posted 11-10-2004 02:21 PM         

Frequently I hear or read about how the US is viewed negatively overseas. During elections, we debate vociferously among ourselves, but in the end, we support our government and stand united.

Sure, we make mistakes, but the United States also does a tremendous amount of good that goes unrecognized around the world. We rarely hear or read about the good will humanitarian gestures the United States is unselfishly doing overseas to help people in desperate situations, often during life and death emergencies. We expect nothing in return. But a little acknowledgement of what the United States is doing would be nice. These little known acts of generosity, in my view, are the essence of what makes America great and need to be highlighted in the press more.

I know from first hand experience that while foreign governments take issue with the United States on a range of policy decisions and actions, the defenseless people we help, will never forget what the real America is all about. We are a generous, caring and compassionate nation and we don’t get enough credit for it! Below is a brief summery of the United States’ generosity around the world in 2003 (a good representation of our activity). This relief is provided in the wake of earthquakes, war, flooding, famine, medical emergencies, to combat HIV/Aids, etc. Our activities include relief in the aftermath of floods, hurricanes, famine, war, genocide, pestilence (locusts, etc.), medical supplies, water purification kits, seeds, food, basic farm hand tools, blankets, tents etc. And we get the supplies where they are need within just a few days worldwide!

In 2003, the United States spent $392,755,280 to reduce deaths and alleviate suffering in the wake of worldwide disasters, and to try and mitigate the impact of future disasters on humans and their economic situation.

In 2002 we spent $259,592,953
In 2001 we spent $157,703,365
In 2000 we spent $175,792,446

Note: Last time I checked, our entire foreign assistance budget was less than 1% of the total US discretionary annual budget. My Agency doesn’t write checks to governments, we send supplies to our own people on the ground in the various locations for distribution and accountability.

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Originally posted by Bob Miller:
Frequently I hear or read about how the US is viewed negatively overseas.

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Yet we pretty much HELP everyone, really are the good cops of the world for pretty much everyone, and darn near everyone wants to get here and stay (either legally or illegally).

Next time you meet a Frenchman, ask them if German is their native tongue. When they reply, "No". You reply, "Your Welcome".

Next time you meet a German, ask them if Russian is their native tongue. When they reply, "No". You reply, "Your Welcome".

If someone from Japan says disparaging remarks about the ol USA, remind them that after we won the war, we completely rebuilt their country. A country whose only claim to fame at that time was blowing up our boys in Pearl Harbor.

No, if we are not held in a good light, it has nothing to do with politics or views. It has to do with the fact that we ARE the richest and most powerful nation in the world and the envy of everyone. Period!

Good post, BTW!