Stan R. Mitchell's Blog, page 21
November 30, 2022
Episode 12-1-22
Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front podcast. If you just happened to stumble by, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
Every week, I primarily do two things:
Work to highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, while also trying to better educate Americans about looming hotspots. (Why I focus on foreign policy...)
Attempt to unite our country and remind us of how lucky we are to live in America. (My thoughts on the division in this country...)
Take a listen to the show above. I really hope it resonates with you.
And if you love what I’m doing here, please sign up for email notifications. It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time.
Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon or make a donation at Venmo (@authorstanrmitchell).
Why paid subscriptions help...
Enough of the sales pitch, I hope you enjoy it. Again, you should listen to it from the player above.
And what follows are the news reports that I quote from in the podcast.
Source notes for the podcast.
@POTUS would face fewer & less significant domestic challenges than his opposite numbers in China, Russia, & Iran. We have a great deal of work to do here, but inherent advantages of democracy are its safety valves & ability to adapt.","username":"RichardHaass","name":"Richard N. Haass","date":"Sun Nov 27 23:42:01 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":362,"like_count":1990,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Richard N. Haass @RichardHaassA month ago, few would have predicted that @POTUS would face fewer & less significant domestic challenges than his opposite numbers in China, Russia, & Iran. We have a great deal of work to do here, but inherent advantages of democracy are its safety valves & ability to adapt.11:42 PM ∙ Nov 27, 20221,990Likes362Retweets
Mick Ryan, AM @WarintheFutureThe reality of modern war. While high tech is an important part of military institutions, across all domains, often war comes down to soldiers fighting in close combat in muddy barren landscapes. 
WarMonitor🇺🇦 @WarMonitor3Bakhmut trench warfare 2022 https://t.co/DcitoqrgR46:49 PM ∙ Nov 26, 20223,763Likes625Retweets
WarMonitor🇺🇦 @WarMonitor3Bakhmut trench warfare 2022 
12:55 PM ∙ Nov 26, 202220,732Likes4,100Retweets
MarkHertling @MarkHertlingMany suggesting how Ukraine should "keep up the momentum" against the Russians in the NE (Donbas) while continuing to Melitopol (further east from Kherson Oblast).While certainly desirable, both those efforts will be tough. Here's why. A brief 🧵 1/186:11 PM ∙ Nov 27, 20226,352Likes974Retweetssmh.com.au/world/asia/rud…",&quo... Ryan, AM","date":"Thu Nov 24 05:46:20 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":512,"like_count":2522,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://www.smh.com.au/world/asia/rud... is right – we can’t wish away a war with China","description":"Australia needs to start thinking more deeply about the very real prospect of a war with China – and it must appreciate that Taiwan is only one potential trigger for conflict.","domain":"smh.com.au"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">Mick Ryan, AM @WarintheFutureWe are seeing more frequent references to the potential for Chinese action to seize Taiwan from current and former government and military leaders. It appears the clock may be running down on deterring a conflict over Taiwan. 1/23 🧵smh.com.au/world/asia/rud…
smh.com.auRudd is right – we can’t wish away a war with ChinaAustralia needs to start thinking more deeply about the very real prospect of a war with China – and it must appreciate that Taiwan is only one potential trigger for conflict.5:46 AM ∙ Nov 24, 20222,522Likes512RetweetsMotivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Life Quotes @RTLifeQuotesDo not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. - John Wooden11:01 AM ∙ Nov 29, 202234Likes15Retweets
Inspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Remember to always be thankful for the bad things in life. They open your eyes to the good things you weren't paying attention to before."10:59 PM ∙ Nov 28, 20221,133Likes299RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"99% of things you worry about never happen."1:07 AM ∙ Nov 28, 20222,512Likes478Retweets
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_Never lose faith. Keep working hard, you’ll find a way.5:25 PM ∙ Nov 27, 20222,174Likes594RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"It's never too late to start. You are never too old."11:15 PM ∙ Nov 25, 20221,770Likes456RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Maybe you're not tired.Maybe you're just exhausted from putting your whole heart and efforts into people and places that aren't interested in you.3:10 AM ∙ Nov 26, 2022370Likes80RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Guard your big goals from small thinkers.5:15 PM ∙ Nov 25, 2022927Likes246RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_One day you’re gonna look back and be so glad you didn’t quit.3:15 AM ∙ Nov 25, 20221,997Likes529Retweets
Motivational Quotes @motivationalPatience 
2:44 AM ∙ Nov 24, 20223,486Likes771RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Confidence is silent. Insecurities are loud."3:10 AM ∙ Nov 28, 2022944Likes219Retweets
Motivational Quotes @motivation_qotEverything will come to you at the perfect time.4:00 AM ∙ Nov 23, 202279Likes23RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotOverthinking is one of the biggest cause of unhappiness.4:06 PM ∙ Nov 28, 202291Likes26RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotDon’t overshare. Everyone is not your friend.4:03 AM ∙ Nov 26, 2022298Likes72RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotPain is a powerful motivator.10:00 AM ∙ Nov 25, 2022113Likes34RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...
WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 
1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
November 25, 2022
Episode 11-24-22
Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front podcast. If you just happened to stumble by, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
Every week, I primarily do two things:
Highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, while also trying to better educate Americans about looming hotspots. (Why I focus on foreign policy...)
Unite our country and remind us of how lucky we are to live in America. (My thoughts on the division in this country...)
Take a listen to the show above. I really hope it resonates with you.
And if you love what I’m doing here, please sign up for email notifications. (It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time. Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books in some series they love sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon.)
Why paid subscriptions help...
Enough of the sales pitch, I hope you enjoy it. Again, you should listen to it from the player above.
And what follows are the news reports that I quote from in the podcast.
Source notes for the podcast.
Iran attacks Kurds in Iraq.@NOELreports that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has attacked the headquarters of the Iranian (Kurdish) Democratic Party with a ballistic missile. A major explosion is reported in the city of Koya in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. ","username":"ChuckPfarrer","name":"Chuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings |","date":"Sun Nov 20 22:31:01 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{"full_text":"Urgent, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) launched a ballistic missile attack on the headquarters of the Iranian (Kurdish) Democratic Party in the city of Koya in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. The damage is significant. https://t.co/XWd83CF0hm","u... 🇪🇺 🇺🇦"},"retweet_count":199,"like_count":514,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Chuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings | @ChuckPfarrerIRAN /FLASH TRAFFIC/ @NOELreports that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has attacked the headquarters of the Iranian (Kurdish) Democratic Party with a ballistic missile. A major explosion is reported in the city of Koya in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. 
