After four days of floating at sea on a raft shared with four Somali gunmen, Richard Philips took matters into his own hands for a second time. With the small lifeboat in which he was being held captive being towed by the American missile destroyer USS Bainbridge, and Navy Special Warfare (NSWC) snipers on the fantail in position to take their shots at his captors as soon as the command was given, the captive Captain of the M.V. Maersk-Alabama took his second leap in three days into the shark-infested waters of the Indian Ocean.
This diversion gave the Navy Special Warfare operators all the opening they needed. Snipers immediately took down the three Somali pirates still on board the life raft, SEAL operators hustled down the tow line connecting the two craft to confirm the kills, and a Navy RIB plucked Philips from the water and sped him to safety aboard the Bainbridge, thus ending the four-day-and-counting hostage situation.
* * *
Philips’s first leap into the warm, dark water of the Indian Ocean hadn’t worked out as well. With the Bainbridge in range and a rescue by his country’s Navy possible, Philips threw himself off of his lifeboat prison, enabling Navy shooters onboard the destroyer a clear shot at his captors — and none was taken. The guidance from National Command Authority — the President of the United States, Barack Obama — had been clear: a peaceful solution was the only acceptable outcome to this standoff unless the hostage’s life was in clear, extreme danger.
The next day, a small Navy boat approaching the floating raft was fired on by the Somali pirates — and again no fire was returned and no pirates killed, thanks again to the cautious stance assumed by Navy personnel due to the combination of a lack of clear guidance from Washington, and a mandate from the Commander in Chief’s staff not to act until Obama, a man with no background of dealing with such issues and no track record of decisiveness, decided that any outcome other than a “peaceful solution” would be acceptable.
After taking fire from the Somali kidnappers again Saturday night, the on-scene commander decided he’d had enough. Keeping his authority to act in the case of a clear and present danger to the hostage’s life, and having heard nothing from Washington since yet another request to mount a rescue operation had been denied the day before, the Navy officer — unnamed in all media reports to date — decided the AK-47 one captor had leveled at Philips’ back was a threat to the hostage’s life, and ordered the NSWC team to take their shots.
Three rounds downrange later, all three brigands became enemy KIA, and Philips was safe.
* * *
There is upside, downside, and spin-side to the series of events over the last week that culminated in today’s dramatic rescue of an American hostage.
Almost immediately following word of the rescue, with reports — as they still are — conflicting each other on the order of events (and on the events themselves), the Obama administration and its supporters claimed victory against pirates in the Indian Ocean, and declared that the dramatic end to the standoff put paid to questions of the inexperienced president’s toughness and decisiveness.
Despite the Obama administration’s (and its sycophants’) attempt to spin today’s success as a result of bold, decisive leadership by the inexperienced president, the reality is nothing of the sort.
What should have been a standoff lasting only hours — as long as it took the USS Bainbridge and its team of NSWC operators to steam to the location — became an embarrassing four-day-and-counting standoff between a rag-tag handful of criminals with rifles and a U.S. Navy warship.
On Friday, April 10, as the standoff reached the end of its third day, I called on President Obama to take action to free the American hostage from his Somali captors. I outlined three possible operational tactics that could be used to do so; number 1 was the following:
(1) 2 helos, 2 snipers each: pop the [pirates] in their heads, then drop a rescue swimmer to escort the hostage up to one of the choppers. This works best if the hostage is aware of what is happening and can help without getting in the way — say, by hopping overboard as the gunships near, to divert attention and get out of the line of fire.
(This was written before the USS Bainbridge tethered the life raft to its stern, an action which eliminated the need for helicopters.)
Instead of taking direct, decisive action against the rag-tag group of gunmen, the Obama administration dilly-dallied, dawdled, and eschewed any decisiveness whatsoever, even in the face of enemy fire, in hopes that the situation would somehow resolve itself without violence — thus sending a clear message to all who would threaten U.S. interests abroad that the current occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue has no idea how to respond to such situations, and no real willingness to use military force to resolve them.
Any who think they weren’t watching every minute of this are guilty — at best — of greatly underestimating our enemies.
Like the crew of the Alabama, which took swift and decisive action to take back their own ship rather than wait for help from Washington that they knew could not be counted on, Captain Philips took matters into his own hands for the second time in three days this afternoon, leaping into the water to create a diversion and allowing the NSWC team to eliminate his captors. The result, of course, was the best that could possibly be expected: three pirates dead, the captain unharmed, and a fourth Somali man who had surrendered late Saturday night in custody.
One thing that will bear watching will be what the Obama DOJ attempts to do with the captive pirate. My money is on a life of welfare checks, a plot of land (in a red state, naturally), and voting rights in Chicago, New York, and Seattle.
In all seriousness, though, who knows? Obama could decide to get tough on the last surviving participant in the first pirating of an American ship since Thomas Jefferson sent the U.S. Marine Corps to root out and destroy the Barbary Pirates.
However, given the administration’s track record to date, I won’t be holding my breath on that one.
AP is reporting
SteveM Sunday, April 12th at 9:23PM EDT (link)Jeff,
AP is reporting that Obama gave the order to take action twice:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090412/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_piracy_obama
“WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama twice authorized the military to rescue a U.S. captain who was being held by Somali pirates and whose life appeared to be at risk, administration officials said after Sunday’s rescue.”
Internet libs are already crowing how tough their guy is. Your version sounds more plausible; can you give us some info on the sourcing for it?
Sure. He twice rejected requests to move in....
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 9:27PM EDT (link)….but reiterated something that was already authorized unless he expressly forbade it: threat of death to the hostage meant action was legal.
That’s in the military ROE, period. Here’s more, from good friend Uncle Jimbo: http://www.blackfive.net/main/2009/04/how-the-rescue-happened.html
JE
Way Cool
SteveM Sunday, April 12th at 9:38PM EDT (link)Thanks, Jeff!
Here's the paragraph from CJCS ROE (CJCSINST 3121.01A)
Jeff Weimer Sunday, April 12th at 9:55PM EDT (link)(3) For ships and aircraft rendering assistance on scene, the right and obligation of self-defense extends to and includes persons, vessels, or aircraft being assisted. The right of self-defense in such circumstances does not include interference with legitimate law
enforcement actions of a coastal nation. However, once received on board the assisting ship or aircraft, persons assisted will not be surrendered to foreign authority unless directed by the NCA.
