Muscatine

Subject: Fw: Col. West Speaks

“I have sat back and assessed the incident with the video of our Marines urinating on Taliban corpses.

do we strive to do as animals do or to do and be better? I understand where they are coming from, but we are better then that, plus it violates the geneva convention too!

this taken from a marine website-

PRINCIPLES & VALUES

Honor, courage and commitment are the values that guide us—Semper Fidelis is the motto that bonds us.
To guard our nation is to guard its principles, becoming not only an elite warrior, but also a noble one.http://www.marines.com/history-heritage/principles-values

CORE VALUES

HONOR

A code of personal integrity, honor guides those who do the right thing when no one is looking. It is not only a duty, but also a distinction, as those who possess honor are held in honor. It's found in one's beliefs, but exhibited through one's actions. Marines are held to the highest of standards, ethically and morally. Marines are expected to act responsibly in a manner befitting the title they've earned.

COURAGE

When other principles are tested, it's courage that prevents them from crumbling. It isn't ignoring fear, but being stronger than fear. Courage is the guardian of all other values. It is there when times are toughest, when difficult decisions have to be made.  It takes the form of mental, physical and ethical strength, and is found in the backbone of every Marine.

COMMITMENT

Commitment is the spirit of determination found in every Marine. It is what compels Marines to serve our nation and the Corps, and to continue on when others quit. Commitment doesn't take breaks and it cannot be faked. It measures and proves one's desire, dedication and faithfulness. Becoming a United States Marine represents the highest level of commitment.

Semper Fidelis distinguishes the Marine Corps bond from any other. It goes beyond teamwork—it is a brotherhood that can always be counted on.  Latin for "always faithful," Semper Fidelis became the Marine Corps motto in 1883. It guides Marines to remain faithful to the mission at hand, to each other, to the Corps and to country, no matter what. Becoming a Marine is a transformation that cannot be undone, and Semper Fidelis is a permanent reminder of that. Once made, a Marine will forever live by the ethics and values of the Corps. 

“As for everyone else, unless you have been shot at by the Taliban, shut your mouth, war is not a game.”    

Lt. Col. West

I think the stifling of free speech would only make things worse.