News

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Ahyoung Shin

1. German governors urge Congress to stop American troop withdrawal plan

2. Space Admiral? House Lawmakers Want Navy Ranks for Space Force

3. Divide et impera: A look at Russia's information warfare activities

4. The cash-strapped nation can't afford more defense spending

5. US accuses supplier for Amazon, Apple, Dell, GM, Microsoft of human rights abuses

6. Conservatives, libertarians push back on Portland crackdown: 'Cannot give up liberty for security'

7. Among DoD leadership, eyes are now wide open to value of telework

8. Trump is determined to bring home U.S. military forces from somewhere

9. West Virginia officials want other states to adopt online voting for deployed troops

10. U.S. is positioning military assets around Asia to counter China, Esper says

11. Missile defense deserves top priority

12. America gets an Interior Ministry

13. The age of strategic instability

14. Combatting and defeating Chinese propaganda and disinformation: A case study of Taiwan's 2020 elections

15. US accuses Chinese hackers in targeting of COVID-19 research

16. Two US carriers through the Taiwan Strait in 48 years - time for more

17. White officers: maybe oblivious but not innocent

18. Two Chinese hackers working with the Ministry of State Security charged with global computer intrusion campaign

19. A new U.S. national security strategy: A world transformed

20. Defense Secretary becomes latest public official to voice concern over federal agents in Portland

21. China says U.S. ordered it to close Houston consulate

1. German governors urge Congress to stop American troop withdrawal plan

militarytimes.com · by The Associated Press · July 20, 2020

2. Space Admiral? House Lawmakers Want Navy Ranks for Space Force

military.com · by Oriana Pawlyk · July 21, 2020

And the first deployed headquarters will be named the Enterprise.

3. Divide et impera: A look at Russia's information warfare activities

c4isrnet.com · by Stanislaw Zaryn · July 21, 2020

A view from Poland. Is Russia fueling the flames of US domestic turmoil? If so then we need to keep in mind what our national security strategy says:

"A democracy is only as resilient as its people. An informed and engaged citizenry is the fundamental requirement for a free and resilient nation. For generations, our society has protected free press, free speech, and free thought. Today, actors such as Russia are using information tools in an attempt to undermine the legitimacy of democracies. Adversaries target media, political processes, financial networks, and personal data. The American public and private sectors must recognize this and work together to defend our way of life. No external threat can be allowed to shake our shared commitment to our values, undermine our system of government, or divide our Nation." (Page 14)

4. The cash-strapped nation can't afford more defense spending

Washington Examiner · by Daniel DePetris · July 21, 2020

Are we headed for a train wreck? Or are we in the middle of one? I think the foundation of our national power has always been our economy especially since WWII. We can have no national security without a strong economy and that really needs to be our number one priority - secure the economic well being of our nation. I worry about how we are being challenged economically (e.g., what if the RMB replaces the dollar as the reserve currency?) But we still must sufficiently invest in defense.

5. US accuses supplier for Amazon, Apple, Dell, GM, Microsoft of human rights abuses

cnet.com · by Ian Sherr

6. Conservatives, libertarians push back on Portland crackdown: 'Cannot give up liberty for security'

washingtontimes.com · by David Sherfinski

I was wondering how long it would be before conservatives and libertarians would start focusing on protecting civil liberties.

7. Among DoD leadership, eyes are now wide open to value of telework

federalnewsnetwork.com · July 20, 2020

It is amazing how a crisis can create new capabilities and a new normal.

8. Trump is determined to bring home U.S. military forces from somewhere

The Washington Post · by Karen DeYoung and Missy Ryan 

Is this the end game? If we conduct a significant withdrawal of our forward stationed forces, we are going to damage US national security for years to come, perhaps irreparably. 

9. West Virginia officials want other states to adopt online voting for deployed troops

airforcetimes.com · by Zach England · July 21, 2020

I am sure this will generate some controversy. What if everyone who is registered to vote received some kind of encrypted capability that would ensure one person one vote that could not be hacked?

10. U.S. is positioning military assets around Asia to counter China, Esper says

WSJ · by Nancy A. Youssef

Yet we want to withdraw forward stationed US forces.

11. Missile defense deserves top priority

realcleardefense.com · by John Rossomando

12. America gets an Interior Ministry

defenseone.com · by David A. Graham

This is quite a critique. We did not need a national police force or an interior ministry. And one thing I would do is to prohibit any federal, state, and local law enforcement forces from wearing military uniforms.

13. The age of strategic instability

Foreign Affairs · by Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall · July 21, 2020

14. Combatting and defeating Chinese propaganda and disinformation: A case study of Taiwan's 2020 elections

For all those who study political warfare and propaganda. 

Note the 12 policy recommendations for the US Global Engagement Center in the EXSUM below.

The 68 page report is can be downloaded at this link.

15. US accuses Chinese hackers in targeting of COVID-19 research

AP · by ERIC TUCKER · July 21, 2020

Chinese R&D: steal to leap ahead. No better target for China than coronavirus research.

16. Two US carriers through the Taiwan Strait in 48 years - time for more

The Hill · by Joseph Bosco, opinion contributor · July 21, 2020

17. White officers: maybe oblivious but not innocent

usni.org · by Commander Wolf Melbourne, U.S. Navy · July 20, 2020

Something for all of us white men to reflect on.

18. Two Chinese hackers working with the Ministry of State Security charged with global computer intrusion campaign

justice.gov · July 21, 2020

Good work DOJ.

19. A new U.S. national security strategy: A world transformed

The National Interest · by John Poindexter, Robert McFarlane, and Richard Levine · July 20, 2020

A very long read. An interesting take on a new US national security strategy that lays out a series of challenges and recommended actions.

20. Defense Secretary becomes latest public official to voice concern over federal agents in Portland

Forbes · by Jemima McEvoy · July 21, 2020

He should be concerned and I am gratified to hear that he is. They have already been confused for military personnel. From the first videos my daughter tells me her social media feed said the Army had been deployed to Portland. As I have said we should prohibit all federal, state, and local law enforcement personnel from wearing military style uniforms. 

21. China says U.S. ordered it to close Houston consulate

WSJ · by Chun Han Wong

Interesting timing for an interesting move. I wonder what will be the tit for tat response in China against our diplomatic presence there.

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"Somewhere a True Believer is training to kill you.  He is training with minimal food and water, in austere conditions training day and night. The only clean on him is his weapon and he made his web gear.  He doesn't worry about what workout to do - his ruck weighs what it weighs, his runs end when the enemy stops chasing him.  This True Believer is not concerned about 'how hard it is;' he knows he either wins or he dies.  He doesn't go home at 17:00; he is home.

He knows only The Cause"

- Unknown

"Remember: it's not just the virus. it's the virus + economic crisis + political crisis + growing international tensions etc"

- Adam Elkus @Aelkus via Twitter

"There is a cult of ignorance in the United States, and there has always been. The strain of anti-intellectualism has been a constant thread winding its way through our political and cultural life, nurtured by the false notion that democracy means that 'my ignorance is just as good as your knowledge."

- Issac Asimov

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Daniel Riggs.

1. NSA Head Vows to Hit Back at Nations Meddling With U.S. Vote

2. National security leaders, advocacy groups urge Congress to send election funds to states

3. Hacked: Why Cyber Attribution Remains an Unsolved Problem for U.S. National Security

4. Congress Must Protect America's Treaties

5. China Snuffs Out One Covid-19 Cluster, Wages War on Another

6. Iran and China, the Totalitarian Twins

7. Revamping American "Soft Power": The Case for Centralizing America's Messages to the World

8. "For Our Enemies, We Have Shotguns": Explaining China's New Assertiveness

9. Americans support Black Lives Matter but resist shifts of police funds or removal of statues of Confederate generals or presidents who were enslavers

10. Ministry of Defense Advisors Program Seeks Applicants

11.Poll shows Filipinos trust US, Australia over China

12. A Navy Veteran Had a Question for the Feds in Portland. They Beat Him in Response.

13. James Carafano: Cancel culture comes for Pentagon -- latest 'woke' proposal would hurt national security

14. Opinion | A Department of Reconciliation could fix America's racial crisis. Here's how.

15. House votes to curtail Insurrection Act powers

16. Foreign Disinformation Campaign Is Targeting Congress, Top Dems Say

17. DHS's Portland Stunt Could Undermine the Agency For Years, Former Officials Warn

18. What Comes After COVID-19? Political Psychology, Strategic Outcomes, and Options for the Asia-Pacific "Quad-Plus"

19. Feds say visiting Stanford researcher concealed ties to Chinese military

20. Some Gold Star orphans left without any military assistance under current benefits rules

21. Put down Clausewitz, Pick Up Pratchett

1. NSA Head Vows to Hit Back at Nations Meddling With U.S. Vote

Bloomberg · by Peter Martin and Billy House · July 20, 2020

Good. Let's hack back and crush these criminals who dare to interfere with our elections.

2. National security leaders, advocacy groups urge Congress to send election funds to states

The Hill · by Maggie Miller · July 20, 2020

This should be a no brainer.  Any government or elected official at the federal, state, and local level who is not doing everything they can to ensure a free and fair election should be fired or lose at the ballot box.  The integrity of our election process must be of the highest priority. To do anything less would be to undermine our political system.

3. Hacked: Why Cyber Attribution Remains an Unsolved Problem for U.S. National Security

The National Interest · by Kyle Ropp · July 19, 2020

Yes this is a critical challenge." cyber attribution is an issue that deserves our full attention."  The author offers an interesting hypothetical and makes a good case on attribution and response.

