Topic: Admirals

Senator Lindsey Graham appears on "Meet the Press" to declare that the "mothership of terrorism" is sinking following the death of the Iranian leader. Graham praises the military plan developed by Admiral Cooper and emphasizes that the goal is to eliminate Iran's ability to sponsor global terrorism. The hosts mock Graham's delivery, suggesting he was overly rehearsed or nervous during the interview.

Dvorak issues a "mea culpa" regarding a newsletter error concerning the military rank of the U.S. Surgeon General. He explores the history of the position, noting it transitioned from Commodore to Admiral in 1871, and discusses the protocol of saluting these public health officials despite their lack of traditional naval command.

A visit to the Pacific War Museum in Fredericksburg, Texas, prompts a discussion on Admiral Nimitz and the "loose lips sink ships" propaganda of World War II. The hosts reflect on how easily citizens surrender free speech rights during wartime and criticize the historical firebombing of Tokyo as a "senseless" act against civilians.

The concept of "Just War Theory" and the "supreme crime" of unprovoked aggression are explored in the context of international law. The hosts pivot to a historical debate regarding the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, arguing that the United States provoked Japan through trade wars and oil embargos. They mention the Pacific War Museum in Fredericksburg and the strategic movement of U.S. aircraft carriers prior to the attack.

Memorial Day donations included a tribute to the late Admiral Richard T. Gaskell, whose navigation slide rule was previously gifted to one of the hosts. The segment emphasized the importance of "sustaining donations" (subscriptions) in providing a financial base for the show during difficult economic times.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki and Admiral John Kirby face criticism over the terminology used to describe Americans remaining in Afghanistan. While Psaki labels the term "stranded" as irresponsible, Kirby acknowledges that Americans do get stranded globally and the military facilitates safe passage. Private groups in the Texas Hill Country are reportedly working 24/7 to coordinate civilian flights for green card holders via Turkish Air.

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who holds the rank of Vice Admiral in the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, gave a brief address to graduates. His remarks touched on the journey of the students and lighthearted references to boba tea, though critics questioned the military-style branding of his bureaucratic role.

Scott Adams used his online platform to sarcastically mock Admiral William McRaven’s criticism of President Trump’s Syria policy. Adams joked about the absurdity of the U.S. being unable to defend against Russia without the help of the Kurds or Greece. The segment highlights the risks of using heavy sarcasm on the internet, as it is often misinterpreted by those without a sense of humor.

Former U.S. Attorney Joe DiGenova alleges a "brazen plot" by the FBI and contractors to illegally surveil Americans and frame Donald Trump. He claims the FISA court has already communicated findings of illegal spying to the Justice Department. Admiral Mike Rogers is credited as a hero for discovering the abuse and reporting it to the court.

The Guardian reported on potential calls to remove the statue of Admiral Nelson in London, signaling that the statue-toppling trend is spreading internationally. The hosts suggest that controversial historical art should be moved to museums rather than destroyed. They also note the presence of a Che Guevara statue in the San Francisco Bay Area despite his controversial history.

Former CIA analyst Larry Johnson suggests that while a traditional wiretap may not have occurred, intelligence agencies likely used "Stingray" devices to monitor communications at Trump Tower. Johnson claims NSA Director Admiral Rogers visited Trump Tower to warn the president-elect about the misuse of surveillance authorities, leading to calls for Rogers' dismissal by other intelligence officials.

A clip from the children's educational cartoon "Liberty's Kids" is highlighted for its use of the historical nickname "Black Dick" in reference to Admiral Richard Howe of the British Royal Navy. The hosts find humor in the repetitive use of the name within a juvenile program, noting that the nickname historically referred to Howe's dark temperament.

The Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov was mocked in the media for belching black smoke and traveling with a tugboat through the English Channel. Speculation arises that the aging vessel could be used in a false flag operation where it is intentionally sunk to provoke a diplomatic or military crisis with the West.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg confirmed a significant military buildup in Poland, Estonia, and the Black Sea region to counter Russian influence. Concurrently, Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland reportedly pressured Cyprus and Malta to deny refueling rights to the Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov. The Russian fleet, which relies on steam turbines rather than nuclear power, faced logistical hurdles as it moved through the Mediterranean.

Admiral Mike Rogers acknowledged that increased internal monitoring at the NSA has negatively impacted employee morale. In a related anecdote, an intelligence community contact advised against learning Arabic, as it leads to difficult assignments in the Middle East. Instead, learning Mandarin is recommended for those seeking more strategic roles within the modern intelligence landscape.

During a congressional hearing, Admiral Mike Rogers was questioned about the security implications of Hillary Clinton's private email server. Rogers stated that from a foreign intelligence perspective, such a server represents a significant "opportunity" for adversaries. He was asked to check NSA records for any communications between agency officials and Clinton's private account.

The transition of government officials like Jay Carney and various military admirals into news correspondent roles is highlighted as a form of legalized propaganda. Rear Admiral Kirby warns the public to "steel themselves" for a conflict against ISIL that could last for years.

A report highlights the "explosion of perks" for top military brass, noting that the Navy has nearly as many admirals as ships. Three and four-star generals receive entourages, personal chefs, and private $60 million Gulfstream jets while the Department of Defense prepares for civilian furloughs. This "elite circle" of military leadership is criticized for maintaining luxurious lifestyles at taxpayer expense.

A clip from the children's cartoon "Liberty's Kids" features a double entendre regarding Admiral Howe, whom sailors referred to as "Black Dick." The clip was highlighted on the television show "The Soup."

Adam Curry plays a clip from a State Department briefing where a reporter challenges Victoria Nuland and Admiral Mullen on the lack of disciplinary action following the Benghazi security failures. The hosts mock the bureaucratic language used to describe "performance inadequacies."