The Laughing Wolf

A Toast Was Raised

In dealing with the death of someone well known, I often prefer to opt for enough not said. In some cases, however, a death is indeed a thing to be celebrated. The death of this pig is one such. It was a very modest toast late last night upon returning to the lair, but today I salute Russian security forces and all those involved in sending it to its dirt nap.

If you need to know why I celebrate, then read this, this, this, MOST ESPCIALLY THIS, and this.

Good job to all involved.

LW
crossposted at Blackfive

In Memory Of London

Remember, learn, prepare.

For me, this sums it up in memory of 9/11 and 7/7. The Gaelic is from my Clan, and means Fierce When Roused. So mote it be.

LW

Zarqawi Dead

AQ's boy in Iraq ate a nice one from U.S. Military Aviation and is off to his dirt nap. Damn, wish I could celebrate more than just with a cup of my beloved Foglifter right now...

LW

USS Cole: Five Years

In Memoriam:

Arlington Cemetery has more, as does Baldilocks. Remember the dead, the wounded, and the survivors this day. The war began well before 9/11, and finish it we will, lest it finish us.

LW

Yet Others:
Michelle Malkin (still wish she had let me buy her a cup of coffee whilst I was in DC...
Blackfive
Smash

Incoming?

Michele Malkin as a good roundup not only of the bombs found at Georgia Tech, but of other university incidents as well. Be careful out there...

LW

Never Forget

The networks that demand to show you bodies from Katrina are the same ones who are too cowardly and venal to show you the horrors of the day, or to pay honest tribute to the heros of that day.

They would have you never know all, and would like you to forget that which you already do

Look at them all, see the images and hear the words that now are told. Learn about them as individuals here and here and wherever you can.

This day, remember those murdered; nay, slaughtered, by cowards. Remember them all, for they are us: our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, friends and acquaintances. Honor their memory.

This day, remember those that died rushing to the rescue, for they too are us: our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, friends and acquaintances. Honor their memory.

This day, remember those that died on Flight 93, for they too were us: ordinary citizens all, who rose to the challenge and the hour, and in so doing set a standard for us all.

This day, remember those that have died since, both the murdered and those who volunteered and rose to defend us: our homes, our lives, our freedoms. Those who in the cause of freedom fought and died in the shadows and those who fought and died in the light, remember them well this day.

Honor them all.

Look at the good that has come, and look at what you can do to make a difference.

Remember them, and make a difference. Stand as a citizen and tell them by word and deed:

By Thought, Word, and Deed

To borrow from The March of Cambreadth

Part of that fight is knowing, and remembering. Remember this day. Honor them today, and know that so doing is indeed part of a force that is hard to stop.

A force of freedom, of individual liberty and responsibility. A force that is now unleashed. Work to take from them the potential converts by exposing them to the power of hope. Let the winds of life and liberty sweep all the lands, and let all those who desire power tremble wherever and whatever they may be. For those infected with those power memes, there is naught that can be done. Drain the pool of potential infection by education and example.

By Thought, Word, And Deed: Take from them their future so that they may wither upon the vine and be removed by any and all means.

How many of them can we make die

Remember this day those taken from us. Let them live on in memory bright, and in a legacy of freedom across the waves and the land.

LW

Beslan

Remember them. One year ago yesterday the rape of Beslan began. They were not freedom fighters, militants, or seperatists, but terrorists.

The best blogging on Beslan, IMO, was done by Stan at Logic & Sanity, who remembers the day. My own efforts start here.

Remember those who died, and those who lived. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

LW

A Death In London

Red Ken got it right for once, for the death of Jean Charles de Menezes is the responsibility of the terrorists, not the police. To my mind, there are still many unanswered questions here, which include why run from the police when challenged, why the heavy coat, and did he do something that appeard to be an attempted hostage taking as reported by witnesses? We may never have all the answers, but while what happened ultimately was a tragedy, it was also justified. You do not take a chance with a potential suicide bomber, for far too many can pay the price if you do. What you do is a head shot so that they don't get the chance to detonate the bomb. Since many seem to miss the obvious, you also don't shoot into the abdomen or lower chest because a bullet hitting the workings of the vest can do very bad things...

The police did as they should, and do not bear the responsibility for the mistake. That lies ultimately with the terrorists, and with the man who did not stop when challenged.

LW

Thank You John Howard, Thank You Anchoress

Thank you, Prime Minister Howard for this swift and devastating response to a member of the fifth column fourth estate.

Thank you Anchoress, for this moving pictoral review of how it is not about Iraq.

And thank you to Michelle Malkin for the link to The Anchoress, and to Prof. Reynolds for the link to John Howard's speech.

LW

More Bombs In London

So far, these seem to have been almost duds with only one injury reported. Lots of speculation, but not a lot of hard fact yet. Keep checking The Counterterrorism Blog and The Command Post for updates and solid information.

LW

The Story Behind The Mask

Also courtesy of Michelle Malkin comes a link to the start of the story behind the mask. Yes, just the start, for there is more here, and the full tale has yet to be told. For now, get some tissue and go read about a good man who did much more than nothing, and became one of those who keep evil from triumph.

LW

We Are Not Afraid

Over at Michelle Malkin's the other day, I was introduced to the wonderful We're NOT Afraid. I've donwloaded a number of images, and decided to submit one of my own.

I made this today, based on an older roundel that you still see in some areas and older stations. I have used and liked the tube since I was 12, and thought it appropriate to express my opinion. The Gaelic is from my Clan, and means Fierce When Roused, which sums up how Londoners seem to respond to bombings. Don't let the quiet and stoic front fool you; the passion is there.

This is a smaller version for sidebars and such. Feel free to copy and use.

LW

London

LW

London

LW

This Is London

"...determined to go on with their lives..."
A Show of Defiance
An open letter
Sod'em we carry on

LW

London

As they stood with us on 9/11, so I stand with them this day. Today we are all British. Today, we are all Londoners.