BTW, I served in that area and twice our ships fired on pirates, injuring a few and killing one. We did not ask for permission from the President. In one case, the pirate ship was a hijacked vessel with its crew still aboard.
It makes sense that he had to give permission (twice? why?) if he previously ruled out this type of assistance clearly allowed for under ROE.
“We stand at once the wonder and admiration of the whole world, and we must enquire what it is that has given us so much prosperity. This cause is that every man can make himself.” - Abraham Lincoln
“Cowardice asks the question, is it expedient? And vanity asks the question, is it popular? But conscience asks the question, is it right?” - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Instaneous communications are a bad thing
SteveLA Sunday, April 12th at 10:00PM EDT (link)Just a guess, but smells like the chain of command was having a good case of run this up all the way up the chain so we are not going to get second guessed. Modern military communications does tend to allow the those who don’t want to make the call run things up rapidly.
Seems like the Commander on scene has some pretty big ones.
______________________________________
Competency over ideological purity
Can you really blame them...
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 10:35PM EDT (link)…given Washington Democrats’ penchant for after-the-fact prosecutorial review of military actions?
JE
Super interesting, but do you have citations?
leftylurker Sunday, April 12th at 9:27PM EDT (link)Piracy has been an issue that’s fascinated me a LOT, and i like your narrative. I do wonder, though, if you have citations for a lot of the assertions you make. Like, for example, how do you know what the navy personnel were thinking?
Leftylurker
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 9:30PM EDT (link)Press conference info, written accounts, inside info, and — most importantly — experience
JE
Answered above
leftylurker Sunday, April 12th at 9:30PM EDT (link)n/t
Hahaha!
leftylurker Sunday, April 12th at 9:31PM EDT (link)We seem to be posting at the exact same second Jeff! Thanks for the story and the links.
The Messiah saves again!!! on Easter none the less
angryred Sunday, April 12th at 9:31PM EDT (link)Ok, so we all know the truth that Obama is too tepid to actually order a Navy Seal take down of these flip-flop wearing machine gun toting punks.
What are the implications? Will Barry realize that just because GWB did something that it is not automatically a bad thing? That sometimes decisive action must be taken? That he was too naive to understand that in certain circumstances, political rhetoric should be shelved so correct actions can result?
Will he just thank whatever higher power he worships that no American died-that he didn’t get caught with Blood on his hands???
1-20-13 Hope for Change
yeah,right
gekster Sunday, April 12th at 9:44PM EDT (link)nt>
A political party cannot be all things to all people.
It must represent certain fundamental beliefs which must not be compromised to political expediency, or simply to swell its numbers.
Ronald Reagan
Every deer hunter in Michigan still likes to take a shot at a squirrel, rabbit, or even a troll every now and then.
dodged a bullet...
angryred Sunday, April 12th at 9:46PM EDT (link)nt
1-20-13 Hope for Change
The DOD Website has a bit more
SteveLA Sunday, April 12th at 9:33PM EDT (link)Jeff
Not sure if you read it, but the DOD web site has the “official” account such as it is.
______________________________________
Competency over ideological purity
Yep, thanks, SteveLA
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 9:42PM EDT (link)It was one of my main on-the-record sources.
JE
I am still not sure whether the captain jump ship
Doc Holliday Sunday, April 12th at 9:45PM EDT (link)before the SEALS fired or after. If he did it before they fired I would think he was taking a calculated risk or had some type of commo with the ship. My guess is it would make sense if they fired then he jumped ship, but until we get the final facts it is just a guess.
Molon Labe!
The Captain did not jump ship today
Samsara Sunday, April 12th at 10:06PM EDT (link)This is from the “offical” account linked by SteveLA above. It is an Arrmed Services Press Release on the DOD web site.
“The snipers positioned on the fantail of the Bainbridge observed one of the pirates in the pilot house — and two pirates with their head and shoulders exposed — and one of the pirates had the AK47 (assault rifle) leveled at the captain’s back,” Gortney said.
Gortney said the White House had given military operators “very clear guidance and authority” if Phillips’ life was in danger.
“The on-scene commander took it as the captain was in imminent danger and then made that decision (to shoot), and he had the authorities to make that decision, and he had seconds to make that decision,”
Several news sources and blogs ran an early report that he jumped for a second time. That seems to be wrong, but none have taken the time to correct themselves.
exactly, and this makes a few diaries here moot.
Doc Holliday Sunday, April 12th at 10:18PM EDT (link)It is no ones fault it was just faulty reporting. Something I have noticed when seeing breaking news, the first to get the story usually get it wrong. I just couldn’t get my head around the idea that someone leveled an AK at his back, then he jumped, then the SEALS automatically fired. Snipers really don’t need a distraction, those pirates were gone before they knew what was happening.
Molon Labe!
In a split-second combat action...
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 11:16PM EDT (link)…order of events is one of the toughest things to recall and to recount.
Philips didn’t need to create a diversion to allow the NSWC shooters to do their jobs. However, his track record shows he is a decisive personality who sees oportunities and takes them. Whether he got wet before or just after the shots were fired is, for all intents and purposes, moot — however, as more recountings come out, reporters with integrity will update and amend their stories.
We might never know the exact details, though. Sometimes things just happen too fast.
JE
very true Jeff, the only thing that matters is we got him back
Doc Holliday Monday, April 13th at 12:12AM EDT (link)and did not pay a ransom or let the criminals go.
Molon Labe!
I have this picture...
Erick Brockway Monday, April 13th at 1:09AM EDT (link)in my head of the Bainbridge making a trip to the fantail telling the guys laying on the deck “If you see an opportunity to take them out with one volley, take it. I’ll fill in the blanks.”
Whatever happened, these guys were awesome. I’ve met so many in the Nav that washed out of BUD/S in the first week, just rang the bell and said “enough”. They weren’t sorry, just knew their limitations and said “These guys are the toughest in the world, I thought I was, but hell no!”
That would’ve been me, too. Just to make it through their basic training, (what, 28 or 29 weeks??) to SQT takes some amazing qualities that I can’t imagine. I bitch about a 11/2 mile PT run lol!
