Dear Sir:
I am a civilian writing on behalf of Cpl. Joshua Belile who wrote and performed the song "Hadji girl" for some Marines. First of all our constitution allows such freedom of speech. Our military fights for our freedoms and this Marine has the same right as the rest of us do. He said nothing against our servicemen, our country, or Iraqi civilians.
Let me explain that the reason that this song is so funny is because it is about a Marine who falls in love at first sight with a woman who sets him up for an ambush and then he does something completely out of character for a Marine by adopting the tactic of the enemy in using a human shield. Even an American civilian woman can see this and find it humorous.
Secondly, if it offends members of CAIR, a Muslim group that is supportive of terrorism, then no apology was in order. Give these people one inch, and they will demand a mile--just as they have done in stating that they "expect that those who participated in this incident will be identified and disciplined appropriately."
I am asking you to see this situation for what it is, entertainment, dealing w/ war, rather than being persuaded by the CAIR group that Muslim feelings are being hurt and punishment is due. You have your reputation of excellence and this song has done no damage to that. What is doing damage to the reputation of the Marine Corps are the lies that people like this group bring to the attention of the news media.
"Given the recent allegations that U.S. Marines massacred Iraqi civilians in Haditha and other areas, we need to determine if this video is what it purports to be," said CAIR Executive Director Nihad Awad. You see what I mean???
It grieves my heart that this was the statement given in response by the USMC: "The inappropriate actions of a few individuals should not be allowed to tarnish the reputation of all American military personnel." If you really feel the need to be about the business of public relations with CAIR, you might politely tell them that your man has apologized to Muslims; and no disciplinary action is needed in the matter as he has freedom of speech ensured by our US Constitution. Furthermore you may inform any representatives of CAIR that they should direct their disapproval of killing children to the Muslim insurgents who do that regularly.
Very sincerely,
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