The Quiet Feds

Are you one of the so-called Quiet Feds -- people who are on duty or on call 24/7 -- if so, thanks for being there and checkout Mike Causey\'s column today for a...

  • “People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”
  • “Those who ‘abjure’ violence can only do so because others are committing violence on their behalf.”
  • “Yes, making mock o’ uniforms that guard you while you sleep”

    The above quotes are attributed to George (1984) Orwell, and/or British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. The last one comes from Rudyard Kipling. Whoever said them, they bear repeating. Especially during a warm and fuzzy holiday period like this one (we hope) will be.

    But while most of us turkey-out today, lots of civilian and military people will be guarding the fort. Our fort. For them we pass on this Thanksgiving Day message sent to to members of the intelligence agencies from CIA Director Mike Hayden

    “Thanksgiving Day is a time to reflect on our individual blessings and our common inheritance as Americans. Older than our nation itself, this day of gratitude reminds us that the gifts of liberty and opportunity are not only precious, but also worthy of protection and care.

    “A deep sense of appreciation and duty motivates the men and women of CIA to work each day in defense of our Republic and the values it embodies. Our mission always has been demanding, and since the terrorist attacks of September 11th, it has been especially so. But you consistently meet the challenge, applying your skill, intellect, and daring in ways that are unprecedented and decisive to America’s safety.

    “Your dedication to duty is among the many things for which Jeanine and I will give thanks on Thursday. As an Agency family, we will pause to remember those who have died in service to our country, including the 87 colleagues memorialized here at Headquarters. We will also keep in our thoughts and prayers those of you who will spend the holiday standing watch, away from home. Your sacrifices, and those of your families, are recognized and appreciated. You carry on a proud legacy of service that is today and always a true cause for thanksgiving.

    Have a happy and safe holiday weekend.”

    For everybody working today a special thanks from all of us at FederalNewsRadio.

    We don’t know what all of you are doing, but we appreciate the fact that you’re there.

Copyright © 2024 Federal News Network. All rights reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.