An Open Letter to Khizr Khan July 31, 2016
Posted by Chris Mark in Uncategorized.Tags: Army, DNC, Humayan, Kahn, Khizr, Muslims, Navy, Trump, USMC
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Please read “An Apology to Mr. Khan, Mrs. Smith & Gold Star Families”
Dear Mr. Khan,
I want to preface this letter by stating that I respect your son’s sacrifice for this great nation. By all accounts, he is a true hero that sacrificed himself in service to our country. For that I am thankful.
As a veteran, I watched your comments at the Democratic National Convention with a mixture of sadness, and anger. The United States has a military comprised of volunteers. Every single member has made the conscious choice to join the military and serve. There is not a single service member who has been forced into service. It is important for all service members (and apparently, their families) to understand that service to this great nation does not imbue one with special privileges or rights. I found your comments troubling when you said: “Have you ever been to Arlington cemetery? Go look at the graves of brave patriots who died defending the United States of America. You will see all faiths, genders and ethnicities. You have sacrificed nothing and no one.”
Does it matter whether Mr. Trump has sacrificed “…nothing and no one?”…has Ms. Clinton “..sacrificed” for this nation? How about Mr. Obama? Your comment stating that Mr. Trump “…has sacrifice no one” is alarming. Are you intimating that YOU sacrificed? Sir, your son willingly sacrificed himself. As a father I cannot imagine the pain you must feel but his sacrifice is his own. He was not forced to serve.
I am troubled that you would allow a party that has little more than contempt for the US Service Member to parade you into the DNC to denounce Donald Trump. Did you watch when protesters at the DNC booed and heckled Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Florent Groberg? Did you notice your party interrupting the moment of silence for slain police officers? Your own hypocrisy in not denouncing these acts and instead using the DNC as a platform to make a political point is disgraceful. The simple fact is that whether one served or sacrificed does not give greater power to their statements. One vote is as valuable as another. That sir, is why our Country is great. Your condemnation of one person for a statement while standing idly as your party disparages veterans and police officers is the height of hypocrisy.
To conflate the need to prevent potential terrorists from entering our country with the belief that ‘all Muslims’ should be banned is simply wrong and disingenuous. As a reminder, Mr. Trump said: ” “Until we are able to determine and understand this problem and the dangerous threat it poses, our country cannot be the victims of horrendous attacks by people that believe only in Jihad, and have no sense of reason or respect for human life,” The irony of your son’s own death at the hands of these very people in Iraq should not be ignored. I have little doubt that your son would have recognized the need to protect our country from these very people. In fact, he held is own troops back so that he could check on a suspicious car. Your son understood sacrifice and how to protect “his people”…’his soldiers’….’his fellow Americans’…
As you continue to make the media circuit and bask in the glow of affection cast upon you by a party that has little regard for your son’s own sacrifice, and veterans in general, I would ask you to consider your comments and your position more closely.
Respectfully,
Chris Mark
US Marine and Navy Veteran.
Global Security, Privacy, & Risk Management 
First and foremost, thank you for your service sir.
Secondly, you hit the nail right on the head God bless and keep you!
Thank you for your service. If idiots like Dick Cheney and administrations like Bush, Republican Party, didn’t go attacking countries that were not involved in 911 to begin with. We wouldn’t have an endless war eating all our resources. Not to mention the endless instability that is now the Middle East. Maybe we would have money to take care of our veterans.Get the money for our veterans out of the pockets of Cheney and whoever benefiting by ruining our country.
I agree and the Dems should never have used this family as an example. It has obviously stirred painful emotions for them and has done nothing to encourage acceptance of Muslim refugees into this country. When I see Mr. Khan’s demeanor, it makes me even more skeptical about accepting them to this country.
A particularly good point made in the article, was that neither the Clintons nor the Obamas have sacrificed a child or family member for this country, so it should never have been mentioned that Trump’s family had not made this kind of sacrifice. I hope Mr. Khan soon realizes that the Dems have merely used him. Hillary doesn’t care about their son’s sacrifice anymore than she cares about those who died in Benghazi. As Hillary said in speaking of Benghazi, “Four people died, what difference does it make now?”
Wow….. the person who wrote this is a sad pathetic human being… he kept reiterating that “no one forced your son to serve” as if to say his sacrifice meant nothing, only to follow it up with saying how much he appreciated his sacrifice… wtf?
I’d like to meet the idiot that wrote this, and slap the dog shit right out of his mouth…
Suggesting that the parents of a Gold Star soldier doesn’t know about sacrifice is blasphemy…
I hope u read this message asshole…. u ain’t shit
Nice…the liberal answer to disagreement is violence. Maybe one day we can meet..
Right firstly probably need to read more. the Emphasis on service being a personal choice makes the sacrifice more real not less. Secondly the Parents of a gold star recipient know about loss, Some probably Know about sacrifice in support of there child’s decision. But all in all the Sacrifice of ones life for this country belongs to that individual it is not shared with those that reared you it is not dispensed among friends it is a personal choice. This does not mean that those around you do not sacrifice they tend to sacrifice a lot, it simply means that to go forward and claim the sacrifice of a service member as yours because of a relation cheapens and undermines the Choice that that individual made to give all so that their loved ones need not fear to live. And as far as anything in this being Blasphemy well that’s not what the word even means. I would love for you to try and slap Mr. Mark I am fairly certain it would be a swift outcome. Airborne All the Way!
That’s funny! I hope that the soldiers are ready to torture and commit war crimes! No one mans sacrifice is greater than any other mans sacrifice.
No, I don’t think he really wants to meet you.
Nicely said and written with respect and truth!!! I love it!!!! Great Job!!
I’d love to be there and see who gets the dog shit slapped out of him. Good job Chris.
I bet Mr. Jones is not a veteran of military service, Well said Mr. Mark – I bet Mr. Jones will not be contacting you for a meeting. From an Army veteran.
I’ll meet you!!! Your a Traitor to The United States… Go live in Russia where you belong!!! Treason should bring hanging, Trump should hang for Treason..!!! You support Trump, you support Russia and Treason…
C’mon man…1) no you wont 2) this is political debate. Be an adult. How is supporting ANY candidate Treason?
Brilliantly written and you are so right.
Perfect response! Well done warrior brother. God bless
Sir, if you were not a republican you would have never wrote this letter. I’m a democrat or liberal has you called us. I also am a veteran and as such I could not comment in the way you did to Mr. Khan. He is right Mr Trump has no idea on how to run a country. He doesn’t know anything of what makes this nation great. He is no other than a bully.
When the mom of the Bengazi soldier blamed Mrs Clinton of killing her son did she twitted or complain like Mr. Trump did? The same goes for him too. He voluntered for that post and he knew the dangers. We all have freedom of speech but with Mr. Trump as president we will loose it! He is the new Hitler and Mussolini put together.
