I seen all mentioned about the ties of others around the World.(Our Friends!)

But the only thing about his speech was to not mention the fact of how Canadians shipped or traveled to the help of your needs. (Not at All!)

Britain is now your best friend!
(REALLY)
How about the times of when your country is in need,Lumber or Water,or any other resources.
Never hard to ask then for our help.

Don't tell me that we are already on your side and all he was doing was chalking up the vote on foreign soils.

You might have our governments answer but the people haven't spoken yet.

I am truly sorry for all your loses, but after last night. He gave our people a slap in the face as the next door neighbour.
 

[ September 26, 2001: Message edited by: CJ Allan ]

Seriously though it might have been because Canada hasn't decided yet ?
 

Yes I will agree with you on the none confirmation.
We are a new and up coming nation with a world of resources...

Our interests are to hold the fort as to allow all peoples of the world into our borders that really want the freedom and hope of betterment of all.

I am French Canadian by heritage in this land and
my Surname has been here for over 250 years....

But still hated by the others of this country.

Doesn't make me any less of a free person or Canadian on this side of the globe.

CJ..
You asked myself to get a grip.
Ok! Around what? your little part of the world?

Remember that your nation is not the great inventor of everything and the other countries have just as much at stake for the progress of the new era.

I am sorry but the big picture is that the rest of the world is now knee deep in this and we don't want to be!

I will not be part of your system of military attaches or controls.
There is better things to do to help the world and her problems.
 

[ September 24, 2001: Message edited by: coop ]

If there are ANY operational cells presently within our boundaries, the chances of apprehending them are far better if they're not sent a warning, or put on high alert. Some of those terrorists might have crossed into Canada to lie low before launching yet another strike against our friends and neighbours.

I don't think that the omission was anything serious, and it may have well been designed that way for our own protection and security. The Americans KNOW who their friends are, as well as their enemies. Time will reveal what the spirit and intent was.
 

But look to the past on how your country and mine has treated others.
Never to mention the innocent to be bombed or gun down in the streets. of their own homelands.
Always in the dismay of (WAR)
"Never knowing."

Am I better then them because I have this freedom?
"No it makes me poorer because I know they Do not."
 

[ September 26, 2001: Message edited by: CJ Allan ]

They are HIS views and not those of every Canadian

Just to make my views clear..GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: Dave Grundy ]

Could it be that you're just a little bit jealous of the surge of patriotism that is sweeping your neighbor to the south?

It's a shame that it takes a huge tragedy like we've experienced to pull a people together. I haven't felt very proud of my country for many years. But to experience what is going on right now all across the USA is something I'll never forget. And I'm proud to be a part of it.

There is pain and aching written across most of our faces. I feel that we've lost a part of our own soul. But there is a remarkable resolve developing in our hearts--one of compassion, courage, and vision, coupled with a "don't tread on me" mission. (The coiled rattle snake, ready to strike, was a prominent feature of one of our early patriot flags.)

Is it that you really miss not experincing this personally? I would.

__________________

I hope you are right, too.
 

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: Gavin Chachere ]

I don't think this was done on purpose. Ken's post is probally closer to the truth.

In the past 3 years, Barb and I have spent many months in the US. Americans do not know as much about Canada as we do about them, but they still remember how Ken Taylor helped US hostages escape during the Iran hostage situation.

Many at the recent Duck Soup meet expressed their gratitude at the way Canada took in all the US air traffic following the events in New York. Don't worry about recognition from other countrys. The people of Canada need to learn it's ok to give ourselves a pat on the back more. That includes me!

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: Steve Shortreed ]

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: old paint ]

I wouldn't take offense. It is normal in a speech like that to recognize those in the gallery as guests of the President. From watching past speeches, if P.M. Jean Chretien were there, he and Canada would have been spoken of in such glowing terms as well.

That said, I'd like to thank Rex Murphy of The National (CBC) for his editorial last night on TV. It was heart warming and well stated. And, I really appreciated what he had to say.
 

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: Bill Biggs ]

also just like my friend kathy said above,
"we are not canadians or americans here, we are lettervillians."

i believe the most important thing at hand is to rid the world of these a-hole terrorists.
we are in a state of war and we will show no mercy.

God Bless America.
 

I have to say that I agree with Henry's line of thinking and came to the same conclusion myself. Or at least I'd be willing to give the benefit of the doubt. That speech was so carefully written that I have no doubt it was for Canada's best interest to not 'get props'. I also think Bush was trying very hard to not make it a North America vs. Islam war. He was speaking to the world and to countries he's looking for support from to make it a World vs. terrorist war. We don't know what else is going on, either.

What I do know, is that now is not the time to throw a petty issue into the face of someone who needs support, it is a time a friend should stand at the other's side. Deeds matter much more than words.

Oh, and Gavin, how did you uncover "the Big Plot"? Previous attempts with Anne Murray music and Bryan Adams songs didn't work either, I don't know why we bother.
 