NOËL 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 @NOELreportsUrgent, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) launched a ballistic missile attack on the headquarters of the Iranian (Kurdish) Democratic Party in the city of Koya in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. The damage is significant. https://t.co/XWd83CF0hm10:31 PM ∙ Nov 20, 2022514Likes199Retweets
NOËL 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 @NOELreportsUrgent, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) launched a ballistic missile attack on the headquarters of the Iranian (Kurdish) Democratic Party in the city of Koya in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. The damage is significant. 10:26 PM ∙ Nov 20, 20221,321Likes573RetweetsA map of the area:
#UPDATE Iran has launched strikes against Kurdish opposition groups based in Iraq, Iraqi Kurdistan officials say, the second such attack in a week.\n\nThe Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI) says Iran targeted it with missiles and suicide drones ","username":"AFP","name":"AFP News Agency","date":"Mon Nov 21 02:05:29 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FiDVeb...
AFP News Agency @AFP#UPDATE Iran has launched strikes against Kurdish opposition groups based in Iraq, Iraqi Kurdistan officials say, the second such attack in a week.The Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI) says Iran targeted it with missiles and suicide drones 
2:05 AM ∙ Nov 21, 202260Likes68RetweetsAt the same time, here’s video of more Iranian brutality. Absolute barbarians. At some point, the people have to stop protesting and start fighting.
Yashar Ali 🐘 یاشار @yasharIslamic Republic security forces throw a protestor into the trunk of a car!The protestor gets beaten while they're being put into the trunk!This took place in Bukan which is majority Kurdish.The people of Iran need your attention more than ever! 2:43 AM ∙ Nov 21, 2022673Likes429RetweetsAnd here’s a reminder that this is about way more than headscarves.
@NazaninBoniadi explains... ","username":"yashar","name":"Yashar Ali 🐘 یاشار","date":"Mon Nov 21 01:57:40 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...Yashar Ali 🐘 یاشار @yasharEven though there's been a ton of attention on social media to the revolution in Iran, people still think it's all about the headscarf. It's not...it's about so much more. @NazaninBoniadi explains... 1:57 AM ∙ Nov 21, 20222,841Likes1,625RetweetsThis brutality might backfire though.
Malcolm Nance @MalcolmNanceThis is how revolutions begin. 
Visegrád 24 @visegrad24Security forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran firing live rounds against protesters.Around 450 people have been killed.Dozens are killed on a daily basis in the past few days. https://t.co/FZhWDlZ3bt4:02 AM ∙ Nov 22, 20222,137Likes716RetweetsVideo of what Nance was referring to.
Visegrád 24 @visegrad24Security forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran firing live rounds against protesters.Around 450 people have been killed.Dozens are killed on a daily basis in the past few days. 1:44 AM ∙ Nov 22, 20222,700Likes1,383RetweetsOpinion | Turkey is playing with fire in Northern SyriaBy David Ignatius:
Notes on Ukraine.Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, spoke on Wednesday with his Turkish counterpart and warned the Turks against attacking restricted zones around U.S. troops. But a Pentagon official said there was “no sign that [the Turks] are ready to de-escalate.” As the Turkish military assault in northern Syria begins to destabilize the U.S.-led coalition’s fragile control over the murderous remnants of the Islamic State, a reasonable person begins to wonder: What kind of an ally is this?
Ukrainian energy systems on brink of collapse after weeks of Russian bombing
Illia Ponomarenko 🇺🇦 @IAPonomarenkoThe first train coming to Kherson from Kyiv following the liberation day.Note it how local folks are meeting it! 8:31 AM ∙ Nov 19, 202226,181Likes3,322RetweetsU.S. General warns China…
Lucas Tomlinson @LucasFoxNewsGen. Milley warns China over Taiwan: “War on paper is a whole lot different than real war, and when blood is spilled, and people die and real tanks are being blown up—things are a little bit different.”6:45 PM ∙ Nov 16, 2022224Likes48RetweetsLucas Tomlinson @LucasFoxNewsAny potential invasion of Taiwan would be “a very, very dangerous game,” Gen. Milley adds. “They don't have the experience or the background to do it. They haven't trained to it yet.”6:46 PM ∙ Nov 16, 202257Likes11RetweetsMotivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Jon Gordon @JonGordon11No better time to practice positive leadership. 
4:44 PM ∙ Nov 17, 2022328Likes86RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Baby steps are better than no steps at all. Keep going. You'll get there."10:45 AM ∙ Nov 21, 20222,723Likes777RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"You were born with the ability to change someone's life - don't ever waste it."2:34 AM ∙ Nov 21, 20221,286Likes298RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Keep grinding, your day is coming.4:55 AM ∙ Nov 19, 20221,072Likes282Retweets
Words of Wisdom @billionair_keyWorrying does not take away tomorrow's troubles, it takes away today's peace.6:20 AM ∙ Nov 19, 20221,378Likes414Retweets
Daily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"Our sins are more easily remembered than our good deeds."- Democritus7:56 AM ∙ Nov 19, 2022270Likes79RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Tell Yourself: "I refuse to be anything but successful."10:45 AM ∙ Nov 19, 20222,148Likes542RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Make up your mind that no matter what comes your way, no matter how difficult, no matter how unfair, you will do more than simply survive. You will thrive in spite of it."11:39 AM ∙ Nov 19, 2022832Likes214RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Think less. Do more.3:15 AM ∙ Nov 19, 20221,311Likes313RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Sometimes, as we're stumbling along in the dark, we hit something good."1:24 AM ∙ Nov 18, 2022849Likes182RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”- Lao Tzu12:56 AM ∙ Nov 19, 2022470Likes108RetweetsJon Gordon @JonGordon11Greatness isn’t achieved by worrying what everyone thinks of you. Don’t look outside. The praise, criticism, expectations; it’s all just noise. Look inside to your heart and soul and do your thing. Do it with love and create greatness from the inside out.1:20 AM ∙ Nov 19, 20221,567Likes329RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"To change your life, you have to change yourself. To change yourself, you have to change your mindset."12:23 PM ∙ Nov 18, 20225,575Likes1,575Retweets
N. M. Curry @realNickCurry
1:22 AM ∙ Nov 18, 202214Likes3RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"If you are working on something that you really care about, you don't have to be pushed. The vision pulls you."3:15 AM ∙ Nov 17, 20221,062Likes343RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The one who falls and gets up is stronger than the one who never tried."11:15 PM ∙ Nov 17, 20221,073Likes279RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
November 21, 2022
Why paid subscriptions help...