I would have. Please read my letter to Sarah Palin. I am equal opportunity…
Chris, first of all, thank you for your service. I can’t even tell you the respect I have for those like you who have served this great nation, and the many who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Second of all, I’ve seen plenty of “conservatives” puff out their chests and threaten violence against those with whom they disagree…it’s just as unbecoming as when “liberals” do it. But this “us vs. them,” “liberal vs. conservative” nonsense is exactly what is tearing this country apart. Not Muslims. Not Mexicans. We’re doing it to ourselves. Believe me, I have NO love for the Democratic Party OR the GOP…I see them as two sides of the same awful coin. But there are plenty of politicians and talking heads on both sides of the aisle who disparage, disrespect, and cut aid for veterans, police officers, and active military—all while often putting them in greater danger. Nothing’s black and white, man…it’s gray.
I will say, ragardless of political philosophy, I’m fairly positive that the only person Trump cares about is Trump. And the Only person Clinton cares about is Clinton. All we have are each other.
I wouldn’t waste my time on such a fool as someone that tried to rip you up. He is filth in the United States of America and I agree with you whole heartedly!
Jerry jones is an idiot. He wouldn’t have the balls to meet you!
Thank you for the letter & your service!
Chris Mark, I would truly love to be by your side on the chance of meeting “MR. jerryjonesknowsmoreaboutfootballthanyou”… as a retired Navy Senior Chief, I would gladly tag-team with you until “Jerry” gained a little respect for those that protect his liberal 1st amendment rights! Think he has ever served a day in a military uniform?!
Respectfully,
Tim McElhannon
mcelhannont@gmail.com
P.S. Hey jerry… drop me a like, fuck face
Haha…yes it’s the “liberals” that choose to go to war. Check your history.
Chris Mark, I thought your letter was beautifully written. as for this idiot…my money is on you.
Why is it that most republicans always assume that when someone disagrees with them, that person must be a liberal? I’m a Republican and I think you’re an asshole too.
very well written i don’t believe that jerryjonesknowsmoreaboutfootballthanyou really wants to meet you although i would like to and shake your hand
thank you very much for your service
Chris , you are one of the many heroes this country produced, and reading your message made a lot of sense. mr. jerryknowssomebullshitabutsomeothercrap is just that – mr. thinks he know it all who knows nothing…
Jerry you stupid fuck , this man can carve you out a new asshole before you could say what the hell just happened . Stick to shit you can back up . I think he is waiting for you to give a place to meet so he can show you what it means to be a badass veteran . I still remember what I was taught , and that was after its all over “I will still be standing” ……Not a badass but know what I can do to shut someone up .
Why label this responder a liberal? We don’t really know his political views do we? Only that he disagrees with you.
I think you made your point well, and respectfully, but not sure why you’re labeling him?
Good point. As some have pointed out…I let my emotions get the best in some responses.
First, you’re the asshole!!, Mr. Mark’ s letter was written with respect and simply shed light on the facts. Second , I’m sure Mr. Mark would handle a pussy like you with no trouble, that slap , asshole , would be to your favor only in your weak mind . So , Fuck you… U ain’t shit!!
Don’t be to hard on him he can’t help himself, he’s an IDIOT that was born with a brain defect…
Hey Chris, just because there were some idiots in the hall is not the same as the DNC performing those wrongs. The same as I doubt that Trumpty Dumpty speaks for the RNC. I also doubt your Trumpty quote is actually from Trumpty. Too well thought out. He actually did originally want to ban all Muslims and to send the ones here not yet citizens away. He only backed off to something like your quote after taking a lot of heat from a lot of people within his party. This man is not fit to be president, he is not deserving of your support, a draft dodger who at the time of the Vietnam War would be quoted as bragging, that while others were unfortunate to have drafted and unable to fabricate the need for a deferment, he was bedding beautiful women and having a great time. He is a twisted, thin skinned human who would be a potential hazard as our Commander In Chief.
Another liberal attack…when people don’t agree with you…you resort to name calling….grow up. ..Millennial perhaps???
Yeah, and if he is bigger and stronger than you, you will get the shirt pounder out of you!!! And I will laugh at that!!!
What happens when the liberals take away all the weapons from private citizens and they aren’t allowed any more, who is going to protect you and yours when the terrorists come over and bomb the sh:: out of this country; how and who is going to protect you then?
I proudly served in the USAF for 24 years and I am thankful about the 2nd amendment and hope they don’t remove it from the constitution, it plays a great roll in this country and you will rueh the day if that ever happens that they take away all the guns from responsible citizens.
It’s these idiots who are shooting and killing our police and trying to be martyrs and I hope they don’t publish their names, that are ruining the right to keep and bear arms against our enemies, the police are not our enemies, you didn’t see Rosa Parks trashing the bus or looting and burning buildings and vehicles when she refused to move, but they used force on her when she didn’t move!
Mr Marks has no facts. Unless he himself has lost a son or daughter in the military. Mr Khan was speaking as a grieving parent. Show him some respect. With that being said, thank you for your service Mr. Marks.
I don’t agree with the poster attack but it sound more like you’re describing Mr. Trump who have resorted to name calling among many other crazy and obscene things that he does and say. It’s about time republican wake up and take responsibility for Trump. At the end of the day, Its nothing to do with Mr. Khan speech….but how Mr. Trump responded to his speech that’s troubling. How you guys don’t see that is puzzling and scary. It’s like Trump said, he can shoot someone on 5th Ave on live TV and lie in your face about it with you knowing he lied and yet you’ll still vote for him.
Have you served, and if you would like to attempt to slap a Marine knock yourself.
Everyone is an ‘internet Mike Tyson’ until it is time to show up…;)
You go vote for Hillary and enjoy your life, you’re an idiot
You support a Traitor, that in itself is Treason!!! Go live in Russia where you belong…!!!
It’s sad how social media gives ignorant morons like this freaking idiot a voice and he thinks now he’s somehow credible. Go back to grade school and learn how to READ then maybe you could understand the letter. Here’s a saying you should live by “sometimes it’s better to just remain quiet & let others think maybe you might be a MORON, THAN TO OPEN YOUR MOUTH AND ERASE ALL POSSIBLE DOUBTS” hopefully somebody reads this to you and you don’t get mad so I don’t have to live in fear of one of your BITCH SLAPS…💪🖕🖕
You sir are a ignorant piece of horse dung and you miss the point of this letter altogether. You must be a liberal.
The soldier that wrote this has moe class in his boots than you will ever have on this earth. He’s the one serving this country so that morons like you have the right to spew ugly words out odyour mouth. You are the one who has committed blasphemy by your statements. Rest assured, you will kneel before God one day in the future and you will answer to the Almighty Judge for your actions and statements. But don’t worry, Hillary Clinton will be right there with you, I’m sure she will tell you everything is ok, because she is convinced that she is above God and doesn’t have to answer to Him.
This soldiers letter was written wit respect and honor for his comrade who sacrificed his life. He is correct about the father using a DNC stage to slam Donald Trump.
He is just adding to the division in America and trying to further the Muslim cause that Hillary has brought into our country. Obam has 25 cabinet heads who are Muslim and they believe X in the Karan, They cannot believe in American Justice system and believe in the Karan. Did you serve in any arm services that made you an expert?
