Article Source: msnbc.com
from:msnbc.comAn Ohio firefighter has been suspended from his role in a pipe and drum band because he nodded to President Barack Obama during last week's inaugural parade in Washington.
You're in Easy Mode. If you prefer, you can use XHTML Mode instead. |
Bill Clinton to U.S., Europe: quit bickering over spendingObama raises $44 million for campaign, Dems in MayAmericans split on Obama's gay marriage decisionObama walks fine line in bashing Romney, courting Wall StreetFlorida governor takes aim at firms with ties to Cuba, SyriaNo boost for Obama from gay marriage decisionPaul hopes to influence Republican agenda at conventionNo boost for Obama from gay marriage decisionEx-Senator Edwards didn't know of payments, confidante testifiesRomney campaign defends JPMorgan loss as market risk
Leave a Comment:
I truly believe there are more pressing issues that need to be researched and put forth to the American people. This story has nothing to do with anything serious.
So a person breaks the rules, but there should be no consequences for him. Sounds like my 17 year old son. "There should be no consequences for me when I get into trouble!!" The little turd screamed this at me when I was shutting his bedroom door when he got into trouble at school. What is it with this "I should be able to do anything I want to do" bull ch!t thinking?? I say don't suspend him, fire his assss!
Oh, but that wouldn't be fair.
AND another thing, what makes this band guy think the messiah was looking at him? How many people were at this parade?? The people for whom the parade is thrown, they don't look at individual people, they see groups of people. They stare through the front row to look at the back rows.
Just quit and get it over with!
He looked like a dangerous nodder to me! Besides nodding hasn't just gotten out of control in this country! :)
This is an example of just how bad political correctness has gotten in this country.
He must have been a democrat, in a republican band!
Anyone who refers to his son as a "little turd" is more likely to have a son who gets into trouble.
Whats next High 5s at funerals?
Me thinks ZOOCREW just has a problem with the new President, er, I mean "messiah". Kind of confuses me, with an "entitled" little turd you'd think they'd be Dems.
If the band was warned as the article said, hey, he broke the rules. Yes Virginia there are consequences.
ZOOCREW, you've got some serious issues. This man is no better than any other president that has ever walked through the doors of the White House and he'll make his mistakes just like all of the other presidents have. Messiah? Hardly.
anger issues much?
Z00CREW this person sounds like a big turd
Z00CREW the first word says it all can we add Clown to that
Thank God he didn't throw his shoe at him.
zoocrew. children are not turds! i feel sorry for your son! anger is not the way to teach children to behave!!!
and yeah, i agree the band leader is probably a staunch republican :) it's not like the guy yelled out to obama... he was polite because he assumed obama made eye contact with him. it's an instinctive thing to do for crying out loud!
I hope all of you who refer to Obama as the Messiah, the chosen one, the second coming, etc. etc. etc. all know that what you are referring to is his popularity, and how relieved and happy people are that he is our president. I also hope you realize that it just sounds like sour grapes when you use that insulting way of referring to him. You do yourselves an injustice. You are not helping your case but making yourselves look like buffoons.
zoocrew stfu, no one cares what you have to say either.
curious... first of all the rules were in place, warnings about them were given and they had a basis with the group. Society either has rules or it isn't a society. A performance organization must have rules and those who join must accept those rules. In this case the guy decided that he was above the rules. I really can't blame him as that is what is being taught at the highest levels in this country... Clinton taught that it's okay to have sex with anyone you want. The dems have taught that getting more political power is more important than the Constitution or the country. They've also taught that even when they caused a problem that they won't pay any consequences and actually be put in charge of 'fixing' it! Now, Obama is teaching that breaking the law is a resume' enhancement for his cabinet. Why wouldn't a kid think it is wrong for him to be held accountable for his actions and have to suffer consequences? I applaud the father for having the strength to stand against the teachings of the left-wingers.
you sound just like the person that should not write anything. if you can't say anything good about someone just don't say anything at all.
Ok, the guy slipped up. He made a mistake because he was doing what he thought was respectful, even though he was told not to do it. How many people talk on their cell phones while driving (which by the way, is illegal in many states now), or litter on the street(also illegal) every day? You will never see that stuff featured in the news. The point is, we ALL do things we are not supposed to, yes there should be consequences, but I don't think 6 months of suspension was hardly worth the crime.
So how about this...Why doesn't someone ask The President if he was offended or if it made him feel unsafe or disrespected in any way...Obviously it wasn't that big of an issue.
And by the way, Barack Obama...IS NOT THE MESSIAH. You should be punched in the face for saying that. Jesus Christ is the Messiah, not Barack Obama. Get it straight. Not only that, but calling your child names on a message board, shows your lack of decency. Clearly, if your child is getting in trouble at school, it probably means that you should try talking to him about it.
Instead of worrying about holding everyone else accountable for their actions and misjudgement, why don't we all worry about keeping ourselves in check? Those that break the rules will see the consequences.