The View from the Front by Stan R. Mitchell is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Paid subscriptions provide a recurring, monthly revenue of $5 per month, and it’s the fastest way I’ll be able to return to becoming a full-time author again (my writing journey/curse), which means I’ll have more time to write fiction, cover news, and try to unite the country and motivate others — all things I feel drawn to do.
Of course, you can also tell people about my podcast and my books! And you can also even give a gift subscription to a friend.
But you don’t have to do any of these things. I feel called to do this and I’ve already had tremendous support from people who’ve signed up to chip in a few bucks each month.
Trust me, you can sign up and come and go as you like. As long as I’m making enough to cover the time I put into doing this show, then I’m not going anywhere.
Why I focus on foreign policy...
There are several reasons I focus on foreign policy.
First, it’s because I’ve been on the sharp end of the sword. I’ve been the young, deployed Marine who’s sleeping in the mud and half-scared out of his mind. (The details of my military career.) I know that decisions made in Washington, D.C. lead to good men and women dying or being damaged for life.
I also believe in the mission of this. Of trying to highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, while also trying to better educate Americans about looming hotspots. We want to avoid those places we should avoid. We also want to avoid unplanned mission creep, such as we did in Afghanistan or in Vietnam. These decisions mattered when they were made, and the decisions being made now matter as well.
This subject is also what I’ve always been naturally drawn to in my studies of political science and history.
But even bigger than that, I’m convinced that foreign-policy decisions matter. Foreign policy decisions can be tragic and heartbreaking, and it’s important that we get them right.
When we get them wrong, such as we did during the Vietnam War, our very country can be ripped apart by division and chaos. It’s also crucial that when we get them wrong, as we did in Vietnam, then the faster we can course correct, the faster we can reduce how many lives we lose.
America is the world’s leading power, and we mostly lead the world from a position of moral authority, showing other countries how they should behave in regard to ethics, restraint, and providing freedom for their citizens.
We are a force of good for the world, although I will acknowledge that we are not perfect.
I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I know that our democracy doesn’t work without informed voters. And I also know we need to grow closer together and show more patience and kindness.
It’s only by pulling our country closer together that we can pass on a better future for our kids, and we need to hold and cherish the beliefs that got us here today. Beliefs such as patience, kindness, and a strong belief that our best days lie before us. These are the beliefs that got us to this point. And they’re also the kind of optimistic beliefs that will get us to a brighter future.
My thoughts on the division in this country...
I strongly believe in the mission of what I’m doing. Of trying to highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, and also in trying to unite this country.
I believe the division in our country is the greatest threat this nation faces.
And I believe I’m fairly well-positioned to help pull us together. I’ve been in the military, but I’ve also graduated from college. Similarly, most of my family is from the country, and I grew up hunting and fishing on most weekends, even attending a church out in the country my entire life until I left for the military.
But at the same time, I lived in a decently-large city (Knoxville) and attended and graduated from an inner-city school, which had a 60-plus percent minority enrollment. The school had some serious, nasty racial tensions. And I’ve seen what happens when distrust, hatred, and physical confrontations erupt in a community, whether it’s a school, county, or state. (I went to the same school that Zaevion William Dobson attended; may his courage and sacrifice never be forgotten.)
I’ve also read enough Roman history to know that internal divisions are what ripped that country apart and cut short its history.
The bottom line is, I know deep in my heart that we MUST come together before evil forces rip this country apart. This is what deep in our souls we know God is telling us to do. To love our neighbor. To not lie or slander our enemy. To not threaten civil war against our fellow Americans when we should turn the other cheek.
But this message of love is constantly assaulted by loud media figures and politicians, who frighten good Americans with exaggerated, fear-based stories designed to scare and divide.
I want to use my small (and growing!) publication to remind each of us on a regular basis that most of us are being played by divisive political and news figures, who are ripping apart this great country just so they can reach a higher office or gain more followers and ad dollars.
Most Americans are good, and we need to remember this.
Always.
And each of us won the lottery by being born in this great country. That’s a flat-out fact.
While we face great challenges (division, debt, and dysfunction in Washington), America has stood together for more than 240 years. And it’s only by pulling our country closer together that we can pass on a better future for our kids.
We can heal these wounds. We can love those on the other side. We can bite our tongues and stop shouting back. This healing begins with each of us, and as we show greater love and restraint, the unfounded fears of the other side will recede.
Those acting in anger will see that they have been lied to. That they have been played. That they have been manipulated.
You can be a light. You can start the healing, right now, beginning in this very moment wherever you live.
Most Americans are good people, who would help you in a heartbeat. I’ve been helped out in the country, and I’ve also been helped in major cities.
My friends, most Americans are good. Love your fellow Americans. Please. ❤️🙏
November 17, 2022
Episode 11-17-22
Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front podcast. If you just happened to stumble by here, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here (assuming you’ve never heard the show, which you really should just go listen to.)
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
And as a guy who’s been deployed overseas, and who was a big-time history buff even before that, I care a lot about our military, where they're at, where they might be going, what conflicts might be about to occur.
Because these things matter. And as such, every week I report news that you’re not going to easily find anywhere else.
So, if you’re a military member, a spouse of a military member, or a parent or grandparent of a military member, this is probably a great podcast for you to subscribe to.
I’ll keep you updated on foreign policy issues, but I won’t do it like you’ll find everywhere else. First of all, the media almost never covers the military or looming hotspots. But if they do, they overhype everything. And they scare you and use lots of B-roll video with explosions and flashing graphics. Their biggest desire is eyeballs and ad dollars.
I promise you -- and you can check the past year of archived editions -- I do not overhype, exaggerate, or do any of that. If anything, I almost downplay. It’s a steady and calm voice that you’ll find here.