I totally agree with you. And after you slap the dog shit right out of his mouth, let me slap the stupid shit out, too.
than you are a true democrat and think Obama did so much for veterans Clinton on her views with Isis saying they are no threat what will her response to N Korea declaring war on us wiat till there first rocket hit the USA you are an asshole i served in a war where we were hated came home and hated by US citizens calling us baby killer grow up or inlist and show how good you are
It’s true nobody forced him to serve,my brother went in on his own accord,unfortunately he did’nt make it back,of course he means he appreciates his sacrifice and so do I.Every single soldier in war are heros but in this case why use this particuliar family why not a African american family,why not a white family, why not a hispanic family hmmm makes you wonder why ,this family was used as bait,and its ashame that the DNC put this family up there.
I could not agree with you more, he is totally clueless.Even some assholes are allowed in military service, and Chris Mark seems to be one of those,
His vulgarity shows his stupidity or should I say lack of intellegence
Yeah, and if he is bigger and stronger than you, you will get the shirt pounder out of you!!! And I will laugh at that!!!
This jerryjones asshole needs to step up to the plate and find a way to meet Chris. This coward can’t even put his own name on his post. It gutless hateful hypocrites like you that help the erosion of our country and devalues ALL the service every member of our military has given. You are a coward, ignorant, loudmouth liberal who shoots shit out of his cocksucking mouth just to hear himself speak. You should enlist, and find out what’s out there in the real world. Mommy and daddy want you out of their basement. Thank you Chris for this amazing written truthful and considered letter. And God bless you for your service to our country. Without you service and sacrifice, dickheads like this wouldn’t have the right to prove he’s an ass hat by running his mouth and trying to suppress your first amendment right of free speech.
I would guess you have never been in military service. I saw no statement in this letter that would indicate that Capt Khan’s sacrifice meant nothing. No individual in the military today is a “draftee”. They are ALL volunteers and serve at their own pleasure, they all take the same risks and each and every one is just as vulnerable as the next man. Whether a man lives or dies in combat is pure chance, so there is no distinction between a man that served and survived or a man that served and died, they both had an equal risk.
Mr Khan’s diatribe against Trump was a pure political set up by the Democrats to once again place a negative spin on Trump’s policies regarding Islam. Captain Khan died for our nation. Then we have Major Nidal Hasan who slaughtered his fellow soldiers at Ft Hood in the name of Allah. Trump says we need to separate the sheep from the goats, that is all. He does not say we need to round up all muslims and put them in the camps like the Democrats did the Japanese in WWII.
Lastly, I am NOT a Trump supporter, in fact I don’t care for either of the two that are the nominees.
jerry slap yourself you you are a picture of an idiot in action god bless the vets
Tuff talk hiding behind a fake name.He gave his name , look him up and go slap him you brave POS.
In all due respect, you’re the idiot not Chris Mark.
probably…been called worse by better…you may be right 😉
Jerry, I also would like to see you meet this honorable person. I do not believe you wold dare raise a hand to him as the coward that you are would prevail. You have your head in your Arsh……
Classy response. Something tells me you never served. Respect for Humanity sir.
I would love to be there when you meet this Marine.
I wonder if you can voice your stupid position when you are talking face to face.
I think we can then see who the ass hole and little bitch is!
Semper Fi !
I found nothing inflammatory, demeaning or hypocritical to military personnel in Mr. Mark’s letter to Mr. Kahn. However I did find your response (whoever you are jerry jones?) quite offensive. . A typical liberal likes to think they are kind and virtuous and only concerned with what is best for all. Until you disagree with them, then they spew venom and lies. Not to mention cursing, name calling and finger pointing. Is there some hypocrisy in that? Nice letter Mr. Mark and thank you for your service.
Hey dipshit. If your not a veteran, you wouldn’t get it. If somehow some idiot DID let you in, you were probably some POG ass moron everyone rolled their eyes at when you walked in the room.
Chris couldn’t be more correct about the majority of COMBAT vets feelings on our sacrifice being ours and ours ALONE. We did what we did for our own reasons alone, and the brother on our left and right and that’s it. But a liberal cuck like you couldn’t possibly fathom that everything isn’t all about you.
did you serve? Do you know what its like?no.I didn’t think so, just another coward hiding behind a keyboard ,threatening violence, to a man who did serve.You’re a piece of shit,you’re a coward ,if he approached you what little balls you have would shrivel up. I hope some one who knows you reads this and kicks your ass for being the worthless scum bag you are
You are a sick, foul mouthed idiot. This man served his country to protect our freedoms (even for those such as you) and does not deserve to be spoken to with such disrespect. If you disagree with him, use your brain and say something intelligent.
As a retired military and a Viet Nam Vet, u r undoubtedly one of the stupidest son of a batches I’ve come across on FB. Mr. Mark nailed it. Did you know that Khan is a member of the law firm that does the Clintons taxes and also a rep for the big money donor from Saudi Arabia
It’s people like you and your narrow-mindedness that push me away from voting independent and voting for Trump. You are the epitome of the problem. You criticize Trump for speaking before he thinks. And you???? Slap the shit out of the US Marine and Navy Veteran? Very classy.
Fuck you you are a piece of shit and i would kick the shit outta you punk. I would love to meet up with you. I may not be the author of this but i feel the same way so come find me pussy
jerry… were you ever in the military???? by your comments and criticism I bet you have not. It is you who is the asshole! Further, you misunderstood what was written, but then again I’m not surprised since you obviously have the IQ of a slug!
Why don’t u try slapping the dogs hit out of me you pathetic bastard.I’ll teach a lesson your pathetic soul needs on its way to hell.
Are you stupid? No one forced your son to serve. That’s saying that he had the honor and courage to volunteer himself. I swear, some people are as dense as lead.
But Hillary Clinton can call a gold star mother a liar? Hillary was the cause of said gold star mothers son’s death. HILLARY CAUSED HIS DEATH!!!
You, what ever your name is, are an idiot. Like all liberals, you take two words out of a post and then make what you want out of it. I personally would like to see you get your mouth shut by Chris and the pansy that you are, he could do it. It is people like you that come out with these stupid post, hiding behind a fake name, that is the problem with this country. You think it is suppose to always be your way, well, let me tell you something, it is not going to happen. You can’t even think for yourself, just mimic the democrats. Go hide in your safe place, while others keep you safe.
The man that wrote this letter is quit a man. The person that responded in such a negative way is the IDIOT..THIS COUPLE USED THEIR SON’S DEATH FOR A POLITICAL AGENDA…THEY SHOULD BE A SHAMED OF THEMSELVES….
Sadly, agree.
Iagree. Seriously your a scumbag. You think you have the right to tell someone else how to feel and react. Just because you served..that doesn’t make you a god. Just because you have an opinion..doesnt mean you are rightful yo your disgusting behavior. Your a product of Trump..stingy self serving out for himself idiot.
Jerry Jones One question. Did you or have you ever served a single day in defense of this country?