Just so damn glad the Teams have never been forced to lower the bar, guys like me belong on dozers.
Note to lefties;
“Don’t be afraid to see what you see.”
Ronald Reagan
Join the RedState Strike Force
Chip in to get rid of “Babs” (Yes ma’am) Boxer.
And what in your comment backs up that assertion?
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 11:21PM EDT (link)That’s twice in this thread you’ve misrepresented yourself, the facts, and the sentiment expressed by others here.
Don’t beclown yourself again. Other moderators aren’t as easygoing as I am.
JE
reporters with integrity
benjjneb Tuesday, April 14th at 8:34PM EDT (link)You’ve removed the “inflatable lifeboat” part of your original story. Is it time to leave behind a correct (as currently possible) version of events, by removing the incorrect account of the captain’s second leap into the water?
It would also be enlightening to source this claim:
This information does not appear in any other account of the rescue.
After I had gathered all the facts...
Wing Zero Sunday, April 12th at 9:41PM EDT (link)I kinda figured the “guy on the ground” so to speak would use whatever authority the President had given him…
So I assume that you still have friends inside the Air Force or DOD, Jeff…
you don’t have to answer…
1-21-09 - We are so screwd
And what I didn't include above...
Wing Zero Sunday, April 12th at 9:46PM EDT (link)was take that authority and RUN with it.
1-21-09 - We are so screwd
what if this happened under Bush?
Doc Holliday Sunday, April 12th at 9:41PM EDT (link)would the drive bys be talking about reckless disregard for human life? Would they be calling the pirates victims of Western Imperialism? Would they say we are just bullies and not a civilized people like the European countries who paid off the pirates and still let their citizens rot as captives?
Molon Labe!
Yes, Doc.
Amy Miller Sunday, April 12th at 10:11PM EDT (link)True story.
I’m wondering how long it is going to take for The Administration (like “The Establishment” only less menacing) to come up with some sort of liberal-packaged downside to what happened today.
Does getting a bullet in the head mean your rights were violated? If so, we could be in trouble.
~A
Tweet Me, It’s Trendy!!!: @amy_m_miller
“Ah, yes, it’s the apocalypse alright. I always thought I’d have a hand in it.”
Why they went up the chain of command
red4ever Sunday, April 12th at 10:26PM EDT (link)Even, as noted above, the ROE gave the Navy the right to act immediately over imminent danger, they did not want to face murder charges upon their return to port. With this administration, it is not clear they would back the people on the scene’s actions. So, better make it clear that the action was authorized.
If I hear hear ONE MORE whiny liberal say we can’t arm the ships in the region because they might hit the wrong person and then face murder charges, I will slap someone. You know how you avoid hitting an innocent person on a friendly ship — you declare a buffer zone around US flagged ships. Anyone coming within that zone is automatically deemed a hostile. Shoot to kill. I figure anyone dumb enough to get close after that declaration — well, Darwin had a point.
The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in times of great moral crisis, maintain their neutrality.
Dante
We have that buffer here in our own waters.
Achance Monday, April 13th at 10:47AM EDT (link)DHS/USCG put a 100 yd. no entry barrier around cruise ships, war ships, maybe even freighters. If you come within 100 yds. you WILL be looking down the barrel of a CG .50 cal. machine gun. Even if you’re approaching one on what looks to be a meeting course, you’re going to have the CG’s company if they’re anywhere around.
One of the happier days at my marina is the day the first big cruise ships show up downtown because the CG gets busy watching over and escorting them rather than watching over and boarding and inspecting pleasurecraft.
In Vino Veritas
Obama,
rick554 Sunday, April 12th at 9:43PM EDT (link)Robt Gibbs , Rahm Emmanuel and Larry Axelrod will have more to say in the morning, sometime after 1100 DC time when they’ve had time to sleep on it.
This could have been done 3 days ago, but we’ve got a Jimmy Carter on our hands here. And I’ll NEVER fogive him for DESERT ONE.
BRAVO ZULU USS Bsinbridge!! Well done!
Rick554
no kidding
dilford Sunday, April 12th at 9:56PM EDT (link)If you wait 3 days just to save one (1) American life, then how long do you think he’ll wait to save ALL American lives?!?
He's Not Interested In Saving ALL American Lives
IJB Sunday, April 12th at 11:32PM EDT (link)Some Americans are “more equal” than others, you see…
A public service
redneck_hippie Sunday, April 12th at 9:50PM EDT (link)Thank you for this strong dose of reality. We need it to offset the swarms of smarm the idjits will unleash in praise of Their One.
“We must not lose our faculty to dare, especially in dark days.” - Churchill in March, 1942.
Remember NY-23.
I'm disappointed by the reactions here
weave Sunday, April 12th at 10:02PM EDT (link)Obama is claimed to have authorized force. Whether or not the SEALS would have acted or not regardless is not the issue. Obama could have easily told them not to use force, or he could have been afraid of offending Somalia by saying the Navy did not act under his orders, or any number of shameful things.
My point is, if Obama does the right thing, we should be the first to give him a pat on the back for it.
Now the pirates have vowed revenge against the U.S. Hopefully Obama won’t cower at the threat and deal with it as a real threat. And if he does do the right thing, I hope conservatives will back him — and if he backs down, he needs to be held accountable.
It’s Easter, Captain Phillips is safe, and there’s a lot to be thankful for. How about giving the usual politics a rest for a bit and let’s celebrate this victory! I couldn’t be prouder of our Navy and the way those snipers executed (literally) their task. Hopefully there’s a hero’s welcome for them when they get home.
the "use of force" was a no-brainer
David Hinz Sunday, April 12th at 10:12PM EDT (link)the pirates did NOT speed away in a speedboat with the captain as hostage. There were freaking floating in the middle of the Gulf of Aden, out of gas, and surrounded by the US Navy.
ANY outcome that did NOT include the Navy preventing the pirates from getting away would have been the total END of the Obama presidency right out the gate.
Sorry, but if the pirates were not captured or killed, it looks like President Jimmy Carter and the killer rabbit — and PBHO could NOT afford to let that happen.
The fact that he allowed it to drag on for five days — FIVE DAYS — was enough to begin to call into question his leadership qualifications [okay, I know -- they were already called into question -- but you know what I mean]
This was going to be the outcome — NO OTHER CHOICE — unless they had surrendered. Just be thankful the captain was rescued unhurt.