But on the flip side, foreign policy journals that do cover what I do also fall way short in my opinion.
Their articles are far too long, they’re far too dense, and they’re crammed with big words, technical mambo jumbo, and silly acronyms that only insiders truly know.
I couldn't find a show that met my needs, so I decided to create one.
Once a week, I’ll discuss military matters, while also adding in a little motivation, wisdom, and history.
Besides covering this news, and also sharing plenty of motivation at the end of each edition, I also work as hard as I can to unite this country.
Without question, I feel like our wide division and animosity toward those with whom we disagree is the greatest threat our country faces.
So, once a week I do my best to bridge this great divide, while also reminding each of us that most of us are being played by divisive political and news figures, who are ripping apart this great country just so they can reach a higher office or gain more followers and ad dollars.
Most Americans are good, and we need to remember this. Always.
While we face great challenges as a country, America has stood together for more than 240 years, and it’s only by pulling our country closer together that we can pass on a better future for our kids.
We need to hold and cherish the beliefs that got us here today. Beliefs such as patience, kindness, and a strong belief that our best days lie before us. These are the beliefs that got us to this point. And they’re also the kind of optimistic beliefs that will get us to a brighter future.
If you love what I’m doing here, please sign up for email notifications. (It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time. Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books in some series they love sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon.)
Why paid subscriptions help...
Paid subscriptions provide a recurring, monthly revenue of $5 per month, and it’s the fastest way I’ll be able to return to becoming a full-time author again (my writing journey/curse), which means I’ll have more time to write fiction, cover news, and try to unite the country and motivate others — all things I feel drawn to do.
Of course, you can also tell people about my podcast and my books! And you can also even give a gift subscription to a friend.
But you don’t have to do any of these things. I feel called to do this and I’ve already had tremendous support from people who’ve signed up to chip in a few bucks each month.
Trust me, you can sign up and come and go as you like. As long as I’m making enough to cover the time I put into doing this show, then I’m not going anywhere.
Source notes for the podcast.
Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellThis photo and headline is partly why I do my podcast. This is disappointing by Task & Purpose. They're usually better than this.Much of the media regularly blows stuff out of proportion when foreign policy news breaks, as most are doing now. It really irks the crap out of me. 
7:37 PM ∙ Nov 15, 2022Joe Rogan finally admits that school 'furry' litter box hoax
Biden flexes his political muscle abroad at G20 meeting
@alexbward @ErinBanco ","username":"laraseligman","name":"Lara Seligman","date":"Mon Nov 14 20:46:22 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":45,"like_count":87,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://www.politico.com/news/2022/11.... scrambles to reassure Ukraine after Milley comments on negotiations","description":"The top general’s remarks about a “window” for talks angered Ukrainian officials, people familiar with the matter said.","domain":"politico.com"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Lara Seligman @laraseligmanNEW: The Biden admin is doing damage control after a top general said a window for peace talks bt Kyiv & Moscow could open this winter, w/ officials scrambling to assure Ukraine it wasn’t undercutting its goal of expelling Russians. @alexbward @ErinBanco 
politico.comU.S. scrambles to reassure Ukraine after Milley comments on negotiationsThe top general’s remarks about a “window” for talks angered Ukrainian officials, people familiar with the matter said.8:46 PM ∙ Nov 14, 202287Likes45Retweets@ZelenskyyUa https://t.co/4lJ86wNatr","u... Spencer","date":"Tue Nov 15 03:40:53 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{"full_text":"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visited Kherson, the biggest prize his troops have won so far, and vowed to press on recapturing all occupied lands https://t.co/55WKJOEGPa https://t.co/WYcAXz6lsH","u...
John Spencer @SpencerGuardI am still in awe. A President visiting his troops, his people, on the very front line, with the enemy less than 10km away. A man who rose to the occasion and became the leader his people needed. A historic hero for others to embody. Be more like @ZelenskyyUa https://t.co/4lJ86wNatr
Reuters @ReutersUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visited Kherson, the biggest prize his troops have won so far, and vowed to press on recapturing all occupied lands https://t.co/55WKJOEGPa https://t.co/WYcAXz6lsH3:40 AM ∙ Nov 15, 202218,502Likes2,916Retweetsreut.rs/3AdTmhu ","username":"Reuters","name":"Reuters","date":"Mon Nov 14 21:55:00 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
Reuters @ReutersUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visited Kherson, the biggest prize his troops have won so far, and vowed to press on recapturing all occupied lands reut.rs/3AdTmhu 9:55 PM ∙ Nov 14, 20222,786Likes489RetweetsThis is fake news. Posting it so that it remains in my source notes.
Qasim Rashid, Esq. @QasimRashidThis is horrifying. The Iranian parliament votes overwhelmingly (227-63) to execute the 15,000 protesters they already arrested.These were peaceful protestors simply seeking the right to basic justice and autonomy. Unacceptable and barbaric.
newsweek.comIran Parliament chants ‘death to seditionists’ in protest punishment callNearly 15,000 Iranians have been arrested in connection with the protests, which were spurred by the death of Mahsa Amini in September.3:13 PM ∙ Nov 14, 202280,004Likes37,797RetweetsThis is the real news:
False claim about Iran protester executions goes viral with help from celebrities and politicians
The Associated Press @APGas stations opened across Haiti for the first time in two months after a powerful gang lifted a crippling fuel blockade. 
