognize the nature of intellectual and moral rot.

This is a copy of the msg I sent to the mayor last week. He did respond (surprising)! Sadly, it was the same back peddaling generic crap that he spewed to everyone.

mayor (re: getting your city council in order)

I can tell you that I don’t know what all of your responsibilities as a Mayor include.

But I can guarantee! That you should NOT be standing by and letting the

City counsel make obnoxious public statements about OUR MARINES who serve and protect

Everyone in this country, as though the council members speak for all of the residents of Berkley, CA.

I assure you they don’t! I have plenty of friends and family in the area who strongly

Disagree with their outrageous comments. I imagine if we had another attack

On the U.S., this time in CA, you all would expect the U.S. Armed Forces to

Protect you then. DO NOT TALK TRASH ABOUT OUR MEN AND WOMEN

IN THE ARMED FORCES. It WON’T be tolerated by the citizens of this Great Free

Country. You guys talk about freedom of speech out there like it’s one

Of the 10 Commandments. So when you use that free speech, SPEAK WELL of the people that

have sacrificed their Lives, limbs, and loved ones, in order to continue to provide it.

My son, who intends On joining the Marines as an officer in the next few years, came just last month to

Tour the Berkley campus while visiting family. You can keep your school, and your

Ideals. We are no longer interested in moving there, or spending our hard earned

$$ with your school. In a time of trouble and war, we need to ENCOURAGE the

People who have volunteered to serves us.

Signed,

A very concerned citizen, mother

Denise Davis

THANKS TO ALL WHO SUPPORT OUR MILITARY !

SEMPER FIDELIS.

If these people don’t support our troops and our country they need to take their traditorous liberal, communist butts and go to iran where they will be appreciated!!! if the u.s. was attacked again, they would be the first ones hollering “WHERE IS OUR TROOPS,HELP!!” these people are nothing but traditors and should be ARRESTED FOR TREASON!!! EVERY SOLDIER IN OUR MILITARY ARE REAL AMERICAN HERO’S!!! PAST AND PRESENT!!! JAY from wv

First of all, THANK YOU to everyone above that has served and sacraficed. ( that includes family members). I sent the mayor an email when I first heard about this atrocity. The nausea hasn’t gone away yet. Many generations in my family have PROUDLY volunteered and served in the Navy. My son turns 18 on Feb 15, 2008 and is biting @ the chomp to swear in as a Marine.
I have 2 regrets: One is that I didn’t sign up myself ( but I’m taking every opportunity to support those who did and do),
my second regret is that I spent my first vacation in 5 years, in Berkley to visit friends over the holidays. We even took a tour of the campus. I promise I’ll not send him there. That city won’t get one more dime of my hard earned $$. Luckily we only spent $20 of our own money in that town. My first question is: where do I apply for a refund???? My second question is where do I cast my ballot to vote them off the island? Maybe WE should distribute pink beanie caps and make the liberal fascists wear them so the Marines know who NOT to retrieve in an emergency. I’d pay good money towards that Signed,
Wondering who’s running California?

Concerned citizen in Northern Virginia

I think that the Berkeley City Council is anti-American and trying to quash both freedom of speech and freedom of information. Military service is one career option that some may choose, however, if they can’t even talk to recruiters, where else will people get their information from? The unbiased City Council? I guess the real interesting aspect of this would be “Why is this issue coming up now?” My guess, friends of Nancy Pelosi are trying to distract from the utter failure that this Congress has been with the leadership of Grandma who wanted to help the children!! It’s all for the children, including protecting young adults, not children from the military-industrial complex. I think these people need to grow up and get a life.

The Berkeley City Council shows shameful disregard for the men and women who have provided them the privilege of freedom. They should be reminded:

Being born free is a blessing
Living free is a privilege
Dying free is a duty

The members of the Berkeley City Council can thank the Marines and other branch service members for being able to live and die free.

Thank goodness other cities allow places for young patriots to enlist to protect the freedom we enjoy. Perhaps the Berkeley City Council would prefer being called to order in another country.