This question comes from a Army veteran with 28 years service to our Great Nation.
If you ain’t done it, don’t condemn it!
Your mom would be so proud of you and your dirty mouth or maybe she brought you up to talk like that, Mr Jerry whoever you are! Violence and hateful words always solve problems, huh? You are pathetic!
That is pretty harsh. My question to you is “are you an active duty or veteran of our military?” If the answer is “no” then you have no business expressing your opinion. If the answer happens to be “yes”, then I suggest you go back to boot camp and revisit what it means to be a part of the United States military.
Jerry, your violent reply is quite alarming, and disheartening. It was quite emotionally reactive, with no forgiving concern. So sad.
Chump, you wouldn’t last two minutes when it came down to you doing more than run your mouth! I would LOVE to see you back up your crocodile mouth with your hummingbird ass!! :-(.
Obviously you read something different in this letter than I did but the person that wrote this letter gave his name and enough info that you could look him up and discuss this face to face, you however did not mention anything about yourself. Thank you for your service, Chris Mark.
I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t slap this guy at all or you’d be swollowing some teeth. Your just another badass behind a keyboard.
Talk about sad pathetic human being talking tough l. Makes you feel good doesn’t it being able to write things like ,I’ll slap the dog shit out of his month. I’m sure Mr Mark would stomp you into the ground like the liberal turd you are.
I agree with this letter Mr. Mark. I read through some of the comments and input below and with the interesting feedback I noticed that somewhere you began to doubt if your choice in diction was best. Mr. Mark, I believe you were right and different diction would have defeated the purpose.
A parent of a service member can and will empathize with some of Mr. Khan’s words but should and would also recognize and understand that the choice is ultimately the service members choice. While the loss is painful and pride can come at a price no service members death should never EVER be utilized in the political arena.
As for the “keyboard warriors”, who are radical desire no more than to spread anarchy and lack the capability to learn contradictory information and perspectives, they will continue to live in ignorant bliss with a feeling of accomplishment every time they immaturely derail a conversation with “hate-speech”.
You sir wrote a great piece. I must reiterate that when you reflect upon the diction and syntax of your piece trying to incorporate understanding of other parties your meaning behind the written piece can be “lost in the sauce”. Humans naturally try to empathize and I believe naturally look for understanding, but incorporating it in a piece like this can create a larger back-blast.
I agree 100%
You know I respect their son’s service and sacrifice, however his parents chose to use his death as a political tool, they chose to enter themselves into politics. Because they lost a son does not mean they are above reproach for their political views.
According to the liberal media & republican insider elites .. this is Not allowed!
And what about that mother who appears on TV trashing Hillary??? Hypocrites all of you!!!
100% agreed
Give me a break…. does using Benghazi for political gain ring a bell?
Thank you and GOD bless you! You are a very intelligent young man and a brave hero to all Americans!
Your a very stupid lady. You are supporting a Traitor, that is Treason to the United States..!! Go live in Russia where you belong..!!!
Chris…..while I can agree with some of the things that you spoke about, I must also sympathize with the parents of this soldier who lost his life. I am the wife of a military man and the mother of a current soldier. Every time I think about my daughter be frightened and in battle somewhere it sickens me. When my husband was enlisted and was on a tour of duty, he would disappear because he would be “somewhere”. I have to say that I believe Mr. Trump to be crass and very unkind in so many ways. I think he lets his mouth overload his backside most of the time. While I don’t support Hillary either (she has her own set of issues), I believe Mr. Trump to open that pie hole of his too quick and then have to back track too much. I would like to thank you for your service to this country and for the things afforded me by brave sailors and soldiers like you. But I don’t think this man’s parents are wrong for the way they feel, the pain and the loss, no matter if he “volunteered” or not. I think what they are trying to get Mr. Trump to understand, is that if he’s never felt the panic every day for the duration of an enlistment or the absolute agony of the loss of a child then he has to right to downplay the feelings of those that have. I have never myself and quite frankly I never EVER want to. Kind regards….
As I said earlier. I have read some comments and believe I could have phrased that part better. I am reflecting on some changes.
The important things that you said are perfectly clear and we all know that you were correct . Well written
Are you just as offended by the mother of the Bengazi victim at the republican that called Hillary a murderer?
To be blunt…I think Hillary was responsible for the death of those men. But, I get your point. Ms. Smith was called many terrible names by the press…
You said it fine, Mr. Mack! Thank you for your service!
Anyone with more than a few brain cells should have been able to understand your point. The piece is well written. It’s funny that in America we have folks that want to speak for certain groups of people always believing their rationale is correct, until the groups they speak for offer a differing perspective. It’s atrocious that the Democratic Party pretends to be a friend to the U.S. Military and then allow the very enemies we are fighting to bring the fight to our own soil under their protection. Rephrasing your letter to pander to the simple minded masses is not going to change their opinions on the piece. They have already drank the Kool-Aid. Thank you for your service Mr. Mark. I should also note that this comment is not Pro-Trump (because it’s going to be accused as such) as I am looking at Gary Johnson more seriuosly these days.
TJ Hawkins
USN-Veteran
What about the.guys in bengazi, that Hillary let die, what? I feel bad for these parents, but what about these other parents that lost.there.children. Hillary is a liar, murderer among other things that we don’t even know about. When these guys died, her famous quote was what difference does.it make. I know the heartache and pain of losing a child. My heart goes out to the parents of these men in bengahzi
What about the over 100 killed in embassy attacks with every other president…why no outrage and investigations into those presidents…..because it’s all a smoke screen to try and discredit Hillary……
You mean the parents she lied to?
you need to do some real reading. you are just repeating lies you hear on the media. read the actual minutes from the court. Actually the requests for help was not sent to Clinton but sent to the DOD instead. And, the help was already there. please go read. And, her response of “what difference does it make” was in answer to their questions of what the difference between “terrorism” and “terrorists”.
So I am currently serving in the military, and I have to say, for the most part, I agree with this letter. It is absolutely true that the Kahn’s as a family suffered a loss, but in the end, neither one of them have sacrificed anything. Their son made the ultimate sacrifice, and for that, there is no amount of thanks that this nation can offer that would be sufficient to replace him in their lives. But that is where it ends. The nation owes these people nothing else. He did volunteer, fully knowing the possible outcome for a life of military service. The fact that his parents decided to use their sons sacrifice to try and advance someone’s political agenda is possibly the most despicable thing I can think of when it comes to honoring our fallen. The fact that they are riding the coat tails of a much better man (their son) and dragging his honorable service through the political mud is detestable. I have said from the beginning that this election is Mr. Trump’s to lose by saying dumb things, and he keeps proving me right. But the media is blowing things a bit out of proportion. He didn’t “insult” the Khans, he made a stupid statement about comparing sacrifice that is really incomparable. But, one thing the media hasn’t talked about is the DNC parading the family of a fallen soldier across the stage so that they can politicize HIS sacrifice. That is much lower in my opinion than anything Trump has said or done in this situation.