apnews.comGas stations in Haiti reopen for 1st time in 2 monthsPORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Whoops of excitement echoed through the streets of Port-au-Prince early Saturday as gas stations opened across Haiti for the first time in two months after a powerful gang lifted a crippling fuel blockade.10:15 PM ∙ Nov 12, 2022129Likes61RetweetsMotivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"It may be stormy now but it can't rain forever."5:00 AM ∙ Nov 16, 20221,023Likes257RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotThe smarter you get, the less you speak.4:03 AM ∙ Nov 15, 2022283Likes62RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The best is yet to come. Be patient."11:10 PM ∙ Nov 12, 20222,177Likes545RetweetsN. M. Curry @realNickCurry
4:13 PM ∙ Nov 11, 202216Likes4RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_You can only lead by being willing to walk alone.2:15 AM ∙ Nov 11, 2022876Likes217RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qot"Today is an opportunity to get better. Don't waste it."4:00 AM ∙ Nov 10, 2022109Likes32RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Stop trying to fit in and discover how amazing you can be4:00 AM ∙ Nov 10, 2022703Likes153RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The best is yet to come. Be patient."5:10 PM ∙ Nov 16, 2022358Likes92RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesThe best thing about tomorrow is that it comes one day at a time. - Abraham Lincoln2:01 AM ∙ Oct 27, 202289Likes29RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Self reminder: You're still young and you're not supposed to have your whole life figured out yet. Don't stress, everything will work out."3:11 PM ∙ Nov 16, 2022235Likes57RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The past is in your head, but the future is in your hands."10:00 AM ∙ Oct 26, 20222,591Likes650RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Stop hating yourself for everything you aren't. Start loving yourself for everything that you are."12:03 PM ∙ Nov 16, 2022643Likes159RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Don't be content. Don't be satisfied. Stay hungry. Stay ambitious. Stay striving. Stay succeeding."2:10 AM ∙ Oct 26, 20221,455Likes402RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"A year from now you will wish you had started today."8:55 AM ∙ Nov 16, 20221,021Likes166RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivationalMe vs me 
11:17 PM ∙ Oct 25, 202225,372Likes5,853RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
November 10, 2022
Episode 11-10-22
Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front newsletter. If you just happened to stumble by here, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
And as a guy who’s been deployed overseas, and who was a big-time history buff even before that, I care a lot about our military, where they're at, where they might be going, what conflicts might be about to occur.
Because these things matter. And as such, every week I publish news that you’re not going to easily find anywhere else.
So, if you’re a military member, a spouse of a military member, or a parent or grandparent of a military member, this is probably a great newsletter for you to subscribe to.
I’ll keep you updated on foreign policy issues, but I won’t do it like you’ll find everywhere else. First of all, the media almost never covers the military or looming hotspots. But if they do, they overhype everything. And they scare you and use lots of B-roll video with explosions and flashing graphics. Their biggest desire is eyeballs and ad dollars.
I promise you -- and you can check the past year of archived editions -- I do not overhype, exaggerate, or do any of that. If anything, I almost downplay. It’s a steady and calm voice that you’ll find here.
But on the flip side, foreign policy journals that do cover what I do also fall way short in my opinion.
Their articles are far too long, they’re far too dense, and they’re crammed with big words, technical mambo jumbo, and silly acronyms that only insiders truly know.
I couldn't find a show that met my needs, so I decided to create one.
Once a week, I’ll discuss military matters, while also adding in a little motivation, wisdom, and history.
Besides covering this news, and also sharing plenty of motivation at the end of each edition, I also work as hard as I can to unite this country.
Without question, I feel like our wide division and animosity toward those with whom we disagree is the greatest threat our country faces.
So, once a week I do my best to bridge this great divide, while also reminding each of us that most of us are being played by divisive political and news figures, who are ripping apart this great country just so they can reach a higher office or gain more followers and ad dollars.
Most Americans are good, and we need to remember this. Always.
While we face great challenges as a country, America has stood together for more than 240 years, and it’s only by pulling our country closer together that we can pass on a better future for our kids.
We need to hold and cherish the beliefs that got us here today. Beliefs such as patience, kindness, and a strong belief that our best days lie before us. These are the beliefs that got us to this point. And they’re also the kind of optimistic beliefs that will get us to a brighter future.
And with that out of the way, let’s get started.
One quick reminder before we get to the news…
If you haven’t already, please sign up for email notifications. (It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time. Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books in some series they love sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon. Doing this provides a recurring, monthly revenue of $5 per month, and it’s the fastest way I’ll be able to return to becoming a full-time author again (my writing journey/curse), which means I’ll have more time to write fiction, cover news, and try to unite the country and motivate others — all things I feel drawn to do. Of course, you can also tell people about this newsletter, my podcast, and my books! And you can also even give a gift subscription to a friend. But you don’t have to do any of these things. I feel called to do this and I’ve already had tremendous support from people who’ve signed up to chip in a few bucks each month. Trust me, you can sign up and come and go as you like. As long as I’m making enough to recoup my costs and continue this outreach, then I’m not going anywhere.)
Also, a brief reminder, if you’re reading this edition by email and not listening to the podcast, click the episode headline with today’s date that is under my picture at the top of the page; that will take you to the full webpage. Otherwise, the email will likely be cut off and shortened by your email provider. (But honestly, I almost always have more details in my podcast, so that’s probably the best way to stay informed and enjoy the experience more.)
We’ll start this episode with the latest news about Ukraine, including the possible terms they’ve laid out (under pressure from the West) to begin some kind of peace talks. Then, we’ll move on to the following:
News that Russia has pulled its ships into the safety of port after the drone-ship vessel attack a week ago.
News that Ukrainian advances in the southern part of the country near Kherson have continued, and Russia announced it is withdrawing from the western side of the Dnipro River, which is obviously huge news. (As a reminder, this is the only regional capital that Russia managed to seize during its massive invasion this year.)
I’ll share what this withdrawal means for the tactical situation, according to one General who’s well-versed in the art of war.
I’ll share what one retired Army officer has said, who has come out and said that the Russians have already lost the war and have no real options left. I’ll share the reasons he has said this.
I’ll share video of a horrendous attack that the Russians attempted with an armored thrust on the eastern part of the front in the Donbas region, and how Ukrainian artillery absolutely decimated this attempt.
I’ll show the aftermath of what happened after Russians blew a damn in the east — yet another atrocity from them — and how they created a man-made natural disaster that emptied a massive lake that was more than 50 miles long and two miles wide. The reservoir is now completely shallow.
I’ll share a well-structured, well-reasoned argument for why supporting Ukrainian efforts to oust the Russians actually serves U.S. interests, and not just in deterring Russia. How that supporting Ukraine also aligns with U.S. interests in thwarting China's territorial ambitions and expansions.
I’ll even share a quick, must-read thread about the economics of possibly supporting Ukraine with tanks first.
I’ll share the balancing act that Ukraine is being forced to walk with China right now, something I wasn’t aware of — and I’ll bet you weren’t either. (This has seriously not been reported anywhere that I’m aware.)
I’ll share news of a disturbing phone call between China and Russia, which I haven’t seen reported.
I’ll remind everyone briefly that Nov 10th is the Marine Corps Birthday. It’s 247th Marine Corps birthday.
