Happy Veterans' Day

Vice President Joe Biden giving a Veterans' Day Address

On the occasion of Veterans' Day, I wanted to share the words of President Barack Obama to thank the service people of the United States of America. I hope it finds you all happy and healthy. To those we have lost: we will never forget you. 

On Veterans Day, we come together to pay tribute to the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Americans across this land commemorate the patriots who have risked their lives to preserve the liberty of our Nation, the families who support them, and the heroes no longer with us. It is not our weapons or our technology that make us the most advanced military in the world; it is the unparalleled spirit, skill, and devotion of our troops. As we honor our veterans with ceremonies on this day, let our actions strengthen the bond between a Nation and her warriors.

In an unbroken line of valor stretching across more than two centuries, our veterans have charged into harm's way, sometimes making the ultimate sacrifice, to protect the freedoms that have blessed America. Whether Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard, they are our Nation's finest citizens, and they have shown the heights to which Americans can rise when asked and inspired to do so. Our courageous troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the globe have earned their place alongside previous generations of great Americans, serving selflessly, tour after tour, in conflicts spanning nearly a decade.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery

Long after leaving the uniform behind, many veterans continue to serve our country as public servants and mentors, parents and community leaders. They have added proud chapters to the story of America, not only on the battlefield, but also in communities from coast to coast. They have built and shaped our Nation, and it is our solemn promise to support our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen as they return to their homes and families.

America's sons and daughters have not watched over her shores or her citizens for public recognition, fanfare, or parades. They have preserved our way of life with unwavering patriotism and quiet courage, and ours is a debt of honor to care for them and their families. These obligations do not end after their time of service, and we must fulfill our sacred trust to care for our veterans after they retire their uniforms.

As a grateful Nation, we are humbled by the sacrifices rendered by our service members and their families out of the deepest sense of service and love of country. On Veterans Day,let us remember our solemn obligations to our veterans, and recommit to upholding the enduring principles that our country lives for, and that our fellow citizens have fought and died for.

With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service men and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's veterans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2010, as Veterans Day. I encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through appropriate public ceremonies and private prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I call on all Americans, including civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, and communities to support this day with commemorative expressions and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

                      BARACK OBAMA

Nuclear Disarmament Game!

Bored at work? Be productive and save the world from nuclear destruction:
http://nobelprize.org/educational/peace/nuclear_weapons/game.html

Movie Review: Pray the Devil Back to Hell

Looking for an independent film packed with action, inspiration, and a happy ending? If so, I have a treat for you! Pray the Devil Back to Hell is a powerful documentary about the cessation of hostility in Liberia as a result of the dedication and perseverance of motivated Christian and Muslim women. Told by the ladies who coordinated successful grassroots peacebuilding efforts across Liberia, this film gives the audience a very honest view of civil war, and its impact on all levels of society. Leymah Gbowee, the bold leader of the Women in Peacebuilding Network (WIPNET), is one of the main narrators. She describes WIPNET's journey from its inception to renowned success with both humility and humor, underscoring that the women involved would stop at nothing to gain peace for their country.

WIPNET started with the organization of a few Christian and Muslim women in protest of the violence affecting their communities. Joining together, these women dressed in white and made public showings of support for peace. As the war escalated, WIPNET reached out to international partners to help apply pressure for peace accords, and as they captured the attention of the global media, the world tuned in and began to watch the Liberian peace process unfold. This amazing journey culminates with the exile and eventual trial of former Liberian leader Charles Taylor, and the election of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female African head of state. This true story is proof of both the indomitability of the human spirit, and the potential for non-violent resistance.

Check it out:

Need Motivation?

Maybe we should develop a Crayola bomb as our next secret weapon.  A happiness weapon.  A beauty bomb.  And every time a crisis developed, we would launch one.  It would explode high in the air - explode softly - and send thousands, millions, of little parachutes into the air.  Floating down to earth - boxes of Crayolas.  And we wouldn't go cheap, either - not little boxes of eight.  Boxes of sixty-four, with the sharpener built right in.  With silver and gold and copper, magenta and peach and lime, amber and umber and all the rest.  And people would smile and get a little funny look on their faces and cover the world with imagination.  

~Robert Fulghum

Make Democracy Work! VOTE!!

Movie Screening in DC

If you're in the Washington, DC area and you're interested in the Middle East, check out this film by Just Vision. Located at  2301 M Street, NW, West End Cinemas is showing Budrus this week from Friday October 29th- November 4th. $8 matinees, $9 students.

The True Size of Africa

This map is thanks to Foreign Policy, and specifically Joshua Keating. It really puts into perspective common geographic discrepancies represented by 2D maps. Click on the title link to view a larger version of the map.