The Minority Report — The HinzSight Report — TMRB.tv — MFOB “Miss Tagart, do you know the hallmark of the second-rater? It’s resentment of another man’s achievement.”
Actually, Jeff has put the most negative spin on
Flagstaff Sunday, April 12th at 11:02PM EDT (link)the rescue effort that I’ve heard. Nobody else has reported that
**Philips’s first leap… hadn’t worked out as well. With the Bainbridge in range and a rescue by his country’s Navy possible… Navy shooters onboard the destroyer [had] a clear shot at his captors — and none was taken. The guidance from National Command Authority — the President of the United States, Barack Obama — had been clear: a peaceful solution was the only acceptable outcome to this standoff unless the hostage’s life was in clear, extreme danger.**
If true, that was a double failure–failure by the President to give appropriate orders (a failure of resolve and judgment), and failure by the men on the scene to recognize that a hostage in the water was a man whose life was in mortal danger. Yet, it was not a fatal error, fortunately.
**The next day, a small Navy boat approaching the floating raft was fired on by the Somali pirates — and again no fire was returned and no pirates killed, thanks again to the cautious stance assumed by Navy personnel due to the combination of a lack of clear guidance from Washington, and a mandate from the Commander in Chief’s staff not to act until Obama, a man with no background of dealing with such issues and no track record of decisiveness, decided that any outcome other than a “peaceful solution” would be acceptable.**
Again, if true, this MOTIVATION was evidence of timidity on the part of the President, but not on the part of the seamen. We must recognize that they could well have had no way to fire back without possibly killing Captain Phillips. Good judgment on their part. No fatal mistake there.
There is no dishonor in waiting until the point in time when the probability of success far outweighs the chance of fatal error. If anything, the Presidential fault is probably that no action was taken at the time of the first SOS to PREVENT THE BOARDING. And too much obeisance has been paid to the dictum that ocean-going vessels can’t carry armed guards.
We, as inhabitants of the world, have allowed lawyers and insurance companies to tie our arms behind our backs, and we’ve ignored our leaders as they ignored common sense. If simple villagers can succeed as pirates, how long will it be until al Qaida moves into the business? And who is supporting and directing them right now? They show no evidence of having spent the now $100 million in ransom they’ve obtained. Where is it? Not in Somalia. Why have we bought into the idea that this is a local African cottage industry?
We have all failed to take the advice of Barney Fife, of all people. “Nip it in the bud” is good advice, no matter who offers it. Instead, we subscribe to “Ignore it; maybe it’ll go away.”
So, if Obama was really waiting to see which way the wind was blowing, he is a disaster. If he was letting his men get their best shot, he did the right thing. Either way, the rescue was successful because of the bravery and expertise of both military and civilian operators. It may have been made more difficult by Obama’s muddled message to the Navy, or it may have been enabled by his assurance to “save the life.” And we will probably never know which is the case.
Pluto, the Ninth Planet - Forever!
There was another possible outcome.
Flagstaff Sunday, April 12th at 11:12PM EDT (link)**This was going to be the outcome — NO OTHER CHOICE — unless they had surrendered. Just be thankful the captain was rescued unhurt.**
The pirates were definitely without a viable way out. But the Captain could have easily been killed had the rescue been mishandled. The men in the water knew what they were doing. My opinion is they took action at the first possible opportunity, regardless of Obama’s orders. After all, the Captain’s life was in imminent danger the entire time.
We don’t yet know if there was a true opportunity to rescue him when he went into the water unsuccessfully. If there were, it would be a Naval misstep, not one of Obama’s, unless they failed to act because of muddled instructions from the White House.
I would have been a disaster if we had allowed them to take Phillips to land. I expect we’ll eventually see video of the whole thing, unless it didn’t transpire as reported. (Or did it take place at night?)
Pluto, the Ninth Planet - Forever!
5, Hinz! (nt)
IJB Sunday, April 12th at 11:34PM EDT (link)Actually, Obama cocked this up...
mbecker908 Sunday, April 12th at 10:15PM EDT (link)See here for the reasons why.
I say let the pirates "vow revenge"
Amy Miller Sunday, April 12th at 10:24PM EDT (link)or “justice” or “disproportionate blowback” or whatever the hell they want…
“Hopefully Obama won’t cower…” …really? I’m personally hoping he doesn’t invite the Head Pirate to tea by the swingset to try and work out a peaceful solution to all of this nonsense.
Pish posh.
~A
Tweet Me, It’s Trendy!!!: @amy_m_miller
“Ah, yes, it’s the apocalypse alright. I always thought I’d have a hand in it.”
factual item
JustLeaveMeAlone Sunday, April 12th at 10:39PM EDT (link)There is no Somalia to offend.
There is no government in Somalia. There is an unrecognized coalition that claims it is the central government; it’s kinda like you decided to declare yourself dictator of America and no one paid any attention.
“To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical.” Thomas Jefferson
I see Addison has a co-conspirator
Neil Stevens Monday, April 13th at 3:22AM EDT (link)I guess this is the Officlal Talking Point?
Interesting.
Want to run for conservatives? Give.
There Is No Crisis
No, it's just unoriginality on their part...
Addison Monday, April 13th at 4:41AM EDT (link)…they couldn’t even be bothered to change the “it’s Easter” part.
Lame.
it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses
New: (-1.50, -5.33)
Those on the Bainbridge set an example for us all
6eorge Jetson Sunday, April 12th at 10:09PM EDT (link)Succeed in spite of Obama
George Jetson, I've staring at that darn pic
mbecker908 Sunday, April 12th at 10:16PM EDT (link)for I don’t know how long & I just got it. Heh. Great job.
Same here.
TNJim Sunday, April 12th at 10:53PM EDT (link)Just now saw the Gore on the mailbox. Hilarious!
“No. You can’t” -Moe Lane
I got that one off the internet...
6eorge Jetson Monday, April 13th at 12:27AM EDT (link)but I did find it while searching for photoshop material to produce the same idea, the Al Gore mansion powered by multiple power plants.