Finally, for the news portion, I’ll take about the size of our Navy, remind everyone of how large it used to be in World War II (just to provide some perspective), and share an idea that could be used to help thwart China with smaller ships and more missiles. It’s really quite fascinating how much this has all changed.
And, as always, we’ll end with our motivation and wisdom section.
NOTE: This is a lot of news. I HIGHLY STRONGLY suggest listening to the podcast on your drive or while you work, if you can. It’ll be way more relaxing and enjoyable.
The biggest news of late is that Ukraine has laid out possible terms (under pressure from the West) to begin peace talks with Russia.
The bare minimum requirements are the following:
@ZelenskyyUa, conditions for peace negotiations with Russia are the following: \n\n1. Restoring territorial integrity\n\n2. Respecting UN Statute \n\n3. Paying off all damages caused by war\n\n4. Punishing each war criminal\n\n5. Guarantees this won't happen again ","username":"Gerashchenko_en","name":"Anton Gerashchenko","date":"Mon Nov 07 21:49:29 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
Anton Gerashchenko @Gerashchenko_enAccording to President @ZelenskyyUa, conditions for peace negotiations with Russia are the following: 1. Restoring territorial integrity2. Respecting UN Statute 3. Paying off all damages caused by war4. Punishing each war criminal5. Guarantees this won't happen again 9:49 PM ∙ Nov 7, 202217,854Likes4,648RetweetsMoving along, Russia is having to pull its ships back to safety after the recent unmanned naval drone/ship attack by Ukraine. Not a good look for them, but their naval forces are about on par with their land forces, which is to say not good.
news.usni.org/2022/11/07/rus… ","username":"USNINews","name":"USNI News","date":"Mon Nov 07 23:45:04 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/Fg_7q8...
USNI News @USNINewsRussian Navy Pulls Warships from Black Sea into Port After Attacks - USNI Newsnews.usni.org/2022/11/07/rus… 
11:45 PM ∙ Nov 7, 202226Likes10RetweetsSimilar to this Russian retreat of its ships, there’s some other huge news for Ukraine.
Ukrainian advances in the southern part of the country have continued, and Russia announced it is withdrawing from the western side of the Dnipro River near Kherson, which is obviously huge news.
As a reminder, this is the only regional capital that Russia managed to seize during its massive invasion this year.
CNN had a pretty good summary of the situation. Here is that reporting.
cnn.it/3UGtP8t ","username":"CNN","name":"CNN","date":"Wed Nov 09 17:25:54 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
CNN @CNNMoscow has ordered a retreat from the west bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson as Ukrainian troops advance. cnn.it/3UGtP8t 5:25 PM ∙ Nov 9, 202252Likes8RetweetsRetired General Mick Ryan discussed what this retreat will mean, and here is part of what he shared:
Mick Ryan, AM @WarintheFuture4/ The Ukrainians have fought hard, and undertaken long range strikes and psychological operations, to make the Russian position on the West Bank of the Dniepr untenable. They will also ensure the withdrawing Russians are attacked where possible. 
1:57 AM ∙ Nov 10, 2022160Likes12RetweetsHere’s that map above in detail. You can see the river literally cuts the city of Kherson in half.
Continuing his thoughts:
5/ What about Ukraine’s next steps? It is unlikely the Ukrainians will be undertaking a large scale crossing of the Dniepr to the eastern bank anytime soon.
6/ Not only would this be a massive, deliberate operation, it would attack into a dense series of Russian defensive zones.
7/ Consequently, the Ukrainians - who prefer to attack indirectly, attrit enemy logistic and C2, and corrode the Russians from within - will look for other opportunities in other areas to clear the Russians from the south.
8/ Of course, Ukrainian deep strikes will continue. Their recapture of Kherson will expand the area in the south that systems like #HIMARS can reach for shaping and strike activities in support of future offensives.
9/ A second issue: this halts any future Russian designs on Odesa, but puts the Ukrainians a step closer to recapturing the south. Capturing Kherson is also an important enabling operation for a future campaign to recapture Crimea.
10/ A third observation: while this announcement was made by the military, ceding territory is political. There is no way this would have occurred without Putin’s sign off.
11/This is evidence that Putin can recognise reality, and can make rational decisions (as @MaxBoot describes here). But it is also evidence he is setting up the military as the fall guys for the Russian debacle in #Ukraine.
While we’re discussing withdrawals, Here what one retired Army officer has said, who has come out and said that the Russians have already lost the war and have no real options left.
John Spencer @SpencerGuardPutin has lost his illegal war in Ukraine. He doesn’t have the means to break the will of the Ukrainian people to continue fighting. He doesn’t have the means to break the will of the west supporting Ukraine. The only question is how many Russian soldiers die before he stops?2:40 PM ∙ Nov 6, 20227,661Likes1,205RetweetsJohn Spencer @SpencerGuardPutin lost the war for Ukraine in April at the Battle of Kyiv. He lost the Battle of Kharkiv in Sept. Now he has lost the Battle of Kherson. Where will he lose next? Ukraine will not stop. Winter is coming for Russia.2:26 PM ∙ Nov 10, 202271Likes20RetweetsI really think he’s dead on.
Here’s an analogy that I shared with a friend.
Putin is like the bankrupt small business owner who still has the Denali, speed boat, and mansion. The man is drinking and losing sleep because he knows there’s a three-inch stack of certified mail and he’s about to have to give up the toys, but most have no clue.
The employees still have jobs, the courts haven’t authorized seizures, and the man doesn’t hide at church or restaurants or at Rotary meetings. But he’s sweating and the truth will come out soon.
That explains the desire to negotiate, the threat of nukes, and the foolish gambit to break the Ukrainian spirit by attacking the electrical grid instead of military targets. Putin is a cursing, blustering business man, who’s threatening to sue the banks and lying to his wife.
Moving along, I wanted to share a video of a horrendous bloody nose that the Russians received, after attempting an armored thrust on the eastern part of the front in the Donbas region, and how Ukrainian artillery absolutely decimated this attempt.
Hat tip to Chuck Pfarrer, who first highlighted this.