The Berkeley Mayor and city council and code pink are probably the same people or type of people who spit on the Marines coming back from vietnam. I served in vietnam 1965-1966 and Berkeley was the same liberal Marine haters back then! These people just dont get it, the freedom they have is because of Marines, Army, Navy and Air Force. Wake up code pink! Wake up Berkeley! Freedom is not Free! It is paid for with the lives of all our Service men!
Semper Fi
Adron T. Proveaux Vetern Marine Sgt. 1966

YOU PEOPLE JUST SPIT ON THE GRAVES OF TENS OF THOUSANDS OF OUR YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN WHO DIED SO THAT YOU WOULD NOT END UP IN CONCENTRATION CAMPS OR WORK GANGS. HOW YOU AND THE LIBERAL FOOLS COULD JUST SET ASIDE ALL THAT WAS DONE IN WORLD WAR 1 , 2 , KOREA, VIETNAM IS COMPLETELY BEYOND COMMON SENSE OR GRATITUDE TO GIVE YOU THE COUNTRY THAT YOU CAN DO THIS IN AND NOT BE THROWN IN SOME PRISON OR CAMP FOR “RETRAINING” SUCH AS MANY COUNTRIES DO.,
NONE OF YOU DESERVE WHAT YOU HAVE, YOU DON’T LOVE THIS COUNTRY AND YOU WOULD NOT DEFEND IT, BUT YOU WOULD BE THE FIRST TO CRY FOR THE MILITARY WHEN THE INVADERS LAND ON YOUR BEACHES..

GET OUT –GO TO ANY COUNTRY YOU THINK WOULD WELCOME YOU.. BUT I WOULD “LOVE” TO SEE YOU GET OFF THE BOATS WITH YOUR “PINK CAPS” AND WHAT THE REACTION OF THAT COUNTRYS ARMED FORCES WOULD DO TO YOU WHEN YOU DO,, HOW UNGRATEFUL CAN YOU BE ????

I attend UC Berkeley, and absolutely love it here. Everyone is not a liberal. Student groups such as the Berkeley College Republicans (BCR) and Cal Libertarians are quite large and funded just the same as their democratic counterparts.

That being said, I have nothing against non-violent protests — a way people can show their disagreement without being censored or easily ignored. the I would love to see the faces of code pink showing up to their protest with group, their size or larger, of military supporters already there.

Still, for every liberal hater who bashes Berkeley, there is a republican hater who labels middle America as a group of ignorant fascists. When it comes to voting, America is split 50/50. At the end of some day, I’d like to see us come together. There are a *lot* of people, like myself, who think the far left and right camps are both nuts.

It’s too bad there’s no third party. It’s too bad that nearly every company employing lobbyists donates to both camps, 60/40 or 40/60. America will be just as corrupt no matter who we vote for in November. I wish someone was protesting that…

I’m at no loss for words and or suggestions for the mayor of Berkeley, its city council members, and citizens contributing to the protest of service members recruiting in the area. Afterall, it is becuase of the service of these men and women and those that have served before them, that they are indeed able to speak their minds, voice their opinions, and protest for their beliefs. BUT, it is to that extent that it should be allowed, federally, to go. Any attempt to restrict any action on the part of those Americans who make it possible for citizens to have a “free” voice, let alone voice it, IS a violation of the service members rights. And those engaging in said actions, should be prosecuted.

Yet, prosecution takes time and money and in reality do we really want to waste any more tax payers dollars on a few very bad apples who fail to see the benefits of the very few who are willing to fight for the freedoms of the rotten apples? Let them wine and complain and protest all they want. Yet it should cost them. They should not receive ANY of the benefits service members have fought to provide, firstly, citizen status in a contiguous United States of America. Secondly, they should not receive any funding from any form of government, afforded by the selfless service of service men and women. And finally, they should not receive any benefit of a free press provided by the dedication and hard work of our servicemen. Like a whiny toddler, ignore them. Sooner or later they will stop crying and get with the program.

The people of Berkeley are COWARDS. They have never and would never stand up for anything that would actually put their lives at risk. One of their idols Martin Sheen once said that it was brave of him and his ilk to protest the war in the streets of LA. Really? Protesting in the streets of a country that guarantees the right of free speech and assembly is brave? Well it is to this pathetic excuse for humankind. These Code Pink people are a waste of air that real Americans could be breathing. They routinely denounce everything this country stands for but never leave permanently. I wonder why? Easy, reference my first sentence. Churchhill said it best: “if you are twenty and not a liberal, you have no heart. If you are forty and not conservative, you have no brains.” NO BRAINS: The people of Berkeley in two words!

