What is Washboard Express?

Washboard Express is a way for me to express my own opinions, to be a provocative gadfly, by writing a "letter a day" to the President. I may miss a day here and there, because sometimes my family with be my first priority, but my goal is to write a total of 365 letters, representing one full year. To say I have opinions about most things would be to understate the obvious. Those of you that know me, know this is true, those who don't know me, will learn that it's true. The Washboard is a reference to going back to basics and "keeping it clean," so if you would like me to post your comments or opinions on this blog, I only ask that you be respectful. So go ahead, express yourself, and I look forward to an exchange of ideas and opinions.

Monday, September 10, 2012

Letter #158... Dear Mr. President... What's not on Mitts Laundry List


 Dear Mr. President,

Today is the 11th anniversary of 9/11, a time for all Americans to reflect on that horrific day, and how it has changed all our lives in such a profound and irrevocable way. It is a day for us to remember that as a result of that single terrorist act, hundreds of thousands of men and women were committed to two wars, wars that plunged this country into the deepest recession since the Great Depression.

Since the illegal invasion of Iraq we’ve watched our Vets get short changed on safe helmets and armor to protect their vehicles, putting our troops at even greater risk. We’ve seen our war wounded come home to face inadequate rehabilitative care and job retraining services, and our Vets are quickly becoming one of the largest percentages of the homeless in America, because they lack comprehensive mental health care, and adequate job opportunities.

I know that you have done a great deal to turn things around, ending the war in Iraq and establishing a date to end the war in Afghanistan, and most notably, fulfilling your promise to eliminate the mastermind behind the 9/11 attack, Osama bin Laden. You’ve brought closure to thousands of victims and their families and justice for America. I also know that the First Lady and Dr. Jill Biden are working diligently to address the problem of homelessness in our Veteran population.

Mitts "Laundry List" of things that are important
What I find completely amazing is a recent statement by Gov. Romney when asked about why he didn’t mention the troops in Afghanistan during his speech at the Republican Convention. Here’s what Romney said, “When you give a speech you don’t go through a laundry list, you talk about the things you think are important.”

Really? What on earth can possibly be more important than American Troops fighting in a foreign country to keep America safe from another terrorist attack? I guess in RomneyWorld, if his five sons aren’t serving in the military then other peoples sons aren’t important enough to mention, even when you’re running to become not only President, but “Commander and Chief” of the armed forces.

So not only did Romney ask for, and receive, four deferments from serving in Vietnam, but he feels that his sons are “showing support for our nation” by helping to get him elected. Does he really believe that is in any way comparable to our service men and women serving in the military? What planet does this man come from? In what parallel universe does working on a campaign, or fighting for your country seem the same?

As we look back at the tragedy of 9/11, besides the loss of 3000 innocent lives and the continued suffering of thousands of families, there is no greater sacrifice being made today than those who served in Iraq and those who served and continue to serve in Afghanistan, and the tens of thousands of men and women who have died while serving in these wars.

It may be on a “laundry list” of unimportant things for Gov. Romney, but I can assure you it has the highest priority for families in America and the families of the coalition forces, and all caring and compassionate Americans, and Mr. President, I know it is one of your top priorities to bring our men and women home safely, to be reunited with their families, to end the war, and to reaffirm your promise and commitment to peace.

Most Respectfully,

Marcia Reimers
Your Gadfly Granny 

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