@Militarylandnet posts this video of UKR’s 72nd Mechanized Brigade repelling a RU attack on Pavlivka, in occupied Donetsk. Russia's 155th Marine Infantry Brigade suffered 100s of dead and wounded in their botched offensive. ","username":"ChuckPfarrer","name":"Chuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings |","date":"Mon Nov 07 13:05:05 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{"full_text":"📽️Ukrainian 72nd Mechanized Brigade repelled a Russian attack in the area of Pavlivka, #Donetsk Oblast.\n#UkraineRussiaWar https://t.co/stfsBbbSBC","u...Chuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings | @ChuckPfarrerMASS CASUALTY EVENT: @Militarylandnet posts this video of UKR’s 72nd Mechanized Brigade repelling a RU attack on Pavlivka, in occupied Donetsk. Russia's 155th Marine Infantry Brigade suffered 100s of dead and wounded in their botched offensive. 
MilitaryLand.net @Militarylandnet📽️Ukrainian 72nd Mechanized Brigade repelled a Russian attack in the area of Pavlivka, #Donetsk Oblast.#UkraineRussiaWar https://t.co/stfsBbbSBC1:05 PM ∙ Nov 7, 20221,078Likes161RetweetsAnd here’s the full video if you want to watch it.
#Donetsk Oblast.\n#UkraineRussiaWar ","username":"Militarylandnet","name":"MilitaryLand.net","date":"Mon Nov 07 12:52:40 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
MilitaryLand.net @Militarylandnet📽️Ukrainian 72nd Mechanized Brigade repelled a Russian attack in the area of Pavlivka, #Donetsk Oblast.#UkraineRussiaWar 12:52 PM ∙ Nov 7, 2022855Likes92RetweetsContinuing our coverage of Ukraine, the atrocities committed by Russia have continued.
Here’s just another example in a long list of them.
the Russians blew up a dam and destroyed a lake that was 50 miles long and two miles wide.
The Oskil reservoir is now completely shallow.
Defense of Ukraine @DefenceUThe russian occupiers staged a man-made natural disaster in the Kharkiv region. While retreating, they blew up the floodgates of the dam of the Oskil reservoir. The reservoir, which before the invasion was 85 km long and up to 4 km wide, is now completely shallow. 9:49 PM ∙ Nov 4, 202213,036Likes5,348RetweetsI wanted to make sure I shared the below this week.
This is a well-structured, well-reasoned argument for why supporting Ukrainian efforts to oust the Russians serves U.S. interests, and not just in deterring Russia. Supporting Ukraine also aligns with U.S. interests in thwarting China's territorial ambitions and expansions. (Full thread below.)
Timothy Snyder @TimothyDSnyderI have been hearing the idea from some Republicans that Ukrainian resistance comes at a cost to Americans. Nothing could be more wrong. Ukrainian resistance provides extraordinary security benefits to Americans. 1/2:15 PM ∙ Nov 6, 202254,385Likes15,125RetweetsFull thread from Twitter:
I have been hearing the idea from some Republicans that Ukrainian resistance comes at a cost to Americans. Nothing could be more wrong. Ukrainian resistance provides extraordinary security benefits to Americans. 1/
In fact, Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s genocidal invasion does more for American security than any American policy does – or could do. It has changed the global balance in a way that makes peace more likely in decades to come. 2/
Republicans present China as America’s real, long-term rival. Democrats agree. The scenario for a U.S.-China war is a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. By resisting a Russian invasion, Ukrainians have shown the difficulty of such operations, making this scenario less likely. 3/
By fighting in self-defense, Ukrainians have thus reduced the risk of a major war and of a nuclear war. This extraordinary achievement is due to the courage and skill of Ukrainians. They do not get much credit for it. They should get more credit, and more support. 4/
For decades, Republican and Democratic administrations alike have failed to formulate a policy that could prevent Russia from weakening and undoing the international order. Russia serves as a cat’s paw, doing what China would not wish to be seen doing. 5/
In defeating Russia’s armed forces and exposing Russia’s weakness, the Ukrainians have both made a larger war in Europe far less likely, and gotten China’s cat’s paw under control. 6/
The Ukrainians have reduced the possibility of Chinese aggression through Russia, and made direct Chinese aggression less likely. They have done all of this just by defending themselves, without making any move against China. 7/
Without the Ukrainians, the United States would lack the policy instruments for this. By resisting, Ukrainians created an opportunity for U.S. policy that would not otherwise have existed. 8/
No American lives have been placed at risk. U.S. assistance to Ukraine amounts to a rounding error in the defense budget. 9/
The gains Ukrainian resistance brings to American security are so enormous that the US national security establishment is embarrassed to speak of them directly. 10/
It is awkward to say that another country is doing so much for us. It is awkward to say that Ukrainian resistance has done more for the safety of Americans than any U.S. policy since the end of the cold war. But it is true and must be said. 11/
Reversing the U.S. policy of aiding Ukraine will undo all of these gains. There is still time to revive Russia and reassure China, which is what ending support of Ukraine will mean. Such a policy reversal would make Americans far less safe and secure. 12/
My concerns about the Russian invasion of Ukraine are the prevention of genocide and the defense of democracy. But those who think first of U.S. interests should acknowledge what Ukrainians are doing for American security. The least we can do is be on our own side 13/13
And while we’re on the topic, here’s a must-read thread about the economics of possibly supporting Ukraine with tanks first. (Full thread below.)
Sergej Sumlenny @sumlennyA random thought: sooner or later, Ukraine will decide what modern tank to use. With its 40+m population and 2,000km border to post-Russian space it will need not less tanks than Poland (35m population). PL buys 1000 K9 Tanks now. UKR will buy those tank it knows. Huge market /13:49 PM ∙ Nov 7, 20221,746Likes270RetweetsFull thread from Twitter:
A random thought: sooner or later, Ukraine will decide what modern tank to use. With its 40+m population and 2,000km border to post-Russian space it will need not less tanks than Poland (35m population). PL buys 1000 K9 Tanks now. UKR will buy those tank it knows. Huge market /1
To understand: one Leopard2 costs €3-7m. One K9: €3m. One Abrams: €6m. So it is about approximately €4b market only for the tanks and only for the units, without ammo, maintenance etc. The annual turnover of the whole German KMW, the producer of Leo2, is €2bn. /2
The country which sends its tanks to Ukraine first and makes them into the symbol of the victory over the Russian faZZism, will secure the market bigger than anything we know from the last decades. To arm Ukraine could be a recovery program for German economy, and a moral one. /3
Germany has ALREADY lost the €5-6bn order from Poland, it went to Korea. The Polish decision was dictated by the clearly unreliable position of the GER Chancellor and the Defense Minister. These two SPD politicians took German economy €5-6bn and undermined Nato and EU trust. /4
Now it is about what country will help Ukraine to protect its democracy, the peace in Europe, and will be rewarded by fat orders for its economy. The decision is up to our politicians. Who will send to Ukraine the first shipment of modern battle tanks? /5
One bit of news that I wasn’t even aware of is the below.