4. Congress Must Protect America's Treaties

Foreign Affairs · by Scott R. Anderson and Christopher C. Fonzone · July 17, 2020

The authors pose an interesting constitutional issue.  The founders left it unsettled how to exit a treaty that the Senate has given advice and consent for.  I always focused on the exit clauses of the treaty as to how to exit them but the question is whether the decision to leave is solely an executive decision or one that must have advice and consent of the Senate.  My gut feeling is that the decision to exit a treaty should have the advice and consent of the Senate if only for maintaining our fundamental principles of separation of power and checks and balances. This is an interesting question.

5. China Snuffs Out One Covid-19 Cluster, Wages War on Another

WSJ · by Sha Hua · July 20, 2020

Whack-a-mole?  Note the "warlike approach" and the strict population and resources control measures that could never be implemented in a free country.

6. Iran and China, the Totalitarian Twins

WSJ · by Keith J. Krach and Brian H. Hook · July 20, 2020

The "marriage" (of convenience?) of a rogue and revisionist power.

7. Revamping American "Soft Power": The Case for Centralizing America's Messages to the World

fpri.org · by Haroro J. Ingram and Alexander Guittard

I do not think soft power is the right framework.  But the authors provide a good analysis of why we do not orchestrate our influence operations very well.  If you want to effectively compete in the era of Great Power Competition you must be able to conduct effective influence operations.

I think we need an American Way of Political Warfare. 

8. "For Our Enemies, We Have Shotguns": Explaining China's New Assertiveness

warontherocks.com · by Andrew Small · July 20, 2020

Shotguns?  We could bring automatic weapons in response.  But on a serious note this provides some important insights into Chinese "assertiveness.  I find the alternative hypothesis in the penultimate paragraph similar to one many advocate for north Korea with similar results: e.g., "Carefully treading around Chinese sensitivities." Such treading is met with "shotguns" anyway.

9. Americans support Black Lives Matter but resist shifts of police funds or removal of statues of Confederate generals or presidents who were enslavers

The Washington Post

Some very interesting data. I wonder how long it will stay this way before it fades in certain demographics  (if it does).  See the article at the link for a graphic representation. For all the polling and data experts the detailed results are this link: 

10. Ministry of Defense Advisors Program Seeks Applicants

defense.gov

I was unaware of this program.  I wonder if we have similar programs at State, Justice, Treasury, Commerce, etc...  If not, why not? (most likely because they are not resourced to do so)

11. Poll shows Filipinos trust US, Australia over China

cnnphilippines.com · by CNN Philippines Staff ·July 19, 2020

Not surprising.  It is probably all Filipinos with one who disagrees (Duterte).

12. A Navy Veteran Had a Question for the Feds in Portland. They Beat Him in Response.

The New York Times · by John Ismay · July 20, 2020

The video of this Navy veteran is amazing.  He is a rock.  And those thugs who beat him ought to be disciplined, charged, and fired after they answer Mr. David's question.

13. James Carafano: Cancel culture comes for Pentagon -- latest 'woke' proposal would hurt national security

foxnews.com · by James Carafano

Not the "cancel culture" or "woke" that initially came to mind when reading the title.  But it was an attention getter.

14. Opinion | A Department of Reconciliation could fix America's racial crisis. Here's how.

NBC News · By Rep. Al Green ·  July 20, 2020

15. House votes to curtail Insurrection Act powers

The Hill · by Rebecca Kheel · July 20, 2020

16. Foreign Disinformation Campaign Is Targeting Congress, Top Dems Say

defenseone.com · by Katie Bo Williams

I have no doubt this is happening to both parties.

17. DHS's Portland Stunt Could Undermine the Agency for Years, Former Officials Warn

defenseone.com · by Patrick Tucker

I do not think the White House views this as a "stunt."  I wonder if this is someone's idea of a "new normal."

18. What Comes After COVID-19? Political Psychology, Strategic Outcomes, and Options for the Asia-Pacific "Quad-Plus"

thestrategybridge.org · July 21, 2020

And China is driving India into the Quad.  I do hope the Quad-plus comes to fruition.

An interesting discussion of political psychology. 

19. Feds say visiting Stanford researcher concealed ties to Chinese military

mercurynews.com · by Emily DeRuy · July 21, 2020

20. Some Gold Star orphans left without any military assistance under current benefits rules

militarytimes.com · by Leo Shane III · July 20, 2020

21. Put Down Clausewitz, Pick Up Pratchett

angrystaffofficer.com · by Matthew Ader · July 20, 2020

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Daniel Riggs.

1. S. Korean, U.S. defense chiefs discuss combined exercises, defense cost-sharing

2. No discussions on USFK troop reduction during S. Korea-U.S. defense chiefs' talks

3. Coronavirus Surge Forces Downsizing in S.Korea-U.S. Drills

4. Coronavirus complicates South Korea, U.S. military exercises

5. Moon's North Korea vision up in smoke? Not so fast ...

6. Could Donald Trump and North Korea Sign A Pre-Election Nuclear Deal?

7. The Trump administration has squandered its shot with North Korea

8. North Korea Proceeds Down a Nuclear Path

9. Trump Has Damaged the U.S.-Japan-South Korea Alliance-And China Loves It

10. Will North Korea's Nukes Spur Japan To Develop First-Strike Missiles?

11. Unification Ministry rejects UNC's request to use Freedom House

12. S. Korea closely consulting with U.S. to seek 'creative solution' to resuming Mt. Kumgang tour: ministry

13. North Hwanghae Province couple arrested for "anti-socialist conduct"

14. U.N. grants sanctions waiver for S. Korean NGO's assistance efforts in N. Korea

15. Why Was North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Angry For 2 Consecutive Days?

16. Korea Sticks to Paying Bills for Foreign Coronavirus Patients

17. Korea's military gets its own satellite in space

18. Why are fewer students attending N. Korean elementary schools than before?

19. U.S. considers withdrawing its forces from overseas bases

1. S. Korean, U.S. defense chiefs discuss combined exercises, defense cost-sharing

en.yna.co.kr · by 최수향 · July 21, 2020

These must have been very uncomfortable and tense talks.  On the other hand military professionals can work through the political friction within the alliance.

2. No discussions on USFK troop reduction during S. Korea-U.S. defense chiefs' talks

en.yna.co.kr · by 최수향 · July 21, 2020

Congress is watching.  Prior to withdrawal the 2020 NDAA requires consultation with allies and the certification by the SECDEF that the withdrawal will not harm US or allied security interests.

But I am sure the Minister and Secretary did not want to broach this subject.

3. Coronavirus Surge Forces Downsizing in S.Korea-U.S. Drills

english.chosun.com

As I understand it many of the CONUS personnel who support the exercise are already quarantined in Korea their 14 days before they can begin exercise preparations.

4. Coronavirus complicates South Korea, U.S. military exercises

Reuters · by Hyonhee Shin· July 21, 2020

The coronavirus is having an effect on readiness.  On the other hand this is a contingency that must be worked through.  What if we did have to fight tonight? Or what if instability or regime collapse occurred under these conditions (the army will have to rewrite its famed "task, conditions, standards" training concept to include operating in a coronavirus environment - which of course is operating in a biological hazard environment which frankly we have always paid lip service to. We are going to have to be ready to fight through this virus if something happens on the peninsula.

5. Moon's North Korea vision up in smoke? Not so fast ...

lowyinstitute.org · by Soo Kim

So is a "small deal" only doubling down by half?  I wonder what a small deal entails? Most importantly what does a small deal achieve and how does it affect the security of the ROK?  Soo Kim provides excellent analysis.

But it should be clear by President Moon's personnel elections where his policy is heading.

6. Could Donald Trump and North Korea Sign A Pre-Election Nuclear Deal?

The National Interest · by Doug Bandow · July 20, 2020

I do not see how.  Based on the apparent lack of working level negotiations this would likely be nothing more than a Singapore summit statement with no substance.

It might be nothing more than a signed paper saying what Kim has already done - a pledge not to test nuclear weapons and ICBMs.  I do worry though given the talk about US troop withdrawals that perhaps the president thinks he can make a trade.  I know all his advisers must be against this as this would be a strategic blunder well beyond Carter and Acheson and the president's legacy would be that he would be responsible for resume hostilities or what will be called the Second Korean War which will have not only devastating effects on the peninsula but will cause a worldwide economic crisis at the very least.

7. The Trump administration has squandered its shot with North Korea

Washington Examiner · by Bonnie Kristian · July 20, 2020

Sigh....Yes we can blame the president for his unconventional, experimental, top-down, pen-pal diplomacy.  But that fails to recognize Kim Jong-un's role in all of this. You could not buy off Kim Jong-un.  There is not enough money we could offer him to give up his nuclear weapons. He has a long term strategy that he is hell-bent on executing and nuclear weapons are a key component to the strategy. All the critics need to factor this in when they criticize any and every administration for the failure to denuclearize the north.  I hate to be a dead horse but I will say it again: The only way we are going to see an end to the nuclear program and security threats from the north as well as the human rights abuses and the crimes against humanity being committed against the Korean people living in the north by the mafia-like crime family cult known as the Kim family regime is through achievement of unification and the establishment of a United Republic of Korea that is secure and stable, non-nuclear, economically vibrant, and unified under a liberal constitutional form of government based on freedom and individual liberty, rule of law, and human rights as determined by the Korean people.  In short, a United Republic of Korea (UROK).

