Military – Page 3 – The Laughing Wolf

Better Than MilSpec

A few days ago, in an author’s forum on an almost deserted corner of anti-social media, a fan posted this.

I pointed out (as has the author, who’s fan group this was posted in, has said many times) that the colonists had better than milspec, and that is part of what made the difference in the American Revolution. The usual group of pedants came forth then (why do you hate potatoes, they had potatoes back then, you didn’t write an encyclopedia entry outlining every possible variant, etc.) and missed two key points. One, I wasn’t out to write an encyclopedia entry (though I have written the firearms sections for a major technology encyclopedia back when there were still such things) but a one line response; and, that the technological superiority extended beyond the obvious.

It’s one of my big problems with the NFA and other “taxes” and open regulations: it limits the ability to innovate and the ability of the average citizen to have not just milspec (which frankly often sucks in base form) but better than milspec. The colonists had rifles as they were accurate and made it a more sure proposition to be able to feed their family. Their muskets could also be rather innovative. If you are not familiar with the term “lock, stock, and barrel” then you are not going to understand how and why the colonists tended to buy the best they could and got delightfully innovative as soon as they could do so.

Fact is, most firearms innovations have come from outside the government. Take a look back around the Revolution, then move forward and while many hoped to make their money selling to the government, the innovations came from outside the government. Even today, that still holds true in my opinion. Note, however, that the government through the ATF and other agencies does all it can to hamper such development and innovation these days.

Me, I don’t want milspec, I want better than milspec. That holds true for firearms, communications gear, and more. I want rugged, dependable, reliable (which, yes, can be different from dependable), and cost effective. Why buy stock when you can often get far better “add ons” and custom for the same cost or less. Milspec is a best a good place to start. It is very easy to make it better in many cases.

Which is why I have a serious question for Elon and the new third party (more on that soon): don’t tell me you support the 2nd amendment and expect me to take you at your word. You’ve said more than once that you believed in regulating and restricting. I want specifics out of you, and in particular I want to know where you stand on repealing the NFA and other “taxes” and open regulations. I want it spelled out in detail.

I also want the NFA and such gone. It’s time to ensure that the Citizens of the Republic not only have milspec, but better than milspec. If you are proud that you have milspec, good on you you’re special. If you have made sure you have better than milspec, whether you admit it or not, you’re my type of people. I don’t care if it’s a better iron sight or using a 2-cent O-ring to improve the water resistance of an electronic device (versus the $2k special container sold to the government), you’ve still improved it and made it better than milspec.

The Revolution wasn’t all rifles versus muskets. It was much more complex and frankly far more rich from a technological standpoint than the pedants will ever truly realize. I think they fail to realize some of the true importance of Saba, but that’s for another day. What matters is that in more than one way the colonists had better than the milspec of the day. It’s what we need today as well. Just a thought.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Now The Real Danger Begins

The 12-Day-War as it is rapidly becoming known was a masterpiece on the part of Israel. Israel not only quickly owned the skies above Iran, but they put special forces on the ground to join assets already in place to do extensive damage to the regime. Even more importantly, they dominated the psychological battlespace as well. Israel literally owned the regime lock, stock, and barrel.

If even half of what is being whispered in the background is true, it was even more amazing than most realize. I suspect, and even hope, that we don’t know the full extent for years. More on why in a minute. Some of the psyops are out in the open: for example, was Qaani killed in a strike, or an Israeli asset who was gotten out in a special operation and is now in Israel? If he wasn’t killed but is missing, he would be well advised to stay missing as there are those in the regime who are convinced he was an Israeli asset and are acting accordingly. If he was and did get out, hope he’s got great security. The fear and reaction by those convinced he was an asset may well be having all the results the Israeli’s could have hoped for. That appears to be happening for others up and down the chain as well.

The U.S. strike using MOPS appears to have worked very well. Ventilation shafts are a cliche in fiction, and are quick to get readers complaining about suspension of disbelief. Fact is, they often are an Achilles Heel to defenses as few want the cost of doing them right. Lots cheaper just to go straight down, no dog legs, no cofferdams, etc. Take a look at the satellite imagery, and pay particular attention to the subsidence in various locations. There are also signs of a hot and nasty fire. As others have pointed out, if you want to know what burns nicely and hot, take a look at the materials data sheet for uranium hexaflouride (and related compounds). As for the “reporting” saying otherwise I simply note that it comes from CNN (and amplified by the NYT, where the Spirit of Duranty lives!) and a reporter who is known to be a mouthpiece for the swamp portion of the intelligence community. I trust nothing from any of those sources until it has been confirmed by multiple reliable sources.

My only concern is that I think it should have been a 14-day-war. Israel was in the process of destroying the mechanisms that keep the mad mullahs in power. They blew open the doors to Evin prison, which is where many political prisoners were kept. They were destroying the Basij and other units propping up the regime. For all that I don’t think we should be directly involved in regime change, I wish that things had continued long enough to give Iranians a fighting chance at it. Even more importantly that the Shah-in-Exile, I am aware of one (or more) groups within Iran that were working for a successful revolution with all the planning that requires. Revolutions without such planning rarely work (most revolutions ultimately fail, TBH) and a lot of needed groundwork has been laid.