I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1970 fully aware how unpoplular it was with many I knew. Some refused to talk to me after that. The Vietnam war was unpopular. Yet, for almost two hundred years, men and women who are active citizens in this country have understood that freedom is not “free”. There is a price to pay.

I paid my bill to my country by being a Marine. I has always been one of the best decisions of my life. This country needs a strong military to maintain our way of life. Often times we disagree with out government, we are free to complain and have our voices heard. We have the right to vote and select our leaders. This isn’t free, it comes with a cost.

Berzerkly, was a disgrace in the ’60s and it continues to be so. However, I served in the Marines to protect your constitutional right to be ungrateful, selfish, self-centered cowards.

Isn’t this a great country? Lot’s of luck to you.

TO THE MAYOR, CODE PINK, AND THE CITY COUNCIL OF BERKELEY:
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT YOUR “SERVICES” ARE NO LONGER WELCOMED OR APPRECIATED. YOU ALL APPEAR TO CLOSELY RESEMBLE SOME NOTORIOUS DICTATORS OF THE PAST AND PRESENT: HITLER, STALIN, POL POT, SADDAM, CHAVEZ HUGO!!! YOU GET THE POINT. AS AN AMERICAN & A MARINE MOM, ONE WHOSE SON IS ONE OF THE MANY FEW AND PROUD, WHO HAS DONE ONE TOUR IN IRAQ, AND IS PREPARING FOR HIS SECOND, I THINK IT’S TIME YOU ALL PACKED YOUR BAGS AND JOINED HIM. YOUR LOUD MOUTHED, IGNORANT TIRADES WILL BE APPRECIATED IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND I’M SURE “WELL RECEIVED.” SO, HOW ABOUT IT? MOVE ALONG AND WHILE YOU’RE AT IT, TAKE ALL OF THE PINK YOU WANT AS THE DESERT NEEDS SOME COLOR!!! IF YOU CAN’T STAND BEHIND OUR TROOPS, FEEL FREE TO GET IN FRONT OF THEM!!!!
A PROUD MARINE MOM

Mr Mayor I respect your freedom on your view of the war on Terrorism. Howerever the lack of respect that I have for your views are not returned in kind. I am a recently retired USMC who now works as a Goverment Civilian for the Department of Defense. I love my country so much that I still work to defend my country after my service in the Corps. For you to say that you support our troops but not the war or recruiting of young people for military service is a shame. For once have the courage to say exactly how you feel. But I guess courage is something in short supply for you. True Courage is LCpl Blair 2nd LAAD Bn who was killed in Iraqi during the battle of the bridges at An Nasiriyah. You may not be proud of our COUNTRY OR OUR FLAG BUT PATRIOTS LIKE LCPL BLAIR HAVE SHED THEIR BLOOD FOR THAT FLAG. First Marines are not allowed to go into the airport terminal at Oakland upon their return from Iraqi (because they are a security risk), than Marines are not allowed to film a scene near the Golden Gate Bridge and now this recruiting office is unwanted and an intrusion. I guess people like you forgets the state of this country prior to WWII when people just wanted us to stay out of the world business and not get involved look how that turned out.

I really did not think it was possible for the pitiful Berkely City Council to top the Ordinance passed after 9/11 that prohibited Firefighters from having the American Flag displayed on their Fire Trucks; however, leave it to the “Liberal Loones” to bash the Marines who are dying for their freedoms. Once again, Berkely you are “pitiful”!!!

We love our troops and we are sick of the Vietnam war leftover groupies and their kids who want to undermine our efforts there. God Bless America and Americans!!

I just read the Fox News report on the council meeting last evening.

Councilwoman Linda Maio said the council opposes recruitment not the military.

Does she truly believe that makes any sense??? How are we to have a military WITHOUT recruitment?? They go hand in hand….without recruitment there WILL BE NO Military! Oh wait, yes there is a way, by reinstating the draft. Wouldn’t that just “tickle them pink”

I truly am embarrassed for the residents of Berkely. I pray that you all take a good hard look at the people you have elected to represent you. Your mayor needs to be ousted along with every council member and you start anew.

