Achtung is the correct spelling of the German word meaning “attention” or “caution.” Similar to “watch out” or “beware” in English. Due to misspelling over many years, it is generally spelled “actung.”
I bring the word to your attention because of the meeting Trump and Hegseth had with Generals, Admirals and certain non-commissioned officers yesterday at Quantico. Gave me the feeling our Nation is continuing to move in the wrong direction.
Hegseth called for the meeting. Such required U.S. miliary hierarchy to travel from all over the world to attend. Hegseth also invited Trump. Leads me to suspect the meeting was Trump’s idea in the first place.
Hegseth and Trump both spoke.
The meeting a mockery of our military from my perspective. I suspect the purpose of the meeting was to change and exercise firmer control over the military. Trump began by touting his political agenda which we have all heard many times before. It was followed by an audience silence. Trumped laughed and told them it was ok to react, to applaud and if hey did not perhaps be out of a job. His comments best described “control ones.”
Overall, the summit was a politically charged one. Not really one a government and the military should be having. Reflected Hitler type meetings beginning in the 1930s.
Hegsmith began by spelling out the new standards that were being imposed onto the military hierarchy. Fat generals were no longer permitted. He spelled out physical standards for troops also. Soldiering was going to be tougher. No beardos and no war. Those who failed to meet them would be out. Including Generals and Admirals.
Then swiftly the ball was passed to Trump.
It only took few words for me to feel uncomfortable about our President. I began to think he was not properly dressed. His words this year have taken on what could be viewed as stronger, more dangerous and scarry. Perhaps he was not properly dressed for the occasion. I began today’s blog with “achtung.” To remind people of the historical Hitler. First a politician. Civilian clothing clad. Then moved into a sort of unform by wearing a beige shirt. And other uniform type items. His supporters followed suit. Finally in 1939, Hitler clad himself in a field gray military uniform. As did his followers. Purpose without question to spell out he was “Commander in Chief.”
Is this the direction Trump is moving?
The first 44 minutes of Trump’s speech were generally the same bullshit he has been spouting. Biden, antigen, media, tariffs, border, his restaurant visit, no Nobel prize. Then the blow of blows in his 44th minute: We should use “some of thee dangerous cities as training grounds for our military.” God forbid! Never! Not at all!
He also exclaimed the value of the battleships of yesterday. The B-2 bombers also. He mentioned how he thinks often of the World War II TV show “Veterans at Sea.”
We cannot win today’s wars with yesterday’s miliary equipment. If we could, we would still be using them.
Re Trump’s words, George Wills afterwards said: “America’s can do spirit needs liberation from can’t do regulation.”
Lawrence O’Donnell: “Trump on the verge of outright insanity in a deranged speech to military commanders.” Not a commander in chief, “a “Disaster in Chief.” He further described Trump a “clown.”
Yesterday a busy one. Recently had my annual physical with Dr. Norris. I have residual symptoms from the recent abdominal bleed and previous falls. Spent yesterday scheduling new appointments. One for tomorrow, both at the same place. Two Cat scans. One of the brain, the other my right arm. A neurological exam on friday. I am sure there will be more down the road.
Last night, The Grand with Steve, Cindy and Matt. Enjoyed fried calamari.
Tonight the wednesday night lasgna special at Brady’s Irish Pub, plus the good company of Carolla.
You can tell I am Italian at heart by the food I eat.
Syracuse will be tested again satuday. Plays SMU at SMU at 4:30. Brady’s also has an excellent prime rib dinner saturday’s at 5. It will be a good evening, especially if Syracuse wins. I don’t know.
Enjoy your day!