Iran is not a normal state. They are a theocracy contingent upon creating their version of Armageddon so as to bring about the return of the 13th/hidden Imam. That they die in the process is simply a cost of bringing about his return. If you don’t know about this, start reading because it shapes how much they are willing to suffer — and to have the people suffer instead of them. They will cheerfully sacrifice the entire country to this end. Of course, they expect that as the elite they will survive and be rewarded, but if needed are at least willing to give lip service to martyrdom.

Which means that what drives most state leadership does not apply here. They really are not subject to the art of the deal in that regard. Already they have tested Israel directly and via proxies. For Israel, it is no longer Oct. 6, and they have to respond with overwhelming force less they be boiled like a frog. One hopes that the White House is up on this, and realizes where we and they are in that regard. We are the Great Satan, Israel is the Lesser/Small Satan, and they are sworn to destroy us both. We must never forget that.

Now, there are some signs the mad mullahs regime is fracturing and may collapse on its own. Good. Couldn’t happen to a nicer bunch. Again, we should not be directly involved in a regime change; but, we should have no issues taking actions which make such possible so as to eliminate a clear and present danger to the U.S. We stand a much better chance with the Shah and the other group internal who have been planning for a real transition of power and who are well aware of historical precedents (including how unusual the U.S. revolution was to be honest).

As for the sleeper cells in the U.S., I’m honestly surprised we haven’t heard more out of them. Fact is, it’s a given they are here. Now, various raids were recently conducted against some illegal immigrants from Iran, some of who had most interesting pasts. Including one, a sniper, who still had his IRGC ID on him. My advice from previous stands: no definitive intel, but be alert and be prepared. This isn’t over and until the mullahs are gone and the illegal immigrants are removed. After all, the Iranians were only one part of the (at least, IMO) four-plus battalions of military aged males who entered under the Biden regency.

More soon. I’m bouncing back from the exhaustion of Brother Juniper’s and on being tied up on medical and other issues. Meantime, keep your friends and family close, and your things where you can find them in the dark. Be safe and be prepared my friends.

Iran I

Going to hold off on saying a lot right now, but will say hold on to your hats as there is more to come. Some of it mindblowing. Right now, I want to say two things.

First, great job Israel! Thank you.

Second, to the people of Iran: this is your moment. Make the most of it. If you wait for outside troops and others to free you, you will never be free. The corrupt and rotten regime is teetering and will not be able to freely respond. So, the ball is in your court.

Quick Aside On Memorial Day

Been trying to decide what to say about part of Memorial Day, as I ended up very disappointed and only half surprised at something that happened. For years now, I’ve bought a beer for ‘the guys’ and never had an issue. In fact, the Oaken Barrel in Greenwood has been glad to host them and one staffer there has even saved all the lists.

This year, I couldn’t get down there so decided to try my luck in downtown Indy. I should have had a clue from the lack of American flags, though there were an abundance of trans/pride flags around. Short version is that no one would host them, and one place even copped some attitude at being asked if they would. That was strike three for them (shame, like a couple of their brews but they have issues that even I can’t ignore).

There is a divide in America and it is getting worse. The true ‘woke’ are doubling down. Increasingly they are turning to violence, and encouraging it. They are turning their backs on civility, and the things that make our Republic, and civilization itself, possible. Back in 2007, people could not do enough for the troops. Today, it’s honor those who gave all on Memorial Day? Are you nuts/right-wing/etc? The most neutral answer I think I got when asking was an admission that all that mattered were the dollars and any space in the place not being used for that was a loss, so no.

Next year, will find a way to get back down to Oaken Barrel if they will host the guys again. And, I will not be spending any of my limited funds at the places that said no.

Memorial Day 2025

I am hoping to go raise a glass to/with them in just a bit. Meantime, enjoy the day but do take a minute to think about, remember, and pray for those who gave all for this country, from our founding until now. I pray for them all, and I especially remember:

ENS Albert Foster Powers, MIA 1945 Japan
LCPL Bill Stelpflug, Beirut
COL Rick Rescorla, NY 9/11
SPC Ryan Dallam, Iraq
PFC Damian Lopez, Iraq
SPC Marieo Guerrero, Iraq
CPT Anthony Palermo, Iraq
SPC David Behrle, Iraq
SPC Joseph Gilmore, Iraq
PFC Travis Haslip, Iraq
SGT Jean Medlin, Iraq
SSG Christopher Moore, Iraq
PVT Alexander Varela, Iraq
LCPL Jeremy W. Burris, Iraq
SSG Brian Cowdrey, Afghanistan
MAJ Andrew Olmstead, Iraq
CPT Carroll LeFon, CONUS

Thank you Lord that such men lived, and heeded the call to protect and defend. We are all the richer and the better for them and their brothers and sisters who lived the words “No greater love…” You are remembered. You are not forgotten. You are missed. God Bless.

The Gathering Storm

Before I get going on a complex (and possibly convoluted) post, allow me to commend two resources to you. I plan to add them to the recommended box in the upper left here soon.