First, thank you Chris. As a veteran, I applaud your service and your willingness to express your voice. Second, thank you Matt for saying exactly what I have felt from the onset. I never heard one single insult from Mr. Trump. Yet he is lauded as some kind of Anti-Kahn. In fact, he was actually quite complimentary and at the time, I was taken completely, if not pleasantly, by surprise with his very considerate remarks toward Mr. Kahn. And in regard to Mrs. Kahn, he merely said “he wish she had spoken”. Again, a compliment that only showed that he would have seen value in what she would have added. It does appear as though we’ve entered a time where many people live in a state of altered reality. I have read by-lines using words to describe Mr. Trump’s response as ‘slanderous’ , ‘vicious’, and ‘venomous’ just to name a few. I don’t know what planet they are living on but it surely isn’t this one. And the same from some of the republican party jewels like Jeb Bush, saying, ‘Mr.Trump’s comments are disgraceful’. But even if Mr. Trump had said something in his defense, was he not entitled to do so after Mr. Kahn ‘chose’ to go after him on such a public stage with so much disdain and disrespect? But no, I’m suppose to now believe that a gold star parent has a free pass to say anything they want, and any rebuke that could have occurred, would have been seen as blasphemous. Well apparently, even complementary praise is seen that way too now. I really don’t understand what’s happening to the minds of so many of those that I served on 3 continents for the very right to preserve their freedoms. Including the right to be free to say what they believe. But the freedom to think, was never something that needed to be fought for. Perhaps we should now. If only we could.
Matt that is so true . Thank you. I would still vote for Trump. He will learn to curb his tongue. He is a lot better than that liar Hilary Clinton and Obama idiot.
Losing a child is no sacrifice? I wonder if your parents would see losing you as no sacrifice. And if you haven’t noticed, the RNC has been parading the mother of the slain Benghazi victim around for a while now. This isn’t about the politics of these things, per se. Like you said, it’s about the stupid, borderline sadistic things Trump says to anyone who dares to criticize him.
It is important to split hairs: the family did indeed “suffer a loss” BUT “in the end, neither one of them have sacrificed anything.” Matt, in addition to your service to our country, I thank you for your brilliant political insight. And indeed: SHAME on the DNC for allowing his family to speak. They should have been deported the moment they mentioned Arlington cemetery.
Well said…thank you!
Well stated Kim. I am also the mother of a soldier who served. He spent a year in Afghanistan and there wasn’t a day that went by that I didn’t worry that I would get that knock on my door. It was a relief beyond words when he came home safely. I don’t think that anyone, other than a parent, can understand the loss of a child. My son was proud to serve. He did not consider it a sacrifice. But, when one gives his own life to save others, that is a sacrifice. And I believe that is the point that Mr. Khan had tried to make. Perhaps it would have served Mr. Trump better to have said nothing. But, that doesn’t appear to be his style.
With all due respect, neither has Hillary or Obama. It was a direct insult directed towards Trump because he is a Republican!
Kim I too am a military wife. I definitely think the Khan’s have every right to grieve. No one should ever lose a child like they did. But, I would like to know when did Mr. Trump ever say the Khan’s had no right to feel the way they do? They have the right to be angry and grieve for their son. He was a hero! What they don’t have the right to do is go on stage and blast Trump for it like he had anything to do with it. They used their son’s death as a political vehicle to push their agenda against Trump and for Hillary because Mr. Khan is a Muslim Immigration Lawyer!! That was wrong. According to all these people that are saying that a gold star family has the right to say whatever they want? How is that true? Because they lost their son they can say whatever they want and nobody can say anything against that?
Very well stated!!!! The clintons and Obamas certainly have sacrificed nothing.
Very nice respectable letter …No they forget his son gave his all for his parents with the rest of us.Their son will go down in history as OUR HERO.not any one else as The American HERO..MY prayers go to the parents and respect to them for rearing a son to be an American Hero. Rest in peace Hero.
My husband was killed serving in Viet Nam on his third tour. Ranger, Special Forces, professional soldier. His remains indeed are buried at Arlington National Cemetery. I was 21 at the time. I will always be tied to all families that experienced the knock on the door. Even after all these years, I can still emotionally feel that loss on that morning when the soldiers walked up to my door to tell me my husband was not coming home. Given this, It did help me accept his death because he was a career soldier. SFC, as I said Ranger and Special Forces. It was what he chose and when I married him I knew this could happen. It breaks my heart that both parties have used these parents to push agendas. Never should have happened. It is one thing to cite the war, the repeated deployments, and even disagree that we were there in the first place. To drag in the families is so wrong. I am ashamed of both parties.
The Clinton campaign used them
I don’t think it was “both” parties, just one who placed a man who is a member of the Muslim Brotherhood on their stage. If it was about loss why not chose a Bengazi widow or a recent law enforcement officers widow? The motivation was to elicit people who have suffered loss as yourself, and turn you against Trump. I’m not going to focus on Trumps response, but the DNCs hatred of America.
The politics of using the grief of the parents is unseemly. Both parties are guilty. Mr. Trump needn’t have picked this fight with these parents, though. the thing is, he can’t help it – no one can criticize him and “get away with it”. He’s a toxic person, certainly unfit to lead. If you have any links of Ms. Clinton tweeting or saying disparaging things about the Benghazi victim’s mother, I’d love to see them.
Well said! Write in a man or woman of honor. Neither of the major candidates can qualify. The personal characteristics of the president are so much more important than the political platform of their party, don’t you think?
Amen ! From a brother of 37 years in the Army with service in Korea in 1952-53 with the Korean II ROKA Corp not the American Army. We are there to preserve our freedoms as will as helping you gain yours if you want it! We, however, do not care to do the bidding of the Muslim Brotherhood !!!!
Your letter is as despicable as any I’ve read. Now I’m starting to understand Trump’s base. Just as full of hate and ignorance. What sacrifice did the family make? What a sorry excuse for a soldier you are.
Marine. There is a difference. Read the vitriolic comments and reflect on Clinton’s base. The most hostile people I have seen.
He is attacking trump because he is a morally repugnant person, who has nI morals, principals, ideas, knowledge of current affairs, or even the curiosity to want to learn. Its very entertaining to here trump suppporters bend themselves into a pretzel, trying to figure out how support this man child, who incidently can’t control the word vomit that comes out of his mouth, and most certainly would cause unnecessary loss of life amount our service people. If you choose to this disgusting human, and his ridiculousness, then you are him.
Really? BA, MBA, half way through a doctorate…been on CNN, NPR, Fox, written scores of articles for everything from Huff post to Counter Terrorist. Yet…I have no knowledge of ‘current affairs’. Go home to your cats.
Stop lying about Democrats and stop disrespecting your Commander in Chief, PRESIDENT OBAMA!!! You are a disgrace to the uniform when you spew hate.
I no longer wear the uniform. I am a civilian just like you. I have my opinions just like any civilian. When I was in uniform I did hold my tongue.
Haha really…more violence has happened at trump rallies at protesters by his base. And worst was Trump’s own racist response very reflect of his character.
