Mistress Carrie's Blog


Why you don't joke around at Arlington National Cemetery!

by Mistress Carrie , posted Nov 20 2012 10:48PM
Over the last few days, many people have asked me what I thought about "the girl from Plymouth". You know, the one yelling and flipping off the camera at Arlington National Cemetery, in front of the sign that says Silence and Respect. Lindsey Stone is her name and if you didn't know it before, after the news tonight, you will. This story has taken on a life of it's own, and it's only getting worse for Lindsey. Her and her co-worker, who were on a business trip last month in DC, when they visited Arlington and took the photo, are now both on unpaid leave from their jobs. The organization Living Independantly Forever, had to release a statement on their Facebook page condemning the photo, and stating that their employees actions do not reflect the company, or their stance on Veterans etc. There is even a page on Facebook, asking for their firing, and it has over 10,000 "likes" already.

So, how do I feel about it? Well, up until she posted the photo on her Facebook page, and all hell broke loose, I think Lindsey Stone was one of the luckiest people on the planet.

First, she is a woman, born in the U.S.A.., which the odds are against in the grand scheme of things. She could have been born in Afghanistan, China, or in the Congo, where she would have led a very different life. She could have been born in N. Korea, or Iran where I'm sure they do not look kindly at disrespecting their war heroes. Here in the U.S.A.., what she did isn't a crime, it's protected by the First Amendment.

Second, in one of the most tragic economies America has ever seen, Lindsey is employed, at what looks like an amazing organization, that is really helping people and changing the world for the better. How many of us can say that about where we work?

And finally Lindsey, judging by her actions alone, has made it through life without knowing anyone in uniform. That has to be the case right? I mean, how could she have family who has served in previous wars and do what she did? Or, how could she know someone now that is currently serving, after 10+ years of war and terror, and make the trip to Arlington and do what she did?

She's never had to say goodbye, or cry herself to sleep worrying. She's never packed a care package, or written a love letter to someone far away. She's never had to pray for a Skype call, or be afraid of the doorbell in the middle of the night. She's never had to see someone she loves go and look evil in the eye, only to come home a different person.



And most importantly, she's never attended a funeral, where a flag is given to a crying widow, or mother "On behalf of a grateful nation".



She doesn't  know anyone buried at Arlington, except for the few that she learned about in school like JFK. She probably doesn't even know what Section 60 is. 

How lucky for her!

She's part of the 99% that don't have someone they love, in harms way. How amazing for her. Up until a month ago, Lindsey Stone was living the American dream. The dream where Memorial Day and Veterans Day means long weekends off for BBQing, beer drinking, and good deals on new cars.  Up until a month ago, Lindsey Stone wasn't afraid. Now, as the hours go by, she learns more and more that her "innocent" joke, wasn't a joke at all. Somehow, she made it through the gates at Arlington, and wasn't overcome with the sadness and loss that everyone else feels. But, now she feels sadness and loss... and regret too I bet. 

When I first saw that photo, I thought it was a photo shopped joke, or a cruel prank. I even gave her the benefit of the doubt that she could be the victim in all of this. That someone took her picture and put it in front of that sign, to try and make her look bad. Obviously, that is not the case. This photo will follow her for the rest of her life. Every time she applies for a job, or applies for a loan it will come up. When her kids Google their Mom, that will be the first picture they see. Her name will be remembered, and she'll be treated differently by anyone who remembers... forever. 

She released a statement on Facebook saying that it was a joke, and that they were just acting like "douchebags"...and that they meant no disrespect. Lindsey, you're right... you were acting like douchebags. You came up with the idea for the picture, you took the picture, and then you posted the picture online, and at no time did you think for a second... THIS ISN'T A GOOD IDEA!?! How comfy that little bubble that you live in must be!

Do I think that Lindsey Stone is the most evil person in the world? No! I am confident that there are people way more evil than she is. Arlington is filled with the bodes of those who died fighting that evil.

Do I think she is one of the dumbest? Yes, she probably is. 

Like I said, up until she posted that picture, Lindsey Stone was one of the luckiest people on the planet... 
 