LW

A Grave-Robbing Outrage

The Ground Zero Memorial has been hijacked. Go here, here, and here. Follow the links, then let everyone from the President on down know how you feel about the matter. The people doing this are, in my opinion, slightly lower than ghouls to corrupt what should be a memorial to those that were murdered that day. It is more than merely contemptible, and words fail me at describing this effort and those behind it.

LW

A Post You Need To Read

Go read this post on a real nuclear threat right now. Think on it a bit. Years ago I was introduced to Fractional Orbital Bombardment Systems (FOBS), Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP), and other delights, and the problem has in many ways only gotten worse since then. Read the article, and think a bit. ABM systems and hardening can help, but eliminating the source of the threat is the only true defense.

LW

You Think It Can't Happen Here?

Then go read this and all the related posts and links. Just as the Old Media is giving Eason Jordan a pass, they are frantically trying to avoid this story. Fingers are in ears, the humming is loud, and feet are drumming on the floor to try to avoid it. They can't afford to admit to it, and you can't afford not to know about it.

LW

I Could Very Well Agree With Him

The story of the Marine General who has daintier souls swooning for his comments on how shooting certain people was fun will not be disciplined.

Good. Damn Good.

We need people like him, and people as honest as he is. Let me be honest with you. Yes, I am a rational pacifist, but that is nothing like a traditional pacifist. To illustrate a point, the subject of this post is the creature behind the Beslan Massacre (here, here, here, here, and here). Killing him, and those who work with him, would indeed be fun. It would be a pleasure. No charge, on the house. The sooner the world is rid of this ilk, the better off we will be.

LW
NO MORE BESLANS!

G.I. Joe Held Hostage!

Allow me to echo others who have been snerking about the mighty and much vaunted fact checkers and editors that the Old Media keeps touting. This story shows just how good a job they do. Snort. Good for a laugh on several levels.

LW

Chris Muir, as always, does the story more than justice.

Why We Fight

Two posts, here and here, are wonderful descriptions of why we fight. Why we must fight and win the global war on terror. We fight for those gone, yes, but more than that we fight for those who are left behind and for those still to come.

To those who don't get it, let me say it is not about you and it is not about the now that is all your world. Rather, it is about the children and those who will have to live in the world to come. Their world must not be sacrificed for you to live as you would now. That sacrifice must be ours. If, in that process, we also make it possible for those left behind to sleep, perchance to dream a pleasant dream, then that too is something worth fighting for.

LW

To My Friends In England

Be careful out there. This is not good news, and while not unexpected please do be cautious and prepared.

LW

New Bin Laden Audio

Backcountry Conservative has the scoop on the tape reportedly in the hands of Al-J, reported courtesy of the Al-AP, that is allegedly Bin Laden endorsing murderous thug Zarqawi as his boy on the ground in Iraq and calling on other thugs to boycott the elections. Or is that to disrupt the elections by whatever means are needed? That is indeed the question.

LW

A Big Thanks Is In Order

I could not have said it any better. Thanks to all who made this possible, wherever you may be.

LW

The ABC Tape

For the latest on the terrorist threat delivered to ABC, go to here and here at Little Green Footballs, here at The Command Post, and here at Drudge. More on this as it develops.

LW

Remembrance, And A Point Well Worth Remembering

It wasn't just here and it wasn't just 9-11. Go here and remember. This is war, not law enforcement or a police action.

LW

Beslan Update

Stan at Logic & Sanity has the latest. Keep checking this site, as there is lots of good food for thought there.

LW

More Required Reading

Are the articles here, here, and here.

LW

Taliban Johnny Wants To Be Free

To the surprise of many, I will state up front that I hope that the President honors this request. John Walker Lindh has petitioned the President to commute his sentence to time served based on the fact that Yaser Esam Hamdi has been let go. I think fair is only fair, and that Johnny should be let go too – with the same conditions. I say let him go if he renounces his American citizenship and is returned to Afghanistan. He still has some friends there, and they may want to talk with him on a variety of subjects including his apparent cooperation, so let’s arrange the meeting.

LW

Olympic Airlines: Another Threat

There is another bomb threat made against an Olympic Airlines flight bound for New York. The plane has been diverted to Ireland and landed safely. No further information available right now.

LW

Agree With Kathy

Good.

LW

NY-Bound Jetliner Grounded For Suspected Bomb

Sky News is reporting that an Olympic Airlines jet bound for New York was escorted by Tornado fighters and has landed at Stansted Airport after the pilot reported he believed a bomb to be on board. Updates as they become available.

LW

NOTE TO FNC: Olympic Airways and the Olympics are two separate things.

From Sky News, the plane was bound from Athens to NY and was diverted "under full emergency conditions" to Stansted. FNC is reporting that a Spanish passenger claimed to have a bomb, no verification on this so far.

No news on the Olympic site and the last press release was issued in June. From schedule information, this appears to be Flight 411 which departed Athens at 1230 hours local time. Athens airport has long had problematic security, which was a major issue for the Olympics. A number of changes were reportedly made for the Olympics, but current status is unknown.

Sky News is reporting the passengers are off, but no word on device or any of the info that has been reported on FNC.

AirWise shows that the flag carrier is up for sale or will be shortly.

Baghdad Broadcasting is reporting that the MoD portion is over, and a search of the plane underway. According to their story, a threat was phoned in to an Athens paper and authorities and the plane notified, prompting the pilot to request diversion.

UPDATE 1455 hours Eastern: Not a lot of new info to report. Sky News is reporting that there may have been up to three threats made, but that is not confirmed. More as I can find it.

UPDATE 1825 hours Eastern: Last report I can find is that search is still underway. More later.

UPDATE Monday AM: Plane has been cleared, and apparently the search was thorough. Instead of four or so hours, from reports the search went much longer. Glad this was done, and that the incident appears to have been a hoax. Far better to test procedures than to need them.