I agree. the poor little indoctrinated, brain dead useful, useless Idiots being used by Hillary Clinton to put her in Power..As a Vietnam Veteran this Con job by this Muslim con man named Kahnis just a Big Show, event for the poor masses to lap up….Keep fighting& standing up Chris.
You fool. Their son was not a 2 yr old child that was given as a sacrifice. He was an adult making an adult decision regarding his own LIFE/DEATH
The truth is too hard for idiots like you.
If you sacrifice something… it’s typically by choice… did his parents approach the DOD and say here… take my son…. or did HE sign the dotted line. It is true…. they suffered a terrible loss…. but to say they sacrificed…. Not quite..This letter is dead on accurate. You are a most likely a typical close minded civilian who has no legs to stand on when it comes to matters such as these if you disagree.
No worse than what Clinton said about four dead Americans. And I quote” What difference does it make.” Like so many liberals, you mimic what you are told. I think you should do some serious research on your own, then decided for yourself.
Erin, I can tell by your letter you are a sore looser for Bernie! Gimmie, gimmie, gimmie generation. We are not full of hate. Look at Killary and the things she has done. She and the Obama’s hate America and everything it stands for. Killary hates the military and she is uninformed about the true agenda of the muslims.
I totally agree.
Well said and not overdone. I served and I know the sacrifices families endure praying for the safe return of their loved ones. Mr. Trump will care for and respect our service personnel. He earns our respect and support this November.
Go fuck yourself Chris Mark. You’re a disgrace to the uniform. If you have the balls, name a time and place so I can spit in your face. You are nothing but a traitir to America.
Trump openly worships foreign dictators. Praises Saddam Hussein for using chemical weapons against his own people. Routinely insults women, foreigners, the disabled, and veterans. Openly tried to steal millions of $ from disabled veteran groups, until we forced the press on it (I’m in 2). Openly calls for foreign intervention in our election. Repeatedly called for violence against protesters
& openly said he will pay the legal fees of the aggressors. Just recently he said he wants to punch the speakers at the DNC. His wife stole a huge section of her speech, then denied it, then finally admitted to it. He’s cheated on every wife. The current wife has posed nude in multiple porn magazines. He’s gone bankrupt repeatedly. He openly hires illegal immigrants to build his buildings. His own employees admitted Trump University was a front for stealing from the poor & elderly. Etc. etc. etc. I WILL GLADLY DIE AND GIVE MY LIFE TO DEFEND AMERICA AGAINST THE PIG TRUMP.
CAPTAIN MICHAEL R CUNNINGHAM
US ARMY, Retired
DUTY. HONOR. COUNTRY.
Wow..from a ‘Captain’ in the US Military. Thanks for including your name.
told you democrat no respect only for yourself like Clinton Obama
Chris you are so right…this “Captain” can’t even spell traitor and has obviously listened to way too many liberal rants and the socialist media.
As a Former Marine and Current Army National Guard Soldier, I thank you have forgotten that Gold Star parents, particularly Mothers are due a tremendous amount of respect and honor from civilians and the military. Mr. Khan had every right to say what he did. Trump has sacrificed nothing. Yes CAPT. Khan volunteered, but when he did so did his family. As a veteran with two deployments in the current conflict and a PLT SGT, I know what families go through. In a lot of ways it is harder for them then us. A Mother and Father lost their child. And in no way do I think you are a “Real Man”.
Robert L. Simon
Why with the ‘real man’ stuff. Did you see what Captain Cunningham is up too? do a search on this….”mikeisit86 AND gay”…he is from Ft. Wayne, IN…threatened to ‘spit in my face’. This is the left…so…I could not care less what you think chump’
Wow – I believe you sir need some anger management. You served so we could have Freedom of Speech. If you had only eliminated your first paragraph that was vile towards Mr. Mark then this would be two people excersising their right to speak in a more gentleman like manner. It’s important to rise to the “Honor” in your tag line. Thank you both for your service and sacrifices.
Capt. Cunningham I salute you for your comments. Evidently this young man Mark’s brain housing group is like “Trumpet”. He is not the sharpest tool in the tool box. It shows that this country is still racist. There is still too much hate towards ethnic and minorities groups. I am also retired military (SgtMaj) with 30 years active duty. I will get my satisfaction in Nov when Hillary beats this POS. Don’t stoop to their level. Semper Fi
Cunningham…you are a disgrace using the language you have used to express your opinion! A complete disgrace (that’s why I refuse to address you as Captain! I expect a whole lot more of a Captain)!
Mikey has some deep rooted issues that include pathological lying. Check out his disqus:
https://disqus.com/by/disqus_yUH1kYKyb8/comments/
Classy guy.
Wow! You must have finished at the top of your class ! I’m not a huge fan of Trump but based on this post it is apparent you have done 0 research on your facts! You are one of those idiots who probably was a C student at best .You are just talking out your ass and get all your news from Social Media! Pathetic
Get your Facts right Captain! You have absolutely no credibility when you spout the same old liberal lies and distortions.
.
That sounds like a THREAT on a Candidate’s life. I think someone needs to investigate this. Though I believe that the security services have been compromised and will do nothing since the person who is being threatened is not a democRAT.
I hope they prove me wrong.
.
you sound like one of those sicko’s from America. I am south African and i always hear south africans saying that the americans are stupid . I beg to differ there are quite a few that are stupid and you’re clearly one of them. Mark is able to distinguish honour and duty something you need to learn. ANyway go home to the cats
I can’t Even Dignify Captain Cunningham with an answer. Just from reading his letter, I would be VERY surprised if he was ever in the service at all, or if he was, that he made it past E-1 before receiving a BCD or DD. The letter itself is hardly conduct becoming of an Officer, and certainly nothing a US military officer would risk their retirement on by writing, and publishing. Chris Mark, you called it right on. Although their son paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country, something no liberal has ever done. People sacrifice much in many different ways, although the military is not the right avenue for everyone many of us still serve by choice, and some of us pay that ultimate sacrifice. For the parents to USE their son’s sacrifice in such a way as to degrade him and make less of it than it is to make a political statement because of their ties to organizations that border on terrorist ideals is not fair to him, or others who have sacrificed themselves for our great country.
I wish my wife could have made some big bucks posing nude for magazines. Hell, nude don’t mean much anymore, the young chicks at the pool try to outdo each other as to how naked they can get without being kicked out for “over exposure”.
Kinda drifted off the subject a little didn’t you Cap? This wasn’t about Trump, it was about a letter. OK you don’t like Trump, me neither but ease up a little, you will give yourself a heart attack. Come to think of if, I don’t care much for Hillary either.
Retired O-3? Why the Company grade rank after at least 20 years in the Green Machine? Mustang officer? Field commission in Vietnam or just not so good OER’s?
Anyway, thanks for your service. Keep your BP down, heart attacks are bad news, I know, I have had 4 of them.
Sergeant E-5 18th Airborne Corps, CIB
You’re a retired Captain? What a poor representation.