If I were to have done it myself, I would have used Al Gore’s actual mansion and had coal powered power plant smokestacks in the background in lieu of the nuclear plants. But that wasn’t worth the effort when this one was close enough to my vision.
After listening carefully to the Admirals briefing today
Hooah_Mac Sunday, April 12th at 10:23PM EDT (link)I know exactly what happened…
1. The Navy was given a specific set of circumstances in which they could take the necessary action.
2. Being tired of being the laughing stock of the world, the on scene commander determined those criteria had been met.
I know how the game is played, and what happened, and believe me, the result today was the result of someone with the brains to adhere to the letter of the law while violating the spirit of the law to do what needed to be done. It happens in the military from time to time, and usually the results are positive enough to preclude punishment.
In other words, today’s success was enabled not by Obama’s good efforts, but by his failure to tie the commander’s hands as tightly as he thought he had.
“You can call yourself a Republican, but if you’ve lost the support of Fred Thompson, you are an unholy thing that will be destroyed by a rain of fire.” -IMAO
So no invite for tea ?
SteveLA Sunday, April 12th at 10:28PM EDT (link)So the on scene commander will probably not be invited to the WH for tea and crumpets one would assume.
It will be interesting to see if this officer is identified by the Obama machine, and if not how long it takes for his/her identity to come out, and it will.
______________________________________
Competency over ideological purity
55555 Hooah Mac
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 11:08PM EDT (link)N/t
JE
That was my 50% take on it, too.
Flagstaff Sunday, April 12th at 11:56PM EDT (link)The other 50% says that it happened as reported on the news, which might only be a difference in mind-set.
Pluto, the Ninth Planet - Forever!
who knows how many other
mom2oneson Monday, April 13th at 2:18AM EDT (link)attacks that commander saved us from! Go Commander!!!!
Just to clear up somthing
Samsara Sunday, April 12th at 10:37PM EDT (link)They were not afloat in a rubber dingy. Fox and other outlets showed pictures. It was not a raft. It looked like a small submersible big enough for the whole crew. It had a pilot house. It could conceal the actions of the pirates within. That is what made the rescue so difficult and worthy of praise.
What is being said that is so difficult for you to grasp
Jack_Savage Sunday, April 12th at 11:54PM EDT (link)Is that Barack Obama dawdled, and shuffled his feet, and crossed his fingers. Because of that, when a clear opportunity presented itself early on in the hostage situation, the Navy was unable to take advantage of it. Understand?
Fortunately for Barack Obama, he has not had sufficient time to gut the Navy to a point that they were unable to save the captain. The rescue was made even more difficult by the rank amateur that now calls himself President.
Just to clear that up, you know.
Just to clear up nothing?
Jeff Emanuel Sunday, April 12th at 11:06PM EDT (link)Who called it a “dingy” or said the rescue wasn’t “worthy of praise”?
JE
Your right Jeff, nothing got cleared up.
Samsara Monday, April 13th at 11:07AM EDT (link)So your right Jeff, nothing got cleared up, and you reported factual errors. Is that the meaning of combat journalism, getting the story wrong and then combating anyone who tries to correct you?
Several people pointed out discrepancies between what you wrote and what was coming out of sources like the DOD and Fox. For example, did the Captain jump out of the boat a second time? The DOD said he didn’t. Fox said he didn’t. This was pointed out to you, but it didn’t help. Today I read the following over at Politico’s Arena under the by line Jeff Emanuel, Columnist, combat journalist and contributor to RedState.com:
“Like the crew of the Alabama, which took swift and decisive action to take back their own ship rather than wait for help from Washington that they knew could not be counted on, Captain Philips took matters into his own hands for the second time in three days this afternoon, leaping into the water to create a diversion and to allow the NSWC team to eliminate his captors.”
http://www.politico.com/arena/
I’m not sure when you posted this, but your right Jeff, nothing got cleared up, and you reported factual errors. Is that the meaning of combat journalism, getting the story wrong and then combating anyone who tries to help you get your facts straight?
Why don’t you clear this up? Post a correction over at Politico for the sake of your good name and the web site in your by line. Or you can yell at me some more, Your choice.
It is curious to me, samsara
Jack_Savage Monday, April 13th at 11:30AM EDT (link)Why you feel the strong urge to cast this in the most favorable light for Barack Obama. I really don’t feel you are in a position to criticize anyone, and surely not Jeff.
Why don’t you be perfectly honest and explain what you are doing here? You know, using the standards you are so eager to set for others when it comes to Obama?
Cat got your tongue, samsara?
Jack_Savage Monday, April 13th at 3:03PM EDT (link)I am getting curiouser and curiouser….
Great column read on Hugh Hewitt concentrates the DeVine mind
Mike gamecock DeVine Wednesday, April 15th at 8:20AM EDT (link)go to 2:03 into the podcast
http://townhall.com/talkradio/Show.aspx?RadioShowID=5&ContentGuid=3479d672-4ec4-40e2-bd52-4719a881652c
Jeff congrats and certainly I agree that if there was a confused, restraining standing order that prevented the rescue of the Captain earlier, then that is a cause for criticism on a matter that should be debated, and if found wanting, corrected forthwith as to future operations and standing orders. It is not clear to me that the standing order was restraining given the inherent nature of hostage taking nor that the SO actually prevented an earlier rescue.
But your knowledge is appreciated by me and should be by all. I just think we need more time to get all the facts out and time for evaluation and my purpose in my first pirate column on Sunday was that given the great result, even if it was delayed by Obama mistakes, (rather than lack of available resources, personelle and opportunity till Sunday), it was premature substantively and certianly not wise politically to step on the elation w/i 24-48 hours as the nation was celebrating along with the CINC. He is the only one we have and is the symbol of America.
I don’t think my bona fides as a critic of Obama can be questioned and even in the first piece I warned that Obama would face the overall piracy issue after this celebration, and we now see that is true with the new attacks on US flagged ships. My second piece addresses that, and I wrote a column a year ago urging President Bush to deal aggresively with Somalia and the pirates.
I must say that I am impressed with your analysis, esp when it is highlighted by a man I have such great respect for as Hugh Hewitt, who was the first national talk show host and blogger to highlight my work over 4 years ago.
I await more facts to evaluate whether this matter was handled correctly but even if it was not perfect execution over time, I do still exult in the result and the fact that even an inept democrat didn’t cause a bad result this time.