First, if you have not already heard about her and her work, meet Data republican (small R, profile on X). She has been doing an absolutely amazing job on tracking the money, the networks, and much more behind “the blob” aka the world-wide swamp. Not just content to assist DOGE, she’s dug in and done much, much more. There are a lot important people very unhappy with that, especially since some of her work has shown interesting things: like how many of the judges currently abusing nationwide stays and such have a financial interest in getting money to the NGOs, either directly or through family members. In fact, at least one formal complaint has been filed about failure to acknowledge a major conflict of interest.

Unrelated to today’s post, I also enjoyed her posting of a essay by her pastor on the historical case for Christ. I also want to explore her work that cross-references Bible verses with the Ante-Nicene Fathers. Here’s a link on X to a video showing how to use that tool. In my free time I’m reading those writings in full, and if you haven’t read Clement, St. Justin the Martyr, and others, you truly are missing some good works.

She is a fascinating lady, and my hat is off to her given all the challenges she faced before having so many people go after her for shining a light. Also, her mother has joined X and is a hoot! Her husband supports her and is running a small but growing business that I would love to support via some purchases. That’s a family I would not mind meeting.

Second, if you are not already familiar with Mike Benz, currently of the Foundation For Freedom Online and the self-described monstrosity Weapons of Mass Deletion. His work on the origin of Soros is worth the time to watch (X link to videeo) and read. In fact, if you want what I call the recent-past backgrounds on several things underway, you need to check into his work. I note recent past as he is covering a lot of things that have developed over the last decade or two, with a few going back further.

Keep in mind, a lot of what we are dealing with — particularly in terms of our current (so-called) “elite” government with all the best people — truly got started under that loathsome creature Wilson. In fact, much of what has turned into “sex inc.” started to step into the light about that time. Those efforts set the stage for what came in the mid- to late-1940s when it truly went public with things like the Kinsey Institute, and began the normalization process underway today. To me, right now, it appears that those initial efforts predated (spit) Gramsci, who both took advantage of them and may well have been taken advantage of by those behind them.

The history of sex and sexuality I will leave for later. History is fascinating, enlightening, and sometimes something that will make you sick to your stomach. I will say that I am thankful for Christianity as it put a stop to a number of things that today we find extremely horrific. Which is why I think so many in power hate it, but that’s also a post for another day.

Now, back to the gathering storm. I want to thank both Data republican and Mike Benz as they did a lot of hard work, and provided the data and analysis that is helping me sort out some of the patterns in the data. I think they are now tag-teaming the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) and its many tentacles. That is truly one to watch as it ties Soros and more into what’s going on in the U.S.

Before I forget, always remember that even when the data lies (i.e. most corporate media reports), the patterns in and around that data rarely do. The patterns matter, and I find it interesting that even with bad data included, the patterns seem to flow around it for those looking. Just something to keep in mind as you look at things yourself.

If you look at what Data republican and Mike have put together, it’s drawing the lines between points many never knew existed. It’s documenting the incestuous relationship between progressives, the NGOs, and others in what I’ve taken to calling The Fraternity. That’s the families (dynasties) that have been involved with modern governance since Wilson, and especially after FDR. Note how they intermarry and act much as royalty did (and still does).

The interesting thing about their work is that a lot of points (and people) most had no idea were a part of things have been exposed. I suggest you download the data where you can, as if efforts aren’t made to take it out I will be surprised. Side note, I’m glad both have security. Cockroaches do NOT appreciate having a light shone on them and their activities.

While much of that work involves people in the United States (and it is worth noting how much of the money to NGOs to help others elsewhere stayed right here in the U.S.), there is a fair bit on Europe as well. In fact, you there appears to be a good bit on Klaus Schwab and the other members of SPECTRE, er, the World Economic Forum rather. It is quite a web.

Thing is, you need to have at least a general idea of that web for some of my analysis to make sense. It provides background and also allows some potential future to be examined with more accuracy. It’s also important because it helps you to understand certain things happening now, and that are probable in the near future.

The group that has in many respects run most of the world since Wilson is like any other group that has come to power. We had the founders, who took the lead and built up the system; the first generation after who maintained and pushed the narrative of that the system was the best, enlightened, and proper for society and the world; and, the generations that followed who don’t truly understand history (especially their own) and incapable of restraint or self-sacrifice. It’s a story old as time and many a dynasty has seen it.

The current generation of the so-called elites, unlike previous generations, has no fallback. They really were bred and raised to fill certain slots in the machine, and are now facing a question most of us outside that fraternity have faced at one time or another: now what. Our job has gone away, outsourced to a mortal enemy (China, etc.), eliminated for a .ooo5 cent increase in profit, changes in the market, etc. Most of us have picked up and found something else to do, may have even had some training in that before. Most of the current elite do not have any marketable skills outside their current jobs. Many of which are going away with the cutting off of the NGO and related spigots.

It’s no wonder that the mommies and daddies of The Fraternity who are judges are so busy tying Article III into pretzels in an effort to stop the Executive (Article II powers), even though they are acting outside of the Constitution. And, yes, a good case can be made for that. As I noted here, Roberts is all-in on expanding the power of the Courts, and I’m not sure he would reign in the lower courts even if the rest of the Justices held guns to his head. And, yes, it would be extra-Constitutional to expand said powers — but have you looked at how much current government power is de facto and not de jure?

