He is BRAINWASHED???!!
@Married2aMarine (1273)
United States
July 11, 2007 9:21am CST
My husband is a proud American and US Marine. He tears up every time they play the national anthem. He loves the Marine Corps and is very proud to serve as "one of the few". He has been on deployments to Iraq. He's a wonderful and dedicated husband and father. So, it REALLY irks me when people say he's being "brainwashed" by the government and the military. That he's only executing the plans of a "stupid government and a dictator president" and other such remarks. I think it's so bad when people say things like that when here is a man who loves his country and his family and is willing to lay down his life for the sake of both. How can people even say he's brainwashed?? He CHOSE this lifestyle and this career path. I cannot imagine him doing anything else. Sometimes I wish he got the credit he deserves. A friend of mine (Navy) in Hawaii told me of one incident a while back where people would go to the airports to protest and boo the troops and their families who are leaving on deployments. How sad it is to think that your loved one is leaving on deployment and people are booing and protesting all around you. Thank God it doesn't happen here as we live in a military town. But I have come across lots of people (including my husband's own family) who say straight to my face that my husband is being brainwashed by the military to do the stuff he does! I think that is so ridiculous.
7 people like this
20 responses
@GardenGerty (160936)
• United States
12 Jul 07
I think that these negative people are the ones that have been brainwashed, and it is sad. We even have a church in my state that claims that our losses in Iraq are God's judgment on us for homosexuality. I wish they would pick up the rocks they have left their brains under and clean them up, then find the hole where they buried their hearts, as well.
You husband can take pride, however ironically, in the fact that he is doing his best to preserve the rights of these idiots to say whatever they feel like saying, without fear of government or political retribution. Because of our many freedoms, we seem to have many rude and uncaring people. I am being more negative than usual, and I apologize, but I do want to show you, and your proud husband, respect and support.
1 person likes this
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
Oh...that is very sad that people think like this. Why are some so-called Christian's views of God so warped? I have lived in a country where if you said something bad about the government, you can get thrown in jail!! Newspaper operations have been closed down due to them voicing their opinions. Free speech does not exist such as it does in this country. And yet, so many abuse it!
@xfahctor (14118)
• Lancaster, New Hampshire
12 Jul 07
First of all, my thanks and warmest thoughts to you and your husband.
Most people who spew this stuff have no idea why they even do it. they regurgitate cliche's and catchphrases whith no ideas of their own, it's trendy.....People like this do not stop to think that this country has the freedoms it does and keeps them and in fact Is even a country at all....is because of people like your husband.
This is a quote i found on a pro troups website:
“This does not mean you are warmongers. On the contrary, the soldier, above all other people, prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.”– Douglas MacArthur
I'll link the website at the end of this post for you. Its pretty interesting. Anyway, i digress. Be assured that the majority of the people in this world dont feel this way. As one poster wrote, we just dont carry signs or protest. Perhaps we should, loudly and proudly.
God spead to you and your family.
http://devildog6771.wordpress.com/2005/12/15/iraqis-vote-in-record-number-all-across-the-country/
@teufelskind (813)
• United States
12 Jul 07
I do not agree with those who say he is brain washed he is devoted to his country that is a rare thing now of days. People are to concernded with Paris getting out of jail rather than paying attention to the importent things in life. I dont like Bush but I support our troops I hope they all get home safe. I had a frnd in Iraq I was told what goes on things the news dosnt say. I give your husband the up most respect and wish that others would see things from anouther point rather tans their ignorence. Ignorance is Bliss. I may be young but I study things such as the Tao it means the way. It is a since of balance I wish more could find that balance. I send you and your husband the best of wishes and I thank him for what he does.
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
That's true. You can be anti-war, anti-Bush, etc and still be pro-troops. I know a lot of people who stand where you are. I'm glad you are able to see the distinction whereas a lot are not.
@tinamwhite (3252)
• United States
12 Jul 07
My husband was a Marine in the Vietnam War...when he returned to the States, people would spit on them and call them "baby killers".....like your husband...he is extremely proud of being a Marine...and if he was physically able he would be in Iraq right now...I know he would because he tells me so all of the time...so when he got out of the Marine Corp....he joined the Army because he could not stand the way his countrymen treated people in the Military back then....
It breaks my heart to think that we as Americans can treat the very people who protect our lifestyle and freedoms with their very lives in just a shameful manner...
i do not think that your husband is brainwashed....I think that he is a PROUD AMERICAN and I am very glad to be married to a Marine myself....He shares many of the characteristics that you described about your husband...I share your feelings, my friend....
I am so thankful for our Military and am proud of the fact that these men and women choose to stand firm in the protection of our way of life....
God Bless Him and All of our Servicemen and Servicewoman..and their families......
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
Ahh..once a Marine, always a Marine, eh? And the sad thing is, I'm not even American. But this is where I call home now. And I see what a great country this is and all the freedom, choices and opportunities you can get here that many can only dream of. Unfortunately, many Americans take it for granted. Ever wondered why so many people want to come into this country..whether legally or illegally? If it was SO bad, why are people even willing to risk their lives and everything they have to come here?