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11/20/2012 11:53PM
OOPS
She will spend the rest of her life trying to live this down. Now the world knows her and will have no mercy.
11/21/2012 12:02AM
despicable
Well written description of this STUPID event. Disrespecting a fallen soldier is a hard thing to wrap my head around. Being a veteran and a flag waver and some one that cannot manage not to get teared up at any national cemetery this upsets me, what upsets me is that she thought it was funny. Where could that come from? I'm quite sure she is no terrorist or or even anti American, she made a very STUPID mistake and the fall out will be enormous for her, I almost feel sorry for her. having to go through life that dumb must be hard.
11/21/2012 12:10AM
Forest Wood, US Navy Submarine Veteran
You have very eloquently stated what so many are trying to say on Facebook. I visited Arlington this summer, and tough in general ther is a certain quietness in cemeteries, at Arlington there is more. There is a profound sense of awe at the sheer numbers of my brothers in arms who are laid to rest here. When you visit, the sense of loss is almost overwhelming. And the desire to respect those men, women and children that are at rest there is almost palpable. I don't understand how she could not have felt that. Now she will pay the price for her actions.
11/21/2012 12:10AM
Forest Wood, US Navy Submarine Veteran
You have very eloquently stated what so many are trying to say on Facebook. I visited Arlington this summer, and tough in general ther is a certain quietness in cemeteries, at Arlington there is more. There is a profound sense of awe at the sheer numbers of my brothers in arms who are laid to rest here. When you visit, the sense of loss is almost overwhelming. And the desire to respect those men, women and children that are at rest there is almost palpable. I don't understand how she could not have felt that. Now she will pay the price for her actions.
11/21/2012 12:15AM
USAF MSgt Ret. and Vet
Carrie thank you for writing this! Simply she has a right to do this act in such a place as Arlington, but with all acts she has not taken in to account the feelings of others, others that have served, others that that have given everything for Her, so that she may do this. and now she will know that with every act comes the consequence. I have a son that lies at Fort Logan cemetery in Colorado, so I can be touched by this for the good as well as the bad. I hope she has learned from this.
11/21/2012 12:21AM
To: Relax
You need to get over it when I kick you in the head! It's sympathizers like you that have no morals or respect that has let the world I was raised in turn to sh!t!!
11/21/2012 12:33AM
really?
she didn't do anything wrong! the only thing wrong is the hard-on people seem to have for the military industrial complex.
11/21/2012 12:36AM
Gold Star Mother
So very well written. I hope that she never knows the pain that so many of us have. She was stupid and extremely disrespectful. Maybe someday she will acknowledge and make amends. Her life, I'm sure is tough right now, but no tougher than the soldiers overseas, the Mom's or Dad's left behind to raise the kids or the families that hopefully never get the knock on the door we did. Free speech is yours, maybe someday you will understand and respect how you got it!
11/21/2012 12:39AM
USN LCDR Ret RIP (2001)
As the son of a Navy vet that is buried at Arlington...........had I witnessed this, I would be in jail for assault. Something tells me that my bail would have been covered by other veterans families.
11/21/2012 12:43AM
That's Karma!
Yes she has the right to free speech however, so do her employers and millions of Americans that are exercising their right to that same freedom. I hope she learns that actions carry consequences. Being raised an Air Force brat and watching my father serving in Vietnam the only thing I can feel is complete disgust for these two morons. Since Lindsey chose to be so vile and post it for all to see, I hope she gets what she deserves.
11/21/2012 1:24AM
Okay
So she took the picture. That is one thing, but the fact she looked at it and said to her buddy who is NOT pictured, let's post this for the world to see speaks volumes. Let this dumb "woman" marry a soldier who doesn't return from his "duty" around the world and see if she feels like flipping off the camera then....
11/21/2012 1:26AM
Here is what YOU can do . .
Lindsey Stone was working for her employer on October 19, 2012, when she struck the infamous pose at the Tomb of the Unknown Solder at Arlington National Cemetery. I resented her and her actions both as an American, and as the son of Lt. Colonel Melvin W. Crotty, U.S. Army, who is interred there, with my Mom. It is my understanding that Stone and her photographer have been suspended without pay pending the organization's inquiry. She works for LIFE of Cape Cod, an independent living community for senior citizens. PLEASE join me in writing to the director of that organization, and insisting upon the immediate termination of Lindsey Stone, a disgrace to America. The Director's email address is: diane@lifecapecod.org I will post my letter for your reference. Thank you. WE can make a difference! Write a comment... Lisa VanHolsbeke 2 hours ago near Tucson, AZ To all my FB friends, I'm taking a friend's advice speak out against the disrespectful photograph of Lindsey Stone at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery (thanks to my friend Jim Crotty). Ms. Stone's employer is LIFE of Cape Cod. This is the organization for which Ms. Stone is actively working by accompanying elderly residents of LIFE to Arlington National Cemetery. ...See More Like · Robert Walker and 6 others like this. Jim Crotty Absolutely wonderful Lisa . . . so reasonable, beautifully expressed . . so . . you! Yhank you, and I honor the memory and USAF service of Colonel Earl E. Fairchild, USAF,Ret.) Thank you and your family for being his support unit! 2 hours ago · Like · 1 Jim Crotty I "typoed" on the email address . . just one "n" in "diane" . . sorry, please re-send any emails to LIFE. Thanks so much! 2 hours ago · Like Write a comment... My email: Miss Diane, my name is Jim Crotty. I am the son of Lt. Colonel Melvin W. Crotty and Olga Giorgi Crotty. My Dad was a career U.S. Army Officer. He was from Malden, MA and my Mom, from Lynn, MA. I was born in Waltham, MA. As a native Son of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the son of honorable, distinguished American parents . . WHO ARE INTERRED IN ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY . . I join millions of other Americans in requesting that you terminate the employment of your most disgraceful employee, Lindsey Stone. If not only for the sake of principle, for the sake of your organization's reputation. As long as you maintain her on your roles, paid or not, it is perceived by us that you condone her actions at Arlington on October 19, 2012. I look forward to your response. Respectfully submitted, Jim Crotty
11/21/2012 1:28AM
Hit the nail on he head....
I have been trying to put into words exactly how I feel about all of this mess and I have to say you took the jumbled words out of my head and formed my complete thoughts. Thank you for straightening that out in my head and thank you Veterans for servingour country, thank you to those who have lost their lives, and thank you to those still serving. While I know a lot of people these days seem to not care I for one do care and we love each and every one of our service members.
11/21/2012 1:30AM
Arlington is not public property
It's owned by the Dept of the Army.
11/21/2012 1:31AM
Bit too far
Both sides. Just a bit too far. Disrespectful, yes. Stupid, yes. Did she think of the consequences, no. That said, just because someone does something like this, does not make them a terrible person. Incredible to see all the Salem witch trial burning going on over something so blatantly dumb. I think we have bigger things to worry about. She screwed up. Everyone does from time time. Cut her some slack and move on. I'm sure her intention was not to insult all the people who have given their lives. It was to poke fun at a sign. Yes. I think it's that simple.
11/21/2012 1:31AM
That should read it's not private property.
Error...
11/21/2012 1:36AM
Wow, I'm at a loss.
I remember when pictures were on film and you really had to think about it if the picture was worth taking. These kids these days with their digital cameras, stupid ADD and OCD and "lets take a picture of me doing this and that..." I'm honestly surprised this smart girl didn't plank herself on top of a Veteran's gravestone or photo bomb the soldiers on guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier. Every soldier who died in battle is buried there since the founding of this country, am I correct? I really don't think she knows how stupid she was acting. I remember doing stupid stuff when I was young. Oh wait, she's not a stupid teenager or a child. She's a grown adult woman. Even when I was a kid and stupid as sin I knew to respect the military, the dead and especially the fallen soldiers. They get extra special respect. I guess whoever she carpooled with to get there was just as clueless as her because they were the ones that took the stupid picture. My father was in the Air Force and I give to disabled veterans groups and help out whenever and wherever I can because I care and understand their sacrifice. When I meet veterans I wish I could salute them but since I didn't serve in any branch of the military it doesn't feel right so I don't. I can't hear taps or the national anthem without tearing up. I don't think this woman feels any of that or else she wouldn't have done it, had the picture taken, liked it and posted it on Facebook with a stupid caption to show how (cool?) she is. God bless her. I hope she wins at whatever it is she's trying to do with her life. Maybe if she breeds she can pass on that nugget of life lesson learned to her offspring so they won't make the same mistake mommy did one silly day.
11/21/2012 1:38AM
Wow, I'm at a loss
I remember when pictures were on film and you really had to think about it if the picture was worth taking. These kids these days with their digital cameras, stupid ADD and OCD and "lets take a picture of me doing this and that..." I'm honestly surprised this smart girl didn't plank herself on top of a Veteran's gravestone or photo bomb the soldiers on guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier. Every soldier who died in battle is buried there since the founding of this country, am I correct? I really don't think she knows how stupid she was acting. I remember doing stupid stuff when I was young. Oh wait, she's not a stupid teenager or a child. She's a grown adult woman. Even when I was a kid and stupid as sin I knew to respect the military, the dead and especially the fallen soldiers. They get extra special respect. I guess whoever she carpooled with to get there was just as clueless as her because they were the ones that took the stupid picture. I give to disabled veterans groups and help out whenever and wherever I can because I care. When I meet veterans I wish I could salute them but since I didn't serve in any branch of the military it doesn't feel right so I don't. I can't hear taps or the national anthem without tearing up. I don't think this woman feels any of that or else she wouldn't have done it, had the picture taken, liked it and posted it on Facebook with a stupid caption to show how (cool?) she is. God bless her. I hope she wins at whatever it is she's trying to do with her life. Maybe if she breeds she can pass on that nugget of life lesson learned to her offspring so they won't make the same mistake mommy did one silly day.
11/21/2012 1:39AM
DIE BICH
TITLE SAYS IT ALL
11/21/2012 1:40AM
Thanks Carrie from a US Army combat vet
Very well said, and thank you for taking the time to write such a coherent response to one of the most disgraceful actions I have ever seen.
11/21/2012 1:56AM
Thoughtless
It's one thing to think of doing this, or maybe even talk about it privately after having the the grounds (wouldn't it have been funny if..."; however, it is an entirely different thing to actually pose for the picture, take it, and then still to think it is funny enough to post it in a very public forum. Freedom of speech comes with the responsibility to use that freedom without needlessly or intentionally offending others. Having been fortunate enough to have shown my respects at Arlington, I can say that the senses of awe and reverence I felt there would preclude any such irresponsible thoughts from entering my head let alone giving me the heart to act on them. Ultimately this is just the foolish act of a thoughtless person without care. I don't know if she deserves to be fired or threatened with violence as a consequence, but I hope she learns from all of this negative feedback that she has made an egregious mistake for which at least a public apology seems to be a step in the right direction.
11/21/2012 1:57AM
From a Iraq War Widow's POV
Is Lindsay Stone stupid? YES, I believe she is, and I also believe she lacks the general respect that most people have when they visit Arlington. I've been there twice myself, both times on Memorial Day. The last time I was there a soldier who was severely wounded with a leg gone stood up for the changing of the guard. It broke my heart to see him struggle to get on his one leg with the help of crutches. It amazes me how different two different people understand Arlington. Its obvious to me that Lindsey Stone has not one clue about Arlington and what it means, and yet this young soldier (oldest brother of 5) knew exactly what Arlington means. Whatever in life Lindsey Stone gets, she deserves it. OH and I hope it hurts every darn day, cause I know that young soldier was in pain when he was standing!
11/21/2012 2:03AM
Couldn't have said it better
I've read about what this woman has done and I'm disgusted. She should spend some time at a VA hospital taking care of our heroes who fight to defend her freedom to do dumb things. She should also spend some time with some of the families of the heroes buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
11/21/2012 2:48AM
Discrace
Myself being an Iraqi vet am appalled at this photo. This woman is an absolute disgrace to all Americans. I say she should be deported because if she doesn't like this country enough to where she would do something as idiotic as that, then she can leave. It just goes to prove that stupidity knows no bounds
11/21/2012 2:58AM
Why throw in the jab at JFK?
Not cool
11/21/2012 5:00AM
Chill out.
All the people saying everyone should "chill out" about what she did etc. Yes Im sure she wasnt smart enough to realize how disrespectful she was being. But lets let someone walk by and spit in your face, and then when you say "What the heck?!" we'll tell YOU to chill out and see how YOU feel about that sentiment. Its not like this was some random monument its a GRAVEYARD. If she didn't realize how disrespectful and hurtful that would be than thats on her, and ANYTHING that comes about because of the picture is all on her too, and she rightfully EARNED it.