Also, again, it is well worth noting the number of judges involved in these cases that have ties via family to the NGOs and other things being defunded. Start taking names and plug them into the various searches and databases. Very interesting, as Arte would say.

No dynasty wants to see it’s time end. The current dynasty is no different. It wants and needs to be seen as the natural leaders of the world, of civilization, and of all that is right and good. Their forefathers knew that you had to throw a bone to the peasants (and make no mistake, that is how pretty much all of them see us), while most of this generation just want to bone the peasants. Literally even.

So, what’s going on in the courts right now is a fight to stay in power. It’s but one part of the efforts, and I suspect we may see an active riot season this year. George Floyd served them well, such that the last few riot seasons have not been active. I expect that to change this year, and this post (and related) are but one indicator of that. There are a lot of such indicators and individually they don’t mean much. Put them together and you get a picture of groups trying to mobilize: and to normalize violence against political enemies. Look around (anti-) social media and see how much is out there.

Then look at Europe and what is going on there. Germany has done many interesting things, including trying to outlaw the populist party AfD. Romania abrogated its elections because the wrong candidate won. France tried to do to LePen what was done here to Trump. The EU is striking out at member states who won’t fall into line in many ways and on several levels.

And it’s not working. The people are not taking it. In Ireland, there’s been more than a month of protests at what it’s government is doing. France saw a huge pushback against the government (which has refused to acknowledge that a new government was elected) that has them rocked back a bit. Italy, Hungary, and others are defying the EU on several fronts. In fact, look up who Meloni just endorsed in the new Romanian presidential election. That is a finger to the EU…

Now, the next layer on top of this involves the mass migrations underway. Leaving all else aside, look at how many countries have agreed, or been forced, to accept huge numbers of military-aged Islamic males into their borders. Look at how they, and those that came before the latest, are pushing for Sharia and demanding upon violence that their will be done. The imams that have popped up with them are openly saying that they intend to take over, that they will take power by any means. I want you to look up those speeches to be sure you believe it, for you should believe what they say. It’s being tried here too, right now, and yes you should consider within that equation the battalion or so of military-aged Islamic males that came across our southern border under the Biden Regency.

Reminder: Migration, and mass movement of refugees involves men, women, and children. The mass movement of military-aged males is, and always has been, an invasion. Invasions are hostile things, and should be treated accordingly.

Now, there are several reasons for encouraging mass invasion by The Fraternity and related. SPECTRE, er, I mean the World Economic Forum types have several, and keeping the peasants in line and the gravy train going figures large among them. At this point, the reasons are in many ways irrelevant as circumstances have caught up and passed the original plans.

Now, two other parts to consider are Russia and China. I’ve talked about Russia, Russkiy Mir, and the horrible demographics for a while now. Russia is desperate to not just regain the empire it had, but to bring in new areas. They have to as they (Rus) really are a minority in their own country, and they have in many respects a negative birth rate. Their economy blows, and I’ve outlined some of the many manufacturing and other problems they have. What surprises many is that China has some huge economic problems that are frantically being papered over. They also have demographic and other problems, and right now they stay afloat and a threat mainly because it is far cheaper to keep buying and/or blackmailing foreign politicians than it is to bite the bullet and fix the causes of the problems. Xi, like Putin, can’t afford to admit to the core problems as to do so ends their runs.

Finally, let’s not forget Iran, Pakistan, and India. I’m beyond glad that things got shut down fast in the latest between the latter. No, it’s not all good now, as there is a long history there that isn’t going to magically go away. No more than the issues between Indian and China (and the low-level war underway there) are going to go away. Iran is well on the way to the bomb, if they don’t have it already. If you missed it, I mentioned a seismic event in Iran in this post, and while I am trying to get more data on it, it is indeed worrying, especially when you look at some officially non-related things going on. Keep in mind that Iran is a powder keg and close to going up. As with The Fraternity, Putin, Xi, and others, they see the clock ticking and will do anything to stay in power.

There is more, but those are the major chunk of the background for my current thoughts. Right now, I see the gathering storm as being in three phases.

First phase is pretty much The Blob Strikes Back. The Fraternity and related are not going to go quietly. Expect an energetic riot season here and abroad. Also, even if they lose in the courts, they may win in that right now Roberts and the judges are shredding the stature of the Court. The public already sees that there is a two-tier (or more) system of justice, and that the current Court and courts are acting well outside the “norms” of which we are used to. The Republic, and the greater society represented in the Social Compact, depend on voluntary compliance and to some degree illusion. Erode that trust, strip away the illusion, and things fail. We need all three legs, and we need them at full strength.

Now, I will say here that even if The Blob wins, I think it will be temporary. I think that forces are in play historically that will bring them down again and hard. Problem is, if that happens, I think it could be hard enough to put us below the level of maintaining our current civilization. We are already on the path of a birthrate such that it can’t be sustained. It’s one of several reasons I would love to see Elon succeed and get us off this mudball. See this for some further discussions on that topic.

That said, I’m also worried about the more than three battalions of military-aged males that came over our southern border. In addition to the Islamics already mentioned, it seems that one of those battalions was of military aged males from Syria, Chechnyia, and other interesting places, all of which do not wish us well. I suggest you read Kurt Schlicter’s book The Attack. No, I get nothing from the link, I depend on your gifts as I want you to know that if I endorse a product, it’s not because I get paid to do so. Now, the first group I mentioned is part of a take-over effort. What this group can do is not just terror, but infrastructure attacks in support of outside powers as well as possibly The Blob/The Fraternity.