Wolf ThreatCon: Up

I have previously talked about the next attack on the U.S. here and here. Well, seems the Feds are worried too. I am going from my half-tank gas rule up to 3/4 tank, as in fill when it hits that level, and I am checking my preparations. There is no need to panic, but there is a need to be vigilant and to take reasonable precautions. Spain proved to our enemies that such attacks work, and they have every reason to believe that it will work here, so be careful out there.

LW

Why They Are Not Resistance, Insurgents, or Minute Men

In their own words, courtesy of the illustrious Dr. Shackleford. Old Media organizations, take note: unless you want to see your ratings and believeability slip even further, quit with the prevarications. They are terrorists, and what they do is murder, not execute.

LW

An Article You Need To Read

Is right here. It, and the need for reform, are summed up well here. Go, take the time to read. And Thank You! Sir George, for posting that.

LW

Awwwwwww. Little Catty Feel Victimized

What a pity. Gee, there appears to be some very good reasons he was denied entry. Simply because he had some hits years ago does not give him a pass on the rest of his life. I have not listened to his stuff since he called for the death of Rushdie, in response to The Satanic Verses. Yes, I think there should be a full accounting here from the U.S., one that perhaps shows where all the "peace" money he raises goes and what it is truly used for.

LW

UPDATE: Gee, I wonder if he feels as victimized as all those kids and such blown up by Hammas...

Another On The Other Side

Is the story of a school district in Michigan projecting homeschoolers as the terrorists in a drill. The non-apology is a masterpiece of wanna-be civil master failing to own up and take responsibility for showing their true colours. Hiding behind "Homeland Security" for such a breathtaking bit of mistaken honesty on their true opinion of homeschoolers is nothing short of despicable. Hat tip to Michele Malkin on this one.

LW

Not Anti-War, Pro-Terrorist

This one goes under terrorism no matter how you cut it. The perp is as cowardly a terrorist as any in the Middle East, attacking from behind and bravely running away when confronted. Or, you can look at it as that the perp is not so much anti-war, as they are pro-terrorist. By their actions judge them. Cowardly, terrorist scum.

The soldier, on the other hand, is everything his attacker will never be: brave, intelligent, honorable, etc. I wish Foster Barton a speedy recovery, a fast return to his unit, and a safe return back home.

LW

A Good Read This Morning

Is here (and no surprise coming from Sir Banagor) via my Blogfather at Winds Of Change.

LW

Beslan Updates

Stan continues to do an outstanding job at Logic & Sanity on a variety of topics, including tips. He is continuing to provide some of the best, if not THE best, continuing coverage of Beslan with a second post of follow-ups. Go check him out.

LW

9-11

Take some time today, stop, and remember.

Go here and remember

Go here and remember

Remember all those that were murdered in these attacks. Pray, meditate, say spells, do whatever it is your beliefs suggest, for them and for those they left behind.

Go read this entire blog. Go find and read the others that are out there as well.

Take time this day and honor the dead, for this is their day.

I remember them, I remember what happened, and I will do so for as long as I live. I honor them this day, and ask that you do so as well.

LW

Lileks Shoots, Scores!

Well, I didn't think he would be posting today, but he did. Boy did he ever. I expect to hear the sounds of people screaming "You sank my victimhood!" Many, many thanks to Neptunus Lex for the heads-up on this.

LW

Beslan: Russian School Hostage Crisis Update

Things become clearer, even as more horrors come to light. If you are not reading the follow up at Logic & Sanity you are missing most of the information and are at least 24-48 hours behind what the Old Media is choosing to report.

It is clear they had help, and it is clear that this was planned out. Seems that some of the terrorists helped renovate the school this summer, and had cached food and drink for them under the floors when they did so. They may have also cached weapons and explosives, explaining at least in part how they got so much there. The more you read and learn, the clearer it is that they intended for none to survive. It is also clear that a number of the terrorists had no idea what was planned, or where it was to take place.

My post of yesterday still stands, and I have added some very good links at the bottom. The Command Post also continues to provide some good coverage and commentary on this, but I again recommend the follow up at Logic & Sanity as the best news coverage out there.

LW

An Outstanding Suggestion

Is here. The NEA will squeal, but too bad. We need to do it now.

LW

Beslan: Russian School Hostage Crisis Update/Aftermath

The death toll continues to climb, with the worst of it being the number of missing (app. 260). Not content to wait for paradise, some of the terrorists raped students. I had gotten this info on Friday, but could not confirm it so did not post it. Not surprised at all, but had hoped. Foolish me.

Logic & Sanity is doing a continuous update here in the same way he did his initial coverage. It is the single best source of information there is, so go check it out.

It is clear that the terrorists had outside help, in the police and quite likely elsewhere as well. It is clearly documented that they were in contact with and recieving orders from a higher command. It is clear that they had no intentions of negotiating and were there to kill. Lots of indicators there for those who will look, but the most glaring is the lack of water. Humans can literally go weeks without food. You can at best only go a few days without water before dying. There are also reports that at times some of the terrorists removed masks, or never wore them. Even if only a few did this, it is a clear sign. If you are ever in a hostage situation and the perps remove their masks, it either means they are surrendering or that you are dead. 99.99999999 percent of the time, it is the latter. Fight like hell then, for you have nothing to lose. There are other clues here, look for them.

If you are like the deluded polyanna in the comments at this post by Blackfive, allow me to point out something no longer in school, but on the news. There is at least one training tape found that deals with just such a scenario in the West, as in the U.S., and that film calls for everyone to die. According to the news report, law enforcement has been told that if they see it starting, call in and start shooting then -- don't wait for SWAT or backup -- because everyone is dead anyway. By attacking immediately, at least some can be saved.

This can and it will happen here. They plan on it, and we should count on vermin trying to do it. And more. Deal with it. The lives of your family depend upon it.

These are not people with whom you can negotiate. These are not people with whom you should negotiate. They are lower than the pigs they scorn, and they are sworn to our deaths and that of our civilization. They hold even the laws of the religion they claim in contempt -- as evidenced by the school. If you don't get this, go read and study, and find out the multiple "sins" they committed with this one act.