11/21/2012 5:06AM
Glass Houses
What she did was dumb...just plain dumb. But all the calls for her termination and harassment for years to come only remind me of the biblical adage, "let he who is without sin cast the first stone." The girl has been through enough--
11/21/2012 5:39AM
your right
to all of the service persons and their loved ones,,,, thank you for your sacrifice ,, thank you for your service,,,.... you understand better than anyone ''her right'',,,, and you also understand that the bottom line is ..... while you may have the right to do something,,,, that doesn't always mean, it's right to do
11/21/2012 6:13AM
Holier than thou
Ya, it was stupid and disrespectful. And perfect fodder for all you holier-than-thou assholes to line up to cast stones as if you've never done a dumb thing in your life. Get over it.
11/21/2012 7:02AM
can't fix stupid.
That's the problem with thinking freedom of speech ,you can be a moron and get away with it.people have no respect for anything in this world, and try to hide behind the constitution, which is the America way. If it was an eligal immigrant I can understand it better. Everybody thinks living in the us gives you the right to do or say anything you want, even if it hurts someone else. It's all about them in this world. As a born American I'm ashamed at the way people act.
11/21/2012 7:03AM
Hey Holier than Thou...
Clearly you're not a Soldier. You just don't get it. Yes, I've done LOTS of stupid things, but never so disrespectful. Some of my friends are buried there. Maybe I ought to go disrespect YOUR friends' graves and see how you feel? Enjoy YOUR safe little bubble - and be glad we're not having this conversation in person.
11/21/2012 7:12AM
Get out
To every single last one of you enabling, disrespectful losers who have posted on here to "relax" or BS about the wrong being the "military industrial complex", I will make this very clear: GET OUT! Go live somewhere else where people have not given their lives for your freedom. Go there and be a disrespectful jerkoffs and see where it gets you. I am beyond disgusted by you all.
11/21/2012 7:13AM
Holier Than Thou?
Yep, Holier than thou up there at 6:13 AM certainly lives up to being Holier than thou. Assholes? Really? You're an idiot of some magnitude.
11/21/2012 7:35AM
A joke????
You know, she may have just been 'joking around' but this is SO NOT the place to joke. This cemetery is a place for reflection, solace, respect, mourning, and appreciating the beauty in what the men and women did for us and this country. The whole cemetery resonates and demands respect. I don't know how she didn't FEEL that as soon as she walked through those gates!! Her little 'joke' is a perfect example of one of the reasons I think this country is falling apart. There is no respect for the reason WHY we are a free America, WHY we have our freedom and WHAT our FREEDOM was based on! There's just no respect... I have been to this cemetery, twice. And it is definitely a place I think every American should visit. The beauty of it cannot be explained with words...It is something you have to feel. And the fact that she, an American, did this makes me so sad for all of those families of the heroes buried here. I am sure it was like a knife through the heart for them.
11/21/2012 7:59AM
Yup
I live near a pretty big base. This just goes to prove a conversation some friends and I were having the other day. Never met anyone in the millitary who isn't a doucebag piece of ####. Go back to killing babies and civilians in Iraq and leave thiswoman alone. She was disrespecting the SIGN, not the soldiers. It was a joke. It wasn't a funny one, but her first ammendmant rights that you supposedly are their to protect allow her to make it.
11/21/2012 8:00AM
Yup
I live near a pretty big base. This just goes to prove a conversation some friends and I were having the other day. Never met anyone in the millitary who isn't a doucebag piece of ####. Go back to killing babies and civilians in Iraq and leave thiswoman alone. She was disrespecting the SIGN, not the soldiers. It was a joke. It wasn't a funny one, but her first ammendmant rights that you supposedly are their to protect allow her to make it.
11/21/2012 8:00AM
Yup
I live near a pretty big base. This just goes to prove a conversation some friends and I were having the other day. Never met anyone in the millitary who isn't a doucebag piece of ####. Go back to killing babies and civilians in Iraq and leave thiswoman alone. She was disrespecting the SIGN, not the soldiers. It was a joke. It wasn't a funny one, but her first ammendmant rights that you supposedly are their to protect allow her to make it.
11/21/2012 8:09AM
wow
People have been fired for a lot less when it comes to the internet and being on a work trip this is disgraceful, she should no longer have a job. Being there, waiting for that Skype call, hoping nobody ever knocks at your door, having your son while your husband is at war, moving with children and your husband busy fighting against those who have attacked our country....makes me want to say so many things, but I'm sure those who have been there understand the frustration. This is not one of those "give her a break" times, by now all ages should have respect. I will leave it simple and at that today.
11/21/2012 8:15AM
Hey Yup
I'd totally take you seriously, but you're clearly too stupid to spell amendment. We're also not really killing anyone in Iraq anymore you nitwit. Kindly remove yourself from the gene pool.
11/21/2012 8:30AM
wtf?? seriousley??
dumb azz!!! how bout someone disturb her resting place!!
11/21/2012 8:38AM
Disgraceful
Send her to Iraq to live amongst the filth where women are treated like peasants. This woman apparently doesn't appreciate the freedoms she has so let her live where there are none.
11/21/2012 8:40AM
Expert who lives near a pretty big base.....
Yup, You and your peers must be extremely intelligent, hard working, upstanding citizens who contribute profusely to our society. Your conversations about all military people being dou#% b@& pieces of s#### shows how worldly and educated you all are and living near a base appears to give you first hand knowledge of all the baby killing in Iraq our troops are doing. Congratulations on cracking the code. Just so you are aware, there are rules of conduct for anyone who passes the gates into Arlington Cemetery and she very clearly broke them. "Utters to any person present abusive, insulting, profane, indecent or otherwise provocative language or gesture that by its very utterance tends to invite an immediate breach of the peace". But I guess who needs rules when you have troops defending your first amendment.
11/21/2012 8:43AM
Stupid No Oblivious YES!!
Im an Army VFW from iraq and currently in Afghanistand i and i have to say... she has every right to do what she pleases... BUT what Alot of people including her dont realize is that with that right o say what ever you want others also have that right and people also have the right to kick her face in im just sayin BUT EVERYTHING we do or say has a Consequence good or bad i chose to serve and continue serving and my consequence is to live with the great fact that people are free and happy... She was not Aware of her consequence and got a very rude Awakening! i Call it death Bye facebook and i feel no shame nor remorse or even concern for her... You make you bed you have to lay in it! Stupid is such a harsh way to put it BUT Oblivious most certian! Hundreds of thousends of americans have no clue what Arlington stands for or what it is there for... and most dont care to know she just wasnt raised to learn about things like this... Im not mad even cause america takes care of its sons and daughters involved in protecting it... i Almost feel sorry for her but oh well!
11/21/2012 8:46AM
Life
Put her on trial by a jury of Veterans, put her behind bars for life, with no parole. Then she will realize who made, and keeps this country free, and why she does not deserve her freedom. -Erik Douglas 101ST AIRBORNE
11/21/2012 8:59AM
well said
Thank you for an amazing write up. I am retired Army, with service from the Fulda Gap in the early 80s to Baghdad in'09. I have buried friends and comforted families, this woman's actions are inexcusable. I hope you are right, that this picture of her is the first thing that Google spits out. If karma cares, she will never put this behind her. Being an idiot is not a First Amendment protect act. Freedom of speech was intended to give us an active voice in government, not to allow personal opinion to go unchecked.
11/21/2012 9:01AM
breakdown of the united states..
with the united states being on the downhill spiral that it is..... this is just another show of disrespect, loss of morals, ect.. shes a protege of parents who obviously didnt teach them, and a world who says anything goes nowdays..sad but true :(
11/21/2012 9:20AM
Reflection
Well said, the author summed it up nicely.
11/21/2012 9:30AM
Completely clueless
May this follow Lindsay Stone for the rest of her days. If she were over in the Middle East she would most likely be sentenced to death for such disrespect. This is the epitome of the break down in America. She and her family should be ashamed of her. She is disgusting. The people she so callously disrespected gave their lives in order for her to live free and speak freely in our country. People of this generation confuse freedom of speech with freedom to say what ever they please and think they don't need to pay any consequences for their actions.
11/21/2012 9:39AM
"Lighten the ---- up!"
As a veteran who has served in war and lost friends in war (some of who are buried in Arlington), I disagree with author's conclusion. While I agree completely that Arlington is full of heroes, I also know that there are those who would have laughed uproariously at the prank. As Bill Murray once said, “funny, but wrong” (with a twinkle in his eye). Had this been a photo of someone ACTUALLY disrespecting the tomb, with ACTUAL yelling, and ACTUAL malice intended, perhaps my thoughts would be different. However, this was simply an anti-authoritarian parody, much like a photo of someone smoking next to a no smoking sign, or perhaps some Marines using the old “SS” symbol in a photo. What I fund truly repugnant (like the photo of the Marines) is that Lindsey Stone is being excoriated at the altar of political correctness. I can assure you , at least two honored residents of Arlington would have told the chest-thumping PC police to, “Lighten the ---- up.”
11/21/2012 9:50AM
Yup? Nope!
Not only a really bad speller (doucebag?) but obviously brain damaged. Anyone over the age of 8 knows better than to act the way Lindsay did. And "Yup" - how many military people have you really met? Or are you getting them confused with cops? I can imagine you have met many police officers in your stunted little life. I second the opinion that you should not reproduce.
11/21/2012 9:59AM
undeserving
stupid itch doesn't deserve their sacrifices
11/21/2012 10:02AM
"Lighten the ---- up" is absolutely right.
She wasn't yelling at the tomb. In fact, she wasn't really "yelling" at all. All of you folks talking about beating her, killing her, torturing her and jailing her for life....isn't that what the man in the tomb died trying to prevent? I'm not saying it was funny....in fact it was kind of a hacky joke....but, sweet Christ, she didn't hurt anyone. No, this is not the sort of thing that should "follow you for life" and keep you from ever being happy again. It was a mistake in that the "Holier than thou" patrol is going to go after her until they find something else to be "outraged" about. I listened to Carrie's show for years and I'm sure there's all kinds of thing she's said and done over that time that offended all sorts of people for all sorts of reasons. We're all lucky to have been born here and not some Third World hell hole. It doesn't mean we should all be shunned for life because, in the eyes of some, we made an offensive joke.
11/21/2012 10:10AM
stupid fool
the sad part is that she is such a stupid, filthy, simple minded moron, she does not even realize what she did was wrong .
11/21/2012 10:19AM
Dumb and dumber ..
She just need to be fired, and so should her stupid-visor .. Hope someone starts a petition.. Let me know if there is one, so many unemployed deserving veterans that can take that job..
11/21/2012 10:24AM
Respect was earned
I remember going to the Alamo for the first time. A friend from Texas told me that this is a shrine, and to speak in hushed tones as dead Texans are buried there. For the same reason you don't yell fire in a theater, while you may have freedom ofspeech doesn't mean you need to be disrespectful in exercizing it. There are just situations and areas that demand respect and dignity, and a military cemetary is one of them.
11/21/2012 10:24AM
Respect was earned
I remember going to the Alamo for the first time. A friend from Texas told me that this is a shrine, and to speak in hushed tones as dead Texans are buried there. For the same reason you don't yell fire in a theater, while you may have freedom ofspeech doesn't mean you need to be disrespectful in exercizing it. There are just situations and areas that demand respect and dignity, and a military cemetary is one of them.
11/21/2012 10:30AM
Just like a Communist-pinko-commie-Democrat...
You don't see Libertarians, Republicans, or the Constitution Party doing things like this as often as you see some over-privileged regular drug-using Democrat doing it...
11/21/2012 10:32AM
She didn't need to yell to be obscene
The rules of conduct cover obscene gestures. And some veterans might find it funny but I guess the bottom line is there are an awful lot of them buried them that can't tell us if they are offended as they are BURIED there. I think there are enough people who don't take things seriously enough. This was not just a monument, this is a cemetery. That should be enough for complete respect. If she wanted to be funny do it somewhere people don't go routinely to mourn loved ones and respect those who have chosen to serve our country. I don't think she should be killed, jailed, or physically harmed but she deserves the derision she is receiving from the public. I don't understand people who are saying this is just some upset by "holier than thou" people. This is truly disrespectful behavior and against the rules that are upheld by the people who run the cemetery. What are people and families of people who serve supposed to take pride in if not a resting place for our troops?
11/21/2012 10:42AM
Speechless
When I was reading the article I kept thinking that this was a "young person"... that thought she was being cute with her friend. GROWN ADULTS DON"T ACT THIS WAY~ ~ I have many friends and family that have served and are currently serving. In high school we lost a recently graduated student in a bombing in Beirut . Can you imagine the embarrassment her family and friends feel? Ive always said that if you don't like this Great Country of ours you have the option to leave. There has to be some sort of recourse for this.....with all of the loop holes in the judicial system....It sounds silly maybe.....but its enough to bring tears to your eyes. On Veterans day this year my 9yr old son and I walked through a flea market that we set up in, we had long stem roses. We greeted each Vet, thanked them ..and handed them a rose. I will never forget the tears in their eyes or the expressions on their faces. We heard so many stories of their sacrifice for our Country. Im rambling , but this is unbelievable..........