What ever happened to the phrase, “An officer and a gentleman”
Well said! Thank you for your service
Excellent letter
thank you for your service rozpsl@gmail.commy husband and brother were in the marines my brother inlisted the day they bombed peral harbour,he was a lucky one he came alive my husband served during peace time.god bless you
Keep back peddling like Trump.
I can see why you like him. Another one that opens his mouth before they think. A soldier no less. Thank you for your service to this great country. Thank you for defending my freedom. Be prepared to do it again if that loud mouth Trump becomes president.
Marine. Please learn to read more closely.
That’s funny you claim Trump continually backpedals, but Hillary outright lies. When Soldiers die she says what difference does it make. Trump won the republican nomination and Hillary had to cheat to beat out a 74 year old communist. That should tell you something, but then Vickie you are a liberal and the only requirement for that is to be warm and breathing, not intelligent!
WELL SAID i AGREE 100% WHAT YOU WROTE ..i CAME FROM A FAMILY OF VETS THAT WAS IN EVERY WAR HERE IN THE USA.. AND ALSO FAMILY WITH LAW OFFICERS THAT LAID THEIR LIVES DOWN FOR ALL AMERICANS..LOVE THE LETTER YOU WROTE SIR BEST EVER,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE SIR.
Thank you for staying the letter like you did. I too am a veteran with twenty two years restored in 1995. I agree this was the wrong way to approach such a sad event. I agree I do not believe the son would appreciate this being used as such today, many of our boys and women have lost THIER life’s during this war. I pray this ends soon and win all back home safe. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU IN UNIFORM
Chris Mark, hank you for your service and thank you for your letter….may God bless you and your family….
Semper Fi!
Thank you for the letter Chris – very well said. I’ve heard some say he was a DNC or Hillary pawn. Actually, I think Hillary is the pawn. What great pro-islam propaganda. At the risk of sounding like a tin-foil hat conspiracy theorist, I think the DNC & Hillary have ties to the muslim brotherhood, and both are in their pocket. Just a thought.
HAHAHAHAHA jane I think that you could have a point right there. I dont trust that witch …..Suddenly Bill is in love again.
I’m with you Chris. Perhaps Mr. Kahn, with his vast knowledge of the Constitution, can refer us to the Article and paragraph that guarantees foreign-born, non-citizens the RIGHT of unfettered access to the United States. After all, Mr. Trump’s idea of suspension of questionable immigrants, seems to be the main burr under his saddle.
I’m a Marine. The speech that this gentleman made in my opinion was written by someone other than him. Obviously a democrat who dislikes Donald Trump. To use this soldiers death to get votes is despicable. But, I am not surprised by what they did to Sanders. I am not a big fan of either candidate.
Dude…do your homework. I write for a living. Seriously? Do you think Marines cannot write. Grow up.
I think Mr. FOley is referring to the “speech” being written for Mr. Khan?
Um, Chris? I believe Mr. Foley was referring to Mr. Khan, not you re: writing. You may be stressed out from this conversation but you need to read what people write a little better. Also, you may be taken more seriously if you left the vitriol out of it.
Thank you…and you are correct. I was trying to crawl through 2000 comments in a few hours. I was a bit stressed and should have just been quite for a bit. Thanks for your sage advice! 😉
I believe he’s referring to Khan
Chris, he was referring to Mr. Kahn. Maybe you should chill for a second before jumping all over commenters. He is on your side.
Mark, I think he is talking about Mr. Kahn, not you. Maybe I am wrong, but, read it again. I for one, a military wife and mother stand with you and your opinion. Thanks for your service.
You do not state if you are a combat veteran. As a disabled veteran I can tell you that it doesn’t matter to me whether Trump, Clinton, or Obama served in the military. The man’s died in combat. He has a right to grieve and the 1st ammendment gives him the right to speak his mind just like you have the right to your politically motivated and callous dialog. In 2013 when the GOP congress shut down the government, veterans were not going to receive their disability pay. People on social security were not going to receive their checks. Republicans voted down a bill that would have allocated much needed funding for the treatment of PTSD. The present do nothing congress is in line to take off 255 days off this year and collect their $174,000.00 a year salary. As far as your insensitivity to a family that lost their son in service to our country, you exhibit a lack of gratefulness towards one that stepped up without being forced to do so. I am glad that you were not with me in combat-you would have probably cost all of us our lives.
Shut up and do your homework. Why do I have to keep saying that? My DD214 is ONLINE…30 seconds of work. the 1st Amendment gives me the right to speak, as well.
The GOP was not trying to stop the veterans or SS recipients from getting their pay. That is what the Democrats said. You didn’t hear the Liberals saying that welfare or Congress paychecks would be stopped. They use scare tactics, so people hate the GOP. We are a military family and yes, my husband was in Vietnam and my son had two tours in the middle east and we are all Republicans. Wake up, the democrats are stealing your money and your country while you are sleeping.
Mr Ramirez, from a combat veteran, Mr Mark never said anything ungrateful about the soldier, just that the DNC used his family as political propaganda. Being a disabled veteran you should do a little research on how much money Mr Trump has given to veterans as opposed to Hillary. Let me give you a hint, it isn’t close. Unfortunately Obama has let the VA fail in numerous ways. Don’t hate on Mr Trump for the failed policies of the current President as well as congress and Senate (both parties). You can dislike Trump in many ways, but as far as standing up for Veterans and putting his money where his mouth is, he is the only candidate. I’m still waiting for someone to actually give a clear, unbiased, non-derogatory argument against Mr Mark. Thanks for your well thought argument Chris. Keep strong and sharing your opinions regardless of what some uninformed folks are sharing here.
Brady Powell
Iraqi War Veteran
SEMPER FI MARINE , appreciate the truth, as my husband in the Navy for 23 Submarines ,first in Vietnam , sadly American ‘s turned their backs on all returning military!
Clinton & OBAMA turned their backs on our American ‘s in Benghazi, no one questioned Obama, Clinton has lied so many times
Trump is our hope, God help us if not!!!!
So America’s turned their back on the military? According to Mr. Mark, veterans deserve nothing more. If you are in agreement with the writer of this screed, what are you bellyaching about? So enough with how badly vets are treated – they are not (and I quote) “imbue(d) with special privileges or rights.” By the way, I’m an honorably discharged Marine, four years active duty.
Well said. Thank you for your service to this great Country! Your letter was very well written and respectful. I’m sorry for that you have had to put up with such disrespect and hate. You don’t deserve it.
You don’t call losing your son a sacrifice? The notion of sacrificing one’s son is such a powerful metaphor that one of the largest religions in the world is built around it. Ever heard of Christianity? “For God so loved he world he gave his only son”
Sir, you canNOT seriously be comparing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ with one made by a a man during WAR! Jesus’ death paid a ransom for all humankind. Seriously?!!?
A big difference between God and Mr.Khan. God GAVE his son…Mr. Khan did not. His son willingly volunteered to join the military. Mr. Khan did not give his son to the military. No doubt Mr. Khan suffered a loss. No doubt his SON sacrificed. One can appreciate his son’s sacrifice. No a good comparison.