This is ridiculous! This is an honorable firefighter who was, IM SURE just out of habit and being a NORMAL human being acknowleding someone who made a nice gesture to him, whether it be the President or a kid on the street. This is what is wrong with America today. To worried about things that dont matter and not worried enought about the things that are tearing our country apart. Get a life!
ZOOBLEW - just looking over this and some of your earlier posts. You certainly are opinionated - and wrong quite a bit in hindsight. I hope your kids fall far from the tree - because the family values you seem to be teaching aren't leadership values. I would say Thank Heaven you live on the other side of the country . . . but ignorance knows no boundaries. Good luck.
Maybe if we are lucky the "little turd" will turn 18 soon and beat the big turd into the dirt.
:)
This is silly, and sounds like the Third Riech or something.
If Obama (or any President or anyone famous) had glanced my way, I probably would have "slipped up" and acknowledged the person mostly out of shock or surprise.
It's called being human.
Perhaps the issue is not the nod but the lack of discipline ? You know how rigorously the armed forces marching bands conduct their routine. Each turn, each step is practiced innumerable times until it is absolutely perfect. Granted this was not an armed forces band but i am sure they too have a strict code of conduct and practice as hard to get everything perfect. I am sure nodding or waving while marching is not part of the drill.
Even so a 6 month suspension does seem a bit extreme.
ANN KELLY: You state as follows:
"you sound just like the person that should not write anything. if you can't say anything good about someone just don't say anything at all."
You must not read much on newsvine!! Rarely does anyone say anything good about anyone else. I assume you were addressing JB/numbers??
I think this whole situation is absolutely absurd! Isn't there much more urgent situations right now to be concerned with? My God, this wasn't an earth shattering crime that this fire fighter did. Also, what was with the comment about "the messiah" about?? I believe you are referring to President Obama?? Grow up and keep your negative comments to yourself. Besides from what I've seen of our new Prez, he is a people person, unlike former white house snobs!!
Mr. Engle...is there nothing more important for you to deal with? What a tight azz!!! This is just plain crazy!
The "punishment" doesn't fit the "crime".
LOL at the post... a nod with intent to wave.. LOL
Reminds me of that guy that got charged with battery for farting and fanning toward officers.
(The prosecutors later dropped that charge.)
ok, "the messiah?" and now you can see with other folks eyes?
Man do you have some issues!! You sound a bit like the ignorant red-necks who love bleached sheets. Ever thought of running for an important position in your local church??? You would be GOOOOOD!!!
I watched almost all of the days events,from the swearing in to the parade and some of the balls, (and No, I did not vote for Predident Obama.) If you saw any of the real military units in the parade, you noticed that those walking point turned, looked at the reviewing stands and saluted. All other members of the units were looking straight ahead. THis Drum Major, IMHO, just followed what was being done by active duty units.
Was he disrespectful, no,He was paying respects to the Commander-In-Chief.
Did he go against oragizational protocol,might have,but is a suspension warranted in this case, I would vote no!!!!!
The guy knew the rules. What if they all started waving. Decorum was required.
B-F-D!!!
As the parent of a former high school band member, I am very well aware of the RULES that are in place for the performers. Regardless of whether you are in a school unit or part of an adult paid or volunteer unit, there are rules that must be obeyed. A marching/parade band unit is all about precision and uniformity---many working and moving as one. To "break ranks" and nod or wave is a breach of the protocols that everyone knew about and hopefully had agreed to uphold. This firefighter needs to own up to the fact that he broke the rules and apologize for bringing a sort of dishonor onto his group. To whine and go home because he got called on his error is missing the point. Keeping control of himself during the parade would have been the highest honor he could have paid the new president. His nodding and waving is akin to a star-struck fan gushing all over a Hollywood personality they spot on the street.
If you screw up, admit it, and take your consequences. You'll learn something about taking responsibility and growing from the experience.
Toosano - it would have been better if everyone waved.
Ahh the military mind has no room for individuality and on top of that I am one who totally dislikes pipes and for the life of me don't understand why police and fire departments are so in love with the terribly sounding things.
Are you having a bad day? Your comment is of no consequence either!!!
ZOOCREW,
There are rules in Newsvine communities about using profanity, Please follow the rules to the best of your ability, as to avoid consequences.
Zoocrew - 17 yr olds are rebellious and that behavior is expected from them at that age. He'll be legal adult soon anyway and you can call him whatever you want.
However I don't, won't , and will never, consider referring Obama as "The Messiah".
What's next a new religion to push Scientology out of the of the way?
You can be the new founder of "Obamatology" = One who becomes an Obamatologist for practicing and worshipping Obama? Write a new gospel, don't eat meat on Fridays, and don't wear Nike Shoes.
The Bandleader didn't follow the rules as petty as it is, its nevertheless the rules of the Fire Department Band. I think a simple warning would have been suffice. How many people other than the fire department even notice such a trifling nod? People will use any excuse these days to reprimand or fire an employee for something so petty.
