>https://repub.li/2020/06/04/politicization-of-the-national-guard-a-growing-concern/
Politicization of the National Guard a Growing Concern
by American Lion
In the violent aftermath of the most recent national debate on race and police brutality following the death of George Floyd on May 25th, 2020, State and Local leaders relied on the support of their respective National Guard units to help quell the anarchy.
Armed National Guardsmen seen patrolling during the 2020 Riots
A disturbing trend has become apparent as the carnage continues across the United States. That of National Guard soldiers taking a knee in solidarity with the protestors. While on it’s face it may seem harmless, in reality you are witnessing a seismic shift from a once apolitical body of citizen soldiers, to a group that will acquiesce to the demands of the mob rather than exercise good order and discipline or comply with Army Regulation.
National Guardsmen kneeling while surrounded by protestors and the media
It should be noted that Army Regulation 670-1 (https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/ARN6173_AR670-1_Web_FINAL.pdf) outlines the proper wear of the uniform and prohibited actions while in uniform. An excerpt: “3–7.Required or prohibited wearing of the Army uniform: Note. This paragraph is punitive with regard to Soldiers. Violation by Soldiers may result in adverse administrative action and/or charges under the provisions of the UCMJ” and;
“k. Wearing Army uniforms is prohibited in the following situations: (1) In connection with the furtherance of any political or commercial interests, or when engaged in off duty civilian employment.16AR 670–1 • 25May2017 (2) When participating in public speeches, interviews, picket lines, marches, rallies, or public demonstrations, except as authorized by the first O–5 in the chain of command. (3) When attending any meeting or event that is a function of, or is sponsored by, an extremist organization. (4) When wearing the uniform would bring discredit upon the Army, as determined by the commander. (5) When specifically prohibited by Army regulations.”
These regulations make it seem clear that kneeling in solidarity (read cowing to) with protestors would be a violation of Army regulations. Let alone a shameful display of submission and a dangerous tactical position to take when surrounded by a crowd of antagonistic protestors.
Farhang F. Namdar
@FarhangNamdar
US national guard kneel before the protesters.#GeorgeFlyod #BlackLivesMatter
Embedded video
2:17 PM - Jun 3, 2020
It should also be noted that one or even two small units of soldiers doing this are not representative of the whole, but it is a startling reminder that our once hallowed institutions, the Military for example, are shifting into a place where they will “take a knee” instead of being woke shamed by the crowd. This reeks of poor leadership, poor discipline, and a fundamental lack of understanding of the role these National Guardsmen are playing. This author strongly recommends that the officers in charge of these groups be charged with conduct unbecoming and the soldiers be reassigned and retrained on the Military Standards.
If action isn’t taken and this continues, where is the bottom? When do our National Guardsmen draw the line on bowing to the demands of the people when they are suppose to be keeping order in the streets? While many have taken to commenting, the summary by James Woods on Twitter speaks for itself:
James Woods
✔
@RealJamesWoods
When the United States Armed Forces kneel to political whims, the fabric of the Republic is torn. This is the beginning of a disastrous slippery slope. It is also, however, the fundamental basis of the #SecondAmendment
Embedded video
16.1K
3:55 PM - Jun 4, 2020