The other day, I said: MESSAGE TO THE TERRORISTS AND THOSE BEHIND THEM: Poshol v pizdu; et V grobu ya tebya vidal! Not quite right, but close enough for an English keyboard.

That is far too mild, for I no longer want them to return to the diseased hole from whence they came, nor do I dream of them in their coffin. I want to introduce them to some Southern delicacies, for I dream of them face down in a hole filled with lard, and chitlins in every natural and unnatural opening in their bodies. They declared total war, as is pointed out here and it must be granted to them.

Wahabism Delenda Est!

Wahabism Delenda Est!

LW

UPDATE: Some very good and important background information is here. Read it all including the links.

Another very good read is here.

And yet another good read along with this one.

And yet more details of the horror emerge.

If A Picture Is Worth 1,000 Words

Go here

There is nothing we can currently do to prevent such. All we can do is endure it, and help people afterwards.

Go here and click on the slide show

Go here and click on the slide show

Go here and click on the slide show.

Go here and click on the slide show

Go here and look at the pictures

Go here and click on the galleries, and look at all the pictures

Go here and look at all the pictures

Is this the world to which you would condemn your children? This can be prevented. The people responsible for such can be dealt with. This does not have to happen. The choice as to if it continues or if it does not is up to you, to each and every one of us. Choose wisely.

And help those currently in need. Go here and do what you can. Recommended by myself and The Command Post. I also urge you to go to Strengthen The Good to find some good ways to help all those in need no matter where they may be.

Decide what world you want for your children, then act. Their future is your choice.

LW

Russian School Hostage Crisis Update

FLASH TRAFFIC: There are now reports of explosions, gunfire, and fighting. Fox is reporting that at least some hostages are free, but this news is fragmentary and incomplete. There appear to be running gun battles underway.

UPDATE: Interfax is running several stories, but from them it appears that Russian special forces are now in control of most of the school. There is a lot of confusion, and several stories indicate that some of the terrorists switched into "civilian" clothing and are trying to escape into the local population. The first story in the series indicates that a hostage exchange was supposed to be underway, and it was then that two large explosions went off and hostages began to flee. According to this story no assault was planned.

UPDATE: I am working on translating this story from Russian and from it the following appears to emerge: There was to be an evacuation of dead bodies from the school at approximately 1 pm local time, when two explosions went off and shooting began. I am not clear on this, but from some of what is said, it may have been that some of the terrorists were to be let go in exchange for the bodies and possibly others. Something went wrong, that much is clear, and at least some of the terrorists have fled or are fleeing. According to the story, they are saying that at least 10 of the hostages are dead. Sorry this is rough, but my translation is limited.

UPDATE: If you are checking back at Logic & Sanity, I am not sure he is up yet. However, he does have a good figure on the hostages, and it was 354 families, which means that there could be upwards of 1,000 people held hostage. No good figures yet on casualties, but there are several reports of injured going into local hospital(s). One story at Newsru.com indicates at least 200 injured and seems to indicate that they are having trouble evacuating because of the crowds.

UPDATE: Well, my update got eaten, so am going to try to reconstruct it here. First, would someone please tell E.D. Hill and the guy on the ground at Beslan from Fox to shut the hell up. They are editorializing rather than reporting, and some of it appears to be innacurate and all of it is probably unhelpful at this point. From all the sources, the following seems to be the chronology:

At some point near 1300 hours (1 pm) local time, a deal had been reached to allow the dead bodies in or near the school to be removed. This may have been in exchange for allowing some of the terrorists to leave, but that is NOT confirmed and may be nothing more than bad translation on my part. When the ambulances and/or other vehicles entered the area, one of them may have hit one of the mines placed by the terrorists. This, in turn, appears to have set off one or more other devices, resulting in the collapse of part of the roof of the school (gym?, unclear). When this happened, the hostages boiled out, and all hell broke loose.

It appears from some of the Russian reports, poorly translated on my part, that some portion of the terrorists had either come in in "civilian" clothing or had changed into it. One site indicates that the terrorists had local help of some type. At any rate, it allowed them to blend into the crowd, and there appears not to have been a secondary cordon in place, but that is pure speculation on my part at this point. The Russians had no choice but to get everyone out, and try to disable all the remaining explosive devices. All this had to take place while apparently exchanging fire with terrorists. At least one group was chased en masse, and may have tried to take shelter in a nearby house. There is a lot of confusion at this point, but at least one Russian news site is trying to post a chronology. As soon as I can, I will try to get a link up to it. I also hope that Stan wakes up soon.

UPDATE: There is a chronolgy here and it indiates that there are more than 300 injured and that at least 20 children are severely injured. There appears to be no reliable information on the number of dead, though from previous hostage escapes and such there were already at least 15 people executed at the start of the takeover. More appear to have been added, and various reports indicate that the ambulances/other vehicles were going in to collect 20 or 20 plus bodies. Another chronology is here.

UPDATE: As usual, Backcountry Conservative has a good round-up going on.

NOTE: This is a fluid situation and as with all such the "facts" are going to change over time. This is not lies on anyones part, necessarily, but just a factor of the confusion that is inherent in the situation. Keep that in mind, and try to keep in mind facts rather than editorializing that oft passes for reporting. I have a LOT of questions about how things were handled, but am refraining from commenting for now as what we need is fact, not fiction. Please be aware that I do not speak or read Russian (very nimnoga): I use books and machine translation normally, and those are VERY limited tools. I am having to guess at a lot of context here, but am doing the best I can. I really do hope that Stan wakes up soon...

UPDATE: Finally got a chance to go back and check Interfax again, and they are reporting that more than 350 people are wounded; what may be an old report that there are still terrorists in the school (other Russian reports appear to indicate that it is secure now) and that escaping terrorists are trying to flee south; and, that one emergency worker. This news may be very old for such a situation, so take it with a grain of salt.