My son is one of The Few, The Proud and is preparing for is 3rd deployment. He choice to become a Marine has had a very positive affect on his life. The values he has learned will be with him for a life time. His father and I are so very proud of him and all our youth that have CHOSEN to protect us. Where would we be without them?

If Code Pink is so determined to bring our Troops home, then they should step up and go to Iraq and Afghanistan so our Fine young men and women come home. Actually that might be a good idea. If you don’t stand behind our Troops, then kindly stand in front of them. And you cannot say you support are Troops but are against recruitment.

Jana Becker
Proud Marine Mom

Jeff,

I think you get my point on the Germany analogy. The crowds were incited and driven to a fervor against the Jewish community. Just like the majority of the comments here are from people outraged against Berkeley. It’s energy wasted. If the Marines were paid respective to the duty they provide for this country they wouldn’t need a recruiting office.

So while you believe I was being dishonest I believe you have misinterpreted my point.

I find it very interesting that Berkeley was given the right to put in their 2 cents worth because of our Heros who have fought for our freedom…..and, even, THEIR right to take a stupid vote like this! Shame! Shame! Shame!

“People who don’t have childen in a war zone cannot fully understand what we go through every second of every day. Our life is no long normal. Normal is watch TV news and flipping back and forth between CNN and Fox…it’s checking your email at 2,4,5,6 am just to check in case..and you pray. And you remember the little boy you would not even allow to cross the street by himself. And you pray…” (Laurel Olmsted)

My son spent 2005 in Iraq and would go back in a heartbeat because he believes that the Iraqis have a right to the same freedoms we have and, IF we dont’ fight them there, we’ll fight them HERE. Will Berkeley want the Marines then? You bet your sweet A__ they will!

rebuttal to:

Comment by Dave
February 12th, 2008 at 8:59 pm

Dave Writes:

“A lot of the comments on this topic are absolutely laughable while others make you realize what it felt like to be a Jew in Germany in 1938.”

Hey Dave ?

How many of those Jews in 1938 were protesting outside one of Hitlers recruitment offices ? Your analogy is specious at best, and more likely dishonest! You are completely disregarding the fact that “Code Pinko” is protesting the very institution that gave them the right to make fools of themselves in public. Something the Jews could never have done in Nazi Germany!

You are entitled to your point of view Dave, but lets keep it honest from here on out, ok ?

God Bless America Y’all!

Mayor of Berkley,
You are a coward………………….and all of your flunky friends….. meaning city council……..
It is apparent that you have forgotten 911.
Semper Fidelis means always faithful to GOD and Country no matter what.

Read Bradshaw what else can be said………… Thank you Marine.

The Berkely city once again distinguishes itself from the just plain “hate America” crowd and has now joined the enemies of freedom. I sincerely hope that FEDERAL TROOPS march into your city and ARREST the Mayor and City Council for allowing these protests to close a federal office, namely the Marine Recruiting Station. I am the proud father of a United States Marine who has pulled tours of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq. YOU, the people of Berkely disgust me as YOU spit on our defenders, the military, and the memories of those who gave their lives for SCUM like yourself.

It is a shame that the City Council Members of Berkeley and the Mayor have taken this position.How very lucky you all are that they have MEN that went into WAR to defend this country so that you can have the freedom of speech.
It is a sad situation when the leaders of a city bring these types of matters into the public eye. How insulting to all Military men and women who have served honorably. What are you teaching our future soldiers. Hopefully the young men and women of today are smart enough to ascess the situations and make up thier own minds. What happens when you are too old to take care of your self and Terriost invade this country. you had better hope many years have passed so young men and women won’t remember what you are doing at this time. Maybe just maybe they will have a little compassion and help you out. You people disgust me.

A lot of the comments on this topic are absolutely laughable while others make you realize what it felt like to be a Jew in Germany in 1938.

Now that couple that with a few knucklehead politicians jumping on the bandwagon and dreaming up the Semper Fi act. You guys should be censored. Big deal if a city wants their recruiting office shutdown. Does Berkeley supply 98% of new recruitments for the Marines?

Back to the exploiting Politicians drafting up the Semper Fi act. Quit wasting money on useless legislation which is purely your attempt to exploit an issue blown out of proportion. Spend time drafting new legislation that:

1. Increases all Military pay by 30% for all soldiers that have seen front line action.

2. Full Health care ( including Dental ) for all soldiers for life. Benefits that mimic what the House and Senate have today.