1 person likes this
@tinamwhite (3252)
• United States
12 Jul 07
I agree, my friend...too many Amerians take their lifestye for granted....I know why others want to be here...it is a great country...since joining myLot...I have learned alot about other countries....it just makes me appreciate my country even more....
Yes, Once a Marine....Always a Marine....it is a true statement! The love of this country coarses through their veins like oxygenated blood....
I knew that you were not born here...but you are as much American as I am, Hun...you make the daily sacrifices without your husband in support of this coutry....
I am so happy that you are here and that there are others that feel the responsibility of protecting our way of life that my husband and your husband feels....
Bless you and your family, my friend.....
@Dan_ul (858)
• Romania
12 Jul 07
well i think that is better for a military to do as it's commanded... I mean is better in certain limits and on the psychic part... I mean the people that are to blame are generals and the big ones that gives the orders... I sure your husband is serving for his country...
and people that are protesting shouldn't protest towards the soldiers or the military staff but towards the generals and the president... cos there is the brain in all these things and from them are coming the orders;)
I wish he come back unharmed home:)
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
I know what you're trying to say. It's important for service members to follow order because when they signed on the dotted line to be a service member, they are in many ways, signing their life away to the military. To go against these orders may results in court marshall. But my husband (like many others) know the risks and consequences and yet, do it willingly for the love of God, country and family.
@JBrulez (663)
• Philippines
11 Jul 07
Your husband is in good condition. in fact he is a hero to his country, to his family, and to all of us whom he risk his life for. My dad is soldier to and i understand his duty to serve his country. We should all be proud of them because everytime they plunge into the battlefield, they carrry the hopes of everyone they love and fight for..pls reply..tnx
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
Thank you for your comments. They are much appreciated. Unfortunately, not everyone see people like your dad or my husband as heroes. They see them as "baby killers" or "people who are foolish enough to go die in vain". But such is the cost of freedom. And it's not just the troops who pay but all their families and loved ones too.
@usmcsgtwife (4997)
• United States
11 Jul 07
I think it is crazy when people say the military is being brain washed, they are doing there job and doing what they love.. It makes me so mad when people are protesting the troops...
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
Yeah, that really saddens me. Also when people make comments like they join the military because they are stupid or they are doing it for the money.
@Debs_place (10520)
• United States
11 Jul 07
Your husband has not been brain washed, he is proud, he had done and will continue to do what so many people can't do and are scared to even attempt.
I for one hope you will Thank him for me and my family ( an Thank you too, the life of a military wife is not an easy one).
People will believe what they want and maybe you should explain to them, that if not for men and women like your husband, they would not be able to speak as freely as they do, for they could be living under a government run by a person like Saddam.
Freedom isn't free, your husband is paying their dues.
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
It's so true...freedom isn't free. So many pay the price and yet, they do it willingly.
@liranlgo (5752)
• Israel
12 Jul 07
People are always saying things. In fact there are people that their all life is build on their reactions to the other people's life and that is a very sad story.
Now about your husband, it is wonderful that he is doing so much for his country and i am glad that he is proud in serving the u.s. and that you are proud of him.
Now about that word: "brainwashing" it is a very strong word, and no one should use it so easily.
I think that there is always the risk of a brainwash when you join a big group that has a leader that gives out the orders, but in the army those soldiers that fallow those orders are the ones that are protecting all of the others that talk about those brain washed soldiers. i think you understand what i am talking about.
Of course the army does do mistakes, but i also know that there is a good reason for te decision of being in Iraq, and people have to be in a situation of Iraq throwing missiles at them, like my country was in, to understand the full story.
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
Yes, that is such a strong word. Yes, the military does things a certain way and they do require some sort of uniformity and discipline amongst the troops. But I don't see that as "brainwashing".
@EvanHunter (4026)
• United States
12 Jul 07
I would never look down on anyone serving their country or doing what they think is right, I had two brothers who served in vietnam one was killed and one returned home. I myself served and am gald that we had a president that didnt jump into any long term conflicts. But on the other hand I dont support this war and I do think we are on a very dangerous road which will probly have years of fall out to come.
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
I don't support this war either. But I do support my husband in his chosen career as a Marine. I think you can be anti-war and yet pro-troops. But a lot of people can't seem to be able to make the distinction.
@PunkyMcPunk (1477)
• Canada
11 Jul 07
I want to begin by thanking your husband for putting his life on the line for me and my son. I would like to also thank you for the hardship and lonliness and worry that you and his parents and your children (if you have any) are going through when he gets the call. I can't even begin to imagine what it must be like. I also want to applaud your husbands parents for raising a kid that grew up good, strong, and proud.
I would pay no mind to the ignorant idiots who say things and protest. They are the type of people that need something to B*tch about. Most people I think would support your husband but we aren't the type to run around holding signs and calling names because we have families and jobs and basically we have a life.