8. North Korea Proceeds Down a Nuclear Path

38 NORTH  July 20, 2020

My question is did Kim Jong-un ever stray from the "nuclear path?"  Did he ever have any intention of giving up his nuclear weapons (and ICBMs)?

 9. Trump Has Damaged the U.S.-Japan-South Korea Alliance-And China Loves It

The National Interest · by Gene Park and Mieczysław Boduszynski · July 20, 2020

There is blame on all three sides. We have been through rough patches before and we have worked through them.  And we will do so again.  And yes the only country that wants to see a split in the ROK/US alliance and especially in the trilateral relationship more than north Korea is China.  Recall that one of the demands of Xi made to Moon was not only no more THAAD deployments to Korea and no participation in an integrated missile defense system, was an agreement there would be no trilateral alliance.  A trilateral alliance would probably send shockwaves through Beijing.

10. Will North Korea's Nukes Spur Japan To Develop First-Strike Missiles?

Forbes · by Michael Peck · July 20, 2020

It will be interesting to see how this plays out in Japanese politics.  Can Abe and his successors generate the political will for offensive operations?  Or will they be able to couch a first strike capability as a defensive measure?  

11. Unification Ministry rejects UNC's request to use Freedom House

donga.com· July 21, 2020

This is not unprecedented.  You would think the ROK and US would want to jointly recognize the Armistice.  But this is one indication of the friction within the alliance and the Ministry of Unification not only does not want to do anything to support the alliance it balmes the US for the engagement failures (because it refuses to blame Kim Jong-un who is really responsible).  Furthemore, the MOU likely does not want to "celebrate" the Armistice as it views it as an impediment to its policies and vision for engagement with the north.

12. S. Korea closely consulting with U.S. to seek 'creative solution' to resuming Mt. Kumgang tour: ministry

en.yna.co.kr · by 김승연 · July 21, 2020

This is probably doable if the South can guarantee that no funds will go to support Kim Jong-un and his royal court economy.  

I would like to hear a thorough analysis from the Ministry of Unification on what reopening Mt Kumgang will achieve? What effects is the MOU trying to achieve? 

13. North Hwanghae Province couple arrested for "anti-socialist conduct"

dailynk.com · Jong So Yong  · July 21, 2020

You have to give this couple credit.  Since all property is owned by the party in the north they were selling the regime's property or property that was not theirs.  These had to be some creative real estate agents. Here is their list of crimes: "...illegally buying and selling state-owned houses to amass wealth over a long period of time; conspiring with employees of national agencies to conduct real estate transactions and build a large house; and, employing the services of a housekeeper."  I wonder what happens to the people who bought houses from them?  Are they being punished as well?  They have been getting away with this for 10 years so I imagine there are some number of families living in illegally bought houses.  And as noted all those living in large houses and employing housekeepers are "shaking in their boots."

14. U.N. grants sanctions waiver for S. Korean NGO's assistance efforts in N. Korea

en.yna.co.kr · by 고병준 · July 21, 2020

15. Why Was North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Angry For 2 Consecutive Days?

ibtimes.sg · by Bhaswati Guha Majumder · July 21, 2020

I know people who have been angry for more than two days.  Anyone been married?  But I love this speculation, "It was not clear what was bothering the north Korean dictator."  As if we can really know the inner workings of the regime and what is actually on Kim Jong-un's mind.

16. Korea Sticks to Paying Bills for Foreign Coronavirus Patients

english.chosun.com

17. Korea's military gets its own satellite in space

koreajoongangdaily.joins.com · Shim Kyu-Seok · July 21, 2020

18. Why are fewer students attending N. Korean elementary schools than before?

dailynk.com · Kim Yoo Jin · July 21, 2020

Another human rights tragedy.  Why do people have to pay for school in the Socialist Workers Paradise? Why do they have to contribute money to construction projects?

But think about the long term implications for the north and its people if children are not being educated.  This will have an impact on the eventual unification process (just as the stunted growth of people due to widespread malnourishment).

19. U.S. considers withdrawing its forces from overseas bases

donga.com· July 21, 2020

The editorial board knows this is more than about Korea. I wonder if we see some kind of announcement in the next few months about a decision to bring home a large number of troops from overseas locations. 

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"In a way you're writing your own obit every day. You're making the lead paragraph positive and constructive, or not. Someone's going to sum you up one day. You want to live your professional life in a way that they can write good things."

- Peggy Noonan

"May we think of freedom, not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right."

- Peter Marshall

"We fight not for glory, nor for wealth, nor honour but only and alone for freedom which no good man surrenders but with his life."

- Robert the Bruce

News and commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Riley Murray.

1. Face Masks Really Do Matter. The Scientific Evidence Is Growing.

2. The US Is Out of Position in the Indo-Pacific Region

3.  More Than 39,000 Federal Employees Have Tested Positive for COVID-19

4. Special operations forces and great power competition

5.  'That Others May Live': The Pararescue Units Preparing for War on Top of the World

6. Homeland Security Worries Covid-19 Masks Are Breaking Facial Recognition, Leaked Document Shows

7. Opinion | Doing Schoolwork in the Parking Lot Is Not a Solution

8. Veteran speaks out after video of federal officers beating him goes viral

9. Out of Portland tear gas, an apparition emerges, capturing the imagination of protesters

10. Green Beret designs first-ever fireproof American flag made of kevlar to withstand rioters

11. Trump says bases named for Confederates won't be renamed: 'I don't care what the military says'

12. Here's what the damage inside the Bonhomme Richard looks like

13. With 30 Submarines, Japan Will Shape The Pacific's Undersea Defenses

14. We Don't Need Conversations, We Need Systemic Change

15. Army vet steps down from congressional committees amid voter fraud charges

16. Retired Army Master Sergeant Gets Heroism Medal for Stopping Shooter on Kansas Bridge

17. The Navy's Cultural Ship Is Listing

18. Risk Aversion and the Army's New Tactical Unmanned Aircraft: Buying Technology is One Thing, Being Able to Employ it is Another

19. A Strategic Pivot to Outer Space

20. US tech giants exposed if China takes Taiwan

21. As 'cancel culture' activism peaks, big tech and its algorithms quietly fuel the flames

1. Face Masks Really Do Matter. The Scientific Evidence Is Growing.

WSJ · by Caitlin McCabe

Just a public service announcement.

2. The US Is Out of Position in the Indo-Pacific Region

defenseone.com · by Nathan Freier, John Schaus, Al Lord, Alison Goldsmith, COL Elizabeth Martin – 19 July 2020

Nate Freier has been doing a lot of really good work at the Army War College with students looking at complex issues and as shown here they have been really focusing on INDOPACOM.

3. More Than 39,000 Federal Employees Have Tested Positive for COVID-19

defenseone.com · by Eric Katzsenior

Some interesting data here.

4. Special operations forces and great power competition

www2.deloitte.com

If the formatting does not come through please go to the link: https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/public-sector/future-of-special-operations-forces-great-power-competition.html

Some important voices in this: Rep. James Langevin, Mike Vickers, Mark Mitchell, Ken Tovo.

5. 'That Others May Live': The Pararescue Units Preparing for War on Top of the World

Popular Mechanics · by Jeff Bolton and Kellen Wilson · July 19, 2020

American heroes here.

6. Homeland Security Worries Covid-19 Masks Are Breaking Facial Recognition, Leaked Document Shows

The Intercept · by Mara Hvistendahl · July 16, 2020

I am reminded of this meme that has come out with COVID 19.

7. Opinion | Doing Schoolwork in the Parking Lot Is Not a Solution

The New York Times · by The Editorial Board · July 18, 2020

Internet access is a civil rights issue?  In today's world it is a necessity for living a modern life.

We have been discussing many issues and ways to cope with the changes with our daughter as she prepares to go back to college last month. With common areas closed or reduced in amount of usable space due to social distancing it is going to make studying difficult (and access to Wi-Fi).   They are increasing the time between classes but while this could be used for studying there is a reduced amount of study space so where do students go in between classes with a larger gap of time than normal?  There are second and third order effects to every mitigation measure the university takes to deal with the coronavirus.  And of course, this is happening to schools all over the country and at every level of education.

8. Veteran speaks out after video of federal officers beating him goes viral

Independent · by Danielle Zoellner · July 20, 2020

Please watch the video at the link: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/portland-protests-trump-veteran-christopher-david-federal-officers-oregon-a9627466.html?fbclid=IwAR3slTOgvxpA8i-_XIpomHzE5d33my1rd5umEon9S6LzR2qHlDtaCvxtBiw

If we are dealing with an insurgency then we are seeing how not to deal with it.  Whoever these federal officials are in combat uniforms and gear ought to be taken to task for their actions.  But this is exactly the kind of response that insurgents would like to cause and of course to get it on film.  They want draconian population and resources control measures as it strengthens their cause.

And then there is the video of the suburban moms lined up between the thugs in uniform and the protestors.  Someone needs to provide better advice to whomever is controlling these federal officials.  And these people in uniform need better training. 

9. Out of Portland tear gas, an apparition emerges, capturing the imagination of protesters

Los Angeles Times · by Richard Read · July 20, 2020

This must have been quite a place.  I suppose some would say, only in Portland.  Whatever the federal government officials think we are going to do there, they are going to be embarrassed and make matters worse.  They are playing right into the protestors' (or insurgents' if that is what you want to believe) hands.

10. Green Beret designs first-ever fireproof American flag made of kevlar to withstand rioters

theepochtimes.com · by Robert Jay Watson · July 18, 2020

Pretty innovative. We ought to hand these out in places like Iran so protestors will get frustrated.   What a great PSYOP effect - the American flag is too strong and powerful for you to be able to burn it!