3. Establish employment connections for all Military personnel with the companies that have profited on the Iraq war.

4. Ensure OUR Military are equally paid so companies like Blackwater etc. Make it hard to compete and stay profitable.

One final note - elect a President that won’t lie to the American people and start a war that we shouldn’t have started.

I am absolutely appalled by the City of Berkeley’s actions regarding the Marine Recruitment Office.
The last time I looked, we still lived in the United States of America where freedom rings. What right does the Mayor and the City Council have to “kick” a legally operating business out of their city! It’s completely outrageous!
I don’t know what premise they think they are operating on, but, if they think Americans are going to look the other way on this, they are sadly mistaken.
This is a shameful misuse of power, and I hope the federal government pulls funding from projects and kicks Berkeley where it really hurts - in the pocket book.
Good Bless the first amendment FOR ALL CITIZENS (NOT JUST THE ONES WHO AGREE WITH CODE PINK)

Berkley City Council:

My son is a former US Soldier (1st Cavalry Division), he served in Kosovo for 6 months, and Iraq for 1 year. His service in Iraq was noble. He assisted civilians, handed out food to those in need, helped to build schools and hospitals and cleared cities of foreign fighters who were blowing up innocent women and children. Military service made him mature into a fine young man who will be a trustworthy and decent citizen of any city he resides in.

Shame on you and your city for bringing shame on our military. Let the Marines carry on their business in Berkley. I hope that the Federal Government withdraws their funds from your city. Federal funds shouldn’t go to cities that participate in such one-sided and small-minded protests. It is one thing for you to be against the war in Iraq - it is entirely different for you to be actively involved in physical protests and give space to Code Pink. You are supposed to protect ALL the citizens of Berkley and to make way for ALL to participate in civic life - even the MARINES who you hate. What would happen to America if every city council started actively campaigning against businesses they didn’t agree with?

To the morons opps sorry I mean the people of Berkley,
It disgusts why anyone would do this. You all have some real guts to protest and trash the men and women that fight for this country. Where do you get off protesting the same people that gave you the rights you have…. to include protest. You all are no better than those wackos from Westboro “Baptist Church”. This is right up there with Westboro on the bracket of treason. I spent 7 months overseas for this country just to have people like you destroy the American name. You have no rights to treason. People like you should be sent to some other country… you seem to think what we do is wrong in the military, thats fine we should send YOU to Iraq and Afghanistan to live since you seem to hate America so much. Why would you continue to live here if you act like this so much?I know why, because you enjoy the freedoms that the ones you are protesting got for you.
And to the city counsel member that says he USE to be a Marine, thats right, your not a Marine. I am and Im damn proud of it. 30,40,60 years down the line I will countinue to be a DAMN PROUD MARINE.
I know in some way that you all will pay, one way or another, for what you have done and said. Berkley California should not be concidered part of the USA.

To Mayor Bates and City Council members of Berkeley, CA:

As a recovering ex-hippie, a former Peace Corps Volunteer and father of a young Marine who fell in Iraq (my firstborn child), let me say that I am disturbed about your motives, your tactics and your agenda. You seem to think that your voice, and the voices of those who prop you up, should be the only ones heard. You are sadly mistaken.

Sincerely,

Dick Linn
Proud father of
USMC LCpl Karl R. Linn

KIA 1/26/2005 Haqlaniyah, Iraq

What these socialists are doing amounts to treason and any earmarks should be STOPPED. Our men and women in uniform have enough without adding this crap. Enough !

I AM IMPRESSED THAT THE PEOPLE IN BERKLEY ARE WILLING TO STAND UP FOR THEIR CONVICTIONS, HOWEVER STUPID. I ALSO AM FIRMLY CONVINCED THAT THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES SHOULD TREAT THEM AS A FOREIGN HATEFUL GOVERNMENT AND STOP ALL FEDERAL FUNDS GOING TO THE CITY AND ITS INSTITUTIONS SUCH AS THE UNIVERSITY. THAT WILL IMPRESS ON THE PINHEADS THEY ARE FREE TO DO WHATEVER THEY CAN AFFORD.

NO FEDERAL OR STATE MONEY FOR STREETS, UNEMPLOYMENT, OR SCHLORSHIPS. NO TEACHERS SUPPLIMENTS, NOTHING. AND THEY CAN FIGHT THEIR OWN WARS.