Oh, and that third battalion? Have you looked at how many military-aged Chinese men came across? Some of them very fit and of military bearing? What do you think could happen if we get tangled up with China? Keep it in mind.

So, energetic riot season with the possibility of some extra severe events is a possibility. Also, don’t forget the amazing amount of anger out there among the public. While they are often disparaged as “normies” they are well aware of what is going on, and in that our so-called leaders are not leading. In fact, they are getting even more angry as they watch Congress fritter away what they gave them via the vote in Uniparty Games (which may be like one version of reindeer games). Also, the current “Game of Lies” by corporate media is not helping. The public saw the decline of Biden and recognized the Regency, of which corporate media was a willing part. To claim now they were deceived is getting reactions such that “pull the other one” is one of the more polite.

Now, the progressives view violence (like riot season) as a rheostat, that can be dialed up or down at need. Lenin used it well, and it’s been used very effectively here since the 60s. Problem is, most others view it as a binary switch. The cute games being played with calling for the assassination of Trump via semi-deniable routes like “86” is not going over well with a majority of the public. If anything does happen, it will no longer be riot season and what happens will not be pretty. I really do wish certain people and groups would get that and not try to force us to slide down the razor blade of life into a shark tank. We do NOT want to go there, no matter what grifters on all sides push.

Second phase is a different form of societal spasm or collapse. It is demographics and Islam. Many imams are quite open about outbreeding and seizing power that way, even if quieter about the use of violence towards that end. In Europe, if you look at the demographics and the “flexibility” given to various Islamic populations, Germany, France, England, and Spain are pretty much gone. In England, Labor and other governments cheerfully traded their girl children (and some boys) to them for votes and political power, never realizing that the Islamics were playing a longer game. Similar situation in Germany, though not as open. France is a little different in background, but not in outcome. If there is a way to deal with this peacefully, I think the window is well on the way closed if not already closed. I don’t see any way for any of them to deal with it without the use of force. And, I don’t see any of those governments having the will to do so.

However, I agree with something Tom Kratman said a while back about the people of France. If their government won’t do it’s job, the people may do so. In fact, I think he mentioned the bloody practicality of the French people, and if they do move to deal with the problem (and there are signs of that level of unrest if you are paying attention), it will not be pretty. In fact, given the thoughts of the public about Macaroon and company going after LePen, some of the politicians might just want to hope they stop with dealing with the Islamic problem. That one could get very interesting. By the way, if you haven’t read Col. Kratman’s book Caliphate, it is a good read in this context.

I see Italy having a chance thanks to Meloni. She’s doing what she can on immigration and is trying to deal with the various problems caused by the EU. The leadership of the EU, of course, does not care for her and her recent endorsement of Simion in Romania is a finger in their eye as noted earlier.

Part of what went into my post on what I suggest replace NATO with is that I see Italy, Romania, Serbia, possibly Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, and the Baltics as an eastern rampart to hold the line against the new Islamic republics in Germany, England, etc. They are defying the EU on “migration” and holding fast borders. I also think they may be the best hope for keeping Western Civilization alive in Europe. Post for another day, but it is a factor in my thinking here. For those interested in my thoughts on NATO, see here and here. Oh, and for saying that I am not a serious person for suggesting we leave NATO or consider nuclear Eastern Europe? I wear that as a badge of honor, and will be glad to let history show who got more things right in the prediction game.

Now, do I see such happening here? Yes. In fact the outbreed and take over slowly is well underway. Just look at the city attempt down in Texas. Don’t forget all the military-aged Islamics who came over the border. I don’t think the normal violence will work (in fact, think it will backfire rather spectacularly long run), but it doesn’t mean they won’t try it. Also, our own reproduction demographics are not good, despite all of Elon’s efforts to personally make up for it. We need to change that, seriously.

Third phase of potential storm relies on countries like Russia, China, Iran, etc. As long as we have the current administration, I think Xi will hold off on Taiwan and such. He’s desperate, but the long game offers good odds to him. I think China will not survive a war, even though they are likely to destroy current U.S. forces in the region. Economically and otherwise I don’t think they can sustain the current system and situation through a war. There are a lot of fractures within the current system, and they could either push Xi into foolishness or he may can hold them together long enough for them to become someone else’s problem. Time for a Reagan-style push I think.

Iran has plans, but no longer have their patsy in the form of the Biden Regency. They are very well aware that if they push, Trump will push back. The last time they pushed, a certain Mr. Soleimani got to go meet his 72 Virginians. If The Fraternity manages to make a comeback, this could change. Which is why we need to end their efforts to become a nuclear power. I would prefer a mostly peaceful way, but if necessary the facilities need to be taken out hard. Also, the Biden Regency turned its back on some opportunities to help the people of Iran. I hope the current administration would support any such opportunities that came their way.