We have 60,000 men and women in our military. We have (wow) 12 ships (all defensive weaponry) and 80 or 90 active CF18s. We have 10,000 troops that could actually fight but then you have to protect our own borders not to mention all of that peacekeeping roles that we have. So are you going to ask us for help? Britain, is right now the best people to ally yourself too. Not worrying about ruffling a few feathers north of the border.
I can tell you a few things about our government and the military but needless to say I was embarrassed by the handcuffing of our military personnel when I served for 24 years.
We have terrorist cells in our country??? I don't care if they have them in the US. They have them here and that is what counts. They are legally allowed to raise money for their physcotic causes. Some friend and neighbour. It is our responsibility what happens here and we are too wishy washy to do anything about it.
I also forgot to add, give terrorists a place to sleep and some money.
I refuse to crap on Americans. They were there in both wars.
I am totally against what you have said in this post Stephan but as we said yesterday you believe in what you believe and I will do the same.

Kevin Landry
KnL Signs
[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: kevinlandry ]

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: kevinlandry ]

"Either your with us, or your with the terrorists"

HA!
 

For the friendship of two, the patience of one is required.
Indian Proverb

A story is told as much by silence as by speech.
Susan Griffin-US poet, writer, educator

In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.
Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929 - 1968)

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: J & N Signs ]

[ September 26, 2001: Message edited by: CJ Allan ]

Hey Stephen where the f**k were you when we were sent to Croatia and Bosnia to keep the peace, but we were not allowed to defend ourselves.

Where were you when our boys were taken hostage right in front of the news cameras?

Where were you (and many others) while you let our government destroy our military?

Where were you when a bunch of bleeding heart liberal wimps disbanded the paratroop brigade?

I know where you were. Sittin' on your ass letting it happen.

Did you write letters? Did you call your MP?

Semper Paratus
 

[ September 26, 2001: Message edited by: CJ Allan ]

( PARAGRAPHS )

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: RonniesTintSigns ]

No one knows if we were snubbed, left out on purpose, or what gives. Does it even matter? To some it does, to others it doesn't.

I caught just abit of the speech on the news and from what I heard, he even mentioned children singing in front of some building in asia or somewhere like that. Well, that's all wonderful and good, but perhaps the speech writer could have made a small mention of Canada since we do help the US out on occasion in very productive ways. I mean, could it have hurt?!? I think the terrorists know we connect to the US.

This was a big deal for Canada too btw. We lost Canadian lives and many are in mourning here for everyone who died, not just Canadians. All our fire depts have black bands going through their arm crests and firehall signs along the road. The impact has hit very hard here too.

We are also a very patriotic bunch and that's why Stephen spoke out. I don't think it's in line to condemn him for feeling just as you do in re: to patriotic feelings.

I am not envious of how patriotic the US is, I'm proud to see it happen and watch all come together. But it's not just the US that's coming together, it's the world. Catch the news and see for yourself.

I find it surprising myself to be connected at the hip with the US and not have Canada mentioned though.

Maybe he just forgot.
 

I am sorry to inform you that many members of my families (on both sides) of my parents as well as my father and brothers and I have served.

I don't take this lightly as many of them were in all contacts of the wars involving world or countries... From the Boar War and even earlier- to the Pursian Gulf.

Make "no mistake" that I will serve my country as I am resgistered for appointment when needed.

But looking at the Big Picture I see countries of greater sizes (In Mass and Population) around the globe that have just as much interest in the Hot Spot arena.

To me the best thing to work with is not Military Might! but Intelligence Might!

Turn the shoe around and STOP buying their oils and begin to product full electric or Natural Gas vehicles and home heating. As well as full electric rails for transport of product. less plastic items and more glass,

Convert back to paper product as much as you can.
Using less for their out source of oil will hit much harded then starting a brush fire

Harvest the resouces and culivate them on our own shores and to hell with theirs.
(Less money in their coffers)
Make everything in the free world self challenging

Never mind trying to protect their borders as I no interest in going there.
Why try to stop their own self mutalations or deaths. You and I can only beat the fire down, but it will start up again!

Think ABOVE them as we live in the New Century.
We at this point in time with all the makings of a new world, we don't need them or their oil.

Sorry but one last thing.
Did you notice that I didn't swear once at you!
I didn't find it necessary.

In my opinion, its not about oil. The technology is allready here for other means of fuel, besides we have one of the biggest reserves in the world. it aint about religion, thats for sure. And it aint about land, we have our own.

I didnt see the whole speach, dont know if he mentioned Canada or not, but does it matter? we all know Canadians are our friends and next door neighbors. It's like we are brothers and sisters.
 

[ September 26, 2001: Message edited by: CJ Allan ]

After all, what the president was saying is going to affect us all.

I too noticed the omission of Canada. Janis and I spoke of it. Didn't offend me though...

It could have been for any number of reasons.

I just know that I have spoken publicly many times. And somehow everytime I have to get up and talk at some function or opening of a project I forget to mention someone or thank them publicly. Every single time. Often they are someone close to me, or someone who played a huge part in the project. I even have a list and notes in front of me too. Go figure.