NOTE: Yes, the Shady Lady, Al-Reuters, and other Western sources are on scene and reporting. No, I am not using them. I am trying to use only Russian sources for these reports as they have consistently provided better coverage, more complete coverage, and tend to clearly label their spin. That is how Stan at Logic & Sanity has provided such outstanding coverage the last couple of days: he is going direct to the sources and translating. As a result, anyone reading those updates has a heck of a lot more factual information on the situation than most.

UPDATE: Praise be! Stan is back up and is posting!! This is the best coverage out there, so get over and scroll down. The bad news is, he is already reporting that at least 150 are dead. I suspect strongly that this figure will rise. Please take a moment from your day, stop right now, and pray, think, meditate, chant, or do whatever it is you do. Do so for those lost, for those injured, for those in need, and for those left behind.

UPDATE: Rusty Shackelford has some thoughts up on this, and I agree with him: horrible and sickening; but, add to that I am mad. If I am mad, I can only imagine how the Russians feel right now, and am amazed that the alleged accomplice caught by citizens was given over alive to authorities. I am also not surprised that one of the terrorists was apparently caught by the citizens, beaten, and possibly killed. The terrorists that got out better hope that the soldiers get them first, as it will be a lot cleaner. As for me, I think the soldiers should get them, hamstring them, and turn them over to the local women. I bet they can last a long, long time.

NOTE: I am taking a break, as Stan is back on the job. He does a great job, and I think he has done the best coverage of this story in the West bar none. Read him.

MESSAGE TO THE TERRORISTS AND THOSE BEHIND THEM: Poshol v pizdu; et V grobu ya tebya vidal! Not quite right, but close enough for an English keyboard.

UPDATE: How can we look at such images and not weep? How can we see this and not be moved? What heart be stone and not moved? I make no claim of being objective at this point, or even trying. When Stan came back, I stepped back, and the wall came tumbling down. You are warned.

UPDATE: According to this story there appear to be 9 Arabs in the terrorist group. Keep checking back with Stan on this, as there is much more to come I am afraid.

UPDATE: More images here, here, here, here, and here. Another gallery starts here. What I said before does not even come close, it was much too mild.

UPDATE: I have been most remiss this morning, as Michele has been covering this at The Command Post as well.

UPDATE: Shtob ty Sgorel! They clubbed the children and/or shot them in the back.

UPDATE: Stan is continuing to provide the finest coverage. According to his sources, the toll is 60 dead hostages identified so far, and 690 wounded. I expect this will go up, alas.

UPDATE: Another photo gallery is here. And another.

UPDATE: Keep trying to let Allah know of Stan, but comment registration does not like me, won't let me post despite registration, etc. Bad Allah. Bad comment registration.

UPDATE: Night has fallen in Breslan, a shroud over a day of horror, hope, loss, and joy. Far too many paid the price this day, and it will be many days before we have a good idea of what happened, and how. I suspect much, but will not sully this day, this post, with idle speculation. For now, I leave you with Stan's translation of one hostage's account as some food for thought. Pray for those lost this day, for those hurt, and those left behind. Remember that there are those who have trained to make this happen elsewhere, including here. Then, pray some more. I leave you now to your thoughts, for I must step back for a while. Keep checking Stan, and I want to thank him right now for the work he has done, and also thank Olka for her contributions as well.

END
Earlier posts are here and here. Some food for thought is here. Aftermath and some commentary is here. I also suggest that you click here and scroll down to find the latest information on this story in case this update segment is not updated regularly.

Russian School Hostage Crisis Update

First off, to all the Old Media types out there: they people doing this are not rebels, insurgents or frelling hostage takers. They are terrorists. They are murdering cowardly scum with ties to the Al Queda umbrella. Get your heads out of your ventral orifices and quit treating them with kid gloves.

The night over there was filled with random fire out from the school, apparently designed to try and prevent any anti-terrorist units from getting close. This is continuing, with some loud explosions now reported, but with no apparent activity from the outside. None of this bodes well for the children.

I strongly recommend you go to this story at the wonderful Logic & Sanity who is providing some of the best coverage I have seen. There is a LOT of background there and he does a great job of connecting dots and making sure that all possibilities are covered. More to be posted as warranted.

LW

UPDATE 1: Fox News is reporting that one or more children may have been released. Very little real intel here, lots of speculation from the talking heads. More later.

UPDATE 2: Fox reporter on the scene is saying that eight women and small children were released. Other than that, lots or rumors but not much else.

UPDATE 3: The Backcountry Conservative is is continuing his coverage as is Kathy at On The Third Hand and Rusty Shackelford at MyPetJawa. The Command Post also continues to provide coverage. Some English laungauge Russian sources include News From Russia, Interfax, and The Moscow Times.

UPDATE 4: The number released is now 26 according to Fox.

UPDATE 5: The number of released hostages seems to be creeping up. Unfortunately, according to updates at Logic & Sanity it appears that the terrorists executed at least 15 of the male hostages. This is based on eyewitness reports from a man who managed to escape. He had been ordered to throw the bodies out the window, and realizing he might be next, went out the window himself when he could. If you are following this story at all, you need to read today's updates right now.

UPDATE 6: It appears that many of those released are infants. There are reports that the children are safe and there is not panic (for now) based on a message from the principal. We are headed towards night again over there, and no one is sure what is happening or what will happen. Please keep these people in your thoughts and prayers, and keep checking back to Logic & Sanity for the best coverage of this story out there.

END
Update here. First post in series is here. Some food for thought is here. Aftermath and some commentary is here. I also suggest that you click here and scroll down to find the latest information on this story in case this update segment is not updated regularly.

Russian School Hostage Crisis

Terrorists have seized a school in Beslan, Russia, and have herded the children and adults into the gym. The gym is now reportedly mined and at least some of the terrorists are purported to be wearing explosives. More here, here, here, and here. This could be very, very ugly. Stay tuned.