11/21/2012 10:43AM
From a father of an only child, a Marine killed in action. The War Against Terrorism
I'd like to take her to section 60 and duct tape her to the small magnolia tree near my son's grave. I'd like her to watch the funerals; watch the grieving mothers, fathers, wives, family and friends who visit. I want her to feel from moment to moment, for every waking second and every sleepless night - the sorrow, emptyness, and loss felt by those families... no hope of ever recovering, no hope of joy ever again. I want her to awake every morning for the rest of her days with her imagination running wild with the worst possible scenarios of the violent, gruesome, agony ridden slaughter of her most cherished loved one. To imagine her child drowning on their own blood as they try to call out , begging for their father with only part of a tongue because they got shot in the face.
11/21/2012 10:48AM
To the Lyndsay supporters:
She has every Freedom of Speech as is guaranteed, you are right on that...we (Military Members, Veterans, families of, & supporters - or just plain decent humans) have that same Freedom to shout her down and say how callous & wrong even the thought do that was. And it is not just because it was at Arlington, at the Tomb - it could have been any cemetary anywhere. How would any one of you (or her, for that matter) feel if one of us was to go racketting and joking at the final resting place of her friends & family. Every cemetary I've ever been to has signs calling for peace and respectful attitude towards the place. As for differentiating between the sign and the Tomb itself - the sign is direct relation to the Tomb, it is not a display of authority but a call to decency & respect for not only those that have fallen but for those that come there to reminisce, remember, memorialize, & mourn. That Tomb is for all of those to whom we have been unable to gently hand back to their loved ones, it is for their families to know though we could not bring them Home, they are remembered with Honor and she decided it would be fun to make light of that idea. Prove to me she wasn't actually shouting at the same time; it is a still photo, no sound or motion to prove otherwise. It's not a d*mn museum or courthouse - it's the final resting place of hundreds of thousands of Americans and their families. As far as the Marines with SS embloms - you get punished and kicked out (at the least) for those type displays in the Service since we're expected to NOT act like "duechebags". For the one near a "big base", congratulations, you're living in a town with thousands of young adults away from their parents and on their own for the first time - go to any college town in the U.S., or maybe even think back upon that time in your life. But I bet none of them are running around in cemetaries acting like fools. Her employers should cut her loose as her actions will always resound and they do not want her callous immaturity to be associated with a company that promotes high standards of care for those less fortunate - the kind of job that bespeaks maturity, respect, and care. Does she run into places of worship and blasphem the form of deity worshipped there-in? That would be an innocent display of anti-authoritism as well. Flip off and cuss out a cop and see if that is blown off as well. All we ask for is respect in that place and she couldn't do it and now WE are WRONG to be so offended? And it is against U.S. Code (ie -law) to act in such a manner in National Cemetaries. When my children Google me, they will see film clips and photos of me Serving my Nation - when her's look her up, this is what they will find. For the Veteran who acted like it was no big deal - have you actually fought in and lost comrades in combat? How could you possibly think what she is pictured doing is in anyway acceptable behavior? I'm not saying everybody should love us because we chose to Serve, I'm just saying take it somewhere else and take your medicine if you didn't.
11/21/2012 11:00AM
Wow!
Its a shame she didn't think. We are so used to putting something out there and saying sorry later. She should be fired for demonstrating a new level of stupidity and not for the act itself. As her employer I would worry about what else she mightdo with such stupidity.
11/21/2012 11:00AM
Wow!
Its a shame she didn't think. We are so used to putting something out there and saying sorry later. She should be fired for demonstrating a new level of stupidity and not for the act itself. As her employer I would worry about what else she mightdo with such stupidity.
11/21/2012 11:00AM
Wow!
Its a shame she didn't think. We are so used to putting something out there and saying sorry later. She should be fired for demonstrating a new level of stupidity and not for the act itself. As her employer I would worry about what else she mightdo with such stupidity.
11/21/2012 11:19AM
Really!
It's not okay to do what she did, then have comments saying she just made a mistake an error of judgment, she knew exactly what she was doing. I have been to Arlington many times and I have seen kids get there butts spanked for acting up and the parent explains to them why. This lady is an adult not a child. Oh she was making fun of the sign, well the sign is is where the unknown Soldier rest is and I'm surprised that the honor guard of the tomb didn't take her out,if they had seen it I'm sure they would raise there voice to remind them where she's at. Oh well what a different generation we have here, doesn't mean I have to like it. And I don't. Vietnam Veteran and proud of it.
11/21/2012 11:29AM
I hope she believes in Spirits!!
I hope all the Spirits or Ghost from every HONORABLE soul in Arlington follows her for the rest of her life and reminds her of her vial and stupid act! I just retired from 20 yrs of service with 5 tour between both wars and unfortunately have 3 personalfriends that lay in Arlington. To you my brothers I am sorry I could not have done more for you ther in the hot sand ! I apoligize for this SORRY EXCUSE FOR A FUCKING HUMAN MUCH LESS AN AMERICAN!! Rest in piece my brothers, she is gone!!
11/21/2012 11:38AM
Oh, shiit
I don't know what section 60 is either. I guess I don't belong here.
11/21/2012 11:42AM
Stupidity
I have read the apology letter that these two young ladies have written and I have forgiven her. I honestly don't believe her act was conducted with the evilness and malice some have made it out to be. I believe this young lady is sadly typical of our society today. From another Facebook page, Stolen Valor, I viewed all of the pictures posted on this young ladies wall. They are laden with what appears as stupid drunken behavior. Again, I think this is typical of her generation and that can keep me awake at night if I allow it to. I do not think she had the mental ability to actually associate the sign to the place. If simple stupidity was made criminal, we could not build enough jails.
11/21/2012 11:49AM
BJ
My uncle was killed at Heart Break Ridge, Korea in 1951. I had the privilege of visiting his grave at Arlington National Cemetery a few years ago and was so moved by the sight of it. So many who gave their lives for us to have the freedom to live in thiscountry. I feel so sorry for Lindsey Stone and her friend. She will have to live with the consequences of her thoughtless act for the rest of her life. Actions are always followed by consequences.
11/21/2012 11:49AM
BJ
My uncle was killed at Heart Break Ridge, Korea in 1951. I had the privilege of visiting his grave at Arlington National Cemetery a few years ago and was so moved by the sight of it. So many who gave their lives for us to have the freedom to live in thiscountry. I feel so sorry for Lindsey Stone and her friend. She will have to live with the consequences of her thoughtless act for the rest of her life. Actions are always followed by consequences.
11/21/2012 12:11PM
Disgusting picture
I have family in the armed forces. My fiance was in the Marine Corps. He was almost killed last year on deployment. I almost lost a brother in 04 while he was on deployment. I'm lucky, unlike all the families of the people buried in Arlington. I haven't had to say goodbye, I haven't had to see a flag folded up and handed over to my family, I haven't had to listen to Taps, which to me is the saddest song you'll ever hear, I haven't felt the pain that all these families have felt. I support our troops 100%. The way I look at it, if you can't stand behind them, feel free to stand in front of them or leave the United States. It doesn't matter if it was a joke or not, it was wrong and its completely disgusting. Men and Woman have died protecting your freedom of speech and this is how you say Thank You for your service and sacrifice. Obviously, you need to learn better manners and better respect.
11/21/2012 12:35PM
Well done article.
This article said it all beautifully. There is really nothing more to say.
11/21/2012 12:43PM
Karma
Oh karma you always know how to impose your revenge and thank you! Not only should this dumas female should suffer karma wrath but so should her supervisor who took the photo. Your actions belittle the great sacrifice those burried in that hollow/sacred ground gave for us all. Enjoy all the you deserve and stop sending your dad to appologize for you, cowrad!
11/21/2012 12:45PM
Thinking before acting.
Does she have the right to free speech, yes. Does she have to live with the consequences of exercising her freedom of speech, absolutely. Welcome to being an adult, Ms. Stone.
11/21/2012 12:46PM
Karma
Oh karma you always know how to impose your revenge and thank you! Not only should this dumas female should suffer karma wrath but so should her supervisor who took the photo. Your actions belittle the great sacrifice those burried in that hollow/sacred ground gave for us all. Enjoy all the you deserve and stop sending your dad to appologize for you, coward!
11/21/2012 12:49PM
Respect Please
AT THE UNKNOWN SOLDIERS’ TOMB Click, click; Pivot perfect towards the tomb. Impassive face too young to know the truth of war, with spotless tunic and shining gun. Click, click; Pivot perfect, walk toe-to-heel in measured cadence slow. Click, click; Pivot perfect towards the tomb. Ramrod straight, Salute, with bayonet in place, Freedom’s comrade Who lies unknown. 8-2-85
11/21/2012 12:58PM
Growing up is hard
Lindsey-maybe by the outpouring of emotions people have posted-you might grow up. My uncle died at Normandy and most of my family have served for your freedom. Use that freedom, but never, never disrespect those who have given so much. Time to learn one of life's hard lessions that your actions can really hurt others, and even yourself. Please learn from this transgression.
11/21/2012 1:00PM
Re lighten the f___up
I agreed with everyone else till I read your post. I think you are correct. However she should have to study Arlington and do community service. Her response to everything was not sufficient that "it's all blown out of proportion". We've had Presidents disgrace the office with out so much as a slap on the hand. She needs to ask for an apology from family members who have lost a loved one. Then move on
11/21/2012 1:03PM
Thank You
This is one of the best written and well thought out articles I have found on the event. What I would like to add is that not all speech is covered by the first amendment. Also what the majority of people still don't understand is that she broke the law, if anyone doubts this just take a look at http://cfr.vlex.com/vid/553-22-visitors-arlington-cemetery-19747782 section F. Lastly this unsavory act was on company time, during which she is a representative of her employer. This act has and will continue to reflect badly on her employer which by all accounts I have seen would be a great place to work. I have a mentally and physically disabled son. I am sure that the relatives of the people she is employed to take care of are just as livid as most of us are. If I was a member of the board, or even one of the people that gives donations to this company in order for it to function I would have to seriously question their dedication to the people they are entrusted with.
11/21/2012 1:33PM
Respect and Consequences.
Were she on her OWN dime, her OWN time and done this, I would have been annoyed but would have chalked it up to stupidity.However when she is on her company's time, and her company's dime, and in charge of disabled adults, and acts this disrespectfully, I have an issue. She is to be a role model and person to look up to, and this behaviour is unacceptable. I have had a family member invested in the United States and its military since the Revolutionary War. I myself am a Navy Veteran. How disrespectful to behave that way when, I'm sure not too far away there were families visiting deceased loved ones. It would have been disrespectful in ANY cemetery, but most especially Arlington. Do I think that Lindsey should lose her job? Yes, I do. I think that her company trusted her to behave a certain way while she was carrying out her job. I think that she failed very publicly in that respect, and that she should have to bear the consequences. Am I angry at Lindsey? No, I'm sorrowful that she cannot comprehend the gravity of a place such as Arlington. I'm disappointed that she will probably NEVER understand the amount of sacrifice that is showcased there. People from EVERY walk of life that laid down their lives in service to this country. Not because they sought to be heroes, but because they sought to better the lives of those that followed. It may seem like "not a big deal" to a lot of people, but it really was the pinnacle of irresponsible, unashamedly ignorant, and disrespectful behaviour.
11/21/2012 1:52PM
Idiots
You people need to grow up. Fucking dama queens step forth. Go with this story...Major General Antonio Taguba has stated that there is photographic evidence of rape being carried out at Abu Ghraib.[10] An Abu Ghraib detainee told investigators he heard an Iraqi teenage boy screaming and saw an Army translator having sex with him while a female soldier took pictures.[11] The alleged rapist was identified by a witness as an American-Egyptian who worked as a translator, and who is now the subject of a civil court case in the US.[10] Another photo shows an American soldier apparently raping a female prisoner.[10] Other photos show sexual assaults on prisoners with objects including a truncheon, wire and a phosphorescent tube, and a female prisoner having her clothing forcibly removed to expose her breasts.[10] Taguba has supported President Obama's decision not to release the photos, stating, "These pictures show torture, abuse, rape and every indecency."[10] In other alleged cases, female inmates were said to be raped by soldiers.[12] In one reported case, senior US officials admitted rape had taken place at Abu Ghraib.