I agree that this is hardly a newsworthy event.
However, that being said, a lot of people fail to understand the internal workings of any type of marching band, whether it's a firefighter marching band, or high school marching bad. A high degree of discipline is required in any band that is worth its salt. It has always been protocol in any highly disciplined band to keep eyes straight ahead when marching in performance or formation. It just isn't done........ESPECIALLY by the drum major.
That's just the way it is.
Zoocrew..You have publically called your child "a little turd". It is NOT the child that needs discipline, but YOU. If you vent such anger and hostility toward your child openly, I hate to imagine what you actually do to him privately. And then to gesture profanity. Your son is only venting the frustration he obviously feels from you. GET HELP IMMEDIATELY
ATTN: ZOOCREW - This just in - Newsvine is now requiring posters to exhibit an IQ > their shoe size. YOU NEED TO GO FIND THE PURPLE DINOSAUR BLOG SITE.
Get a grip. And a life.
He was not instructed to nod. He was specifically supposed to salute and declare, "Seig heil!".
For all of you concerned about my 17 year old son, he has been in trouble before I got involved with his mother and little brother. I have tried to help him, but now he is about to head to jail. The only thing I can do now is pray for him.
AND apparently, you posters failed to read the very first sentence... "I truly believe there are more pressing issues that need to be researched and put forth to the American people. This story has nothing to do with anything serious." This story is a waste of time considering ALL of the other problems we are facing today.
Thank all of you for trying to improve my mannerisms. I will take these negative criticisms and turn them into positive actions. And unless you have lived my life, you have no right to negatively criticize me.
I teach my children that there are consquences for EVERYTHING you do. Whether they be positive or negative consequences depends on how you behave. Also, I teach them to take responsibility for there actions. Just for the older one, he has never learned to take responsibility, hence the comment, "There should be no consequences for anything I do!!"
I don't agree that 17 year olds are expected to be rebellous. On the occasion they are rebellous, they are expected to responsibility for their actions, NOT run away from them. But somebody else was correct, we have all these politicians being rebellous and NOT taking responsibility for their behaviors. Why should we require our children to be responsible and accept the consequences for their behavior???!!!???
ZOOCREW: If you wondered "why" we have so many young people in the jails today, now you know from the comments you have received. While I strongly disagree with you referring to the President as the "messiah", I do understand "little turd". While I did not vote for Mr. Obama, nor Mr. McCain, I do have some respect for the President of this country and will do my best to support his policies I can understand and agree with. We raised three boys, each of which thought his name was "you little SOB". They were NOT abused in any way - but if their attention had to be gotten - IT WAS. No arguments either. For what it is worth (by most comments nothing), our three boys grew up to be honorable, hard working, respectful and kind men. They have families and you can rest assured their children MIND, they do what they are told. Six grandchildren - all of which are excellent in school, and are not problems in any shape, form or fashion. Two of our sons have served this country in the military. All three are still very well employed in this terrible economy. None have criminal records of any kind, not even traffic tickets. So lets hear it for "child abuse". I figure when other people start paying for the feeding, care & responsibility of a person's children, only then do they need to tell a parent what they need to do with a child. I do not mean people should be allowed to abuse a child, but sometimes stiff discipline of children can, and does save the child from a lot of grief, pain and even death. To those that say "they have a mind of their own", I would ask, in that case why weren't they put on this earth as adults?? Too many parents do not recognize the fact that Lack of discipline is "child abuse" in the strictest sense of the word.
Well now lets see. Tim Geithner broke the rules and now he is secretary of the treasury. What do you think about that? This is what most people are being taught these days. Break the rules and get paid in one form or the other.
Of course that's the way the politically correct are being taught to think. Rules and self discipline are out and selfishness and political correctness are in. Couple that with the psychobabbilists who can just about excuse anything and the @!$%#s in the ACLU and you have a perfect recipe for anarchy. This may not be a big thing--just a symptom of bigger things that encroach on the long standing rules and regulations of any group. If you join a group-----live by it's rules or get out. It's not just your world.
I agree with Jan-357844. If people respected & followed the rules, perhaps our country & our society wouldn't be in the trouble it is in now. While it didn't commit a huge crime and maybe not so newsworthy, maybe it should be. It's just an example of what society has become. No respect for rules. I wonder if the people who are showing support for him are the same people that supported the shoe thrower @ President Bush. Hummmmmmmmmmmmmm.
You hit the nail on the head.
What's next? Break dancing... I wonder if a platoon leader would accept this of solders marching. On the other hand is this worth talking about...the person that escalated this needs to find a hobby.
Jopa;
It MAY have been a military parade, but there group is NOT military! This group had NOTHING to do with military protcol, they were not led by a Platoon leader and are NOT soldiers.
That could have been one of the most memorable days of this man's life & it looks like he's not going to lose any sleep over this, but many of his band and a bunch of winey viners are gonna, Huh?!