God bless the work you do brother and I appreciate the robust debate.
Mike DeVine’s Examiner.com, Charlotte Observer and The Minority Report columns
“One man with courage makes a majority.” - Andrew Jackson
Thank you, President Thumbsucker
wdgf Sunday, April 12th at 11:15PM EDT (link)Maybe we should send him a crate of pacifiers, before his thumb grows a fungus.
Jeff, Fox News' report on Capt's rescue is
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 1:59AM EDT (link)different then your post. You wrote:
“After four days of floating at sea on a raft shared with four Somali gunmen, Richard Philips took matters into his own hands for a second time. With the small inflatable lifeboat in which he was being held captive being towed by the American missile destroyer USS Bainbridge, and Navy Special Warfare (NSWC) snipers on the fantail in position to take their shots at his captors as soon as the command was given, the captive Captain of the M.V. Maersk-Alabama took his second leap in three days into the shark-infested waters of the Indian Ocean.”
But Fox News reports:
“One of them pointed an AK-47 at the back of Phillips, who was tied up and in “imminent danger” of being killed when the commander of the nearby USS Bainbridge made the split-second decision to order his men to shoot, Gortney said. Navy snipers took aim at the pirates’ heads and shoulders, he said.” (http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,514719,00.html)
It appears, at least according to Fox News, that Captain Phillips did not “take mattes into his own hands” a second time. Rather, he was tied up and had an AK-47 in his back.
Yawn...
IJB Monday, April 13th at 2:08AM EDT (link)The shifting story on this has already been discussed.
It doesn’t, however, change the ultimate point of this diary on iota.
all the ak47 repeating
mom2oneson Monday, April 13th at 2:15AM EDT (link)is CYA type of talk, that is so obvious, the way they keep repeating it
and your point is?
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 2:25AM EDT (link)Not sure I know what you’re getting at.
IJB, if Jeff is going to criticize the President
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 2:16AM EDT (link)over the rescue operation then I thought at least the story should be reported accurately. Otherwise, it undermines the credibility of other points made in Jeff’s post.
Like everyone here, I am grateful for Captain Phillips’ rescue. But until all the facts come in I do think folks should hold their fire. Otherwise, some may end up with egg on their face.
There are many things to criticize the President about. I don’t think this issue is one of them. It appears he handled the situation well. I say give credit where credit is due. The US Navy Seals acted heroically, Captain Phillips was courageous, the FBI responded carefully and methodically, and it looks like President Obama gave the military the proper room and discretion to make some tough calls.
Pot calling kettle black?
Husker Monday, April 13th at 2:38AM EDT (link)Modgopgal, I am still waiting for a reply to your out of context maligning of Michele Bachmann.
Husker, don't want to hijack this thread
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 2:49AM EDT (link)so I’m not going to go into great detail here. My point about Rep. Bachmann was not to “malign” her. As I have been very clear at Redstate, I am a moderate. Some of you might call me a RINO. I don’t feel comfortable with inflammatory rhetoric from either side. I am no fan of Rep. Bachmann, just as I am no fan of Rep. Maxine Waters. I don’t like Sean Hannity or Ann Coulter, just as I dislike Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow. To say I don’t like strong words such as “revolution” is not maligning Rep. Bachmann. Words like that from the right or the left don’t sit well with me. Not my style.
Being moderate doesn't mean being blind.
Husker Monday, April 13th at 3:12AM EDT (link)I have no problem with moderates. I do have a problem though with people who throw out half thought out blurbs without actually reading the entire context of a quote and having no facts to back it up. Words are just words. It’s the PC garbage that prevents anyone from having a blasted conversation with out having to worry that you’ve “offended” someone.
Jeff, I apologize for the threadjack.
it would be silly
ted40 Monday, April 13th at 2:19AM EDT (link)to claim that this incident demonstrates Obama’s genius. This is a tactical issue, and it goes well or poorly because of tactical decisions the President doesn’t usually make.
But it’s even sillier to claim that it reflects poorly on Obama. If Bush Derangement Syndrome was goofy, Obama Derangement Syndrome is equally goofy.
I disagree
scarlos Monday, April 13th at 2:49AM EDT (link)I think that Obama’s decision to “negotiate” with the pirates instead of simply giving the order to rescue the hostage is a poor reflection on his priorities and frame of mind.
There was nothing preventing such an operation from occurring on day one rather than day 4 (I think it was four) besides the president’s order not to do anything. It was only when a lower-echelon commander decided to bend the definition of the CiC’s order to justify taking action that anything happened.
So, from this i draw the conclusion that Obama’s priority in the situation was not to rescue the hostage, as if it was he would have gone ahead and ordered it. I think instead his priority was to prevent the standoff from harming him politically either at home or in the rest of the world.
And I cannot respect someone who puts their personal popularity over the greater Good (in this case making it very clear that Pirates should never dare touch another American ship).
How can anyone be surprised when an ideology that regards wealth as a cardinal sin cannot produce it?
A liberal is a person who thinks there is no problem that cannot be solved by consolidating more power in their own hands
What are your sources?
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 2:55AM EDT (link)You wrote:
“And I cannot respect someone who puts their personal popularity over the greater Good”
How do you know this? As I posted previously, none of us were privy to discussions military commanders had with the President. What if we learn that those commanders recommended to the President to wait the situation out? What if they advised the President to wait until they had a clear shot of the pirates? My point is, we don’t know all the details. To make assumptions that the President put lives at risk simply to boost his popularity is irresponsible and can not be supported in fact. None of knows the full story at this point.
I see I'm unclear here
scarlos Monday, April 13th at 3:32AM EDT (link)I was giving my response to ted40s implication that ODS was at play here rather than a logical argument that the incident reflects poorly on Obama.
As to whether or not we will know all the sources, I’m relatively sure our military doesn’t usually disclose information on how decisions are made for a while after the event (and almost certainly will be done through the Rhambo political filter), so I’m speculating on what I’ve gathered on this part.
I’m aware that there might have been some logical reason for such a delay, i just think that the probability of that being the case is small enough for me to make this assumption.
And judging from the official reports coming out of the white house (specifically their promises to do “something” about Somali piracy but not listing any specifics) gives me the impression that they’re playing this incident for politics.