11/21/2012 1:56PM
Rather be in the ghan
New Hampshire born and bred, listened to WAAF all through middle school and high school, been a while since then cause I joined the Marines. People like this are why I would rather be back in Afghan, they can go hangout with the westborough baptist church idiots. Got two friends I went and visited (drove from colorado with my pup in a wrangler) over memorial day last year in Arlington, if I saw this s*** when I was there, I would probably be happily serving time right now. Speech is not free, everyone is responsible for every word that comes out of their mouth and every action they perform... 1/3 USMC 07'-11'
11/21/2012 1:58PM
I don't think she should be fired.
Active Duty Army here... I think she was just joking around. It was really dumb, but harmless. People need to calm down, and she certainly shouldn't lose her job over this. That's overreacting.
11/21/2012 2:17PM
You included the photo?
It's interesting that you chose to post the photo. I guess you weren't that outraged.
11/21/2012 2:28PM
Can we move on?
Ok, so she did something that was really, really stupid. Does that mean that we all need to go grab the torches and pitchforks and try and ruin this woman's life? F*** no. What she did was upsetting to me, yes. Not just as a soldier, but as someone who's father, and several friends, are buried in Arlington. She made a mistake though, and she apologized for it. We've all made mistakes that we regret, and done or said things that are very, very insensitive and disrespectful, we're just lucky enough that it didn't get out to the wrong people and turned into something like this. She has learned her lesson a hundred fold by now, so can we all just leave her alone and move the f*** on
11/21/2012 2:28PM
Can we move on?
Ok, so she did something that was really, really stupid. Does that mean that we all need to go grab the torches and pitchforks and try and ruin this woman's life? No. What she did was upsetting to me, yes. Not just as a soldier, but as someone who's father, and several friends, are buried in Arlington. She made a mistake though, and she apologized for it. We've all made mistakes that we regret, and done or said things that are very, very insensitive and disrespectful, we're just lucky enough that it didn't get out to the wrong people and turned into something like this. She has learned her lesson a hundred fold by now, so can we all just leave her alone and move on
11/21/2012 2:29PM
really
u know i dont think u can actually lose your job for your opnion.. however disrespectful it may be it would be like firing people for goign to a gay protest.. since its not a law there is nothing to enforce...
11/21/2012 2:39PM
Taking it excessively far
She’s another reason why I'd rather stay in Europe than to come back to the country I've been defending for 22 years. I love America and what it stands for but I don't care for half the people who take for granted what they have. Blame out Gov't not the ones sacrificing everything for countries no one cares about except for oil we’re not asking for much in return. So don’t insult or even jokes with our fallen or you may really understand what PTSD can do for your future.
11/21/2012 3:02PM
Mistress Carrie's Blog
"Born in The U.S.A." -- but she hasn't EARNED it. (STUPID !@#$ GIRL) - U.S. ARMY, RVN, 1968-69
11/21/2012 3:13PM
School of life...
If she did it...she needs to own it.......life is about the mistakes you made.. it's about what you do with and learned about the mistakes you.... some of us have learned ALOT... 8-/
11/21/2012 3:16PM
a disabled navy veteran
as far as i am concerned she can take her finger and shove it where the sun dont shine and pull her head thru it. how DARE she disrespect my fellow brothers in arms!! boy i wish i could really say how i feel.!!!! GOD bless our vets!!!
11/21/2012 3:16PM
Ship her off our soil
People with no respect of our country and those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend it should be exiled to a nice country like Afghanistan!
11/21/2012 3:17PM
school of life...
If she did it...she needs to own it.......life is NOT about the mistakes you made.. it's about what you do with AND what you learned about the mistakes you made.... some of us have learned ALOT...the school of life..... 8 -/
11/21/2012 3:34PM
God Tells Us To Forgive ....
Okay I have been upset and angry over this picture, as have many of us. On a positive note perhaps this generation will learn a thing or two from this ordeal, I'm pretty sure Lindsay has! Let's hope that by bringing this to light that people will take it upon themselves to educate and enlighten not only themselves but others as well. I think it's time to let this die ... what say you?
11/21/2012 3:56PM
Let's hope
I pray that this clueless woman never knows the pain that has befallen the heroes she chose to joke about.
11/21/2012 4:20PM
Vienam & Dessert Storm Veteran
Thanks Carrie for you comments. I couldn't have said it better myself. I was there in October and it was a very solemn place and time. I admire all those that are buried there and what they have done so people like Lindsay can live in a free country, and express their thoughts and ideas. I sometimes wonder if what I did by serving my country for 22 years is respected by others, and when I see this kind of thing I realize that not all "have respect" for what they have been given. Sad to see...
11/21/2012 5:02PM
wow
let me tell u that is totally disrespectful i have gone through the worry and the pain of my husband not being home and being in harms way and the fact she had the nerve to do is so messed i mean granted it wasnt a crime but in some people eyes it could be cause she doesnt know what people go thru or what they have lost she needs to grow up and learn some respect
11/21/2012 5:17PM
Forme military Vet.
This Behavior is what she is. So many in this country have never stood watch or stood on the line ,to defend the rights and freedoms they so richly have.If she had any common sence she would of never done that in the first place...her Character may not be anything like how she presented herself ,but it's alwways easier to retract after you act then to think before. in a School i attended while serving in the navy there was a sign posted above our work area...which stated "Engage Brain before engaging mouth...well we couldn't hear her there but we saw ..Not sure what kind of worker she is but as for her charcter...flawed deffently flawed....
11/21/2012 5:37PM
Freedom?
While freedom of speech is meant for people to have the freedom to discuss any and all subjects no matter the views of others it is not a license to be an a-hole. No one has died for you to have the right to be a guest on Jerry Springer. However to suggest this woman is part of the "99%" is trying to turn this into a political statement wich is propaganda. She has nothing to do with people who a really trying to do what they believe is right by following their beliefs, she is simply acting out the childish reactions that have been so long encourage in our materialistic society. If you don't like her stupidity, stop supporting it.
11/21/2012 5:37PM
combat MARINE vet vietnam
why not kick her out of there -Marine vet 66-72 how disgusting this can happen
11/21/2012 5:50PM
Very well said
Carrie, thanks for stating this so well. As the wife of a Marine (who is, thankfully, stateside safe and sound), I'm often faced with people who simply "don't get it" and this is just a hyperbolic example of that. She is so lucky to not have been in the shoes of those who've had it much, much worse than I. I am a firm believer in the philosophy that ignorance is not an excuse, especially as an adult. My heart goes out to those who have loved ones at ANC, to those that have had the unfortunate experience of seeing this ingrate's behavior, and also to those at LIFE who have worked so hard for a fabulous organization only to have it compromised by one fool. Semper fi, and this Thanksgiving, I'm thankful to be an American (this broad won't take that away from me).
11/21/2012 5:59PM
Thank you!
Thank you! Very well written.
11/21/2012 6:07PM
U.S.Army Vet.
She has made a life long effort to be a 99%er. Now she will live the rest of her life in shame. My grandson is in section 60 of ANC. He will forgive your actions. You are a very sorry person and are not a women. My mother,My Wife, my Daughter are womwn who's son, grandson and Great grandson is there with all the others that died so you could deface there reasting place! You will be shamed the rest of your life. I pray that you find peace in knowing they died so you may have the freedom to belittle them.
11/21/2012 6:20PM
Arlington National Cemetery Section 60
There is a somber silence that hangs over Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery. Section 60 at Arlington Cemetery: Where the most recent heroes lie Family members regularly leave items and remembrances at the headstones in Section 60.It's the final resting place for the soldiers who gave their lives during campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan; a place where the loss is most fresh, the emotions are still raw and the rows of marble bear the names of the most recent servicemen to lose their lives while on duty. Section 60 is not just a place for the fallen, though. It's also a memorial for the living. "It's a new cultural norm; a new way in which our nation is grieving," Rod Gainer, the curator at the Army Center for Military History, said. "It has to be captured in some way." One headstone in Section 60 is covered in lipstick kisses. Another is adorned in hearts. Many are covered in photos. In row after row, memories are left behind. It's something that has never really happened before in the military; there never had been a place where people were leaving mementos behind. The military decided they couldn't just throw them away, either, so Gainer and Steve Carney, the center's historian, come out every week to collect the trinkets left behind. They catalogue the items left at the graves, each one having a real, tangible link to the fallen service member. For instance, they once came across a handmade book written to a soldier by a daughter to her father, who didn't make it home to play with her again. "These can be heartrending," Carney said. "The stuff from the families is always really tough." With the blessings of virtually every family in Section 60, the items collected every week are kept at an archive center in Virginia. The hope is that, one day, they will be part of an exhibit that helps tell the story of parents gone before they met their children, of heroes who sacrificed so others could live in, and of families who carried on but never forgot.
11/21/2012 6:27PM
Stupid
She is stupid and disrespectful, but she shot herself in the foot for posting this---kids really don't understand the power of the internet? She's not the worst though--how about the wackos who protest military funerals with signs saying "Thank God for dead soldiers" ? Protected under free speech! Our country is incredible and insane at the same time--
11/21/2012 6:39PM
re Idiots
Right, so you think it's ok to show disrespect at one of America's most hallowed shrines? And don't bring up Abu Ghraib here, this is neither the time nor place for it. I'm not saying it isn't happening, I just think that you are the idiot for putting that here where it doesn't belong. As for those saying she has freedom of speech, she does but in this case those who say she broke the law are correct and she should be held accountable for her actions.
11/21/2012 7:25PM
Appalling
This woman is a disgrace and should be banned from the USA coming from a long military family I'm outraged and she should be barred from this country
11/21/2012 7:39PM
Just a symbol of the times
The American people have lost their backbone, their self respect AND their memory! And how can you expect anything different when the chief executive of the country and his wife openly display contemp for the religious beliefs most of us hold and disrespects our flag? Just look at the behavior of those in power as they openly break laws and lie to Congress (of course Congress isn't behaving any better). Our first family is on permenant vacation and that's probably a good thing! Our military strives to protect us by daily laying their lives on the line and how does our government honor them? By cutting their pay, giving them inferior equipment and sending a huge percentage of them back to civilian life where almost no jobs exist. Lindsey Stone should be punished but then so should all of those politicians who lie to us, steal from us and smile at us like they are our best friends - they are our worst enemy.
11/21/2012 7:56PM
Sheer Stupidity
You can't fix stupid.
11/21/2012 7:57PM
It's called freedom of speech
No ground is so sacred that speech isn't protected in this country. Go to arlington to protest the war. Go to church and yell god is dead. Go to walmart and picket. All you self-righteous people need to mind your own business. BTW....I am a vet, as was my dad, and his dad, and his dad, all the way back to the revolution. What the hell do you think we fought for?
11/21/2012 8:16PM
Really???
You want to yell and shoot the middle finger, go back to the hood!
11/21/2012 8:28PM
Sigh
Sure, what she did shows a SERIOUS lack of good taste, but does she really deserve to have her life destroyed as so many of you suggest? And burn in hell? I mean... really? She's already a pariah now, almost anywhere she goes, do we really need to maliciously do more damage? For shame. All of you
11/21/2012 9:03PM
Misguided!
She shall stand at the entrance of Arlington with a sign depicting a sign that says what she did and how wrong it was. One week crash course with the Soldiers that guard the Tomb of the unknown soldier and practice there discipline while wearing the sign.
11/21/2012 9:04PM
she made a mistake let it go
yes she did something very wrong and hurtful to alot of people but not all vets lay to rest there what about the ones in their hometown's place of rest and the tomestones knocked over and parties they have in them.I have lots of family and friends that fought for our country and she has said she was sorry for her stupidity so we should forgive her and leave her job alone that is wrong to want to destroy her life maybe someone should teach her about why and what the place is all about. It's sad that it happend but it is worse that so many people want to destroy her life because of the mistake God is the only one that is to judge someone!!!! Then agian He has been slowly taken out by our Goverment so what do we truely expect we were started as One Nation under God it truely just amazes me that one bad mistake brought out so much hate for another human being!!
11/21/2012 9:30PM
29 year vet...