Their loss, to the band that is
Governor Ronald Reagan said that it should "hurt" to pay your Personal Income Taxes (PIT). It was found later that the esteemed couple had not paid their taxes.
Governor Pete Wilson during his administrationdid not admit that he had hired an illegal alien for housekeeping chores. Doo Dah.
It does not matter if they are Republicans or Democrats, close scrutiny of public office should always be demanded by "we" the people. Oh, and that goes for exorbitant spending rightfully called "fiscal policy irresponsibility." I have not seen responsible fiscal policy in many years. Pork and more pork barrel (beware both parties) , ahhhhh oink, oink.
Get over it. A nod is a nod. A wave is a wave. Make a mountain out of a mole hill, but watch out for the avalanche -- the war, our soldiers, the economy, bank failures, home foreclosures, escalating unemployment, business closures, health care reform, and immigration are the real issues to address. Write your representative (s) about these.
Shan-Man,
Most machining bands follow a para military stance...They have leaders,and a command structure..So your assumption is incorrect.. With that said i see no reason to quit over it and i see no need to suspend him...
I didn't vote for the President, but i would acknowledge him if we made eye contact...
That's not true. He was audited as part of the nomination process (everyone is) and they found an underpayment. So it was an honest mistake. I did the same thing a few years back, not on purpose - I didn't know the rules and the idiot HR Block tax guy didn't tell me what the rules were, so when I got audited I payed what was due and moved on. Doesn't make me a rule breaker, Geither neither.
I'd bet $100 that if you were to be audited over the past 10 years that you would owe the IRS some money too. Some people have suggested the IRS step up random audits as a way of brining in new revenue. Obviously that wouldn't be fair, but fact is, a lot of people make mistakes on their returns. Especially older folks.
Greg;
I know that, but we're not Communists here! A little leniency can go a long, LONG way to people who are already being stomped on by government, banks and investment scumbags!
Give the guy a break, I'm sure that's all he wanted, and deservingly TOOK by bailing out of the DICTATORSHIP that is the band and it's ALMIGHTY conductor (probably right out of the military and has no one to boss around any more...WAH).
He can't be court martialed becuase he wasn't marching for the MILITARY!
I respect men that serve our country, but don't abuse that respect by expecting everyone else to Follow the Leader. That's why I NEVER joined the Military, becuase I would have to do STUPID things for STUPID people when ALL I would want to do was defend our country by using my BRAINS not being brain-washed. I would have been reprimanded (AND probably discharged dishonorably) the FIRST time some higher ranked officer told me to do something just becuase he felt like torturing me!
Some need guidance, I don't! I would volunteer today IF I knew I didn't have to deal with the BS.
I'm NO ONE'S BEATCH!
Blizzy,
The jackass was aprised of his underpayment/error and didn't take care of it for four years. Then he paid half of the balance. This is the guy who is going to head the Treasury and the IRS. This is no different than Chuck Rangel who chairs a ways and means committee not paying 50k in taxes on an investment property income in the Dominican Republic. This guy writes the tax laws, for God's sake.
Shan-man,
Well, you wouldn't fit in the military..It isn't wether they make you do stupid things,it's that you have to follow orders...You couldn't have an Army where the troops decide what they want to do...I remember thinking it was all BS when i was in...When i got older and reflected on that part of my life,i realized they weren't being dick heads they were trying to save my life... True what he did was insignificant, and like i said in my original post i more than likely would have done the same even though i didn't vote For the President..
This is NEWS!!!!!
globug: That is what I thought. Hummmmmm, the politicians must not be allowing the media to delve into their various and sundry messes - got to have something to write about I guess.
Your first instinct when greeted by someone is to acknowledge the greeting. Come on. Cut some slack.
He wasn't being greeted by Obama. He was in full uniform, with full knowledged of proper decorum during the event. He broke it. My guess is, he knew it would cause consquences for him, but after 17 years, he didn't care. He was probably going to leave anyway, and figured "what the heck".
But, as an added note....This is news? c'mon...this should have stayed with their own department. It doesn't even earn the right to be front pages NEWS. Sometimes I just hate the internet!
You are ridiculous! He is not in the armed forces he is in a BAND--spreading CHEER...It would have been rude if eye contact was made directly to him and he didn't acknowledge the President. He would have been wrong if he were MILITARY-Marine really is the only one. Clinton can be a sexual pig publicly and offend our families and child--since he is a significant role as President and yet nothing came of it!! So they lost a skilled long timer--good for them--they suck and now everytime we see thier marching band we will think of how much they SUCK.
That was my first thought too, moma. If he had just kept going and not acknowledged the President, it would have been news too. He's not military. Only the military is to act in this way.
The above was for cmk, just incase cmk thought not.
"The band leader, Pipe Major Mike Engle, said the firefighter from Cleveland Heights violated the proper decorum required in a military parade. He said members were warned not to make such gestures during the parade."