If most Americans felt as you; There would be no U.S.A.

ok i know i was a little over, well so over you wouldnt print,smile sorry about that,
to the man in office in ca berkeley, you should rally all your little pink supporters, get them all togather,all your little twisted do gooders from california,and include your govenor, and go get on a ship headed to the phillipines or jordan, or someplace other than here, we dont want you here, we dont like you here, so why dont you leave here,
god have mercy on your twisted dilusional inept minds, its people like you and your kind that cause a bush to be in office, so take him with ya, too! your like a cancer, the sooner all you can be aradicatted the better,

and our military? i hope while your on your ship going to your utopia that you have the need for help as your sinking in the pacific,yelling for your fellow countrymen to help you, as we turn a deaf ear to your calling, its like takin out the trash here in west virginia

SHAME ON YOU BERKLEY CITY COUNCIL! You are not a nation within a nation the last time I looked at the almanac.

Without the military where would we be post WWII? Perhaps speaking German and Japanese… and not as an foreign language elective option. The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” slogan was established under Pres Bill Clinton. The apple of every Liberal Democrats eye.

SHAME ON YOU for allowing the coercive group CODE PINK have parking permits directly in front of the Marine Recruiting Office. This would be akin to allowing PRO-LIFE supporters having the same rights to park in front of an abortion (Family Planning) clinic. I seriously don’t THINK your city council would allow Pro-Lifers to protest at an abortion clinic. (please note, I am pro-choice and would not be found in a picket line of pro-choicers. It’s a very personal decision. As is the decision to join the military. Get out of the CODE-PINK coffers and protect the rights of those who want to have the freedom to explore their options and join the military if they so desire. It’s NOT your right to butt in to their personal decisions.

Thank you. GOD BLESS AMERICA and God Bless the Troops fighting to protect America, it’s ideals, traditions and existence.

Linda Savadian
Santa Clarita, CA

I am sorry to say that I was born in Berkeley. What a sad transformation from a beautiful small college town to the socialist empire it is today. I would hope that we cut off all Federal funding, boycot those affiliated with any type of sponsership towards the city or the council and encourage the good people of Berkely (if there are any left) to protest in keeping the recruting station open. On second thought, I am a verteran and would hope those kooks would not join our finest. They should go to another country and apply there skills there. Let them try to instill there liberal ways upon where ever they end up.
Let us band together to protect our Borders, Language and American Culture

Phil

Penny Long -

As a Liberal who served this country in the 1st Persian Gulf War, I am appalled that you would lump all Liberals in with the Berkeley crowd. This tactic of painting Democrats and Liberals with a broad brush must stop. Not all Liberals feel the same as the Berkeley nuts, in particular not this Liberal. You’ll note that not every Conservative believes that McCain will be a good president, but I digress.

This belief that Liberals, and Conservative, march in lock step with the nutbags of their political persuasion, has done much to polarize this country. The truth is that speaking in broad terms about folks is just easy that’s why Ann Coulter, Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh employ this tactic constantly and consistently. If you listen to these folks you come to believe that Liberals hate their country. Funny though, as a Liberal, I loved my country enough to serve in its military. Neither Sean nor Rush can say that.

Now, you ask “what would a Liberal Veteran like myself have to say about this?” Well, I say pull their federal funding, with freedom comes consequences. If the citizen of Berkeley are happy with that, then the Mayor will live to see another day. I suspect though that when their street and infrastructure starts to crumble, he be hitting the highway, paid for with U.S. Taxpayer Dollars.

Even a Liberal Democrat can say “God Bless America!”

I spent my adult life in public service. I served almost four years in foreign countries as a marine and 20 years as an LAPD officer. I joined the LAPD in 1980 because I’d heard about the brutality and racism, and I wanted to end it. Depite the thousands of felons I arrested, I discovered that my greatest enemy were the leftists who interfered with my ability to protect and defend Americans and our country. I left “the left” after I discovered that they are truly the enemies of America.

I’m ashamed, appalled, and disgusted that places like Berkeley and San Francisco are in the state and nation of my birth. I will never again visit San Francisco, and I have urged my friends and reletives to avoid the Bay Area until those cities rejoin the United States. I oppose all federal and