As for Russia, see my previous writings on same. That is a complex topic and I think efforts to bring about peace between Russia and Ukraine are needed and important. The key will be ensuring security for Ukraine, as doing so tends to trigger Russia. Keep in mind that as a reader pointed out a while back, they are not the eastern-most part of the West, but rather the Western-most part of the East. They have a different history and perceptions, and frankly plans. Those need to be taken into account. So far, again, the current administration has respect in Moscow and I hope that this can be leveraged to the good of all.

There may well be a storm or storms. Thing is, if you look at the data and the patterns, and operate on a realistic basis, you can avoid them or minimize the damage they can do. The storms will gather, but with good leadership and individual preparation, much can be avoided. For the former, start local and build upwards. I think we got lucky in the last election, but good leadership needs good support, and that is sorely lacking. I still say Vladimir will not nuke DC and surroundings as he wants to hurt us, not help us. Build the leadership and lets get back to a solid, small-government Republic. Don’t fall for all the games and grifters — be of good cheer, good faith, and solid actions.

As always, keep your friends and family close, and your things where you can find them in the dark. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best, and take what comes. Have Faith. And hang in there, as there is a lot more light out there right now than darkness.

About That Signal “Leak”

In part to play devil’s advocate, and in part because if one theory is right my hat is off to this administration as an op like this has not been pulled off in a decade or two. I have suspicions, but will note that I will wait to see what comes out — and will also note you need to pay close attention to phrasing then. For now, enjoy some thoughts sparked by an online discussion with Tony Katz (website) this morning. I may have to do a little tap dancing in spots, but…

Three scenarios came to mind when I first heard about this. Let’s take a look at those options.

First, that this was done as a deliberate effort to harm the administration. Given the amount of resistance, malicious compliance, and theatrical temper tantrums (and threats to sell info to our enemies) it is a valid concern. Mitigating it is that Michael Waltz (not to be confused with the other) is hand-picked by Trump, former Greenie Beanie, former Congrescritter, etc., etc., etc. Still needs to be investigated, but would be surprised if this was the case.

Second, that this was done accidentally. Plausible. Very plausible even. Stuff happens and it would not be the first time someone got added to an e-mail or other chain that proved embarrassing. It has happened a couple of times to me, and in one case I was glad for the confirmation of where I stood and what was happening in regards one situation. Embarrassing (and a potential liability) for them, good intel for me. I’m sure some of you can add some similar situations in the comments. If it was an accident, a whacking of knuckles or such is warranted.

The third option is where this gets fun. Let’s start with something almost everyone who has been around government knows, but also ignores to some extent.

The fact is, governments send each other messages by a variety of means. There are the official messages, couched in careful diplomatic niceties, that always accent the positive even when those governments hate each other’s guts. You play nice as that is expected and it’s usually a good way to keep tensions at a point just short of war. It’s a way to shore up relationships, or to strengthen them. I will caveat that smart people realize that governments do not have friends, they have allies — some good, some not so much.

However, official channels are limited and usually anything but frank. J.D. Vance’s comments to European leaders a few weeks ago were refreshingly frank for many of us, and considered a breach of proper manners by many officials. It is rare for such comments to be made in any official capacity. Which is why, for not years but even centuries, there have been unofficial channels.

Such activities have often been lumped in with the history of intelligence operations, which is not really where they belong (IMO) but if interested you can find some fascinating examples in European history. To be honest, if you look at Japanese history there are some good examples. It is also worth noting that when there wasn’t such, or something happened to that channel, bad things like unexpected wars or “accidental” battles took place. Net result, wise leaders (or those who served as éminence grise or consigliere) made sure such were in place.

The fact is, since it can’t be said in public that Government A thinks Government B (especially if they are ostensible allies) is a bunch of corrupt poopy-heads that are being stupid, you need a means to get that message to the other side unofficially. There are other such messages that often need to be sent, usually along the lines of “we see you” and “don’t do that again.” Then there’s a third level of highly unofficial when accidents happen that never happened. Governments rarely admit to losing people, aircraft, subs (or being responsible for same) in circumstances that never officially happened. Nor will we discuss the disappearance of agents, operatives, or others; nor the discovery of the bodies of such on doorsteps or in staged compromising circumstances.

Instead, for today, let’s focus on the need to get unofficial information between governments. If you want a number of examples, look at the information flow between the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. There was quite a bit of unofficial flow, which ranged from carefully staged leaks (or, possibly, operations on par with The Man Who Wasn’t There in WWII) to using businessmen and journalists as conduits. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, a LOT of essential discussion was channeled through a journalist both sides trusted.

It is important to note that not all of these conduits were aware they were being used to send messages. Sometimes it was a one-time thing, sometimes it was done as a part of normal business operations so as to keep the person in the dark. And, sometimes, it is rumored, it was done to some poor sap that had PO’d one side or another and got used and was figuratively (and literally) disposed of afterwards.

Sometimes, using someone is made very easy by the person being used. They can be greedy, needy, of limited trustworthiness, or other flaws that make it easy to use them. You know them and their flaws, their triggers, etc. Some of the people used before have been, er, interesting, to be polite. They also have spanned the strata of society.

Which is why I find it believable that Jeffrey Goldberg may have been a “deliberate accident.” If you wanted to get the word to some allies that patience is running thin with them, that their freeloading needs to stop, that some potential major changes are heading their way, and do so in a way that made such clear without it being an official communication, you could count on him to get it out.