I'm Canuck (canadian) and I guess some people may say I have no right to shat in on this discussion but, I think the America and Canada work together on a lot of things and am proud of that. We are basically the same people. I'm not saying we should become one country because I love being Canadian but I'm just saying we are the same.
@devilsangel (1817)
• United States
11 Jul 07
I can relate I really can. I know how fustrating it is to be told that because you love your country and your job that you've been brainwashed for standing up and fighting for them. While I was on active duty I use to hear it all the time from people. I kindly remind them that while they sit nice and comfy in their homes, yelling at the tv screaming how this country sucks its people like me and my friends that are in hell sitting in dirt holes defending their right to sit and complain.
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
I know. It doesn't make sense.
1 person likes this
@lexus54 (3572)
• Singapore
12 Jul 07
I am aware that US President Bush's popularity is waning because of his policy on US' military involvement in Iraq. But people have to draw a line between showing disgust against this policy vs supporting those who are called to serve in support of the policy.
In this respect, I salute your husband for standing up to the call of duty to serve his country in a hostile land. He should be admired for his patriotism, national pride and dedication to his vocation - a true professional. He is risking his life no doubt, and he is there because his job requires him to be deployed there. It is cruel to say that someone is brainwashed when he is only passionate in wanting to do his job, and doing it well.
@Married2aMarine (1273)
• United States
12 Jul 07
It's true. I understand that no government is perfect and all make mistakes. But to put the blame on the military for the wrong-doings of the government is SSOOOO wrong!! Thank you for your comments. He really is a great Marine that excels in his job. I know whatever people say will not stop him from doing what he loves doing most.
@jenius (131)
• United States
11 Jul 07
Of course he is not brainwashed. There is nothing wrong with being patriotic. My dad is a veteran and very proud of it. He made a career in the army national guard and he gets teary at the national anthem as well. His unit was never deployed before he retired but he would have gone willingly too. Just do your best to ignore those ignorant people. The ones booing soldiers should be very ashamed of themselves. Even if I don't agree with the war and the reasons for it I always have great respect for our soldiers. The fact those people have the freedom to boo soldiers they can thank soldiers for.
@emisle (3822)
• Ireland
12 Jul 07
I don't agree that people in the military are brainwashed, it takes a lot to dedicate your life to serving your country. However I don't agree with the war in Iraq, though your husband has no choice in the matter. I saw a news report yesterday where an Iraqi civilian said he wished the war was all over because he just wanted his freedom back, it's just turned into a big mess.
@KrisNY (7590)
• United States
17 Jul 07
Well all I can say is if your husband is so is my brother- He is an American Soldier serving in the US Army- He is a lifer- been in since 1990- Loves his country and loves to protect our freedom- He is not brainwashed just a loyal, proud American- I say god bless your husband- and god bless all of our American Soldiers-
My brother is in Iraq right now- He is pulling a 15 month tour of duty- I would rather he be home- but he knows this is where he needs to be- He is a great man- father of 3-
If I ever saw this- protesting our soldiers- I'm afraid I'd end up in jail- I would probably go crazy and beat as many of the protesters that I could before they hauled me away- Yes we all have freedom of speech- and I don't care if you support the war or not- But by god support the troops!
Thank you to your husband!
@KissThis (3003)
• United States
12 Jul 07
Your husband isn't brainwashed. Your husband is something that these other people only wish that they can be. He is a respectful individual who is making a sacrifice for his country that these people aren't. He is doing what he feels is the right thing to do for his country as well as his family. He should be respected for what he is doing.
I can understand people not agreeing with the war for whatever their reasons are but I think that everyone should honor the men and women who are making the sacrifices by fighting the war so that others are able to speak their minds. There is a difference in supporting the troops and not supporting the war.
I want to say THANK YOU to both you and your husband for the sacrifices that your family is making to help keep my family safe. There are no amount of words that I can type to say how much I appreciate what your family is doing for this country. May God Bless your husband and bring him home safely.
Please share this link with your family and friends. I believe that Mark Dakota is sending out a special message.
http://www.myspace.com/markdakota
@Danielle11 (103)
• Australia
12 Jul 07
I think you should be so proud of your husband. Lets take the government and country out of it for a second and put some personal touch to it. I guarantee the main point for your husband is, he is in his line of work to protect his family. I am anti war and anti government in so many ways, but I would never think to take this view to the good men and woman in the world who fight for the freedom of their loved ones and other human beings. We can all get caught up in being angry with everyone for every situation. But this should never extend to these good ppl in our armed forces.
@dstrent (112)
• United States
10 Feb 08
I myself am also a Marine. I as well tear up to the National Anthem because it is what I stand for. I get told all the time that I am brainwashed. I even have my fellow Marines tell me sometimes. It's not that I'm brainwashed, I just have a deep love for what I do and who I am. Not very many understand that about Marines like us. My own wife does not understand why I love the Corps so much. We don't need the credit we deserve because for us to know what we do is all that we need. It is because of us that they can call us those names. As long as I know that I can be happy.
