licentious radio

Saturday, March 15, 2003
[8:06:56 PM]

Universal Soldier Stacee Bako [sacbee.com]:

"This is not fun and games anymore," said Maj. Stacee Bako. "We're living in post 9/11. We don't know what's going to happen with the war effort in Iraq. These folks have got to realize their actions. ... They're illegal intruders."

"Deadly force can be used when lesser means of force aren't feasible or have failed, and to protect (Department of Defense) assets designated as vital to the national security," she explained.

Bako said the security measures, including the deadly force decree, are necessary because of the threat of biological weapons.

"It's impossible for us to determine what their intent is," she said. "Are they protesters? Are there terrorists in that group and (do) they plan on killing everyone on base? They all have to be dealt with as very specific threats, whether they're vandalizing a sign, crossing the green (no trespassing) line or infiltrating the backcountry."

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The problem is this: Bush left us wide open to the attacks of September 11, 2001. The facts that Bush failed to protect us and thousands died unnecessarily do *not* change the obligation of patriotic citizens to dissent when democracy is under attack.

Stacee should not use a terrorist bogeyman to justify a massacre of civilian demonstrators. Stacee should receive negative feedback from her bosses. She should make plans to handle demonstrations that absolutely avoid any potential shootings. Do not place soldiers with rifles in a position where they might feel a need to shoot civilians. Be sure there's a grown-up in charge.

Yes, for goodness' sake, if terrorists with machine guns and rocket launchers and nuclear bombs sneak in with the war protesters, be ready for that, too. But give peace-minded citizens room to do their thing, and keep the terrorist response force for when/if terrorists attack.