President Barack Obama is in my home town today. He’s in Jacksonville, North Carolina at Camp Lejeune. Traffic in Jacksonville is crazy on Fridays as it is, as many of the base personnel get to go home a bit early. The phrase “who opened the gates” must have originated on Marine or Lejeune Blvd in Jacksonville on a Friday afternoon. I can’t even imagine adding the President’s motorcade to the mix… thank God I don’t live there anymore.
But this post isn’t about the traffic, its about respect. And its about time someone called President Obama out on it. As the television feed broadcasted from Camp Lejeune, you saw a room full of uniformed Marines, patiently waiting for their Commander-in-Chief. And waiting… and waiting… and waiting…
Yes, like every other speech this man has given since becoming President… like every press conference… like every interview… just like the press Secretary’s briefing everyday… IT STARTED LATE. Every time this man or anyone in his administration step up to a podium, they are late. Should we believe that the leader of the free world can’t afford a watch? Should we believe that the administration is too incompetent to tell time? With the most advanced Jet in the world with fighter escort, a multi-billion dollar helicopter, a motorcade and your own bodyguards at your disposal, are you telling me you can’t get somewhere on time? Or do you just not give a damn about the people who are waiting for you?
When I was raised in Jacksonville, North Carolina, I was raised with values and respect. Respect my fellow man, especially the brave men and women of Camp Lejeune. They would never keep me waiting in defense of our nation… so don’t I at least owe it to them to be on time?
When someone is late to a speech, dinner, job interview, or any other function is shows a lack of respect for the other people there. When it happens consistently and repeatedly, it shows a willful disdain for the audience. It shows shows no appreciation for their time and a belief that you are better than they are. It is absolutely rude, and someone should tell our President it is unacceptable. A C.O. wouldn’t tolerate it from his Marines, and it should not be acceptable for the Commander-in-Chief.
Maybe in Chicago things are different. But in Jacksonville, people are raised with values and respect. I suggest President Obama learn that the next time he comes to visit any of our brave servicemen or for that matter when he wishes to speak to anyone else.
President Obama, if you don’t respect the people of a nation or those defending freedom around the world, how are we supposed to believe you can lead? You work for us. You are paid by the sweat of our collective brows. I suggest you realize that and act accordingly. A little respect goes a long way, and your total lack of respect for the American people is disgraceful.
Show up one time! Start speaking on time! The Marines deserve at least that much. So do the rest of us.
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