A MILITARY Parade?!?!?!?!??? I didn't know America was a "military" government, first of all. Second of all, did Obama-lama-ding-dong ever serve in the armed forces???
Gimme a break, the guy was playing bagpipes and wearing a skirt for crise sakes.
I should be amazed at people supporting someone who broke the organization's rules. I should be, but I'm not. The "it's all about me" attitude of people is the basis of our country's problems right now. When breaking rules set by an organization are excused and the consequences are attacked, there are major problems with the basic morals of the populace. One can question the rule against acknowledging others while in the position of command of the organization, but when one is in that position of leadership s/he must set an example and breaking the rules is not a leadership example.
It had nothing to do with a military govenment. It's a military parade in honor of the New Commander in Chief (President Obama). Does it matter if he served in the military? There are many who have not and that's ok.
BTW...great way to refer to your President!
Rubydragon, all i can say is you absolutely crack me up. LOL.
LoL. It wasn't a military parade so I dunno why that guy said that. You wouldn't have college bands in a military parade I don't think.
But no Obama never served in the military, along with a quarter of the presidents this country has had.
Serving in the military isn't a requirement for anyone to be President. Whether you like it or not, President Obama is the Commander in Chief just as Bush II, and Clinton were before him. They didn't serve in the military either (and no, I do not consider Bush II to be a veteran).
That said, 6 month suspension seems like overkill.
In a military formation, while marching towards the reviewing stand, the platoon leader will give the command 'Eyes Right!' The inboard squad faces to the front, and remaining squads will turn their heads sharply to the right. Upon the command 'Ready, Front!' the outboard squads will turn their heads back to the front.
So the question becomes 'what would happen if one of the furtherst inboard squad turned his head, nodded , waved , or anything OTHER than what he was supposed to?'
At the ceremony, nothing. However, in the military world don't be surprised if he spent the entire following weekend practicing those two commands ad nauseum marching back and forth across the parade deck. Responsbility for one's actions.
Marching is not just about looking good or spreading cheer. Marching was originally created as a method of maneuvering warriors into battle. It is it's heritage. (Just as the military salute was taken from midevil periods, where knights would lift their visors so that another knight could recognize them)
Marching is, above all, about discipline. This man failed that test.
However a 6 month suspension is a bit excessive, if he were not disciplined for his lack of discipline, it would be a discredit to the rest who managed to maintain their bearing.
Yes SirSgt: A terrible discredit indeed - awful, disgraceful. Should be tarred and feathered for sure. This was NOT a "military" parade by any stretch of the imagination. The suspension was a laughing matter, and I truly hope the man could afford to quit his job without difficulties. Since marching was created as a method of maneuvering warriors into battle, just seems even more stupid to have penalized this man to such a degree - I don't think he was headed into any battle. Probably thrilled to be in the presence of the President - and it is human nature to acknowledge people with a slight "nod" of the head. I seriously doubt he meant any disrespect for the President at all. The whole matter is too silly.
First, I simply wanted to know if he served or not. Second, I sense sarcasm in your last sentence. If that is so, then here's an answer for you.....I can refer to a President anyway I want to.
You're welcome for the laugh. If that's all I can ever manage to do while I'm here, is make someone laugh when they need it (or not), well then, it'll be a good life. :)
If the standard rule said not to acknowledge anyone the rule should be followed.I hope that the Drum major think about that incident and rejoined the band, if that is the real issue.I feel that the president would tell you the same thing.I heard the president say what ever you do, do it with pride and dignity.I feel that our president would suck up his pride and take the suspension, learn from it and get back into something that you enjoyed.May god bless and shine on you and give you wisdom.
Why should he? He has been practice allyear -throught the summer-on weekends and now with St. Pats day coming he's not suppose to march--SCREW THEM--He should start a childs pipe and drum band at thier local VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. We have pipes and drums at our local fire dept nd they are great and march NYC St pats parade every year and other major parades. Good for him --they are wrong and he shouldn't have to eat it.
Obama has shown that he doesn't accept the idea of consequences for breaking the law, let alone breaking a conduct rule in a volunteer organization! His pick for treasury admitted that if he hadn't be picked that he wouldn't have paid his back taxes... that he would've just continued being a law breaker... a criminal. But BO overlooked that 'small' crime because he was the only one in this country who could do the job???? It was/is a payback with some connection to a previous event. Most of the 'retread cabinet' can be traced to nothing better than a political payback... certainly not 'change' or because of ability!
JB/numbers: What you posted is very sad, but - unfortunately, all too true. I voted for you because you spoke the truth. Most here will not vote for your comment as it contained just a tiny hint President Obama"just may" have a few flaws of his own. To think that way is just not acceptable to most people. The truth tends to be used only if convenient for the individual - and does not cast any aspersions upon themselves. Oh well I sometimes wonder when "truth" passed away?? President Obama is NOT nearly as much of an ogre as some that support him. Blind support is never good. I do not think he is any better or worse than any politician. He will make mistakes, and hopefully he will be able to admit the mistakes and try to correct whatever is wrong. That is probbly too much to ask though.