LW

UPDATE: Go to News From Russia for regular updates, including this one on a new terror alert for the Moscow subway system. There are other reports coming out that say that the terrorists are threating to murder 20 children for every one of their own killed. Again, I don't believe in coincidence and don't like the pattern that is emerging and not just in Russia. There appears to be a definite upswing in activity around the world, and that is troubling. Let's be careful out there...

Probably not related, but odd and noted...

Also, you can check Interfax for updates.

UPDATE: Fox News just broadcast a report stating that the terrorists have murdered eight people at the school. No word on how many, or if any, were children. Update to the update: The reports now indicate that these were killed in the initial takeover, and appear to include parents and others who tried to defend the children.

A Hard Dilemma: There are reports coming out that children are escaping from the school, which is both good news and bad news. The good is obvious, the bad is less so. If children are escaping from the gym, and the terrorists realize it, they can seal off the means of escape. Even as they do this, however, they are going to get more and more upset -- and possibly even less rational. It also drops the number of hostages, which makes it easier for a small group of terrorists to guard them. It also provides them ideas on ways in which teams can infiltrate the building to take out the terrorists and rescue the hostages. This gives them intel on potential ops as well as the ability to set up ambushes. If the children escaping are coming from elsewhere in the school, this needs to be reported so as to ease tensions within the gym and provide those outside with some flexibility. Yes, I am aware that the terrorists may not have access to outside news, but have you considered that they could be in touch with those who can relay such?

UPDATE: According to this story there appears to be a lull right now, with no changes in demands and no real "news" going on. I have to go out for a bit, but will try to keep up with this through Russian sources and link what I can when I can. LW

UPDATE: According to News From Russia, there are 132 children being held hostage, and negotiations are apparently are underway. No new information otherwise. I am taking this report that the children are being treated well with a huge grain of salt, especially given this earlier report.

UPDATE: Thanks to On The Third Hand, here is a Russian speaker doing a far better job than I am on covering this.

Backcountry Conservative has a good roundup of the coverage.

END
Updates by day here and here. Some food for thought is here. Aftermath and some commentary is here. I also suggest that you click here and scroll down to find the latest information on this story in case this update segment is not updated regularly.

I Don’t Believe In Coincidence

There is this horrific story, and there is also this story (thanks to BC at AIR for the link). Stay tuned on this one.

LW

Direct Action

In the wonderful letter by the SA goon who hacked Protest Warrior’s mail list, there was a delightful sentence “This is an autonomous call out for electronic direct action against the RNC.” The key here is the phrase “direct action”

That phrase has a very specific meaning and it is not an online meaning. While I have no idea if the coward behind this attack is old enough to remember and understand, I am.

I have memories of the Red Brigades, Bader Meinhof, and other such fun progressive groups. You see, I remember having to sit real still while the MPs ran mirrors up under the car to see if there was a bomb there before we could enter the base. I remember having to leave an restaurant in or near Vicenza, Italy, because if we did not members of the Red Brigades phoned to say that they would toss a bomb in just for kicks. I remember having to be careful up in Bavaria because of Bader Meinhof members. These and related groups, such as Action Directe used this phrase with a very specific meaning: to kill, to murder someone or as many as they could of “the enemy.” Men, women, children, it really didn’t matter to them, though to be fair they did ask the base to move the kindergarten away from the edge of the base where it might get hit if a bomb just happened to sail over at that point… Completely by accident, of course.

No, direct action does not mean online. It does not mean civil disobedience. It does not mean harmless pranks. It means murder, maiming, and torture. It means blood. It means dealing with the enemy on a permanent and messy basis.

I had really hoped that those particular bad old days and bad old radicals were behind us. Most nostalgia for those groups and days comes from the callow and ignorant, or from nursing homes where the last members reside (or prison, to be fair). I had really hoped I would not see those days, those groups, and that call here ever again. Yet, here it is, from someone claiming to represent the people and freedom, while trying to destroy both. I wonder if the creature fully understands what it has said, and how seriously the actions and the threat will be taken.

LW

UPDATE: Da Goddess points out another not so innocent phrase that was used in the same way back in the bad old days. I certainly hope that the FBI and others are giving this a very serious look.

A More Sensitive War On Terrorism

Well, since Kerry has once again given a plan with no specifics, Jen posts this set of details on how to fight a more sensitve war on terrorism. Thanks Jen, and I agree with you about where I plan to be...

LW

Anti-Semitism: Words Fail Me

I found this story on several sites this morning, and words fail me. Given all the other reports of anti-Semitism in France both official and unofficial, it doesn't surprise me that the thugs in this case were French. But, when something likes this happens in Auschwitz... My advice to those in France: Don't wait for a Crystalnacht and protection that the government is not going to give you. Recent history as well as past history show you won't get it. Get out now. Get your families out, get your investments out, and save yourselves from what is to come.

LW
absolutely disgusted

Albany Mosque Bust

There will be a news conference this afternoon, but preliminary reports indicate that two men have been arrested and a mosque raided in Albany, NY, over efforts to obtain a surface-to-air missile. Some reports indicate it was part of a sting operation, and others indicate that it is a direct result of the capture of Kahn. If anyone is not paying attention to the latter, such as most of the Old Media, you really do need to take a look at it.

LW

A Memory Of The Past

This morning has seen work being done, work being pursued, the long overdue start of real posting again, and a lot of dishwashing. Now, I know that they washed the dishes and such here before I moved in, but I still do it. Here’s why.

A New Intelligence Authority

It is the buzzthought of the moment, endorsed by all: the need for a new intelligence czar. That there are severe problems with intelligence activities and analysis is beyond dispute, but it is not clear that a new layer of bureaucracy is the answer. This is a road that we have been down before, a road that has led us to the position in which we now find ourselves.

It Just Keeps Getting Better And Better

Not. Go check out this excellent post by Michelle Malkin on the great job our government did in checking out the musicians. One does indeed wonder why Homeland Insecurity is allegedly pressuring the promoter not to talk...