The parents of this soldier did not bring him into this world to serve the military. He made a free choice to serve his country. His parents have lost their son but they did not sacrifice him. People need to look up the definition of the word sacrifice before throwing it around. He is a HERO for the sacrifice he made, his sacrifice should not be used for the political agenda of a party that disrespects our military personnel.
Comparing this to the story of Jesus is blasphemy in of itself. The story goes that God created jesus as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity but Jesus in the end had to accept the sacrifice as his own.
Reflect upon the context of the message this author is trying to put forward and not the actual wording. If you took the time to read the comments he has already reflected that the wording used was not the most tactful.
May all the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice live on in Valhalla.
I just find it amusing that the comments against Candidate Trump are direct quotes from the media. I would venture to say that free thinking has gone by the way side of many in our country. Cognitive Dissonance explains a lot. I feel sad that people rely on main stream media to tell them how to think and feel. Both candidates have their flaws. It is sad that any side would use my brother and sister veterans or their families purely to further their own political agenda. Politics is not a noble field when it brings out hate and disrespect from all sides. I served. Proud Veteran of the U.S. Navy and the Army National Guard. I have seen terrorism first hand. I have seen evil souls, good souls, and hope alike in this world. Opinions are just thoughts and feelings expressed to others. Emotional responses do nothing for anyone but cloud the greater thought. It is not for us to agree but only to listen, weigh, and decide. I will not chastise anyone for their speech. Freedom of speech is in our Constitution. The first one which we as a collective swore to uphold and defend. Shame to all veterans attacking each other over this. Please find your way back to taking care of each other. In the end we the ones of service past, present, and future can only rely on each other for support. It will never come from anyone who has not walked in our shoes. God Bless You All and God Bless America!
Well said and respectfully done..God bless you. Thank you all for your service and sacrifice. God Bless and protect the United States of America!!!!!
Who sought out the Khan’s after 12 yrs. to jump into the political arena ? to honor their son, the military and country has already done that, to honor his memory that they should do privately. Shinning the spotlight and accepting money for talk show appearances will not bring him back. Mr. & Mrs Khan you need to rethink this.. Let you son rest in Peace.
Well said Marine!!!! I love my country and I believe and praying that God is going to make this country great again! I believe that God raised up Donald Trump to bring that to pass. God bless you and all Veterans!!!
Great letter! Thank you for your service to our Country Sir…..
Excellent. This is the response he should have heard from the future president.
Everyone who considers himself an American should read this article and institutionalize its contents.
Mr. Khan was not attacking Trump. He was responding to Trump non stop attacks on American Muslims……
Seriously. Not a sacrifice. The real issue is Trump’s response to the speech. Whether you want to bad mouth Trump or Clinton should not be the point here. You called this man a hero. He is. That’s all Trump had to say. But no. Not him. Yet you still support him. His response, unlike yours, was rude and disrespectful. That’s all their is to it. It shows what an evil man he is. And yes, Khan volunteered for a war started by the republicans that should never have happened. I know as a veteran you will never question your leader but the war was never about Islam but about profit and oil. That is a different argument. Maybe you should be asking why your Trump could not even just say, as you did, Khan was a hero. Period
War started by Republicans? Dumbass; it was started by Radical Islamist Terrorists. You don’t deserve the service provided by our military folks. Semper Fi, Chris!
Well said!!
Gratitude for service first and then for writing such an eloquent posting. We are a country blessed by those willing to serve and sacrifice, and there is no greater gift one can give. We need to take care of and respect our veterans but we should not exploit them or their families in the political arena.
There is an appropriate time and place for everything and our children need to see a political system that respects all lives and stands on the issues and not the parties.
[…] an open letter to Khan, veteran Chris Mark writes “I am troubled that you would allow a party that has little more than […]
You maybe a veteran but sir this point is this couple lost their son, for his country, and Donald Trump has not sacrifice anything in fact Mr. Trump got five (5) deferments and they just don’t handout deferments my friend. To me Donard Trump is a draft dodging SOB.
As a mother, and parent in general, my heart breaks for that couple. As a veteran, spouse of a veteran, sibling of four veterans, and friend of all veterans who volunteered, thank you for articulating this perspective. This family, like thousands upon thousands of famalies, has suffered a devastating loss. I recognize that loss and honor it. However, the God given, right to self preservation rests in the individual. Our nation recognized this truth and chose to institute an all voluntary military force. I actually remember the debate. People were fearful that the military would be ruined and only unqualified losers would want to join. The exact opposite occurred. Individuals join, individuals give themselves, individuals sacrifice for the greater good. Individuals sacrifice.
At some point, you have to wonder when personal grief at the loss of a
loved one becomes (knowingly or unknowingly) a celebration of the grief stricken.
Here, Here devil Dog! You expressed my heart felt thoughts.
“Your sons sacrifice was voluntary. Your family didn’t sacrifice anything. Neither did the Clintons or Obamas. That’s why I endorse Mr. Trump (even tho he did not sacrifice anything either), and also because of his extensive knowledge of the Constitution. For instance, when he said that you had no right to say that he never read it, you are clearly not covered by the right to free speech. I can’t wait for Mr. Trump to trickle all over my face.” – signed, a Marine (not a soldier)
Cue vitriolic ad hominem rebuttal in 3,2,1…
I don’t think any side can be seen with complete clarity. I can see your side Mr. Mark and yes you are correct, the party he is supporting under cuts and devalues our fighting men and women to the point it enrages me. However I have to see Mr. Kahn’s point also. On the human side of things, not political, if my son died in service to a country we both lived in and loved, no one would tell me how much or little I have sacrificed. And if I heard my son’s name coming out of any politicians mouth, even if I supported that politician, it would probably make me jump to the other side. Pain pushes people in directions that they may not otherwise go.
Please don’t take me wrong, I can understand your anger and you are entitled to it. You have faced things and seen things I will never know, walked in places I have never walked but all of us have. The universal truth in every human is the path of our life is unique to us. I don’t know Mr. Kahn’s path but I doubt you do either.
Your response to him was well worded and well thought out, however, again, if it were my son, in my opinion, no one would be able to challenge how I would deal with my son’s memory.
Beautiful and respectful. Now let’s move on with the real issues of the day.
Maybe these people didn’t choose to sacrifice their child and yet at the same time they did lose their child and the pain of that must be awful.
I would hope that you have people in your life that would feel the same way if this happened with you.
The problem that I see is that Trump is making comments without thinking through the effect that they may have. He compared his sacrifice in business to the loss of a child which is sad. He also made an assumption about the woman based on race which is considered stereotyping and just adds fuel to the fire about his racism as well as the fear that people have about his mouth affecting our relations with other countries. Trump needs to take responsibility for the things coming out of his mouth
I agree with all your genuine comments but our leaders keep sending us into Wars Korea Panama Vietnam with the longest war started by mr. Bush in 2003 we have military stationed all over the world why are we responsible for the whole world it would be much more productive to cure all the diseases we are dealing with it like cancer