An Open Letter on the Needed Response to the Upcoming Wikileaks Report

Josh Stieber was deployed in “The Surge” from Feb 07-Apr 08. Assigned to a district near Sadr City in Baghdad, the Infantry Company that Stieber deployed with was shown in the Wikileaks’ “Collateral Murder” video release in Apr ‘10. Stieber has shared his experiences on two cross countries tours and has met with elected representatives to inform them of the reality on the ground while trying to educate the public.

Dear members of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and other willing parties,

This is an anticipatory letter aimed to advise you on your response and responsibility for the coming Wikileaks release, expected on October 23rd. Based on the White House’s response to the last leak about Afghanistan, the temptation seems strong to once again divert attention away from accountability. 

I write as a young veteran who once fully embraced the concept of a preemptive war to keep my fellow citizens safe and, as President Bush declared, because “America is a friend to the people of Iraq.” I now hope to preempt your response to the information regarding that war in which I fought. When I learned in school about the design of the American system of government and all the noble qualities it represented, invading Iraq seemed to me, at the time, to be a surefire way to make the world a better place.

Third World America (USA*)- map of reccession

All across the country, Americans are suffering. In her forthcoming book, Third World America, Arianna Huffington details the economic collapse, and the toll it has taken on so many people, families and communities.

Below, we've mapped the areas hardest hit by home foreclosure, unemployment and bankruptcy this year. But the map of Third World America is not yet complete: participate below to add your story. Submit text, pictures or video -- and share with us how you personally have been affected by the financial crisis

MAP LINK

US denies helicopters for pakistan relief effort due to afghan war

US Denied Helicopters for Pakistan Relief Effort Due to Afghan War

Although the US has provided millions in aid, the war in Afghanistan has hindered its ability to provide the needed assistance. On Wednesday, the US announced a tripling of helicopters being sent to Pakistan to nineteen. The Obama administration had been criticized for sending only six helicopters so far, despite a Pakistani request for dozens more. The US had denied the request because the helicopters play a key role in Afghan combat operations. Asked about transferring the helicopters earlier this week, a senior military official told theWashington Post the decision would have to come from Washington, adding, "Do [the helicopters] exist in the region? Yes. Are they available? No."