Wisdom from Admiral James Stickdale, USN (1981):
"Americans don't seem to grasp the politics and psychology of terrorism and hostage taking...
"I entitled my article 'Extortionist Theater.' I see this whole scene as a modern art form, a vile art but like most arts, fed and supported by its audience. Of course actors are needed too. In the recent show [Iranian hostage crisis], America furnished both the actors and audience....
"To any outlaw group or government with that natural bent for extortion, this whole scene spelled one thing: gold mine! Just swoop in and grab a group of Americans, get the show in the news, get the hands wringing and the tears flowing, and write your own ticket."
From Thoughts of Philosophical Fighter Pilot by James Stockdale (POW in the Hanoi Hilton for 7-1/2 years)
Think about how you're playing the role as audience. Terrorism needs an audience. And now we have everything live and on the Internet and interactive.
Make no mistake. This is a show of power determined to accomplish two objectives: 1) gain more recruits [attracted to the power], 2) incite a military response in which civilians on their side are killed and filmed--to make the people of the West turn against themselves.
My husband (USMC) has done three combat tours to Iraq and two to Afghanistan. I have seen this shit play out again and again and again. I normally don't comment in TRP because I don feel it's appropriate for me as a RPW to spout off in here, but this issue is big.
Gents, you need to be smart. Everyone around you will be led by the nose. Look to Facebook for evidence of this. Be smarter than this. Lead.