LW

The Real Problem With The Jacobsens: They Did Not Do Enough

Blackfive hits the nail upon the head, and in so doing has helped me make a decision. When I have been asked “What would you have done?” I have given some tepid answers. The fact is, I was not on there so can’t tell you exactly what I would have done. What I will do, is tell you what I have done.

The Passion Of The Anne Jacobsen

Saturday is supposed to be a day for food for thought, happy if at all possible, but given my move and given a lot of what is being slung around, I have decided to add to the day some food for thought that is a bit savory.

The story of Anne Jacobsen has taken some interesting twists and turns of late. Almost from the moment it came out, it has been under attack from various quarters for a variety of reasons. The fact that it was corroborated seems to have just added fuel to the fire for some, who have been steadfast in their attempts to discredit it.

When this story came out, it was eagerly seized upon as proof that not only was Anne wrong, that she was the problem. There is a huge problem with this take, and it deserves to be examined. Let’s look at the story. While it claims multiple sources, it only cites two by name: Cathy Viray and Dave Adams. The most damning portions of the story, which claim that “The lady was overreacting” comes from an unnamed source. In fact, from the writing of the story, it is this single unnamed source that provides all the “juicy” parts. It is interesting to note that from the way it is written, that the source is not an air marshal, just someone alleging to speak for them.

Now, nowhere in the posts I’ve read has any of her detractors taken the time to verify any of the story. Indeed, while it has been demanded that every facet of Anne’s story be verified and cross-checked, none of her major detractors appear to have given this any critical examination. The anonymous source is accepted as a voice on high without question; unlike those who called the spokesmen in Anne’s story to verify that they exist and that they were quoted accurately, no one reports doing so this time; and, the story lede – accepted without question by many – indicates that the air marshals were outed by the Jacobsen’s, yet the final paragraphs of that story indicate that they were not, but that there was concern that they would be: so which is it, did anyone check?

Did anyone ever check the other statements made about the thoroughness of what happened after landing, an important point given the questions about visas and such that has arisen? Did anyone ever even stop to consider that this detailed a laundry list of what was allegedly done also just happens to put governmental efforts into the best possible light, while trashing a person who has caused some very embarrassing questions? Gee, we all know that no governmental agency of any type would ever retaliate against a whistleblower of any type, now don’t we.

Frankly, I am disgusted on several levels by the way this story has been treated. Strip away the $5 words, and a lot of what is being said is “Well, this is just some hysterical female type, and you know how easy it is for the little ladies to panic. Why, heck, it might have even been her time of the month, and you know how they get then.” You who read me or know me know that I am not PC, but the blatant and rampant sexism dripping from many of the posts – no matter how fancy a wrapping is put on it – is reprehensible.

The fact is, we may never know exactly what happened on that flight. The flight crew is apparently barred from speaking; if very many or any of the other passengers are willing to talk after watching the feeding frenzy underway I would be very surprised; and, the air marshals are not supposed to be talking to anyone either. I note again that the deep throat of the story cited above speaks for them, not as them. It has also been acknowledged that the flight was getting special scrutiny because of intelligence and that there were multiple air marshals aboard. It is here that the real kicker lies: there was intelligence about the flight.

The fact that this information came out speaks volumes, for it can blow sources and methods in a heartbeat. It is why I suspect that the full story of this flight, and what happened with the Cenk Kaptanoglu will not be known for quite some time, for we have assets to protect, assets that gave us the intel. Did any of you ever consider that some or even all of the spin on the story was in part to protect sources of information? That we were not supposed to know that extra precautions were being taken?

Did you ever consider that the behavior on the part of the 14 cited by Anne Jacobsen, and confirmed by other sources, was a bit odd? That while innocent of the ability to actually do anything this flight, that they might have been probing for others? That it could have even been a check for leaks within a terrorist organization? If none of this has occurred to you, and you automatically assume that they are completely innocent, you just flunked Analysis 101.

So, for all that so many are eagerly flogging and scourging Anne Jacobsen and her family, consider this:

Do the attacks and attempts at character assassination invalidate any of the concerns raised?

Does such negate the fact that excessive PC and pre-9-11 rules have a strong negative impact on airline and airport security?

Does such mean that there are not still profound problems with the INS and the tracking system?

Does such negate the fact that it is acknowledged that terrorists are probing and testing security at airports and on airplanes?

Does such mean that we should just sit back, keep quiet, and let the government handle everything without question? Why not ask the Citizens on Flight 93?

There are many, many more questions here, but I think you have quite enough to chew on today. Unlike Michelle Malkin, I am not taking respectful issue with some of the characterizations. I am taking strong disagreement with them, though I doubt it will do any good. Those determined to kill the messenger will do so, regardless of cost or other issues, just as those determined to lionize Anne Jacobsen will do the same. Ultimately, it really doesn’t matter if she was a screaming hysteric on that flight or not. What matters is that she did have the courage to step forth and voice her concerns, and in the process has exposed serious issues that need to be addressed. For serving as a forcing function, she has my gratitude, and I sincerely hope that she and her family will not pay too high a price.

LW

BTW, I would be most remiss if I did not link to this excellent post by Teresa at Technicalities.

Oh Yes, Let’s Talk Nice

Okay, I will be the first to admit that I prefer to talk first and then act and I think it a good thing to do overall. Yet, in the face of New Rules In The Skies, follow-ups, and all the other aftermath of 9-11, those that favor talk above all else miss something (deliberately perhaps) that whatever else may be said about it, the 9-11 Commission did NOT miss:

“It is not a position with which Americans can bargain or negotiate. With it there is no common ground—not even respect for life—on which to begin a dialogue. It can only be destroyed or utterly isolated.”

Thanks to Wizbang! for this and to both Instapundit and my favorite Bellicose Women ( Hi Kathy!) for the pointer.

LW

Anne Jacobsen, The Real Threat?