11. Trump says bases named for Confederates won't be renamed: 'I don't care what the military says'

taskandpurpose.com · by Jeff Schogol

12. Here's what the damage inside the Bonhomme Richard looks like

navytimes.com · by Geoff Ziezulewicz · July 18, 2020

The photos and video are at this link: https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/07/17/heres-what-the-damage-inside-the-bonhomme-richard-looks-like/?utm

13. With 30 Submarines, Japan Will Shape The Pacific's Undersea Defenses

Forbes · by Craig Hooper · July 19, 2020

14. We Don't Need Conversations, We Need Systemic Change

usni.org – by Commander Jada Johnson – 19 July 202

A very thoughtful and thought-provoking essay.  But there is a lot of push back on the concept of structural systemic racism among some people.

15. Army vet steps down from congressional committees amid voter fraud charges

militarytimes.com · by Leo Shane III · July 17, 2020

16. Retired Army Master Sergeant Gets Heroism Medal for Stopping Shooter on Kansas Bridge

Well deserved.  It is what American soldiers do.

military.com · by Gina Harkins · July 17, 2020

17. The Navy's Cultural Ship Is Listing

WSJ - by Kate Bachelder Odell – 17 July 2020

We need our Navy large, strong, and effective.

18. Risk Aversion and the Army's New Tactical Unmanned Aircraft: Buying Technology is One Thing, Being Able to Employ it is Another

mwi.usma.edu · by Addison McLamb · July 20, 2020

19. A Strategic Pivot to Outer Space

thestrategybridge.org · July 20, 2020

Are wars in space "small wars" or major combat operations?  :-) 

20.  US tech giants exposed if China takes Taiwan

asiatimes.com · by Scott Foster · July 20, 2020

A scary thought.  If China takes Taiwan, I would be a lot more worried than just about exposure of tech giants.  It could be a brutal war that spreads far beyond Taiwan.

21. As 'cancel culture' activism peaks, big tech and its algorithms quietly fuel the flames

foxnews.com

We all need to take a step back and think about cancelling this "cancel culture."  And the article begs the question of whether technology is helping or hindering the defense against it?

"Strategy is revolution. Everything else is tactics."

- Lawrence Freedman, Strategy: A History

 

"Power always has to be kept in check; power exercised in secret, especially under the cloak of national security, is doubly dangerous."
- William Proxmire
 

The freedom to criticize ideas, any ideas - even if they are sincerely held beliefs - is one of the fundamental freedoms of society.

-Rowan Atkinson

News and commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Riley Murray.

1. Talk of US troop cut reemerges, puts Seoul on edge

2. U.S. considers withdrawing its forces from overseas bases

3. U.S. Experts Slam S.Korea over Treatment of Defectors' Groups

4. Trump 'Told Pentagon to Cut Troops in Korea'

5. North Korean leader berates officials over hospital project

6. Four U.S. B-1Bs return to Guam

7. Kim Yo Jong, Sister Of North Korea's Ruler, Rises Through Ranks With Tough Rhetoric

8. New virus cases at over 3-week low; imported cases still rising (South Korea)

9. Moon's adviser pushes for inter-Korean city-to-city cooperation projects

10. More Koreans disapprove of President Moon

11. Abrams says USFK takes recent spike in imported virus cases 'very, very seriously'

12. North Korea, Country With 'Zero' Coronavirus Cases, Now Claims It's Developing Covid-19 Vaccine

13. S. Korea's first military satellite to be launched this week: reports

14. N. Korea permits families to visit imprisoned relatives

15. Suing N. Korea over liaison office demolition not viable option: unification ministry

16. US troop pullout trick aims to pile pressure on S.Korea

17. Penny wise, pound foolish: The flawed logic of withdrawal from South Korea

1. Talk of US troop cut reemerges, puts Seoul on edge

m.koreaherald.com · by Ahn Sung-Mi · July 19, 2020

I have written quite a bit about US interests for keeping US forces on the Korean peninsula.

But the Moon administration also has to consider how important is the US troop= presence to its defense and to deterring war on the peninsula.

As bad as the Moon-Trump relationship may be and as bad as the SMA demands may be for ROK, the Moon administration needs to reflect deeply on what it can do to ensure the alliance endures.  That is what we are ally talking about here.  As I have written many times, we could very well be heading into the perfect storm given the current state of the alliance relationship as well as the situation in the north.

It is unlikely we are going to see much compromise from the Trump administration.  Of course, if the South compromises sufficiently to reach an agreement all this will be explained that this entire situation has simply been a negotiating tactic by the President.  That may appear true but the reason for compromise will be the result a thorough analysis of RO's strategic interests.

2. U.S. considers withdrawing its forces from overseas bases

donga.com – by Young-Sik Kim – 20 July 2020

The Congressional requirement is for consultation with the ROK (and Japan).  

But this is an interesting assessment from the Editorial Board: "The Moon Jae-in administration has a strong team of experts in North Korea but lacks experts in the United States, who can negotiate, coordinate and even lead the future of the South Korea-U.S. alliance."  I fear some of the experts on north Korea have some skewed views on the Kim family regime.  But I think it is an interesting assessment to say the ROK Administration has no US experts.  I would go on to say that there may be some number who look at the US threat to withdraw troops as an opportunity as they believe it will somehow improve the relationship with the north rather than make the ROK more vulnerable to the Kim family regime's strategy of subversion, coercion, and extortion.

3. U.S. Experts Slam S.Korea over Treatment of Defectors' Groups

english.chosun.com

Important words from four of my friends and colleagues. (except for Kim Yo-jong - she is neither a friend nor a colleague. She is just an evil young woman).

This is a serious situation in South Korea.  And it is disappointing to see the Moon administration act this way toward escapees/defectors groups and their important work.

4. Trump 'Told Pentagon to Cut Troops in Korea'

english.chosun.com

Perhaps a little-known fact:  the 4,500 or so troops in the rotational brigade combat team are not counted in the 28,500 troops stationed in Korea.  Yes, stopping the rotation is an easy step and one that would not technically violate the Congressional language in the NDAA because it would not lower the troop level below the 28,500-floor set in the 2020 NDAA.  But then there would be no ground combat maneuver troops in Korea whatsoever.  That would send an interesting message about our strategic reassurance and strategic resolve but per the language of both Republicans and Democrats (according to the report below) would simply be a message of "strategic incompetence."

5. North Korean leader berates officials over hospital project

AP · by KIM TONG-HYUNG · July 20, 2020

Work harder.  Study Juche more.  Work harder.  We cannot have any coronavirus cases until you finish the hospital.  Study Juche more. Work harder. (I want to be Kim Jong-un's speech writer). 

6. Four U.S. B-1Bs return to Guam

donga.com – by Sang-Ho Yun – 20 July 2020

"Deadly swan?"  I thought it was just the Bone.  But it is good to have these in theater for multiple potential contingencies.

Not only do military HQs keep track of where these assets are deployed, so does the Korean press.  The Korea press will interpret every move as a signal.

7. Kim Yo Jong, Sister Of North Korea's Ruler, Rises Through Ranks With Tough Rhetoric

NPR · by Anthony Kuhn · July 19, 2020

A lot of speculation about Kim Yo-jong. I am sure she and Kim Jong-un are enjoying how everyone is trying to figure this out.

8. New virus cases at over 3-week low; imported cases still rising (South Korea)

en.yna.co.kr · by 강윤승 · July 20, 2020

It is global travel that is going to keep this virus alive.  Those long aluminum tubes with wings are the best vector for virus transmission.

9. Moon's adviser pushes for inter-Korean city-to-city cooperation projects

en.yna.co.kr · by 송상호 · July 19, 2020

On the surface I fully support this type of engagement.  I don't think Kim Jong-un will support it but if he does, he may be for what a Korean friend pointed out to me regarding this initiative.  Kim Jong-un could use this as a method to conduct more aggressive subversive activities to influence the Korean people and officials in the South.  There are some in the South who might support such activities. Of course I would like to do the same in the north.

10. More Koreans disapprove of President Moon

m.koreatimes.co.kr · July 19, 2020

Of course, this always happens in Korea with its single five-year presidential term.  The approval rating always declines.

Buried lede: Koreans in the South are losing faith in liberal politics (and policies).  Of course, that does not mean there is more support for the conservatives.  As one woman put it, she now sees there is no difference between the liberal and conservatives when it comes to corrupt policies.  But there is no discussion of national security policies.

11.  Abrams says USFK takes recent spike in imported virus cases 'very, very seriously'

en.yna.co.kr · by 최수향 · July 20, 2020

There should be no doubt that he does take this seriously.  He has probably been the most aggressive military commander in trying to deal with the virus.  But what this shows is just how complex it is trying to manage this pandemic.  There is no silver bullet and we are learning as we go (though we know that basic public health procedures of testing, quarantining, tracking and tracing, and treating work the best).

12. North Korea, Country With 'Zero' Coronavirus Cases, Now Claims It's Developing Covid-19 Vaccine

ibtimes.sg · by Bhaswati Guha Majumder · July 19, 2020

But at least north Kora's Propaganda and Agitation bureau is in full operation. It must not have been hit by the virus as it is hitting on all cylinders.

13. S. Korea's first military satellite to be launched this week: reports

en.yna.co.kr · by 오석민 · July 20, 2020

14. N. Korea permits families to visit imprisoned relatives

dailynk.com – by Ha Yoon Ah - July 20, 2020

Imagine being allowed to visit your relatives and then being "asked" to return to a forced labor camp with a year's worth of food and supplies?

