- Joined
- Nov 25, 2007
- Messages
- 9,295
If you didn't understand the reference in my post, I think Gov. Palin qualifies as both political and performance art.
I see, I'm not even sure if I read that line when I first looked at it.
I went to a McCain rally. McCain wasn't conservative enough for me, but he was still better than the alternative, in my eyes. A political appointee from the Pentagon that I was worked with had me added to the VIP list. I was able to sit behind the stage, although I picked a spot to the side so I had less fear of looking goofy on camera.
I took leave. I wore civilian clothing. I didn't mention my status as an officer. I didn't wear or carry any "Veterans for McCain."
I had a good time. It was fun, especially as a government major, to see it at work.
There was a long long line to get in, and I wasn't sure what to do. My friend had said "just go up and say you're on the list." So eventually I found someone who looked like a wonk. I said "I'm trying to figure out how to get in." "Just wait in line." she said. "I was told to find someone, I'm on the VIP list." I said. "Oh my gosh sir, I'm so sorry, I didn't recognize you! Right this way!" HAHAHAHA.... I told her it was unlikely there was any reason she should recognize me.... but it was pretty funny to me anyway. The I in VIP has no place describing me.
Well, inside I saw somone in uniform, either Marine Corps or Air Force, and I couldn't help thinking "what the heck man?"
I have my political beliefs. I stand by them. But it's not appropriate to be in uniform; neither at a function I support, nor at a function I disagree with. I'm not a huge fan of "service member" backdrops, if there's a political undertone. There's a difference between "we support you" and "we need to tell Congress that..." Service members shouldn't be props, and they frequently are (for all parties). The uniform shouldn't be reduced to a political banner.