THank goodness my friends know who they are and know what they have done. They know too that I am very gratefull even if I leavethem out of my speach.

And I count myself and Canada as a friend of our neighbors to the south.

God bless America. We are with you friends!

-dan
 

From Capital News:http://www.carleton.ca/Capital_News/04121998/ia1.htm

OTTAWA – Canada risks being left out of NATO action unless it updates its military technology, say the United States and Britain.

U.S. Defence Secretary William Cohen and British Prime Minister Tony Blair are urging NATO countries to spend more on military technology like sensors, computers and software.

The United States and Britain are splurging on technology so their armed forces can gather and share information more quickly using systems similar to the Internet.

Kirk Knight, who deals with defence issues at the American embassy, says Canada needs more compatible communications equipment to co-operate with U.S. military efforts.

Canada owns some equipment with new communications technology, like frigates and armoured vehicles. But Canada spends only 1.1 per cent of its gross domestic product on defence, compared to the NATO average of 2.4 per cent. And Defence Minister Art Eggleton says spending on personnel, not equipment, is Canada's first priority.

This emphasis could compromise Canada's ability to co-operate with future high-profile NATO missions and hurt its image internationally, says retired colonel Sean Henry, an analyst with an Ottawa military lobby group, the Conference of Defence Associations.

"It really is cyberspace out there at the command and control level of armed forces, and if you have armed forces that can't plug into this ... then you start losing your ability to operate in the joint milieu. And of course, that's the one that's important," says Henry.

Canada's poor equipment makes it a marginal player in international operations like the Persian Gulf War, Henry says.

Douglas Bland, head of defence management studies at Queen's University in Kingston, Ont., agrees that Canada's image is suffering.

"You will rarely find politicians from other countries making direct remarks or attacks on Canada's lack of military capability, but they certainly notice it," Bland says.

And Canada is under increasing fire from British senior military officers for not updating its military capabilities, he says. Such vocal public criticism from Britain is unusual.

But compatibility isn't a big problem for Canada yet, says Bland, because the military accepts only missions it can handle. When necessary, Canada borrows compatible communications equipment.

"If you're on some kind of operation with a particular type of American unit, you may need certain radios to hook into their radios," says Bland.

"We just don't have the capabilities or the political will to buy the stuff to be completely independent in the operations."

But with American and British spending on new technologies, the future of co-operative military efforts is likely to be in high-profile, highly technical operations, like those involving cruise missiles. And that, says Bland, is where Canada runs into problems.

Major Eric Hermansen, a National Defence information management specialist, says Canada knows it's important to be compatible with other NATO countries and is working toward that goal. The Canadian navy is very advanced, Hermansen says, and is working with the United States on some of the newest frontiers in warfare.

"There's a whole new dimension to the battlefield now and it's called cyberattacks, or information operations. What's the easiest way to knock out your enemy without inflicting casualties? Go and attack his networks and dismantle his communications and his ability to command and control. And you can do that by putting a bunch of hackers at one end of a room and letting them go at it," Hermansen says.

But he says this new style of battle shows that using technology has risks. Many high-tech systems emit signals that can be traced or rely on networks that can be hacked. That makes the old ways of fighting, ways Canada emphasizes, even more attractive.

"I would never discount the option that you may see a commander say 'That's it, turn off all the radios, turn off the network, we're going back to radio silence, we're going back to land line that was laid by my own soldiers,'" Hermansen says.

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: Mikes Mischeif ]

Also I think you will find that Neil Young (a Canadian, I think) did succeed in the music world.

All that typed, I think that this stupid senseless stringn only places animosity between people and do we really want this? NO of course we dont. so maybe you should all sit back and think about what has been posted here by our brother and sister lettervillians. Take it for face value and "Give PEACE a Chance"

Nuff said!
 

Lets not lose our heads folks.

[ September 22, 2001: Message edited by: Glenn Taylor ]

If anyone wishes to throw a few zings my way, please feel free to email them ok? Let's keep this post garbage free.
 

[ September 26, 2001: Message edited by: CJ Allan ]

The posts about the Canadian Military are totally correct. No or poor equipment equals heavy casualties, poor communications and missed objectives. Not to mention, not getting valuable intelligence information from your allies.

In Canada, we have prospered greatly because of the USA. We have a low Canadian dollar. Creates a lot of employment around here because exports are up. Where do we export our products? The USA of course. Are Americans taking advantage of us? No, this is our choice. This is guaranteed by our constitution to do what we want.

Afganistan chooses to live the way they want. They choose their friends and their enemies. I am glad we chose America as our friend. Not only because they will be there for us but because they help guarantee my way of life.

The USA does not owe us anything. We do not owe the USA anything either. We have a great thing going for both countries.

One more thing Stephan. French people are not hated in Canada, just misunderstood. I am French and have yet to be discriminated against. I married into an English family. I have worked in many cities and so have many French people I know. I do not consider someone calling me Frenchy an insult but more as a badge of honour.

Kevin Landry
KnL Signs
Halifax NS