15. Suing N. Korea over liaison office demolition not viable option: unification ministry

en.yna.co.kr · by 이원주 · July 20, 2020

But it would sure send a message if you did it. But given the view of the MOU I am surprised this is even being mentioned as a course of action.  South Korea should do something about the destruction of the liaison facility, but I believe the administration prioritizes engagement.  But the sad irony is the more the South focuses on engagement the more acts like the destruction of the liaison office will take place because Kim knows he can get away with it.

16. US troop pullout trick aims to pile pressure on S.Korea

globaltimes.cn – Du Wenlong - 19 July 2020

So here is the view in the Chinese Communist Party publication.  They assess this is just a "trick" to extort more money from the South.

17. Penny wise, pound foolish: The flawed logic of withdrawal from South Korea

militarytimes.com · by David Maxwell · July 19, 2020

"Strategy is revolution. Everything else is tactics."

- Lawrence Freedman, Strategy: A History

 

"Power always has to be kept in check; power exercised in secret, especially under the cloak of national security, is doubly dangerous."
- William Proxmire
 

The freedom to criticize ideas, any ideas - even if they are sincerely held beliefs - is one of the fundamental freedoms of society.

-Rowan Atkinson

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. Chinese ambassador struggles to explain Xinjiang footage of blindfolded prisoners

2. U.S. must expose and confront Russia's criminal behavior

3.  I was a military COVID planner. Trust me: Texas is in deep, deep trouble

4. Details on coronavirus infections at U.S. bases not being disclosed to Japanese public

5. US Navy's chief petty officer charged with transmitting email to Russian national

6. Japan's 'shield' against North Korean missiles would not have worked

7. Post-Covid: what next for Asia-Pacific?

8. SAS snipers 'kill 100 Islamic State fighters in secret war after targeting jihadi cave in Iraq'

9. Disinformation about 'antifa' provides fodder for foreign propagandists

10. Pentagon is working to develop detection system for EMP

11. Veterans go to Washington - but so what?

12. The Pentagon is playing its C team with so many top positions left unfilled

13. Christopher Dickey, longtime foreign correspondent, dies at 68

14. A tale of two letters by Eliot A. Cohen

15. The forever war over war literature

16. This Ranger fought in Mogadishu before becoming a country music star

1. Chinese ambassador struggles to explain Xinjiang footage of blindfolded prisoners

Axios · by Fadel Allassan · July 19, 2020

Yes, I would not want to be the Chinese Ambassador.

But that is quite an image of the Uighur prisoners. Video of the Chinese Ambassador here.

Good work by the BBC.

2. U.S. must expose and confront Russia's criminal behavior

Washington Times · by Joseph R. DeTrani · July 18, 2020

Yes. It should go without saying, but I am glad the Ambassador is saying it.

3. I was a military COVID Planner. Trust Me: Texas Is in Deep, Deep Trouble

The Daily Beast · by Kris Alexander · July 19, 2020

Strong words follow. This former military planner provides some important background and considerations. It will be a real tragedy if/when the hurricanes hit Texas (or Florida or the gulf and east coasts).

4. Details on coronavirus infections at U.S. bases not being disclosed to Japanese public

The Japan Times · by Internal Submission · July 19, 2020

5. US Navy's chief petty officer charged with transmitting email to Russian national

TASS Russian News Agency · by Internal Submission · July 19, 2020

Reporting from TASS based on a report from the Virginian Pilot. I have not seen this yet in the mainstream US media.

6. Japan's 'shield' against North Korean missiles would not have worked

Nikkei Asian Review · by Tetsuro Kosaka · July 18, 2020

There is no missile shield. Iron Dome in Israel is the closest thing to an artillery shield there is but I do not believe there is the technical capability to create a shield against North Korean missiles.

"The bomber [missile] will get through." - Bomber Harris.

7. Post-Covid: what next for Asia-Pacific?

Asia Times · by Hassan Noor · July 18, 2020

Yes, there will be a new normal in Asia as well.

Some worthy objectives from the author. "That which does not kill me makes me stronger?" I hope so.

8. SAS snipers 'kill 100 Islamic State fighters in secret war after targeting jihadi cave in Iraq'

Evening Standard · by Kit Heren · July 19, 2020

Snipers continue to be relevant and effective. We must always invest in and sustain this very low cost capability.

9. Disinformation about 'antifa' provides fodder for foreign propagandists

Medium · by @DFRLab · July 17, 2020

This will be panned by those who call antifa a terrorist or insurgent organization. But it would be a mistake not to study the propaganda effects.

10. Pentagon is working to develop detection system for EMP

Daily Mail · by Keith Griffith · July 19, 2020

I thought the only way you detect EMP is when you lose your comms and all electronic devices fail. (my sarcasm)

11. Veterans go to Washington - but so what?

Asia Times · by Nan Levinson · July 19, 2020

They are not a monolith and there are veterans on both sides of the aisle. And it takes time to develop power and influence. And, of course, the executive makes policy and Congress authorizes and appropriates to support policies.

12. The Pentagon is playing its C team with so many top positions left unfilled

Task & Purpose · by Jeff Schogol · July 17, 2020

True – there are a lot of senior positions unfilled. However, there are still a lot of good people working hard and I would hardly call them a C team (though I did once command a damn fine C team - 1-1 SFG HQ in Okinawa, but I digress). I think those in the Pentagon have had to fleet up and fill those roles and many of them are punching above their weight. And I definitely would not consider Chris Miller a lightweight, though we do need some stability in ASD SO/LIC leadership and Chris has already been tapped for the head of NCTC (which, by definition, means he is not a lightweight).

13. Christopher Dickey, longtime foreign correspondent, dies at 68

New York Times · by Daniel Victor · July 17, 2020

The Fourth Estate loses one of its great ones.

14. A tale of two letters by Eliot A. Cohen

The Atlantic · by Eliot A. Cohen · July 17, 2020

For some Sunday reflection.

15. The Forever War over war literature

New Republic · by Matt Gallagher · July 17, 2020

I am sure we have all read these authors over the years: Webb, O'Brien, Del Vecchio, Kovic, Sheehan, and others.

More reflection for a Sunday.

16. This Ranger fought in Mogadishu before becoming a country music star

We Are the Mighty · by Miguel Ortiz · July 6, 2020

There is success after the military. :-) And perhaps much of that success comes from being in the military.

"All you need are these: certainty of judgment in the present moment; action for the common good in the present moment; and an attitude of gratitude in the present moment for anything that comes your way."

-Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

"We have to face the fact that either all of us are going to die together or we are going to learn to live together and if we are to live together we have to talk."

- Eleanor Roosevelt

"The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew."

- Abraham Lincoln, December 1862

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. Kim Jong-Un on brink: North Korea leader facing COUP from own sister

2. U.S. files first case against a company for violating North Korea sanctions

3. Report: U.S., South Korea militaries to conduct pared down drills

4. FAO warns of acute food shortage in N. Korea due to COVID-19

5. N.K. leader discusses 'war deterrent' at Central Military Commission meeting

6. Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un guides enlarged meeting of WPK Central Military Commission

7. North Korean defector takes contrarian stance against bashing Kim

8. Pentagon official says U.S. 'routinely' reviews global force posture amid report on troop cut

9. Donald Trump and pulling U.S. forces out of South Korea: why cost sharing vs. burden sharing matters

10. Will North Korea's Kim deliver an 'October surprise' to Trump?

11. Kim Jong-Un's sister Kim Yo-Jong solidifying 'position of ultimate power', may displace him as leader: Expert

12. N.K. paper touts N.K.-Russia ties on occasion of 20th anniv. of declaration on bilateral cooperation

1. Kim Jong-Un on brink: North Korea leader facing COUP from own sister

Express · by Ciaran McGrath · July 18, 2020

A "coup?" Maybe the Express just signed Kim Yo-Jong's "death warrant." Anybody who challenges Kim Jong-Un does not last long. There are no "#2's" in North Korea. But on a serious note, I would not put much stock in this report. Yes, she has power. Yes, she is making public statements on behalf of the regime. And she may be being groomed for possible succession. But a coup?

2. U.S. files first case against a company for violating North Korea sanctions

Wall Street Journal · by Aruna Viswanatha & Kate O'Keeffe · July 16, 2020

Counterfeiting cigarettes is one of the regime's important illicit money making activities. We need more of this type of legal action.

3. Report: U.S., South Korea militaries to conduct pared down drills

UPI · by Elizabeth Shim · July 17, 2020

"Scaled back"  exercises have no effect on North Korea. They will not create space to support diplomacy. But with the threat of the coronavirus, the commanders are going to conduct a thorough risk analysis to determine if the exercise can be conducted and, if so, at what level. And then there is the assessment for OPCON transition. I do not think the conditions are sufficient to move ahead with the fully operational capability assessment. But we can see the Moon administration remains focused on time-based transition rather than conditions-based as both countries have agreed to.

4. FAO warns of acute food shortage in N. Korea due to COVID-19

KBS World Radio · by KBS World Radio · July 18, 2020

The regime's policy decisions are responsible for food shortages and the suffering of the Korean people in the North. 

5. N.K. leader discusses 'war deterrent' at Central Military Commission meeting

Yonhap News Agency · by Koh Byung-joon · July 19, 2020

Yes, there should be no doubt they are talking about nuclear weapons. Unfortunately, this message is meant for all the engagers and appeasers who make excuses for the regime - the regime has to defend itself from the hostile policies of the US. If only the US would end the hostile policies, the North would negotiate and denuclearize. Also, we should never forget that the regime considers the North a "revolutionary nation" and its constitution calls for completing the socialist revolution over the entire Korean peninsula and ridding it of foreign influence and interference. All the engagers and appeasers must never forget what are the true objectives of the regime. They are NOT to denuclearize and live in peace and harmony with the South.

6. Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un Guides Enlarged Meeting of WPK Central Military Commission

KCNA Watch · by KCNA.kp · July 19, 2020

Here is the KCNA report of the "enlarged meeting" to the Central Military Commission. We should remember that without a strong military supporting the regime, Kim Jong-Un cannot survive. On the other hand, we should be under no illusion that Kim Jong-Un appears to be in complete control of the military at the current time.  As I have read many of these reports over the years, one thing always strikes me as common in all these meetings: the priority always seems to be on ideological education. I don't know, but after these years of ideological education, you would think they would have gotten the message by now. Perhaps all the North Korean generals and officers are simply "slow learners" (note my attempt at humor).

7. North Korean defector takes contrarian stance against bashing Kim

Nikkei Asian Review · by Steven Borowiec · July 17, 2020

This is an important aspect of the right themes and messages. Messages are more effective with accurate information from the outside world that do not bash Kim but objectively describe what he is doing in terms of his poor leadership and abusing the human rights of the Korean people living in the North. If the escapee/defectors merely mirror image the hostile North Korean propaganda, the Korean people in the North will discount it just as they discount the propaganda from their own party's Propaganda and Agitation Department. More sophisticated and nuanced messages will have a greater effect. One of the most effective messages of the K-Drama, Crash Landing on You, (as told to me by some Korean escapees) is that it portrayed the Korean people in the North, to include the Army, as normal human beings and not the caricatures the North paints of those in the South. One escapee told me the regime has never produced anything in the media as showing the South in any kind of positive light. They have never heard anything positive about the South come from the regime (as a side note – this is why Kim Jong-Un miscalculated in September 2018 when he allowed President Moon Jae-In to speak to the Korean people in Pyongyang. He countered all North Korean propaganda as he came across as a smart and compassionate man and not the puppet controlled by the US).

But one of the important aspects of this article is that it illustrates how little Koreans in the South understand their brothers and sisters in the North and the biases they have. This is of course troubling.

8. Pentagon official says U.S. 'routinely' reviews global force posture amid report on troop cut

Yonhap News Agency · by [email protected] · July 19, 2020

Yes, of course it does. But I would like to know the answers to a few questions: now that we have learned that options were provided to POTUS in March by SECDEF, we really should ask what was the question that led to these options? Was it to bring home X number of or all troops? And, if so, how, when, where? Or was it the right question of how do we optimize our overseas military presence to support US National Security objectives and provide force presence and projection and strategic agility to do so? The question(s) drives the answer(s) or options presented. National Security professionals know the right questions to ask and answer. Did we get it right? Are we doing what is best for US National Security?

Would it be good to alter the US force posture in Korea?

It could be good if the alliance was not in turmoil as it is now. We should do this: conduct a comprehensive strategic review of ROK/US combined forces on the peninsula to 1) determine the optimal size of the US presence to contribute to deterrence, 2) support the defense plans, 3) support the OPCON transition process, and 4) provide the US with the necessary strategic agility in Asia. The outcome of such a review will strengthen allied military posture in South Korea and, whether the number of US troops is increased or decreased, the force will be "right-sized" for the mission and to meet US strategic objectives.

My fear is the only question the Pentagon was asked was: how can we get US troops off the Korean Peninsula (e.g. how many and how fast?). We should not forget what the Wall Street Journal Editorial Board quoted Senator Ben Sasse saying yesterday.

And we should not forget this anecdote from Governor Larry Hogan's Washington Post op-ed, which does not help the alliance. I fear this is what framed the questions to the Pentagon.

9. Donald Trump and pulling U.S. forces out of South Korea: why cost sharing vs. burden sharing matters

The National Interest · by Daniel R. DePetris · July 18, 2020

Another ill-informed opinion piece (well, he does get South Korea defense spending right: it is increasing, but he should have reminded everyone it is about 2.7% of GDP and rising, and that it is higher than any other US NATO ally).

But what is troubling to me is the implication that Korea is interested not in defending itself but in remaining dependent on the US instead. I wonder why we have been pursuing OPCON transition for so many years? I wonder why we may soon have a South Korean general officer in command of the ROK/US Combined Forces Command? Why have we had a program over the past 17 years of developing South Korean independent warfighting capabilities? And, even as the South increases its defense spending (and buys quite a bit of US military equipment), we still demand it pays more for burden sharing. There are only two things South Korea is dependent upon the US for: 1) extended nuclear deterrence and 2) conventional deterrence. We should never forget that, according to the regime leadership itself, the only thing that prevents a resumption of hostilities in order for the regime to accomplish its revolutionary objectives is the presence of US forces. That is the single most important deterrence factor. Yes, the North is an existential threat to the South (though I believe the latter would win the war on its own), but it is in the US national interest to prevent a war on the Korean peninsula and it is the presence of US troops (and the demonstration of strategic reassurance and strategic resolve) that makes the biggest contribution to deterrence.

10. Will North Korea's Kim deliver an 'October surprise' to Trump?

The Japan Times · by Jesse Johnson · July 19, 2020

Will he or won't he? Let's start a pool. Yes or no is one category and then what kind? A provocation or a summit?

We should think about what kind of "surprise" he might conduct beyond all the obvious ones and the ones from the past. What has he not done and what have we not thought of?

But we should also consider this: the more we talk about a surprise, the less likely it will be a surprise.  When he does something people will say, "See I told you so."  Or "That is not a surprise at all. We expected something like this." 

We are actually helping to inoculate the South Korea and US publics by attacking the strategy of the October surprise. We are exposing it so it will not be a surprise. And a message we should transmit to the regime is that, regardless of what kind of surprise it tries to execute, it will have no effect on Trump or the outcome of the election because, short of war, the American people are not likely to have their opinions (or votes) altered by North Korean actions or rhetoric. North Korea is just not that important to the American voter in an election. The best October surprise Kim could do for himself would probably be to do nothing. But given his narcissist sociopathic or psychopathic personality he probably cannot help himself. He will operate under the continued delusion that he is a player in the international community and that he can create effects on the great powers (he only can if we let him… if we fall for his long con and political warfare with Juche characteristics).

11. Kim Jong-un's sister Kim Yo-jong solidifying 'position of ultimate power', may displace him as leader: expert

MEAWW · by Pritha Paul · July 18, 2020

For the Korea hands who are leadership experts: has Kim Yo-Jong been given any apparent power with regards to the military? She has assumed a number of roles that exercise or give her access to various levers of power. But I have missed any indication that she has been given any kind of authority over the military (though perhaps the order to destroy the liaison office is one indication of her power and, of course, her party positions have power over the military because the party controls the military). But so far in the reports on the enlarged central military commission meeting yesterday we have not seen her name mentioned. Was it not enlarged enough to include her? Was she even present?  Maybe she was and it has not been reported.

12. N.K. paper touts N.K.-Russia ties on occasion of 20th anniv. of declaration on bilateral cooperation

Yonhap News Agency · by [email protected] · July 19, 2020

But I bet the Kim regime misses the old Soviet Union and longs for the "good old days."

"All you need are these: certainty of judgment in the present moment; action for the common good in the present moment; and an attitude of gratitude in the present moment for anything that comes your way."

-Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

"We have to face the fact that either all of us are going to die together or we are going to learn to live together and if we are to live together we have to talk."

- Eleanor Roosevelt

"The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew."

- Abraham Lincoln, December 1862

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. As the U.S. copes with multiple crises, partisans disagree sharply on severity of problems facing the nation

2. Secretary of Defense’s (Dr. Mark T. Esper) guidance on public display or depiction of flags in the Department of Defense

3. B-1 bombers deploy to Guam as Navy carriers continue readiness training in South China Sea

4. China is done biding its time - the end of Beijing's foreign policy restraint?

5. I'm a black police officer. Here's how to change the system.

6. Federal agents deployed by Trump spirit away protesters. What country is this?

7. Is the Saudi Government plotting against another U.S.-based critic?

8. Veteran U.S. diplomat Richardson fails to secure release of Americans jailed in Venezuela

9. Unidentified federal agents are detaining protesters in Portland

10. A Green Beret's perspective on defunding the police and answer to America's growing polarization.

11. Naval power is the ultimate strategic enabler in our competition with China

12. Are US-Japan relations on the rocks?

13. DARPA pays $1 million for an AI app that can predict an enemy's emotions

14. Federal employees can express support for Black Lives Matter, watchdog says

15. The troll: a fake flag burning at Gettysburg was only his latest hoax

16. Iranian spies accidentally leaked a video of themselves hacking

17. How COVID-19 disinformation goes viral

18. Wednesday's hack shows that the whole world is in your Twitter DMs

19. Japan accuses China of spreading 'disinformation' during coronavirus

1. As the U.S. copes with multiple crises, partisans disagree sharply on severity of problems facing the nation

Pew Research Center · by Amina Dunn · July 14, 2020

This divide is a national security issue. Division is normal and healthy. Our political system does not function without it and it was designed to function with it. The questions are: 1) are we willing to respect the divisions and those on the opposing sides and 2) are we willing to make the necessary political accommodations for our system to continue to survive and thrive? However, some of these issues should not have such a wide division. And some of the divides shows the irrational influence of partisan politics.

I am hopeful that in two areas the divide is relatively small - ethics in government and the federal deficit (and terrorism and violent crime as well, though both sides think these are relatively low).