JB/numbers: How was your nap you apparantly took for the past 8 years? You want to talk about lawbreakers, no repsect for the Constitution, etc. you're right - we've had enough of that the past 8 years to last a lifetime.
JB - You're a laff riot!! I do believe the former president was an admitted drug addict. Consequences? None. AWOL while in uniform. Consequences? None. Gave preferential treatment to sterling characters like bin Ladin family. Consequences? None - for him anyway.
As for "political payback", I can only say "good job, Brownie".
mike engle needs a drum shoved up his, hey lets get barack to pardon him,
He broke the rules he should suck it up and take the results, instead he is being a BABY and taking his toys and going home, I say see you LOSER.
You must be a member of that community in Ohio or in the band itself---You guys suck and thats what I'll think evrytime I see your stupid self rightous pigs and dumbs flock!
Who wouldn't be excited the first time seeing a president up close! I saw President Reagan about 7 feet away when I was in the Navy. I was the only one in uniform at the small airport - rest were civilians. He waved and smiled directly at me and I started jumping, waving, and cheering - he smiled even brighter. This is human nature to get excited about a big event. Are you trying to create robots in this country much socialists?
Now that this issue is resolved, I can sleep better at night.
Hey what country are we in? I must have woke up and been transported to Russia or some place where the Taliban are in charge. I bet if you asked the President about it he'd say ''come on people the man just nodded and waved in response to my nod and wave, I'd call that being friendly''
You know, that's it right there! Everyone in that parade was sooooooo excited to be there. What an honor! Of course he's going to acknowledge the President!!
I'll bet if you peal back this onion there is more to this than just getting suspended for waving at the President. There is history that we all don't know about. The media chose this as the main point which is just the how they operate.
Bingo ! Let's create news where none exists. Bet the next thing they tell you is that he was black. Boo Hoo Poor baby! Another issue of bigf bad whitey pickin'on the poor victimized baby? How much you wanna bet?
where the hell are we?..... I went to bed and woke up in North Korea, WTF!
EXACTLY!! wtf is right.
Let me make sure I understand this! TODAY 55.000 people lost their jobs, there were 3067 brand new foreclosures filed country wide. IRS agents are just starting yet ANOTHER investigation about stock fraud in the multi-million dollar range. The entire country is trying
with all their might to focus on the new President and his administration while realizing more and more that we ARE in the grip of DEPRESSION! And this story even makes it as news?
If the brand new President of the United States was thoughtful enough to acknowledge me
in a parade on the very day the country is trying to over-come such uncertain times!!! Who ever was anal enough to condem this man for being RESPECTFUL to President Obama either is on a total power trip OR has just realized that most grown men do have more then TWO INCHES....of pride!!! His supervisor needs to relocate herre to Florida where he can be in charge of one of these Nazi-themed Neighborhood Associations!!! That would be the very person who would have the nerve to file a lawsuit against a home owner because they have placed an American flag in their front lawn in memory of a lost son in battle!
We live in a country that is based ON freedom of choice. Most all in this country value peace and mutual respect for their neighbor. HOWEVER, there is ALWAYS that tiny, small-minded group of bitter, nasty, un-caring Jerks that make sure to spread as much un-happiness as they can....True the number is small but the sad thing is the ones that choose to destroy others are very good at what they do!!!
Shame on the bunch of you!!! Grow Up!! Its time to cut the cord and realize the entire world was not fashioned just to make you content!!! Learn to SHARE and RESPECT other people! They are just as good as you!!!
Having been in the military, it is respectful not to wink, nod and wave at the president. He was directed BEFORE the parade not to do so but did anyway. In your diatribe you go on about the state of our country because of rules being ignored yet you say it should have been okay to ignore this small one. When do the small ones become too big to ignore any longer? Until caught?
Thinker, he wasn't military. It was a military parade. Not all participants are military.
I respect the military--and you are right--but he is a band player in the Fire Dept. Different --much different. Besides when did it end-- when Pres. Clinton got caught with his explicit-embarassing sex scandle that now every youth in America--feels that oral sex isn't sex so lets get it on. It was Okay for the Pres. with no reprecussion and no regard for the morals he is suppose to uphold for the world watching. Yeh other Pres. fooled around but this one got caught--and he paid no price but public humiliation and personal family pain. So cut the drummer some slack--besides now Cleveland got some glory --in a poor light though--I guess they are pleased with themselves, they are now a spot on the map--other than Drew Cary show noone even thought about the place.
What?
Here--I'll do it in sign language--is that better?
When did this become about sex? And no, not every youth! Not mine!
LS,
You are wrong as i stated above marching bands follow a military command structure...You know that when you join and are required to follow the rules... So in effect he was military....