The blood of my family is sacred...so yes, there IS something so sacred that if someone violates it will bear grave consequences. However, she disrespected the shed blood of thousands of fallen brothers and sisters. No, she shouldn't be locked up, or beaten and no one has any authority over hell in this forum anyway so that''s not my place...yes, she has "free speech" but also poor judgement and she will undoubtedly suffer the consequences for said judgement . Ms. Stone, you posted your ignorance online for millions to see, please, for your own sake make a serious heartfelt apology to all the moms and dads who have lost their sons and daughters in our nation's wars and confess that you really did not understand the consequences of your actions, the sooner you say your sorry the better off you will be....and don't continue to be a douchebag by saying "i'm sorry if you were offended" because that doesn't mean jacksquat, say that you are sorry for WHAT YOU DID. The sooner the better.
11/21/2012 10:24PM
Wake up call
Reading this article made me take a deep look at myself and my life. I too am lucky, I'm a woman born in a free country where I can vote and speak my mind without being endangered. But like so many people I forget this. I gripe and complain about having to go to a job I dislike when I should be thankful that I can come home every night while so many others may never come home. I feel ashamed for being so pity, for not living my life to the fullest when so many have died for me to have it. I think this Thanksgiving we should all think of all the people who have given us so much without ever asking for anything in return.
11/21/2012 10:36PM
LIFE made a wise choice.
I'm glad in the end she and her co-worker were both fired. I think people in the civilian sector forget something that is drilled into the member's of the Military everyday. You represent the Military all day, every day. When people see us acting like fools, they see every Soldier, Marine, Airman and Sailor acting a fool. And that applies to the civilian world just as equally. You represent your company. Everything you say and do reflects on the people you work for and work with. You may not stand out as much as that guy in Wal-mart with the Medium-Fade, short-cut bangs and a step that is consistently 30 inches, but that doesn't mean you won't be found out. And the people you work for, won't take kindly to the actions you take that shames them. Hopefully they both have learned something from this, and grow up. I serve, I will continue to serve, and I enjoy serving.
11/22/2012 12:08AM
Disrespect is frequent at Arlington
Much of my family is buried in Section 37 at Arlington -- a section just a couple dozen yards from the Tombs of the Unknowns. As I'm there remembering my loved ones, I find it sad, appalling, and infuriating to see the volumes of tourists and school groups playing tag among the tombstones or shouting out to one another like freshmen at a football stadium. To Lindsay, and all you folks visiting our national cemetery, remember that you are always free to exercise your right -- to remain silent.
11/22/2012 1:33AM
Well written
Thank you for the well written article on this matter. Obviously you've made some very good points. As many others have pointed out, she may actually see legal action on this and most likely in the end will lose her job and the person who took thephotos as well. I'm doubtful she will find work anytime soon, either, so shortly everyone will be paying for her mistake as she goes on welfare. Just my 2c on it.
11/22/2012 1:33AM
Well written
Thank you for the well written article on this matter. Obviously you've made some very good points. As many others have pointed out, she may actually see legal action on this and most likely in the end will lose her job and the person who took thephotos as well. I'm doubtful she will find work anytime soon, either, so shortly everyone will be paying for her mistake as she goes on welfare. Just my 2c on it.
11/22/2012 1:56AM
Clarity
The commentary by Miss Carrie is eloquent and complete. Some people, veterans and relatives of veterans, would have her punished, beaten, even 'deported.' Under our laws, none of that is appropriate unless the US Attorney for Eastern Virginia chooses to actually prosecute her before a US Magistrate. Should she be penalized by her employer, up to and including termination? Most certainly, as she was "on duty" as a caretaker for disabled patients. Clearly her conduct was inappropriate in any workplace, and indicates negligent conduct towards her patients. Some of you commenting public think she should be forgiven, and that is appropriate for a nation where we practice the Christian principles of forgiveness. Others, well... other posters above think she did nothing wrong in 'acting stupid.' Think again, folks, if she were acting so disrespectfully over the grave of your parents, siblings, spouses or children. Would you forgive her acting that way in your church or synagogue during your wedding? Think carefully, if you believe anyone is free to disrespect anyone at any place, any time. For those who dislike the military establishment, don't hate the soldiers who serve. You may not understand them, you may not like or respect them, these are your rights. Think carefully, however... for they do serve to protect you from a government that might treat you as Stalin, Saddam, or Savak did with brutal repression and elimination of dissenting opinions. Your freedom to dislike Obama or Romney has been purchased with the blood of millions of 17 to 15 year old soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. This woman's act of disrespect was not simply an affront to the three Unknowns buried in the Tomb of the Unknowns (servicemen from WWI, WWII, and Korea) as well as the 400,000 other soldiers and relatives (wives and children), the lost crew of the Challenger, and President Kennedy and his brothers. The sign she 'disrespected' was not referring to just the Unknowns, but to nearly half a million soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen. That's how many million angry relatives and descendants?
11/22/2012 2:22AM
disrespect
I visited Arlington a number of years ago. It was so moving for me and it's an experience I'll never forget. I was at the changing of the guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. It is a very moving experience. There was complete silence in the very large crowd. Except there was a group of tourist from another country and they thought somehow that this event that was bringing almost all of us to tears, was very funny. I was so upset that anyone could act that way. This woman's actions remind me of this, and I truly don't understand this either.
11/22/2012 6:00AM
Pathetic
What a shame a young person has shown such stupidity. I have to wonder how her parents could have raised her with such a lack of respect and how not to behave in public. She has not only disgraced herself, but those from the State of Michigan who have the utmost respect for those who gave their lives for our freedom. While the 1st amendment grants free speech it does not grant stupidity.
11/22/2012 6:34AM
Thank You
You have put this whole thing into perspective quite beautifully. As the wife of a retired solider and the mother of a former sailor, the words I hoped I never heard were, "On behalf of a grateful nation." I hope Lindsay Stone never has tohear them either, but if she does, I hope she will look back on what she did and finally understand why people were so offended.
11/22/2012 6:54AM
thank you vererans
the most dispicable act from an "adult" I have ever witnessed I hope she has no mercy in what she has done. Don't just fire her, move her to a third world country
11/22/2012 8:17AM
The meaning of Thanksgiving
Fr Denis Edward O'Brien (SGT USMC) said it all." It is the soldier who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag and whose coffin is draped by the flag who allows the protested to burn the flag." Today, of all days, we are all blessed by the sacrifice of these countless, selfless men and women as we enjoy the bounty of our liberty, the companionship of family and friends and this holiday to remember these heaven sent gifts. That being said, someone she will listen to, such as her employer, should really have a serious talk with this young woman.A old soldier
11/22/2012 9:09AM
I Cried
I hope with all my heart, that this woman feels shame and disgust each time she looks in the mirror. This is a learning and growing experience for her. I pray for her to come to the realization that she has hurt numerous people and realizes this is NOTthe person she wants to be.
11/22/2012 9:23AM
What ramifications again?
Because now, doesn't she qualify for unemployment, food stamps and an Obamaphone? Yes, she is one lucky girl.
11/22/2012 9:30AM
IT IS YOUR BED, NOW LAY ON IT.
I HAVE NO MORE ILL FEELINGS TOWARD LINDSEY STONE THAN THE MEN AND WOMEN WHOM SHE CHOSE TO DISGRACE HERSELF TOWARD. THESE VETERANS WHO HAVE GIVEN THEIR ALL FOR THE RIGHT FOR SOMEONE TO MAKE A COMPLETE FOOL OF HERSELF IN FRONT OF ALL OF AMERICA, IT BOTHERS THEM NONE. NOR DOES IT NOT BOTHER ME AS I AM SURE IT DOES NOT BOTHER ANY OTHER VETERAN OR ACTIVE SERVERS. LINDSEY STONE HAS ONLY ALIGNED AND DISGRACED HERSELF WITH THE "SCUM" THAT WELCOMED THE VIETNAM VETERANS HOME IN THE 1960's. THIS WOMAN IS NOT COMFORTABLE WITH HERSELF FOR HER LACK OF (OR BECAUSE OF) HER EDUCATION AND SELF CENTERED ATTATUDE. NOW SHE WILL HAVE THAT PLEASURE AND SATISFACTION FOR THE REST OF HER LIFE. TOO BAD SHE HAD TO BRING HER FAMILY INTO IT WITH HER. DO NOT HONOR HER WITH YOUR TIME SPENT THINKING GOOD, BAD OR EVIL OF HER. SHE AND HER TYPE ENJOY TRYING TO MAKE OTHERS FEEL AS MISERABLE' INSIGNIFICANT AND SMALL AS SHE IS. AS FOR THE PICTURE, IT WILL HANG IN HER HALL OF SHAME FOR THE REST OF HER LIFE. THE BEST THING WE CAN DO FOR ALL SERVICE PEOPLE, AND HER, IS TO IGNORE HER COMPLETELY. B.B.C., U.S.M.C. 1956 - 1962
11/22/2012 10:24AM
former military member
I could deal with the screaming in a quiet zone but the Middle finger is as offensive to me who served till I was disabled after 15 years....this posting should of never been public if they thought it was truly funny, and their friends would also, the pic, showed among friends would of sufficed....I'm all for free speach, but with that freedom come a little common sence...to post someing offensive will be always a matter of likes and dislikes. Freedom to say whats on your mind is not always gonna have mass appeal, It should always be gaurenteed. As a 50 year old I truly believe if I could serve once again to protect those rights i would...Lindsey did what the young kids do today, but at 30 working in a Service industry you always run the risk of loseing customers. next time try to keep your humor to those who you can deal with...and if you truly feel that you are that funny go to a comedy club and try your luck.....
11/22/2012 10:48AM
Exactly!
I've thought a lot about Lindsey Stone and her picture for the past few days. I've read a lot. I've talked with my husband, a current member of the Army, stationed in the D.C. area. I've commented on web forums. But what you wrote here said what I've thought so much better than I could express. Thank you for your words. I hope Ms. Stone learned a valuable lesson from this one "on a whim" action.
11/22/2012 11:11AM
Unbelievable
So very few "adults" posting here come off as such.. I find the rabid desire for vengeance (not justice) absolutely appalling. Unemployment and the apparent desire for her to be unemployable means the taxpayers would now be supporting her. Why not just invite her to your house, make her dinner? Should she be forgiven? No, not anytime soon. But instead of being vindictive, try educating . Make her take shifts for two weeks at the tombs of the unknown soldiers and make her do community service at VEteran hospitals
11/22/2012 11:46AM
Freedom
Freedom isn't free. It is paid with a price. And a lot of that price is buried there at Arlington. And a host of other places. So remember, Freedom isn't always free.
11/22/2012 12:45PM
Re Actions
Anyone has the right to say/do what they want. Actions have consequences. Definately imho a very offensive picture, even more stupid to take picture & memoralize it. Reputation is a lifelong work that can be lost in a second. Thank you to all that fought so that I could express my opinion without fear of arrest, prison, or death. We have one of those folded flags. It came at a very high price.
11/22/2012 2:10PM
Curicify her..oh, wait, this us usa, just leve her alone?
Hello? She she was joking and someone to a pic. As a usmarine, that's why i joined. Wtf is wrong with americans today that they have to judge every little thing, every one does? Have you REALLY nothing better to do?
11/22/2012 2:14PM
patriotism
Carrie I'm so very proud of what you do for Our Boys! God bless & Happy Thanksgiving! Airborne All The Way!!!
11/22/2012 2:32PM
Wow
Unbelievable at the comments how she was stupid yes, she was not thinking yes, should she pay for this forever well lets look at things. Say I am a good abiding father of 2 children and I get a raise or a bonus at work for a great idea or landing a big account. I am on the PTA at school and I go to church every Sunday. I decide to go out and have a couple drinks to celebrate and I have one too many and decide to drive home. I cause an accident in which someone is killed. Yes I am sorry for what I did. Am I a bad person no but I did involuntarily kill someone so I do spend time in jail for involuntary manslaughter. Think about what you say before you say it. As it has been posted before, yes that is freedom of speech but my dad had a saying as I was growing up "be careful of the toes you step on because they may be connected to the but you have to kiss" I am glad she got in trouble. Maybe this will show people that you just do not treat the hero's of this country with any disrespect because if you don't like it or this country you are welcome to leave.
11/22/2012 2:50PM
Unbelievable
If this woman understood the price of freedom, the sacrifice made by so many to even allow her to be able to have the freedoms that she has, and obviously has no clue about,... she would stand in the same spot where she took the now infamous picture and personally apologize to every person who showed up for 3 days. However I doubt that she has the conscious to do it,.. given he sorry excuse for to actions.
11/22/2012 3:16PM
LOSS OF WORDS
"DOUCHEBAG" DOESNT QUITE COVER IT, WHAT AN UN-PATRIOTIC PIECE OF SHT,BEING A CHRISTIAN IT IS HARD FOR ME TO SAY WHAT I AM REALLY THINKING, I AM NOT JUDGEING,BUT COMMON SENSE AND RESPECT FOR OUR COUNTRY IS LACKING AND AT HER AGE,PROBLABLY WAS NEVER THERE TO BEGIN WITH. I DO BELIEVE SHE SHOULD LOSE HER JOB AND BE SENTENCED TO SOME TYPE OF SENSITIVITY SCHOOL(AS IF IT WOULD DO ANY GOOD) HOW SOMEONE COULD EVEN CONCIEVE THAT SHtING ON OUR DEAD HEROES IS EVEN REMOTELY A JOKE IS A JOKE THEMSELVES, SHE SHOULD SENTENCED TO WEAR A SIGN ON A STREET CORNER DEPICTING HER STUPIDITY FOR A WEEK!!
11/22/2012 3:24PM
Unreal
She has no idea at all that there are people out there that wish to see our way of life ended . And those people would have her in a burka this very day
11/22/2012 3:30PM
The sign
Da Nang Nam 68-71 hoorah Please I went there so she could do just what she did! She was not disrespecting any one at Arlington. She was making fun of the sign. She was being young and disrespectful. Please all on here asking for her death unless you haveseen a friend cut in half.don't. I have a picture of me pretending to shout at a sign for the deaf. Stupid ? Yes disrespecting the deaf NO