2. Secretary of Defense’s (Dr. Mark T. Esper) guidance on public display or depiction of flags in the Department of Defense

US Department of Defense · July 17, 2020

The memo can be downloaded here.

Here is my tweet back to the SECDEF (replying to @EsperDoD and @DeptofDefense) when he tweeted this out yesterday:

Excellent guidance, sir. As an aside, this is how you deal with an "insurgency" in the latent or incipient stage. You make the right political accommodations to undermine the legitimacy of the radical leadership of the insurgent or resistance movement.

3. B-1 bombers deploy to Guam as Navy carriers continue readiness training in South China Sea

Stars & Stripes · by Wyatt Olson · July 17, 2020

Good. We need to see more of the Bone in the Pacific.

4. China is done biding its time - the end of Beijing's foreign policy restraint?

Foreign Affairs · by Kurt M. Campbell & Mira Rapp-Hooper · July 15, 2020

Another audition for Secretary of State in a new Administration? :-)

5. I'm a Black Police Officer. Here's How to Change the System.

New York Times · by David Hughes · July 16, 2020

Some important recommendations in this essay. We should listen to Major Hughes.

6. Federal agents deployed by Trump spirit away protesters. What country is this?

Los Angeles Times · by Scott Martelle · July 17, 2020

I am not sure why all those who fear government overreach and its trampling on civil liberties are not up in arms about this. If we truly believe in all 10 Amendments/Bill of Rights, we should not be allowing this to happen.

7. Is the Saudi government plotting against another U.S.-Based critic?

The New Yorker · by Dexter Filkins · July 16, 2020

We have got to put pressure on the Saudi government to stop this kind of behavior against Americans.

8. Veteran U.S. diplomat Richardson fails to secure release of Americans jailed in Venezuela

Reuters · by Makini Brice, Matt Spetalnick, Steve Orlofsky, & Jonathan Oatis · July 17, 2020

I do not think anyone should be surprised by this failure.

9. Unidentified federal agents are detaining protesters in Portland

New York Magazine · by Adam K. Raymond & Chas Danner · July 17, 2020

Hmmm...

10. A Green Beret's perspective on defunding the police and answer to America's growing polarization.

Medium · by Matt Visnovsky · July 17, 2020

There is a lot to digest in this essay. Unfortunately, it will not format for email so please go to the link to read the entire piece. And some interesting photos there too.

11. Naval power is the ultimate strategic enabler in our competition with China

National Review · by Seth Cropsey & Harry Halem · July 15, 2020

We need our strong Navy more than ever.

12. Are US-Japan relations on the rocks?

The Hill · by Michael J. Green & Jeffrey W. Hornung · July 17, 2020

Just think about this for a moment. What if our both linchpin and cornerstone alliances in Northeast Asia and the INDOPACIFIC are in trouble? What does that do for the Free and Open INDOPACIFC and our national security strategy toward the revisionist and rogue powers?

13. DARPA pays $1 million for an AI app that can predict an enemy's emotions

Forbes · by Thomas Brewster · July 16, 2020

Interesting. One of the things we do best in America is to search for technical solutions to problems of human nature, culture, language, etc. (not that we always find technical solutions for complex problems).

14. Federal employees can express support for Black Lives Matter, watchdog says

New York Times · by Michael Levenson · July 16, 2020

This will be upsetting so some. In a way it is smart because to push back on this will only harden the resolve of some people. It also can be useful in undermining the legitimacy of the radical leadership who has tried to co-opt a protest movement. It is important to try to separate the people who have grievances from the radical leadership who seek to exploit those people for their own political power and agenda. The radical leadership does not have the interests of those with grievances at heart.  If, as some has postulated, we are in the latent or incipient stage of an insurgency it is important to make the right political accommodations.

15. The troll: a fake flag burning at Gettysburg was only his latest hoax

Washington Post · by Shawn Boburg · July 17, 2020

These are the kinds of threats we need to deal with these days. We have to be vigilant. We have to think critically about what we see and read on social media and throughout the Internet. Whether progressive, liberal, or conservative, we cannot allow ourselves to be duped by these trolls.

16.  Iranian spies accidentally leaked a video of themselves hacking

Wired · by Andy Greenberg · July 16, 202

Hmm....I hate it when that happens! :-)

17.  How COVID-19 disinformation goes viral

Union of Concerned Scientists · by Anita Desikan · July 16, 2020

I suspect this is one of the reasons why we are having problem with developing a united resistance to the COVID 19 pandemic in the U.S.

18.  Wednesday's hack shows that the whole world is in your Twitter DMs

Defense One · by Patrick Tucker · July 16, 2020

Very interesting target list for this hack.

19. Japan accuses China of spreading 'disinformation' during coronavirus

Daily Mail · by Jemma Carr · July 14, 2020

"Having a strategy suggests an ability to look up from the short term and the trivial to view the long term and the essential, to address causes rather than symptoms, to see woods rather than trees."

- Lawrence Freedman, Strategy: A History

"Where is the Life we have lost in living? Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?"

- T. S. Eliot

"Do not be impatient with your seemingly slow progress. Do not try to run faster than you presently can. If you are studying, reflecting and trying, you are making progress whether you are aware of it or not. A traveler walking the road in the darkness of night is still going forward. Someday, some way, everything will break open, like the natural unfolding of a rosebud."

- Vernon Howard

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. A Trump retreat from Korea?

2. Korean War hero Paik's pursuit of freedom, democracy ever more important today: U.S. official

3. U.S. senator slams Trump administration after report of possible troop reduction in S. Korea

4.  Pentagon has offered White House options to reduce troops in S. Korea: report

5. New virus cases dip below 40, imported cases still worrisome

6. N. Korea claims it is developing coronavirus vaccine

7. US mulls 'new proposals' for NK: report

8. Provinces ordered to increase number of stores accepting foreign currency

9. Hard labor for North Koreans who don't wear masks under tough new coronavirus measures

10. North Korea may select new members for Moranbong Band

11. North Korea's foreign propaganda takes a step towards modernity

12. Inspector O and the lost opportunity

13. Narrative on Korean War

14. 70 years since Kim Il-sung said, 'Go'

1. A Trump Retreat From Korea?

Wall Street Journal · by the Editorial Board · July 17, 2020

The subtitle makes an important point on China in addition to the fact North Korea will no longer be deterred if it believes the US has lost its strategic resolve. I hope those in the White House read the Wall Street Journal and listened to Senator Sasse.

2.Korean War hero Paik's pursuit of freedom, democracy ever more important today: U.S. official

Yonhap News Agency · by Lee Haye-ah · July 18, 2020

The one-hour video tribute hosted by the Korea Defense Veterans Association is here.

3. U.S. senator slams Trump administration after report of possible troop reduction in S. Korea

Yonhap News Agency · by Lee Haye-ah · July 18, 2020

Strong criticism from Senator Ben Sasse.

4. Pentagon has offered White House options to reduce troops in S. Korea: report

Yonhap News Agency · by [email protected] · July 18, 2020

I was really out of the loop.  I missed any discussion of the review last fall, the completion last December, and the presentation of options to the White House in March.

We are in for some interesting times. The Pentagon did a damn good job keeping this under wraps.

5. New virus cases dip below 40, imported cases still worrisome

Yonhap News Agency · by [email protected] · July 18, 2020

It seems to me the one of the biggest problems we have with this pandemic is global travel.

6. N. Korea claims it is developing coronavirus vaccine

Yonhap News Agency · by [email protected] · July 18, 2020

Maybe this will be the game changer the world needs. It sure would be something if North Korea actually did develop a vaccine. 

7.  US mulls 'new proposals' for NK: report

The Korea Herald · by Kim So-hyun · July 17, 2020

So this is a single source "report" from an article written by Harry Kazianis. He apparently has the inside track on White House policy. Really?

If this "report" is true, we are about to waste the past two years of trying to break Kim Jong-Un's cycle of blackmail diplomacy. If we give-in in October and provide Kim Jong-Un the sanctions relief he demands just to have a summit meeting, then it is game over - Kim will never give up his long con and, of course, never denuclearize the North.

8. Provinces ordered to increase number of stores accepting foreign currency

Daily NK · by Kim Yoo Jin · July 17, 2020

The headline confused me for a minute. I thought perhaps the regime was going to make a change and actually allow foreign currency. But then after reading the article, it is clear this is another ploy for the regime to vacuum up all the foreign currency from among the Korean people.

9. Hard labor for North Koreans who don't wear masks under tough new coronavirus measures

Radio Free Asia · by Sewon Kim, Leejin Jun, & Eugene Whong · July 16, 2020

Hmmm....perhaps we could learn a thing or two from North Korea! Note the student facemask patrol to enforce the wearing of masks (apologies for the gallows humor attempt).

On a serious note, if this is accurate it is an indication of how much the regime fears a coronavirus outbreak (or perhaps it is already experiencing one).

10. North Korea may select new members for Moranbong Band

Daily NK · by Ha Yoon Ah · July 17, 2020

Kim Yo-Jong does everything.  Now she is a recruiter of talent for her brother so he can maintain the Paektu bloodline. Note the reference to courtesans back in the Chosun Dynasty. I wonder if, when she assumes power, she will demand a K-pop boy band for herself?

11. North Korea's foreign propaganda takes a step towards modernity

38 North · by Martyn Williams · July 17, 2020

Important analysis from Martyn Williams. He has been tracking and analyzing North Korean media and propaganda for many years.