In summary, I don’t know all the facts, but from what I’ve read I think the Obama administration was focusing on the politics. I may yet be proven wrong, but I don’t think it’s likely.
How can anyone be surprised when an ideology that regards wealth as a cardinal sin cannot produce it?
A liberal is a person who thinks there is no problem that cannot be solved by consolidating more power in their own hands
Well stated, ted40
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 2:41AM EDT (link)The US Navy and FBI appeared to have the latitude they needed to make the tough calls. From what Fox and other news are reporting, the President let military and hostage experts evaluate the situation, determine a prudent course of action, and those experts acted decisively and courageously to rescue the Captain.
To beat up on the President over this seems silly. None us is aware of the security briefings military command gave to the President. Nor do any us know what military and FBI officials on the scene recommended to the President. Those officials may have urged caution and to wait out the situation, which may explain why the Captain was not rescued until today.
Until the public knows all the facts, posts criticizing the President over the rescue appear premature. Why not wait until we know precisely what happened, hear from military command, and the Captain himself?
mod, the one thing we do know is that the Rules of Engagement were to use deadly force only if Capt. Phillips life was in imminent danger
AKSteveB Monday, April 13th at 3:08AM EDT (link)You are right, we don’t know the details or logistics, and at the end of the day, they got it right. My concern is that it was handled as a law enforcement issue rather than a military one. I see 3 dead pirates as the preferred outcome, while Pres. Obama clearly wanted them “Brought to justice.” It is too much of a kowtow to a “Citizen Of the World” way of doing things.
Hell is other people - Sartre
This is a point they will never address
Jack_Savage Monday, April 13th at 11:22AM EDT (link)“Borught to justice” is the key phrase. The rules of engagment were indeed clear, this is why when the captain jumped into the water the first time nothing was done, and it appears Obama’s betters on scene took matters into their own hands.
Don’t expect a reply from the sycophants on that issue, and the people who got it right were on scene, and got it right despite Obama.
The pirates aren't happy campers about this...
Husker Monday, April 13th at 3:18AM EDT (link)Per Reuters
Agreed, AKSteve
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 3:20AM EDT (link)“they got it right.” I just think beating up the President before all the facts are in could undermine his critics’ credibility. There are plenty of legitimate issues about which one can criticize the President — the bailouts and stimulus package are certainly where I strongly disagree with the President. I adamantly oppose the bailouts, including those negotiated under President Bush, and especially a bailout for Detroit.
At the end of the day, the US military and FBI acted heroically, the Captain was saved, and pirates were put on notice that they will be dealt with severely. I think those are all good things worth celebrating. President Obama may very well have called the right shots on this. We don’t know because we weren’t privy to the deliberations between military command and the White House.
I think in the end it makes critics of the President look petty if they go after him on the Captain’s rescue. It doesn’t hurt to say “job well done” when it is a job well done, even if those at Redstate have fundamental disagreements with the President on policy matters.
Try substituting President Bush's name
Justin_Case Monday, April 13th at 8:38AM EDT (link)for Obama’s in your post.
Sound familiar?
During the Bush Administration, leading Democrats did all they could to gain defeat for the US in Iraq. Had the Democrats been successful they would have caused the US to abandon another mission as we did in Vietnam while guaranteeing the re-enslavement of the Iraqi people. Nothing is as important to a Democrat as gaining power.
While your fairness is noted, I believe that President Obama does nothing without first making a political calculation. He felt it unnecessary to issue even a one sentence response that would have provided comfort to family members when questioned last week when the Captain was first taken hostage.
President Bush will never receive credit from Leftist opposition and those they have browbeaten into submission for his willingness to put his presidential legacy aside in order to overthrow the Taliban and Saddam Hussein and do what he believed was best for the security interests of the US.
The chickens will come home to roost and the Left in this country already knows it.
I do think that Obama's paen to the success in Iraq two weeks ago is part of the growing evidence
Mike gamecock DeVine Monday, April 13th at 8:46AM EDT (link)of the realization by most people that Iraq was a great success that can no longer be denied with a straight face. I agree with you about Obama’s likely calculations but am not critical of his actual actions, including the delay in any statements and their cryptic nature.
Mike DeVine’s Examiner.com, Charlotte Observer and The Minority Report columns
“One man with courage makes a majority.” - Andrew Jackson
thank you so much - nt
Mike gamecock DeVine Monday, April 13th at 8:44AM EDT (link)Mike DeVine’s Examiner.com, Charlotte Observer and The Minority Report columns
“One man with courage makes a majority.” - Andrew Jackson
Like you give a crap
Jack_Savage Monday, April 13th at 11:14AM EDT (link)About “his critics’ credibility”.
Man the trolls are really massing to cover for The Leader on this one
Neil Stevens Monday, April 13th at 3:26AM EDT (link)Hail Victory!
Hail Obama!
Hail Victory!
Hail Obama!
The Leader must not be questioned on Easter!
Want to run for conservatives? Give.
There Is No Crisis
Neil, I never said
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 3:35AM EDT (link)“the leader must not be questioned on Easter.” I said it is unwise to criticize how the pirate situation was handled until all the facts are out. How does that make me a troll? I’ve posted about how I think Palin has gotten a raw deal over recent press. I’ve noted my dislike for extreme voices on the left (and yes, on the right too). But because I state that I think folks should hold their fire on the Captain’s rescue until we know more doesn’t mean I hail Obama.
I think some of you here hate the President so much that he can do no right. I don’t hate the President. He is my President, though I did not vote for him, and I disagree with him on a number of issues. But I am happy he and the US military succeeded in bringing the pirate situation to a successful end. He appears, on this issue, to have acted appropriately. To say so does not make me a troll.
This is the 7th time you have made your point..
$peciallist Monday, April 13th at 3:55AM EDT (link)we get it
I don't think he was referring to you
scarlos Monday, April 13th at 4:07AM EDT (link)As you are making a relevant point (if somewhat controversial).
Well, when the stories come pouring in tomorrow, we’ll see what they say.
How can anyone be surprised when an ideology that regards wealth as a cardinal sin cannot produce it?