11/22/2012 3:35PM
Wow
Your article was said with more thought, class and respect than she has shown to the very hero's who are laid on that hallowed ground. She must of been protected by the spirits who now walk those perimeters, because I can honestly say, if I had witnessed her desecration, well it goes without saying. I find her act no different than those wackos who protest a military funeral, disgusting, dispectable and unworthy to call themselves Americans ., if you have not lived this life, you have no idea!! God protect our servicemen and women, and give comfort to their family's
11/22/2012 3:55PM
Respect
Our society these days has no respect for the country of which our founding fathers created. These people go through life expecting everything to be handed to them. They have private agendas with no concern for others around them near or far. Put the pledge of allegiance back in schools! In good we trust! Thank you and REST IN PEACE to all the fallen heroes at Arlington.
11/22/2012 4:20PM
Lindsey Stone FIRED!
Yep, LIFE announced yesterday evening that Stone and the supervisor that took the photograph have been FIRED. Karma is a B!TCH!
11/22/2012 6:10PM
PROUD MOTHER
I'm sitting in Afghanistan, contacting friends & family this Thanks Giving Day. I can only say that it gives me great Honor to serve for My Country, My Family & My Friends.. I am ceratin that unlike this sheltered young woman. My Mother is and always be Proud of ME. I feel sorry for this girl. I hope she can find a positive light at the end of this soon to be deep dark tunnel of life she likely be going down alone. If she is able to serve.. That she can bring better awrness to those just as sheltered and protected and ignorant to this harsh cruel and unforgiving world we live in. ONE PROUD VET!
11/22/2012 6:10PM
RE: Loss of words
Dude stop yelling... It hurts my feelings.
11/22/2012 6:14PM
Justice Done!
I'm sure the ACLU will jump to her defense, but looks to me like the company she works (oops worked) for has taken the correct action. For all the weenies crying for us to lay off her, to bad! Yes I've done dumb stuff in my life, and yes, I have paid dearly for some of the dumber stuff I've done. It's called Personal Responsibility and knowing there are Consequences to your actions. When I spoke back to my mother I got a switch taken to my backside. (again weenies this is the correct alternative to "time outs") Yes we have the 1st Amendment, but that doesn't exempt you from the consequences of abusing it. I in no was advocate harming her physically, I don't care to see her jailed or beaten down, but if she is shunned, shamed or losses her job, so be it. I know I would not want someone with this mentality representing my company, if you don't have any more sense than it took to say "maybe it wouldn't be so smart to post this to the internet." don't bother to apply.
11/22/2012 6:54PM
PUBLIC APOLOGY-would be a good start
We all make mistakes, but this is worse than a mistake, it was dishonorable to the Nth degree.
11/22/2012 7:18PM
Stupid
Ignorance can be cured with education. Stupid goes to the bone and cannot be cured. This probably isn't the only stupid thing that she has done. And keep in mind, she had an accessory to this.
11/22/2012 7:42PM
Arlington
Now she's as famous as Hanoi Jane.
11/22/2012 8:16PM
Like a felony conviction -
this will follow her for the rest of her life.
11/22/2012 8:17PM
Ignorance can be educated, Stupid is forever
In retrospect, I think that though this photo was not the brightest idea, I think it was a person that was making fun of a sign, I do not think she was intentionally disrespecting those interred at Arlington. Was it a smart idea, not in the least, was it unintentionally disrespectful, probably so, do I think this woman is a horrible person, not likely, but she will be branded as un American, disrespectful, traitorous, uncaring and many other far more colorful than these. These tags will probably follow her forever, will probably eventually cost her a good job, and being ostracized by nearly everyone she knows and thousands she doesn't. Should she be? I don't think that destruction of this woman is the answer, a stiff fine perhaps, community service requiring her to attend every single funeral from now until the end of the Afghan Campaign. And be made to apologize to every family who attend a service, for her blatant thoughtlessness. These would be apt punishments. Then perhaps she will get an inkling of what respect, duty, honor, and loss really means. And maybe...just maybe she will become an advocate of those who have lost family and loved ones in the throes of war. Ssgt S.L.Hobbs 172nd Tactical Operations Command, 103rd Air Commando Squadron, 79th Air Force Scout Snipers (Ret) "Reaper-58"
11/22/2012 9:07PM
Forgive and Forget
As someone that served in the Air force for 8 years and now the Army. Yes it is a bad Joke but we are all responsable for a bad joke or done something wrong. Like how many of you in the military have walked when the national athem is playing or talked while it was playing? So, my point is yes it wrong but let him without sin cast the first stone...SO like the title says Forgive and Forget!!! Oh and let me tell you I've seen hundreds of caskets with Red, White and Blue draped on them.
11/22/2012 10:05PM
Gulf War Vet
Though I Hate how she disrespected the resting place of so many veterans, I will say this, I did not see my buddies die in combat for the people of this great nation to be denied the freedom to express their opinion or to be a moron. The day this happens is the day my friends died in vane. Yes, she used very poor judgement, but I fought for her rights to free and to be a moron.
11/22/2012 11:47PM
Excellent Article!
I'll say that like many in America she just doe's not know. Sadly, that is to be expected from the few of us who do know.
11/22/2012 11:53PM
hmmm....
For those that are saying she merely was "poking fun at a sigh and not trying to show any sort of disrespect for those who gave their lives"....well, if she was visiting a loved one at another cemetery and witnessed this, she would be just a angry and outraged. Because this was done at a cemetery for those who gave their very lives for her very ability to perform a "stupid mistake" is bad enough, but then she posted it to a public forum! So I beleive the ridicule she is getting is fair...in any other country she, no doubt, would have faced much more than the loss of her reputation nationwide..possibly her head. It was dumb...think before you act...you are an adult, not a child. The public expects more from you because you are an adult and I expect more as a daughter of a Captin who has sacrificed for 30 plus years of his life and mine and counting...I hope you have learned...the signs are their for reasons such as these moments.
11/23/2012 1:03AM
Psh!
Somebody check her papers. She's one sucky American, if she is an American. And Totally STUPID!
11/23/2012 1:51AM
I say let her keep her job, with a condition
She did this on the job, so maybe her employer should give her a new assignment. Let her volunteer at VA Hospital for six months. Then have her anonymously attend 3 funerals in small towns with the Patriot Guard - one in the snow, one in the freezing rain, one in 90 degree temps, standing the flag line for 6-8 hours, or even better one that the family requests an overnight vigil the night before the escort. Why small towns? Because then you get to know the 19-year-old pregnant widow, you see the pictures of their shattered dreams next to the caskets, you hug their grieving mothers and comfort their proud but grieving brothers and fathers. More effective than scorn, and may make a changed person of her.
11/23/2012 1:51AM
Supernova
she reaped what she soed disrespect from a nation [for every action there is a reaction.}
11/23/2012 3:33AM
Thank You Mistress Carrie
After reading this article, you helped me restore my faith a little bit in the American people Ms. C. Smart, respectful and grateful people like you help tip the scales against the ignorant. I guess we Soldiers are going our jobs properly if Americans can live fat and happy in a bubble of peacful ignorance. All American people are worth it. Even this one. Forgiveness is more powerful than disrespect.
11/23/2012 4:55AM
Sickening at best
I have a dear friend buried at Arlington. It's hallowed ground. This woman hasn't a shred of class, nor does her friend who took this photo. Not a shred of humor is in this matter. Her own father said he was ashamed of her actions. She has since been fired from her job. One of the things people need to understand is that they will never escape what is done & posted on the internet. I imagine these two women will wish they had never participated in this little photo op. Choices have consequences. She made her bed, so lie in it.
11/23/2012 7:02AM
There is Freeedom of Speech, but...
I'm not going to get into the disturbing the peace aspects of what she did, but she is working for a place that helps seniors live independently. I bet one of her clients knows somebody who's buried in Arlington. Does she deserve to get fired? Yes.
11/23/2012 7:44AM
Holier than thou
Obviously the person that said people are holier than thou fits into the same categorie as Lindsey person. What's wrong with the world if you not us to stand for nothing like you, you will fall for anything. The reason we live in a world where a slack jawed jackhole like you can say let it go is because of people like the ones buried at Arlington. Keep your liberal views in this case and shove them or it can be done for you
11/23/2012 9:06AM
Lack of reverance
Can't help but feel the ignorance/disrespect of these two is garnering the anger deserved from Americans who still have a reverance for the free life and it's ever increasing hard pursuit. Life was just cruising along until one day her 'right' to act this way overrode her lack of respect for anything including herself=selfishness. The rest of us have a 'right' to comment and let the world know just how we feel about it--it's as if she were flipping us all off. Consequences girls, consequences.
11/23/2012 9:17AM
how funny is it now?
Both of them have been fired
11/23/2012 9:18AM
FIRED !!
according to the employers website, her and her co-worker have been fired .i hope this follows her everywhere she goes as a constant reminder of what an idiot she is.
11/23/2012 9:29AM
Especially just Plain dumb for posting it on Facebook. Really must be stupid!
Stone Her Stone her
11/23/2012 12:20PM
Think about the price that was paid for your freedom to express yourself this way.
Ms. Stone, you have a right to free speech in this country, but it is a right that my grandfather, my father, I and millions of other men and women have fought for and have died for in the past 236 years. While I am not happy with the way you are using that right, I would gladly put my uniform on again and die defending that right for you because that right is one of the cornerstones in our democracy. Were you in another country where such rights exist, Miss Stone, you would probably have been arrested, tortured, and then executed. So, while you may hate me and my brothers and sisters in arms, just remember your right to be disrespectful to us was paid for by our blood. When can we expect that you will pay for your portion of that cost?
11/23/2012 1:26PM
Psychologist
Before you judge her, walk in her shoes... What are many young people exposed to today? Consumerism. Materialism. Movie star. The goal of getting rich. Shallow emotions. And then she is faced with the overwhelming enormity of Arlington, a complete unknown in her experience perhaps. What might each of us have done when faced with these circumstances? Perhaps fled the fear and awe, and taken refuge in the easy put down or cutting comment. How did you treat that kid who was different in high school? Befriend him/her or make jokes behind her back? I am not condoning the action she took but I do say think twice before throwing that stone to ask yourself if you have always behaved perfectly.
11/23/2012 1:48PM
Douchebag
I am one of those individuals who has deployed overseas with a full formation of Soldiers and redeployed with the ranks thinned out. I have lost loyal Soldiers and friends, some which lay to rest in Arlington cemetery. I hope this women is haunted by themost horrifying and evil spirits to walk the spiritual world. "We were actin like douchebags"...go to hell.
11/23/2012 2:46PM
Vietname POW
I served our country in a war that, today,I personally, don't feel we should have been involved in, at least to the extent we were. I was not drafted, I volunteered to join and volunteered to go to Vietnam. I was a POW in that war. Thankfully, I was one of the lucky ones that managed to escape my captivity and be returned to friendly forces. I only served one tour there, that was more than enough for me. That experience has given me a new and maybe a strange, outlook on life.I thank the Lord daily for getting me through that. I also thanked him for giving me the courage to forgive and try to understand the way I was treated when I walked off the airplane in California back in 1967 and the things that were said to and of me. I am proud of my service to our country. I DO understand what that cemetery's existence means to America. I also understand these people have violated what it stands for to Americans, I do not condone actions such as this, they are extremely disrespectful. PERIOD! I also understand the rights that each and every one of us have as Americans. I do not agree with what has been done on this, what I consider to be, an American Monument. My question to all is, to what degree do we chastise or, punish, those that carry out such a deed as this? Is there not a time to say, enough is enough and try to apply the Laws of Gods mercy and forgiveness? NO, not forgetfulness, Forgiveness! What has happened is not an act of treason or terrorism, simply put, it was a very stupid and unsavory thing for anyone to do, American or not. I am not one to push religion on anyone but I do believe in an "EYE FOR AN EYE" and that punishment should befit the crime. The Laws of both, our country The Lord say this should be the consideration taken. Revenge on an act of stupidity, only breeds more stupidity. I feel, time has come to lay down the evil thoughts and feelings, let bygones be bygones. Clearly these people have committed a crime against those that rest there and their families, as well as, everyone who hold this property to be special in our hearts. The actions of these people have not gone unnoticed. They, themselves, have brought it to the attention of all to see and so have suffered the fate that has been dealt to them. What do we do now? Should we gather a mob and give them a strong rope and a tall tree? Maybe a large cross to nail them to. I suggest we remember the words of Samual Clemmons, Mark Twain if you prefer, ''There has only been ONE true Christan and they Quickly crucified him''
11/23/2012 3:00PM
American Warrior
I am a born again christian Veteran. Send her overseas and let her live in the third world country .