12. Inspector O and the lost opportunity

38 North · by James Church · July 17, 2020

Some interesting fiction. With an agenda. "James Church" (pseudonym) would never blame Kim Jong-Un for failure. It is always the American's fault and, in this case, that of the boogeyman, John Bolton.

13. Narrative on Korean War (book review)

The Korea Times · by William Jones · July 17, 2020

I do not read too much fiction, but I will add this to my list for my study of Korean culture. It has some pretty good reviews.

14. 70 years since Kim Il-sung said, 'Go'

The Korea Times · by Richard Pennington · July 17, 2020

A timely reminder of history from 70 years ago. It is especially relevant now as the US administration considers withdrawing some (or all?) of US troops from the Korean peninsula. And it is a good reminder of the actions of decisive leadership.

And we should never forget that Kim Il-Sung and the Kim family regime have the blood of more than 5 million people from all sides on their hands.

"Having a strategy suggests an ability to look up from the short term and the trivial to view the long term and the essential, to address causes rather than symptoms, to see woods rather than trees."

- Lawrence Freedman, Strategy: A History

"Where is the Life we have lost in living? Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?"

- T. S. Eliot

"Do not be impatient with your seemingly slow progress. Do not try to run faster than you presently can. If you are studying, reflecting and trying, you are making progress whether you are aware of it or not. A traveler walking the road in the darkness of night is still going forward. Someday, some way, everything will break open, like the natural unfolding of a rosebud."

- Vernon Howard

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Daniel Riggs.

1. Colin Powell Still Wants Answers

2. More Than Just a Fire: The Implications of the Bonhomme Richard Catastrophe

3. Behind the recovery, China's economy is wobbling

4. The case for robust defense spending Rep. Rob Wittman

5.  The US Navy is making South China Sea memes as its warships anger China and challenge its sweeping claims

6.   US-Backed 'Backbone of Internet Freedom' Entity Faces Possible Disruption

7.  Military leaders pressure Esper to ban Confederate flag

8. Pentagon mulling plan to ban Confederate flag without mentioning it by name: report

9. FDD | The World's Most Dangerous Alliance

10. Marine Corps quietly cuts ties with former top Tucker Carlson writer after racist and sexist posts surface

11. Fears Dominic Cummings will axe Parachute Regiment to have more cyber funding

12. Pentagon finally releases Marine Special Operations document that reveals leadership cover ups

13. The World's Most Technologically Sophisticated Genocide Is Happening in Xinjiang

14. World splitting into pro and anti-Huawei camps

15. Russia's Attempted Vaccine Hack Suggests Research - and a Putin's Grand Plan - Has Stalled

16. Army, New York medical teams giving Houston a helping hand during pandemic

17.  The Renewed Dependency on Mercenary Fighters

18. Opinion | There's no sign the U.S. is leaving the Middle East soon. And that's a good thing.

19. Celebrities hail 6-year-old as a hero after aunt says he saved his sister from a dog attack

1. Colin Powell Still Wants Answers

The New York Times · by Robert Draper · July 16, 2020

Not our finest hour perhaps.  The decision to go to Iraq is going to haunt us for a long time.

2. More Than Just a Fire: The Implications of the Bonhomme Richard Catastrophe

warontherocks.com · by Bryan McGrath · July 16, 2020

A key [point from Byran McGrath: "While navalists tend to judge navies by the number of ships that comprise them, the plain truth is that not all ships are created equal. The loss of some ships is much worse than others"  I am not a navalist but it seems but the title is obvious to me: there are a lot of "implications" and I think none of them are good. Byran lays out many here.

3. Behind the recovery, China's economy is wobbling

Financial Times · by Jamil Anderlini · July 16, 2020

Something to consider.

4. The case for robust defense spending Rep. Rob Wittman

Defense News · by Rep. Rob Wittman · July 16, 2020

The Armed Services Committee members must be making their cases.

5. The US Navy is making South China Sea memes as its warships anger China and challenge its sweeping claims

Business Insider · by Ryan Pickrell

See more of the memes at the link.

However, while we either laugh this off or denounce this, we should consider what are the potential influence effects on various target audiences.  Sometimes our best "PSYOP" comes from the rank and file non-PSYOP professionals.  Sometimes rather than "let slip the dogs of war" we should "turn loose the masters of memes."  

6. US-Backed 'Backbone of Internet Freedom' Entity Faces Possible Disruption

voanews.com · by Michelle Quinn

Not good news here.  This is or should be a critical capability for information and influence activities.

I also commend VOA for continuing to do their jobs and report the news even if it means reporting on the warts of its parent organization.  I hope the journalists do not suffer any backlash. This is where the U.S. demonstrates support for freedom of the press - it funds media organizations that hold the government and its own organization accountable by providing the news. 

7. Military leaders pressure Esper to ban Confederate flag

Politico· 16 July 2020

The SECDEF is in a tough spot. It will be interesting to see how he handles this in the coming months.

8. Pentagon mulling plan to ban Confederate flag without mentioning it by name: report

The Hill · by John Bowden · July 16, 2020

And here is an indication of how the SECDEF might be handling this. He is walking a tightrope.

9. FDD | The World's Most Dangerous Alliance

fdd.org · by Thomas Joscelyn Senior Fellow and Senior Editor of FDD's Long War Journal · July 15, 2020

Spoiler alert: China and Russia (or more specifically Xi-Putin)

10. Marine Corps quietly cuts ties with former top Tucker Carlson writer after racist and sexist posts surface

taskandpurpose.com · by Paul Szoldra

Wow. I wonder what were this 29 year old's qualifications to be a war gaming subject matter expert at the Marine War College.

11. Fears Dominic Cummings will axe Parachute Regiment to have more cyber funding

Mirror · by Phil Cardy · July 11, 2020

Why does the Parachute Regiment still exist?  Time for the old arguments about the efficacy of airborne operations. 

"When one commits one's self to an airborne craft and the door is fastened against earth and home, there is no escape even by running away. The result is a strange sense of peace - desperate, perhaps, but peace."
Pearl S. Buck

"When you ask a person to jump, his attention is mostly directed toward the act of jumping and the mask falls so that the real person appears."
Philippe Halsman

For Mr. Cummings (of course his response will be Monte had an 90% success [failure] at Operation Market Garden (it was a bridge too far):

"What Manner Of Men Are These That Wear The Maroon Beret?

They are firstly all volunteers and are toughened by physical training. As a result they have infectious optimism and that offensive eagerness which comes from well-being. They have 'jumped' from the air and by doing so have conquered fear.

Their duty lies in the van of the battle. They are proud of this honour. They have the highest standards in all things whether it be skill in battle or smartness in the execution of all peace time duties. They are in fact - men apart - every man an emperor.

Of all the factors, which make for success in battle, the spirit of the warrior is the most decisive. That spirit will be found in full measure in the men who wear the maroon beret"

- Bernard Montgomery

12. Pentagon finally releases Marine Special Operations document that reveals leadership cover ups

sofrep.com · July 16, 2020

It will be interesting when (and if) the complete story is told.

13. The World's Most Technologically Sophisticated Genocide Is Happening in Xinjiang

Foreign Policy · by Yonah Diamond, Rayhan Asat · July 15, 2020

A terrible human tragedy inflicted on the Uighurs by the Chinese Communist Party.

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."  - Edmund Burke 

14. World splitting into pro and anti-Huawei camps

asiatimes.com · by Scott Foster · July 16, 2020

Really? Push the firm farther ahead?  It seems like the free world is beginning to wake to the very real threat from Huawei.

15. Russia's Attempted Vaccine Hack Suggests Research - and a Putin's Grand Plan - Has Stalled

defenseone.com · by Patrick Tucker· July 17, 2020

This should not be unexpected.  Either the attempted hack and theft or the Russian's inability to create a vaccine.

16. Army, New York medical teams giving Houston a helping hand during pandemic

armytimes.com · by Nomaan Merchant and Juan A. Lozano, The Associated Press · July 16, 2020

Yes I remember all the pundits saying how wrong we were to have deployed medical personnel and assets to New York and Los Angeles since they had so little to do. I am sure we will hear it again.

17. The Renewed Dependency on Mercenary Fighters

Spiegel · by Adam Asaad, Christoph Reuter, Maximilian Popp, Mirco Keilberth

I look forward to comments from Sean McFate and Chris Taylor.

18.  Opinion | There's no sign the U.S. is leaving the Middle East soon. And that's a good thing.

Washington Post· by David Ignatius · July 16, 2020

I am sure there are those who want to push back on Ignatius. But I think he is right about this: "One reason it's so hard for the United States to leave this region is that there's always a new crisis."

19.  Celebrities hail 6-year-old as a hero after aunt says he saved his sister from a dog attack

CBS News · by Caitlin O'Kane

What an incredible story. When they need a picture of selfless service they should put this 6 year old's photo.  Go to the link here and view the photos.  The last photo has his face all stitched up. Incredible heroism by this 6 year old.

----------------------

"Radical groups with distant goals could find comfort in an isolated purity, while those who tasted success saw the value of accommodating the views of others."

-  Lawrence Freedman, Strategy: A History

"In Korea the Government forces, which were armed to prevent border raids and to preserve internal security, were attacked by invading forces from North Korea....The attack upon Korea makes it plain beyond all doubt that communism has passed beyond the use of subversion to conquer independent nations and will now use armed invasion and war." -President Harry Truman

"Foreknowledge cannot be gotten from ghosts and spirits, cannot be had by analogy, cannot be found out by calculation. It must be obtained from people, people who know the conditions of the enemy."

 - Sun Tzu, The Art of War