I’m willing to bet a donut or two that he had already contacted any number of European leaders or his contacts in their offices to share this information. The man hates Trump and his admin with a passion, and he would see this as a means to hurt them. Keeping quiet in this case is something I don’t think he literally do. So, get in touch, share, reeeeeee a bit, and probably let them know he was going to publish but give them some time so they were ready to pounce when the time came.

Now, he has gone public and if the message didn’t get sent before it sure has now. Everyone knows what the admin thinks of various governments and entities. I will note that I have not read every word; but, what I have read is not classified nor a war plan. It may have given Goldberg a couple hours notice of what was going to happen, but nothing that could have prevented it. In short, it is really a nothingburger operationally, and the only concern lies in which scenario is correct.

A final thought on this track is that by going public Goldberg has, IMO, AD’d himself as he jammed his pistol into his pants. He on some levels burned a source; he verified what a lot of people thought of him and his trustworthiness; and, he has verified that he will put politics ahead of national interest. This is going to burn him even with people who “officially” support him right now in the long term. In the twisty murky world of leaks and sources, burning a source for almost any reason puts people off on trusting you. If you know someone can’t keep a secret, you don’t share truly important things with them. If you show you are a partisan hack to the world, even those on your side are going to start treating you as such.

That what has happened is effectively a self-immolation, is just icing on the cake from an ops standpoint. When I said on social media yesterday that things fit, this is what I am talking about. You know the messages got out, you know some of the results, and in the process you let an avowed enemy do harm to themselves.

So, I tend to be a bit suspicious that this could have been a very deliberate accident. As for what it really is, we likely won’t know for a while. One of the things I have loved about the current Trump administration is the lack of leaks. They have been amazingly good at OPSEC, which again, is a tick in favor of the third option.

It is a point to consider, and I hope you will do so. We will find out the truth someday, and it will be interesting to find out for sure. I would be cautious accepting anything announced right now: it is custom to some extent to “obfuscate” or flat out lie immediately, especially if it can make an op work even better. Right now, my bet is this just doesn’t get mentioned and the comments made so far are all that are made. It would be the smart move, and so far Trump and company have been smart. We will see.

UPDATE I: Corrected a type, be to bet.

The Great Escape: Remembering All, And The 50 Murdered

This is a repost of a previous post. I try to do this every year on the 24th, and sometimes I even get it done. I will be raising a toast to them this evening.

Today, I take the time to remember the 50. On this night, in 1944, prisoners of war staged a daring large-scale escape from Stalag Luft III. The movie is good, but isn’t accurate since it was a Royal Air Force show. All but three of the prisoners who escaped were recaptured, and of those, Adolph Hitler personally ordered the deaths of 50 of them. Today, I raise a glass to them, and to all who dared and risked all to do so.

If you want to know more, go here, here, here, and here.

DCA & Philadelphia Follow-Up

For those interested, the preliminary report on DCA is out, and if you are unfamiliar with the process, it is mostly focused on what happened. Not, repeat, not, the how and why of what happened. That comes with later reports. I’m looking for a written copy as it should have basic pilot info (hours, medical, etc.). The barometric pressure issue is being emphasized, and they are looking at how it may have effected the altimeter(s) and other systems. Most importantly, the report makes urgent recommendations about Route 4 and closing same when certain runways are in use. The full conference is here:

On the Philadelphia crash, the report is written and is worth a read. Again, it is a preliminary and is more focused on what happened, not the how or why. Of note for me, it seems the Cockpit Voice Recorder wasn’t working and appears not to have been recording for several years. Pilots were in contact at the time of the accident and no distress call was received. Given the state of the plane (and occupants) I expect reconstruction and any medical exams to take a while and possibly be limited.

Again, it will take time. That’s something few seem willing to grant, but this should be a painstaking process that leaves no stone unturned. So far, it is on par with other investigations. We will see what happens.

Terrorism

Right now, there is a lot of chatter about this or that group being domestic terrorists. There is chatter about a terrorist supporter here on a green card being deported. Lots and lots of chatter (got to drive that engagement!), but to my mind some important points are being missed.

Yesterday, I shared a post on X about how what is going on now is how the Red Brigades and Baader-Meinhof got started. I shared it because to my mind it made a point while missing the point. The poster in the thread that followed held forth that this is just starting. It’s been building for years.

Mr. Andy Ngo has been writing about Antifa and others for several years now. Here’s one example outside of his book(s). I seem to recall writing about some things going on a couple of years ago myself with interesting groups getting interesting training and how it was even more interesting that top leadership had encrypted coms and more. I also believe I wrote a bit about how the shooting of transformers was not limited to the Northwest and was a much bigger issue than the FBI and others cared to admit.

The fact is, the modern equivalents of the Weather Underground, Red Brigades (a group with which my 12-year-old self had direct experience), and others are already here. They are organized and funded. Does anyone really think all those massive pro-Hamass riots were spontaneous? Heck, certain leaders have admitted they funded those demonstrations. Personally, I think a lot of the groups we are seeing active now are second- or third-order groups enabled by the long-term efforts of the first-order groups mentioned above.