At least that is the claim being trumpeted by Armed Liberal at Winds of Change. I rarely take public exception to anyone at my Blogfather’s site, but this one deserves my fullest contempt. Armed Liberal and several others have maintained all along that if Anne and others had just talked nicely to these people, been good to them, then that everything would have been fine. They have seized on a news report allegedly from air marshals that states that Anne Jacobsen was the problem on the flight to push this even further.

Of course, doing so ignores several points, including the change in behavior reported, the fact that others have corroborated events, and that there were things out of the norm on the flight including behavior by the 14. Not to mention that there was apparently intelligence about said flight and that as a result there were several air marshals on board. It also ignores this story posted by Michelle Malkin that indicates that ALL 14 had expired Visas, or overstayed visas at the least. I agree, this does not inspire confidence in either the investigation or the innocence of the events.

They 14 may be the innocent and misunderstood victims as portrayed by many, apparently including Armed Liberal. It may be that they were innocent and decided for whatever reason to just plain mess with the minds of the other passengers. It may well be, given the report just cited, that there is yet more to this story to be uncovered. Ever consider that as the 14 were being so closely watched, that it drew resources away from other areas? There are a lot more possibilities than a binary solution set here.

As for me, the story continues to raise valid concerns about aviation security, especially when coupled with other reports of tests by terrorists. As for the air marshal story, I will believe it when it has been as scrutinized as Anne’s story, and when an official source is willing to back it publicly, not before.

LW

Cenk Kaptanoglu Update

Interesting continues to be the word here, but the latest and greatest I can find is as follows. According to stories here and here found through The Philadelphia News Daily, a detailed search did not find anything, the captain has been charged with filing a false report, and the ship will not be allowed to enter the port until the investigation is complete. Both stories are taken from the AP wire, and should therefore be taken with a large grain of salt. The Philiadelphia Inquirer seems to be giving the story very little play, with only this story online that says very little. The Philadelphia Daily News is carrying an extremely sparse report from Al-Reuters and nothing else. WPVI is carrying the same AP story as everyone else, KYWdoes have the AP story as their lede online, WCAU/NBC10 has a very early AP story buried well down their homepage. WPHL/WB17 has a short but non-wire service story on their site, WTFX/Fox29 links to yesterday’s Fox News story. There was nothing I could find this morning about the story in the Wall Street Journal, The Washington Times, The New York Post, or the Washington Post. Gee, you would almost think the story mentioned Sandy Berger or something… More later.

LW

Nashville Blast: Of Course It Is Not Terrorism

Why is it that even before the echoes of any blast or boom subside that the authorities are rushing – before they have any facts – to say that something is not terrorism or that terrorism is not suspected? This story is a good case in point. The police and others freely admit that they don’t know much at this point, except that all them are dancing around like five-year-olds needing to go potty to say that it is not terrorism. Quite frankly, I am getting very tired of this lie, and it is a lie, from the authorities anytime something happens. They don’t know what it is, but the rush to rule out terrorism at all costs does not inspire confidence in me about their objectivity, investigative skills, or basic competence. Yes, it may not be terrorism, but until you know what it is don’t try to tell me what it is not. Admit that you don’t know, that you are investigating ALL leads and not just headed towards politically correct and expedient conclusions, and I might have a tendency to believe you. To the government: Grow The Frell Up, start treating us as adults, and DO YOUR JOB. Your job is not to lie, it is not to give false assurance, it is not to do what is convenient. It is to investigate and go where the investigation leads you. Nuff said.

LW

Marine Kidnapped

I saw this at Blackfive’s yesterday, but the family of the Marine is confirming this morning he was the person in the tape shown yesterday. He is reported to have been missing for almost a week. More on this and related kidnappings soon.

LW

UPDATE: There is more to this story than has come out yet, and a lot of things don't add up. Go read the comments to Blackfive's post, and keep an open mind in the days ahead. No matter what has led up to this, if they murder him the Corps will not forgive and forget.

British Hostages Free?

The reports this morning indicate that Iran has turned over the Royal Marines and Sailors it has held for the last few days. This process has not gone smoothly or well, and the Mad Mullahs have also said that even though they think the transgression was accidental, that they are keeping all boats, weapons, etc. Gee, sounds like piracy to me. Sounds like those boats might should have an accident, along with any pirates in their vicinity.

LW

Blow It Up And Pave It

Events of the past few days have reminded me of a discussion the English Werewolf and I had just before the liberation of Afghanistan. We both agreed that there was a clear need for bombing, and decided to take up the loon cry with a twist. The loon cry you say? Yes, the loon cry of turning place X into a parking lot. Pave it over. More than ever, I think the Werewolf and I were onto something simply because we now fight two separate wars.

The fact is, we cannot defeat our current enemies. They are fanatics, convinced of their right, their might, and that if they die in such a holy power grab that they will receive an eternal reward. They must fight and win, or fight and die – to their mindset there is no third choice. They will use every trick, every deceit, tell any lie, and do any horror to win, for the end justifies the means.

Nor will they be content with a limited provenance, because anything and everything outside their borders is a threat to them. It shows that better things do exist, that other views exist, and that differing ideas can exist in relative harmony. Their way is the way of the sword, and any other philosophy is a threat, just as any example – no matter how small – that things can be different is a threat. They cannot rest until all is Caliphate.

So, they have no choice but to attack, and win. They must kill all who will not convert, make slaves of the weak, subjugate women, and raise a new generation of holy male warriors to maintain the cause.

No, we cannot defeat our current enemies, merely contain them or kill them. That is by their choice, not ours.

Containment and killing is the open part of war, but wise warriors recognize the second part clearly. It is there right in front of you: break the cycle by eliminating that new generation warriors. Break the cycle, by education and by example. Many wise warriors over there are leading the way.

Yes, we should blow things up and pave. We should blow up old, outdated structures and obstacles, and pave them over with new roads, new buildings, and even parking lots for cars. We should build new schools that truly teach, and do so for all. We should teach philosophy, tolerance, and that radical form of governance known as democracy. We should teach the concepts of individual liberty and responsibility. If this be Cultural Imperialism, so be it and call me Imperator.