I cannot believe we are having this discussion. There are things going on of far more greater importance than this young man acknowledging the President; Forclosures, lost of jobs, Americans still losing their lives in Iraq, suicides due to lost of jobs, etc.... This man should not have been suspended nor put in an insane position to quit. Good grief!!
Good post Ranger. There are way too many small minded people who post on this blog. It is our duty as Americans to show respect to our President. The supervisor in question should be sent to a etiquette class or two or five.I think if you show no respect when it is due in any situation it is an embarrassment, to the person a fault and whom that individual represents.
Petty BS--Not newsworthy
Arn't these rules for 15th century kings?
With the election of this president, I believe all the old rules are going by the wayside. The election of this president was facilitated by the younger crowd who rarely got involved before this election. As an example of new rules: BO raised money using the internet. The old rules are going to start looking as weird as when the Red Coats marched in war (in formation) against the Blue Coats during broad daylight and now we say 'why did they every do that?'
So many rules that were previously "accepted" are going to be rewritten during the next few years.
I think the video of the guy winking and smiling is very refreshing. And he doesn't need his old job anymore. He is a celebrity. He will definitely get a new and better job. He shows he is plucky and upbeat. Many employers will be glad to hire him. But they will not be those old stick-in-the-mud companies. He might even get a job in DC and the White House fireman or drum major.
BTW, I am listening to audiobook by BO "Audacity of Hope". I recommend it. I previously listened to "Dreams of my Father." Both books indicate that BO is the type of guy who would connect with a friendly smile from a guy in the band.
On the other hand, ZOO seems to have some real problems.
Oops! he forgot he was a sheep. shame on him. give the man a break.
Gus-387868 is right: this is one of these stories about a situation that seems to be much more about something else than the drummer's infraction - like he was very pro-Obama, while his boss was very anti-Obama. Persons with military backgrounds backed McCain more often than Obama during this election, so I'm sure the drummer was socially ostracized for his preference.
And for poster ZOOCREW, as you may be aware, the reason that the public has elevated Obama to be a "messiah" as you call him, is because Bush so thoroughly and completely screwed up our country. Your disdain for Obama is unpatriotic and anti-american. It would be ironic if you were one of those who "flew" the bumper sticker "Bush. Still the President". If so, then take its intent and show some respect for President Obama.
Why should anybody "respect" someone without reason? Obama has done nothing for me to "respect" him. That must be earned. He puts his pants on one leg at a time, just like me. I didn't "respect" Bush "just because," and I won't respect Obama "just because" he's president.
And this shouldn't be about being ostracized. As firefighters, we serve to a VERY high level of discipline. THAT'S probably what this is about. There is no margin for not following protocol. Period. Many people don't "get it." It could very well be about DISCIPLINE and following SOP. If an idiot can't follow direction from his Fire Chief, no matter WHAT that direction, I don't feel particularily comfortable having him pin his tag and following me into a burning building. If he makes a MISTAKE, we learn from those and go on. Not following a DIRECTIVE can cost lives. You people need to get the concept of discipline. Of course some will take advantage to make this a "bush vs. obama" thing. Here's a hint.... wait for the man to either make positive changes or being another dead weight before you fawn over him in YOUR disdain for Bush. I mean... do you not see the very irony in your own words?
Whatever. This firefighter needs to own up to not following his chain of command. THAT is what he disrespected, and in so doing he stepped out of line with his brothers. We are taught from our first 160 class the value of our rope.
My disdain for President Obama is NOT unpatriotic or anti-american.
My dislike for President Obama is because I don't like his politics and his liberalism. I didn't vote for him and I will not in the future.
The lemming Demos of the House voted earlier spend 819 billion dollars. ON what?? And for what??? Because President Obama said so?? The bill was supposed to be a way of reviving the economy. AND President Obama's words..."There will be NO pork barrell spending in this 819 billion dollars. WELL we all know he lied.
another reason why I don't like President Obama. He is 100% politician!! How do you know when a politician is lying???? When his/her lips are moving!!!
AND I served my country in the Army. I was in the first Gulf War. I don't think I am unpatriotic or anti-American at all!!! Thank you very much.
Ya know, since this was a military style unit (which pipe bands usually are), and the leader in a parade is the Pipe Major. When they pass a reviewing stand, the PM does usually do a British style military salute as is the custom... There's more to this story, and as usual, the media is only telling a little of what they want you to know.
We kicked the British out in 1776, right?
Military parade my left foot.
We should kick such third rate rules out too and soon.
How about the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution? Why not all the laws and the memoranda while we're at it. Small infractions become larger ones if not checked---ask anyteacher, or any employer. he joined the band voluntarily------you join a group, you acknowledge its rules. He's wrong by any standard.
I too, thought that the DM (in a military parade) was supposed to acknowledge the President, King/Queen, General, etc...
But this DM was told not to do so in accordance with the policy of the organization. Do I think he should have been punished? Don't know. A lot of little Napoleons run such quasi military units. I think it should have been put up to a vote within the group. Democracy eh? What a concept.