It’s a classic move. Get one or more hardcore groups into place quietly. Build up cells, stockpiles, and more. Test the system a bit (transformers are but one area tested) Identify and recruit true believers who get checked out, and if they pass go overseas for clandestine training. Meantime, use other members to help recruit and establish new groups who do the things that get attention. Make sure there is insulation between the originals and the second- and third-order groups.

As the second- and third-order groups do the flashy public things, the first-order group or groups can do things far more important and have a lot of it buried in the noise. And, if the flashy public things bear fruit, it advances the cause.

Right now, I suspect we are seeing a deliberate use of those groups even if it puts them at risk. The fact is, the attacks on Tesla dealerships and owners is terrorism, whether you quibble by calling it domestic or not. On one level it is domestic; however, I strongly suspect the ultimate driver and funding source(s) are not domestic. Nor does it stop with Tesla.

Frankly, I’m surprised it’s taken this long for the “peaceful” attacks to return. They truly are not protests, nor are they demonstrations — unless one considers them a demonstration of violence and the willingness to use same. Progressive/Socialist ideology has always embraced the use of violence, and the analogy that they see it as a rheostat is not wrong. Nor is it wrong to note that others see it as a binary switch. There is a reason a number of us have warned about the danger of letting that switch be thrown, because we have seen it in the world now and because we actually study and understand history. The Reign of Terror in the French Revolution was actually relatively mild if you know history.

Right now, you have the progressive left/rule by the elites crowd in disarray as their world is being destroyed by the Trump administration. Major sources of funding (graft) are being cut off, people are being laid off, and efforts to reform the government and government spending are proceeding rather rapidly. The methods that worked on Trump 1 (lawsuits, resistance, etc.) are not working this time. People are being exposed and since legacy media has shot itself in a sensitive area adjacent to the leg, it can’t be hidden.

Now, add to that the fact that there are a LOT of governments and politicians who do not want to see the U.S. reformed. I will even start with the EU (and UK Labor) who have interfered in U.S. elections for a while now. On top of that, the UK, France, Germany (and probably others) also don’t want to see the reforms happen. Moving beyond our “friends” (allies, though that may be stretching it a bit these days), you have Russia, Ukraine, Iran, China…

Interesting information is that the servers in the attack this week on X were located in the Ukraine. This may be false flag, but I do find it interesting. Especially since Zelensky’s media operation has been accused of doxxing American journalists, and calling for their arrest or assassination. Still evaluating some info, but not getting warm fuzzies.

Interesting information came out this morning on another front. Anyone who has been truly paying attention is aware that Vladimir has really been pushing the sabotage efforts, especially the “accidental” damages to undersea cables and pipelines from dragging anchors on ships linked to Russia. There are also a number of reports of GRU units active in Germany and elsewhere. This morning, it emerges that the captain of the cargo ship that rammed the tanker supplying U.S. Navy ships is a Russian national. Now, the thread I linked believes for now it was truly an accident, but we are getting to the point where I don’t believe in coincidences Mr. Bond.

If Kash and others can get DOJ and the FBI back on track (a topic on which I retain strong doubts, think they need to nuke and start over), I think we might discover some very interesting things. Personally, I think there are at least two first-order groups working within the U.S. Possibly three, but the patterns in the data indicate at least two. There is an argument to be made if Antifa is first- or second-order as it has been public far more than the norm for a first-order group.

The third-order groups are going to get all the media attention for now. Expect to see not only more violence, but sob stories in legacy media on the order of ‘she was a good girl who meant well she shouldn’t be prosecuted for doing X’ and even more of the ‘it’s wrong and a violation of the First Amendment to deport those supporting or engaging in terrorism’ stories. On the latter, it is legal since if you are here on a Visa or green card you are not allowed to support terrorism or designated terrorist groups. Meantime, there is a huge difference between peacefully espousing your views and leading riots that block access, illegally trespass, and physically assault others. The first is protected, and the second should not be tolerated at all.

Quick aside: if you don’t follow or read Gad Saad, you should. I really need to add his books, particularly his new book on Suicidal Empathy to the Amazon Wish List. The West has a lot of problems. If we can save the Republic, which is not guaranteed, we still have even larger fights to come to save what remains of Western Civilization. And, yes, that is something we really do need to do.

However, the first- and second-order groups are the ones who worry me right now. The third-order are the shock troops, the cannon fodder even though they (mostly) don’t even suspect such. The others are the ones who can and will do real damage if ordered. By my estimates, some three battalions worth of military-aged males entered the country under the Biden Regency. How many of them joined the ranks of those first- and second-order groups that were waiting. What is their task?

If we had an intelligence community and law enforcement focused on their job and doing right by America, we might know. Instead, they are focused on politics and trying to maintain an order that is done. Which makes it a scary time for America and American’s who are paying attention.

There is a lot to celebrate in the efforts to drain the swamp and restore the Republic. Thing is, there is a lot that can go wrong too, and I will repeat again that the so-called elites have no idea how much anger there is in that almost eighty percent of the population that supports what is being done. I do not want to see that switch flip — to to have things get where those first- or second-order groups can work to flip it.

So, keep your guard and preparations up. If things get truly tense, don’t respond to provocations. Until then, celebrate your victories and work for more. As always, keep your friends and family close, and your things where you can find them in the dark.