A liberal is a person who thinks there is no problem that cannot be solved by consolidating more power in their own hands
Here is an important point you seem to be ignoring
Jack_Savage Monday, April 13th at 11:17AM EDT (link)As I posted above:
Is that intially, Barack Obama dawdled, and shuffled his feet, and crossed his fingers. Because of that, when a clear opportunity presented itself early on in the hostage situation, the Navy was unable to take advantage of it.
Is that something you disagree with? If so, maybe you can tell us all why. And I stand by this comment as well:
Fortunately for Barack Obama, he has not had sufficient time to gut the Navy to a point that they were unable to save the captain. The rescue was made even more difficult by the rank amateur that now calls himself President.
I meant
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 3:38AM EDT (link)“all the facts are in.” Sorry its late.
modgopgal
Neil Stevens Monday, April 13th at 3:55AM EDT (link)1. I wasn’t replying to you.
2. You need to use the Reply To This buttons
Want to run for conservatives? Give.
There Is No Crisis
Oh, sorry, Neil
modgopgal Monday, April 13th at 3:57AM EDT (link)I misunderstood.
No problem, and thank you for using the button (nt)
Neil Stevens Monday, April 13th at 4:21AM EDT (link)Want to run for conservatives? Give.
There Is No Crisis
What I Saw ...
benning Monday, April 13th at 8:03AM EDT (link)on the evening news - ABC, I think - was the talking head introducing the news segment on Phillips rescue with the words (approx.) “At the direction of President Obama.” And I could only shake my head. The interview with the commander of the rescue team - it was some officer aboard ship - put paid to any notion that Obama had done anything.
BHO: A MSM Creature!
Sheesh!
“If I knew what I was doing would I be here?”
Conflicting accounts.
I like to make crude sexual jokes. Monday, April 13th at 9:01AM EDT (link)The lifeboat wasn’t inflatable. It was a small, enclosed fiberglass boat capable of seating at least 12 people in very close quarters.
Earlier reports hinted that there were no Navy personnel on board our ships early in the crisis qualified to storm the boat, or to execute sniper fire in a hostage situation.
Reports yesterday suggested that the SEAL team arrived via parachute drop from a base in Africa after the crisis began.
Reports yesterday conflicted. I didn’t hear that he jumped out of the boat again. I read that he asked to relieve himself and moved to one side of the boat to do so, leaving clear shots on the 3 pirates. But I also read account where he was seated and a pirate had an AK-47 jammed into his back and was menacing him at the time of the order to fire.
Reports suggest the President gave at least one shoot to kill order. Some reports say he gave two such commands. One Friday and one Saturday and that the Navy Commander on the scene had the full authority of the President to give the command to fire as he saw fit.
You know what's really funny, now that I think about it?
Jack_Savage Monday, April 13th at 4:21PM EDT (link)The only country that actually believes they will see some military action from a Democrat President is Somalia.
If I worked for an aspirin factory, I would be calling in sick right about now…
Hey JACKo
I like to make crude sexual jokes. Monday, April 13th at 7:45PM EDT (link)Ask Pakistan if they are seeing any military action? Ask them if AlQuada and the Taliban are seeing any missile strikes. Ask them is they are increasing recently despite protest from the Pakistani government.
The difference between Bush and Obama is already crystal clear. Obama isn’t looking for trouble, but where trouble exists he is confronting it. If Bush was President and Somalia pirates attacked, his people would have argued Somalia wasn’t a target rich environment,and Bush would have instead invaded Venezuela.
getting desperate -- aren't you
David Hinz Monday, April 13th at 7:49PM EDT (link)you already have your “I got banned at RedState” diary ready to post at dKos, and your comments here are of such insignificance that the directors will not look up from dinner to swat your sorry a$$ away.
So, each succeeding post get shriller and shriller — like a petulant little boy crying, “LOOK AT ME! LOOK AT ME!
We should leave you here just to watch you cry.
The Minority Report — The HinzSight Report — TMRB.tv — MFOB “Miss Tagart, do you know the hallmark of the second-rater? It’s resentment of another man’s achievement.”
You know, saying that we are doing missile strikes in Pakistan
janis Monday, April 13th at 7:55PM EDT (link)despite the protests of the government there doesn’t really seem to me to be a smart thing to brag about. Those nice Pakistani fellas have at least 100 nukes or so and if the radicals take over, your sorry little butt is just as much on the line as a target as any of those on the right.
So, ya know, a word to the wise…..
Oh, sorry, I shouldn’t make fun of the ethically challenged.
I am very confused, goofus
Jack_Savage Monday, April 13th at 7:55PM EDT (link)Is your President the prince of peace, messiah of the misunderstood of the world, asker of forgiveness for arrogance - you know, the guy you voted for? Or is he the FISA loving, bomb dropping, Predator flying, throat slitting madman that…well….you guys said George Bush was?
Or is he just the guy who doesn’t know enough to understand what is going on, and the military is using the tremendous void caused by his ignorance to CONTINUE do the right thing until he figures out whether you need to dial “9″ to get an outside line from the White House? You know all the stuff you are so proud of is what W was doing while Obama was still on Chicago a.m. talk radio and having tea with Bill Ayers.
Very confusing. Very.
Gibbs told the truth this time
James_Reynolds Tuesday, April 14th at 9:06AM EDT (link)when he was asked why Obama did not speak publicly or comment on the piratres situation before the rescue he said ” we had to protect the presidents image……wait let me rephrase that”
aren't T_Ps usually obscured in press releases...
DONTREADONME Tuesday, April 14th at 9:01PM EDT (link)from the Pentagon and especially anything to do with the Seals. Of course, If you do not know what letter the _ represents here I would like to keep it that way but if not, these are usually classified and the mission’s exact details would have been altered to prevent the release of information that relates to T_Ps. So, can we expect that the people who were in the Corps or the Navy to have an inside track on what most likely took place here.
So ultimately, JE a lot of the questions raised by people about your retelling of the story, you may in fact be more accurate in relation to the T_Ps than what would be reported by the press? Anyway, there is a question mixed in there with that statement.
“The UN is right? you can’t be any more “un”; Than you are right now, the UN is undone, Another mushroom cloud, another smoking gun, The threat is real, the Locust King has come, Don’t tell me the truth; I don’t like what they’ve done, Just give me ammo for the United Abominations”-Megadeth