I think the wave was probably over the top tho. But I do understand about being caught up in the moment. Still, its only "news" to those involved. I really have more important things to think about today. Moving on.
Ridiculous!
This has nothing to do with Obama. The band was told not to make any such gestures. He broke the rules, and got suspended.
He chose to put himself over the rest of the band, make the gesture, and he must face the consequences.
He quit. He acted in a situation like he would to anyone waving, even a celeb. No forgiveness? I'm sure He said that He was sorry, it just happened. With all that surrounded the festivities, I'm sure he wasnt the only one. Obama shouldnt have tempted him either. People pass each other everyday without motion yet they acknowledge. This really is hardly news but since they made it .....oh well.
"Obama shouldn't have tempted him either"???!! What kind of attitude is that!! Everyone was extremely hype (obviously he was too). He simply responded to Obama, it's not like he was trying to get Obama's attention! This is ridiculous, but I'm in agreement with many bloggers, there's more to it than what we know. And perhaps this was just meant to happen. Maybe he no longer wanted to be in this band anyway. He's hurt, but he's free from that. I'm sure he's even relieved. Looking at the bright side, he takes with him that 1) he paraded for Obama, and 2) that Obama acknowledged him. And that's a huge accomplishment for a supporter. And now, that corny band is stuck with finding a replacement!
President Obama tempted no one, you made eye contact when you look at people and they with you. I probably would have done the same, it's automatic in some of us. America use to be a country of nice people, who saw no harm in a smile or a nod of greeting. Damn, we have gone to what???? A pathetic group of fools. This country is getting into deep trouble every day, and all we can talk about is Obama. Our country has been in trouble for 8 years, why didn't we scream Mr. Bush get it together are we'll impeach??? We are in a Depression, and we will be here for a while, so saddle up and ride. I'd rather hear a man with ideas, try to fight the depression than have a man talk about his herotic deeds. There are a lot dead heroes in graves, both here and abroad. I don't knock McCain for his service, because a lot of us serviced and still do, howev the people choose who they want for president and I thank God it wasn't John McCain. I liked his hero status, he may even have made a decent president but if he had passed away while in office, we be blessed with Sarah Palin. Russia is fine from her window, and God bless her, but my 401 K and my retirement interest me, besides,I'm middle class and Republicans care only about the rich.
as usual no one wants to take responsibiliy for their actions.. what if everyone decided to nod, the whole formation wouldbreak.. but the "sheep" out there is willing toforgive anything once it is connected to "Ceaser"
Actually--They all should have followed his cue--that would have been really great--from your local fire Dept. they would have made a note worthy headliner--instead of this crap! I for one would have more respect for that than this ordeal.
Oh Lord help us in this our hour of need. Please Oh Lord, deliver us from the dreaded curse of mass nodding when we are acknowledged by the President. Safeguard us from interaction on any level lest we learn to be civil toward each other. Punish those who, mocking the rule of some idiot, have nodded without cause. Dear Lord, make our drums muted, our pipes broken, and our minds reel from this type of useless crap. Amen!
retarded, that's what this is. maybe he made eye contact and got carried away... something tells me the band leader was a pro-mccain...
You join a group, you live by its rules. He screwed up --no excuses.
Lucy, where do you work and live? Sounds like a great place!
The one that cracked me up was when the "Gay and Lesbian Band Association" approached the viewing stands. He acknowledged and waved at the procession before the G&L band. Then when the band got in front of the stands, he looked left and right as if he was talking to people on each side of him and ignored them. When the band had passed the viewing stands, Obama went back to waving at the procession behind the Gay-Lezbo skin flute players. Well, we asked for transparency, and it's not difficult at all to see right through the messiahs facade.
Greg - surely you jest - or is this the only portion of the parade you watched? During the entire parade, President Obama was rudely approached by just about every individual in the viewing stand - this went on for the majority of the parade. Had you been watching - you would have noticed that - at the parade end - the first family was just about the only group left in the viewing stand - again rude! President Obama never sat once - blame the slobs - oops invited guests - who continually interrupted him.
That said - I take it you were so busy looking at the President you failed you view the First Lady grandly waving at this group?
Greg, cracked you up? Are all bigots easily amused?
Referring to him as the messiah is simply sour grapes complaining that the majority of Americans voted for him. Greg, you lost, get over it.
No I believe it is more referance to those on the left who slobber all over like he can solve every il of the world. Last your in a stump speech the great one (I bow as I write his name) said that the day he was elected was the day global warming and the rising of the oceans would reverse. So I think it was oblama him self (bowing again) who can be held responsable for being refered to as the mesiah (bowing once again).
Abort Him!
It's hard to curb what comes natural. Maybe we should tell the President to knock it off and stop waving if they in fact had they had the policy. What was Pres.Obama doing? Testing him?
And this one time in band camp . . .
OMG phantompoodle.....That is hysterical.......I can't stop laughing......
Where's a flute when you need one?