11/23/2012 3:09PM
To "Arlington is not public property"
You stated Arlington is the property of the US Army. This is not correct! Above and beyond the fact that members of the US Army, Air Force, Navy, and the Marines are buried there, the cemetery is funded by the tax payers of the United States. Ultimately, it's the CITIZENS of this Country who own Arlington. By disrespecting Arlington and those who are interred there, she disrespected the United States and it's citizens. While this little girl has the Right to express her opinion, there are responsibilities that go along with those Rights. If anyone thinks otherwise, consider the laws regarding libel and defamation of character.
11/23/2012 7:33PM
Hey Irony
You posted several time that freedom of speech does not mean freedom of the ramifications of that speech. You spupid moron that is exactly what it mean. It means you are free to say what ever you want without fear of someone doing something to you for saying it. What the hell do you think "Freedom Of Speech" means? Freedom to say things then suffer for it? Please do not pass on your genes. The Pool is closed.
11/23/2012 7:34PM
Hey Irony
You posted several time that freedom of speech does not mean freedom of the ramifications of that speech. You spupid moron that is exactly what it mean. It means you are free to say what ever you want without fear of someone doing something to you for saying it. What the heck do you think "Freedom Of Speech" means? Freedom to say things then suffer for it? Please do not pass on your genes. The Pool is closed.
11/23/2012 8:28PM
Nick
What a cow. I'm an Aussie, and I'm disgusted at this.
11/23/2012 8:46PM
Headstone Photo; LTC James Walton, KIA, AFG, June 21, 2008
U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) News Release IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 529-08 June 24, 2008 DoD Identifies Army Casualties The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died June 21, 2008, in Kandahar City, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when their vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. Killed were: Lieutenant Colonel James J. Walton, 41, of Rockville, Maryland, who was assigned to a Military Transition Team, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas. Specialist Anthony L. Mangano, 36, of Greenlawn, New York, who was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry (Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition), New York Army National Guard, Geneva, New York. Sergeant Nelson D. Rodriguez Ramirez, 22, of Revere, Massachusetts who was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry (Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition), New York Army National Guard, Geneva, New York. Sergeant Andrew Seabrooks, 36, of Queens, New York, who was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry (Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition), New York Army National Guard, Geneva, New York.
11/23/2012 8:56PM
ungracious
My family has served our country from generation to generation. Even before I had the honor to serve my country, my grandmother taught me to have respect for those that serve and a pride in our country. I consider dying for my country the ultimate sacrifice. This picture not only shows her lack of respect for those that served but for her family as well.
11/23/2012 10:24PM
Poor taste
Mistress Carrie displayed very poor taste by posting the photo on this blog. She should be fired.
11/23/2012 11:24PM
Another example of America...
It boils down to this...she has provided those in the rest of the world who admire or try to understand the USA an example of how those who can be so fortunate to live here can be so disrespectful. She could have gone elsewhere to do the same thing, but to do so at the most sacred places of Honor... The other is that the enemies of America now have a photo to use in any way they desire to show to their followers another reason to bring about our downfall.
11/24/2012 7:04AM
Stupid
You just can't fix stupid. I bet her parents are really proud of her.
11/24/2012 9:05AM
Enough
I agree what she did was disrespectful and she is the picture to prove what is wrong in this country. People do not care about their actions or evidently the consequences of those actions. She did a stupid thing. I do not believe she was directly shooting the bird to the ones buried in the cemetary. We all do stupid things in our lives, the only difference is, is that our ignorance hasn't been plastered all over the internet. If you tried hard enough, you could change Mother Teresa into an evil woman, by using the internet. I am not condoning what she did by any means, but I do not feel her life should be ruined over a bad moment in judgement.
11/24/2012 11:08AM
Ignorant
you can't fix stupid. glad she lost her job.
11/24/2012 11:28AM
Proof of lack of character
I don't feel these two deserve physical punishment. Nor do they need to be exiled. But the employer was right to fire them. Each of us sets an example to someone in our life. If you are a caregiver you are doubly responsible to be sure it is a good example. Such a profound lack of judgement so publicly displayed should show everyone these two are not fit to provide care to vulnerable individuals. And where were their clients they were suppose to be looking out for and keeping track of, while they were busy being a public nuisance? These two are a glaring example of ugly Americans.
11/24/2012 2:22PM
sad
She is disgusting
11/24/2012 5:31PM
Know Her Parents Are Now Wishing They Had Raised Her to APPRECIATE FREEDOM!
She offers credence to the return of the draft (including women her age) to cause more than .75of one percent of the Nation to share in the price of Freedom!
11/24/2012 9:15PM
sad
Consequences. I just feel kinda empty looking at the picture this lady posted. As a 26 year veteran of the US Navy, I support her right to do, say, photograph, etc. as she pleases. I'm just numbed by the lack of respect ANY American should naturally feel in Arlington National Cemetery. I honestly don't personnally, think this woman's life and livelihood should be affected or destroyed. But the lessons she didn't learn about respect, I hope she learns about consequences. God Bless America.
11/25/2012 10:03AM
Sadness
I fill sorry for her, I guess she was never taught right and wrong. I have never been there before but I get chills knowing what these men/women did for me. I have a 2 year old son and just maybe because of what these brave souls did he might now ever go. As long as I live though he will know the right to fight for your country and is an honor and you are a hero when you do. A true man/women step up to the call. THANK YOU Brave souls that have stepped up and the ones who are still stepping up..
11/25/2012 1:15PM
no camera
Cameras shouldn't be allowed, like most military areas
11/26/2012 4:00PM
No Kid
Everyone also needs to remember that Lindsey Stone is no kid. She is a 30 year old women with no respect!
11/26/2012 7:48PM
she was raised well
Her parents should be penalized too. For their epic failure to raise a kid with 1 iota of respect.
11/26/2012 7:51PM
she was raised well
Her parents should be penalized too. For their epic failure to raise a kid with no respect.
11/28/2012 1:27PM
I have no pitty for here
I have served my country for the majority of my adult life. I have known people who have sustained grievous protecting her rights as an American. If this is how she repays the sacrifices of those who gave all, I say we draft her, send her to boot camp then ship her off to Afghanistan. When she comes back, we take her to this same spot where she took that picture and ask her if she understands now.
11/29/2012 12:35PM
American- God Bless America
Show No mercy
12/03/2012 7:52PM
What the Lindsey Stone Incident was REALLY About
"Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel" is a quote attributed to Samuel Johnson which he made in 1775. What this quote means, in my opinion, is that when all else fails, bring out the flag. Everyone will love you then. The US spends more on its military than the next ten nations combined. Almost everyone has either served in the military, or has friends and relatives that are or were in the military. The US society is closing in on a full generation that has never lived in a country that was not at war. The US is a very military-centric nation. To a large extent the US military now defines America and its values. Samuel Johnson's quote is hundreds of years old, and Americans have learned on their own that supporting the US military is a quick and easy way to get approval. This creates a symbiotic relationship between the military people and civilians. The military people can elevate their social status by flaunting their service. The civilians can show off by displaying fawning adulation for those in the military. The military people enjoy being the object of all this attention. This creates a self reinforcing feedback loop between the two groups, where the military is elevated further and further to reach god-like status, and the civilians fall all over themselves to pay tribute to these idols. The result is an orgy of exhibitionistic narcissism. When it is perceived that someone is not participating in this groupthink, it creates an opportunity for everyone to confirm and reinforce their patriotic zeal by attacking this threat to their belief system. When it is a blatant and deliberate insult, as Lindsey Stone's picture appeared to be, the result is an insane competition to see who can be most offended, who can display the most anger, who can be the most publicly hostile, all with one goal- to make that person look good. The more outraged you get, the better you look. So, to the pack of wild dogs, to the (aptly named) congress of baboons who self-organized to destroy Ms. Stone for tugging at their psychological security blanket, I have this to say- The Lindsey Stone episode is not about disrespecting dead soldiers, or free speech, or a prank gone wrong, or anything else like that. It's all about you.
12/06/2012 10:50AM
Coram Deo: Arlington Cemetery Meets the Facebook Generation
As a former commander of the USAF Honor Guard, I have spent much time Arlington honoring our fallen. Ms. Stone's actions were juvenile and ignorant, but also instructive. If I may be indulged to quote myself at length (from http://www.philippianjailer.com/2012/11/coram-deo-arlington-cemetery-meets.html): --- begin quote --- I doubt Ms. Jones considered for a second why her impishness might be deemed particularly offensive to anyone, which tells us something about her. She stood in a place steeped in profound meaning and deep personal, national and historical context, and somehow managed to experience none of it. It brings to mind the words of the prophet Jeremiah: Hear this, O foolish and senseless people, who have eyes, but see not, who have ears, but hear not. It was the ultimate Facebook Generation moment in every respect, including the fallout. Now she's suddenly infamous and unemployed, though--one hopes--a little wiser. This is sad, but can be instructive. We who live our entire lives coram deo (before the face of God) do so with little daily awareness of His holy presence. Honestly, if we were to get a glimpse into the heavenly social network--in which our every word, deed and thought has been captured in His lens--what would we see, and how could we stand? By grace alone, through faith, and this not of ourselves ... and perhaps this should give us pause as we deign to pass judgement on the wretchedness of Lindsay Jones. -- The Philippian Jailer (http://www.philippianjailer.com)
12/09/2012 7:12PM
Societal failure
Just another vivid example of how we as a society have raised and educated (liberal public schools) our children to have zero respect for anyone or anything. Hopefully losing her job over this and the public flogging she received will teach her something.
12/20/2012 8:30PM
Insensitive &Tasteless but the Punishment Fit the Crime
I am a 25 year military vet who served a year in Iraq. I was apauled by this 30 yr old woman's utter pack of respect and dignity. Yes, she has a right to free speech but there are rules of behavior that she agree to upon entering Us Army property. Secondly, her organization had every right to fire her (or ask for her resignation) . She committed the unprofessional behavior during work, on a work trip, representing that comapny. That said calls for her to be jailed, deported or held up to further ridicule are a bit excessive.
12/28/2012 2:37PM
re wow
Your example of manslaughter because of drunk driving? IMHO anyone that gets in a car drunk is playing with a loaded gun and should be charged with murder. As for this fool woman that managed to spit on my family's service members? She used her free speech and will now have to pay the consequences. If her employer decides to fire her then so be it, if this photo follows her around then too bad for her. She acted like an immature child and so she will live with the consequences like one (at least like a child of me generation and my children had to). God bless our soldiers.
03/07/2013 3:35AM
No Ma'am, not in Arlington National Cemetery
I continue to be amazed by you that write "she wasn't disrespecting the soldiers interred in Arlington . . . but rather, she was disrespecting "a sign" . . . "a sign?" . . . not a "stop sign" in Richmond, VA, not a "no U Turn sign" in Omaha, NE, but a sign in Arlington National Cemetery . . a sign requesting "quiet and respect" . . . and quiet and respect for what? . . . . . The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier . . . which represents thousands of unidentified combat military personnel, and contains an unidentified soldier, sailor, airman and U.S. Marine . . . it's not just a sign . . . what is important is what it represents . . . a request by Arlington National Cemetery to display honor, respect and reverence to the Tomb, and ALL the interred military personnel in ANC . . . and this worthless excuse for a human being raises her middle finger, which signifies "F**K YOU" to Arlington's request for "quiet and respect" . . and she directs her vulgar gesture to the to the heart of Arlington, the pulse of Arlington . . the Tomb . . . and consequently to all our heroes . . . and many of their wives and children . . . "No Ma'am, not in Arlington National Cemetery . . . not to my Dad . . not to career U.S. Army, LTC Melvin W. Crotty . . who served through WWII, Korea and Vietnam . . whose 2 brothers fought at Omaha and the Battle of the Bulge, respectively . . and "No Ma'am" . . not to my Mom who is interred with my Dad . . who worked for the U.S. Army during the war and whose brother was a USAF bomber pilot, flying many missions over Germany . . . No Ma'am, not in Arlington National Cemetery. I will never forgive you . . . I could forgive a murdered under some circumstances, a bank robber under some circumstances . . but YOU . . I will not forgive you under ANY circumstances . . . you knew exactly what you were doing that day in Arlington . . and you brought the nation's wrath upon yourself . . . and now . . . deal with it.
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