Politico reported on the balancing act that Ukraine is being forced to walk with China right now.
The complex irony with this view of the conflict is that political realities are forcing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to take a cautiously deferential stance toward Russia’s authoritarian partner, China.
Zelenskyy knows full well that he cannot risk antagonizing China, and wants to stop Beijing from offering even more support or sending weapons to Putin. Most significantly, Ukraine abstained from a crucial U.N. resolution vote last month on China’s abuse of the Muslim Uyghur minority. (Kyiv later had a change of heart, but too late to change the voting record.) Diplomats have also noted that China — with its massive infrastructure capabilities — will almost certainly be called upon to help play a frontline role in the reconstruction of Ukraine’s shattered cities.
But we really need to make sure we’re aware of the serious commitment China has with Russia. China does not want to see Putin fall. (See below.)
In a recent phone call between China and Russia, the following message was release by China:
Wang Yi said that the fact that President Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message to General Secretary Xi Jinping right after the 20th CPC National Congress has reflected the high-level mutual trust and firm mutual support between China and Russia. China will also firmly support Russia in rallying and leading the Russian people under the leadership of President Putin to achieve strategic development goals against all the odds and disturbance, and to further establish Russia's status as a major country on the international stage. Wang noted that both China and Russia are fully entitled to seeking its own development and revitalization, and this is fully consistent with the trend of the times. Any attempt to hold back the progress of China and Russia will end up in failure. China is ready to further deepen exchanges with Russia at all levels, and take China-Russia relations and cooperation in various fields to a higher level, so as to bring more benefits to the two countries and peoples, and contribute more elements of stability to the unstable world.
In other HUGE news, in case you didn’t know, today is like the most important day of the world. lol. (Watch this incredible video if you get a moment.)
Finally, let’s talk some naval thoughts for a moment. Currently, we have about 280 ships that are deployed or could be.
Compare that to the peak of World War II below.
#FunFactFriday ","username":"NavalInstitute","name":"U.S. Naval Institute","date":"Fri Oct 28 18:09:12 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FgLLbP...
U.S. Naval Institute @NavalInstituteIn the 1,366 days between the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and the Japanese surrender on September 2, 1945, the U.S. Navy grew from 790 vessels to 6,768.#FunFactFriday 
6:09 PM ∙ Oct 28, 20221,501Likes311RetweetsAnd while the above will never happen again, here’s a thought that might.
Here’s the story link: Bring Back the PT (Missile) Boats. Distribute lethality with small, affordable boats carrying powerful missiles.
Finally, let’s get to the best part of every episode.
Motivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Life Quotes @RTLifeQuotesDon't be afraid of the space between your dreams and reality. If you can dream it, you can make it so. - Belva Davis3:01 AM ∙ Nov 8, 202267Likes17RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." - Mahatma Gandhi1:31 PM ∙ Nov 7, 2022459Likes109RetweetsN. M. Curry @realNickCurry
8:55 PM ∙ Nov 6, 2022Daily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"You cannot change anyone, but you can be the reason someone changes."7:42 PM ∙ Nov 6, 2022360Likes83RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"If you think you can, you will."6:16 PM ∙ Nov 6, 2022613Likes97RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"It’s never too late to change your life for the better"6:43 PM ∙ Nov 6, 2022399Likes78RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"Expect less, prepare more. Judge less, respect more. Complain less, thank more. Regret less, smile more."5:17 PM ∙ Nov 6, 20221,619Likes421RetweetsThis is the truest thing I’ve seen in some time. If you’re in that empty blank space, don’t you give up.
N. M. Curry @realNickCurry
1:01 PM ∙ Nov 6, 2022Motivational Quotes @motivation_qotDon't lose hope. When the sun goes down, the stars come out.10:00 AM ∙ Nov 6, 2022104Likes34RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."10:16 AM ∙ Nov 6, 20221,058Likes240RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Do what you're gonna do, don't just talk about it!11:30 AM ∙ Nov 6, 2022880Likes209RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Discipline is key to success. You're not born with it, you develop it. So keep at it!7:20 AM ∙ Nov 6, 20222,375Likes593RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
November 3, 2022
Episode 11-3-22
Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front newsletter. If you just happened to stumble by here, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
And as a guy who’s been deployed overseas, and who was a big-time history buff even before that, I care a lot about our military, where they're at, where they might be going, what conflicts might be about to occur.
Because these things matter. And as such, every week I publish news that you’re not going to easily find anywhere else.
So, if you’re a military member, a spouse of a military member, or a parent or grandparent of a military member, this is probably a great newsletter for you to subscribe to.
I’ll keep you updated on foreign policy issues, but I won’t do it like you’ll find everywhere else. First of all, the media almost never covers the military or looming hotspots. But if they do, they overhype everything. And they scare you and use lots of B-roll video with explosions and flashing graphics. Their biggest desire is eyeballs and ad dollars.
I promise you -- and you can check the past year of archived editions -- I do not overhype, exaggerate, or do any of that. If anything, I almost downplay. It’s a steady and calm voice that you’ll find here.
But on the flip side, foreign policy journals that do cover what we do also fall way short in my opinion.
Their articles are far too long, they’re far too dense, and they’re crammed with big words, technical mambo jumbo, and silly acronyms that only insiders truly know.
So, I couldn't find a show that met my needs, so I decided to create one.
Once a week, I’ll discuss military matters, while also adding in a little motivation, wisdom, and history.
Besides covering this news, and also sharing plenty of motivation at the end of each edition, I also work as hard as I can to unite this country.
Without question, I feel like our wide division and animosity toward those with whom we disagree is the greatest threat our country faces.
So, once a week I do my best to bridge this great divide, while also reminding each of us that most of us are being played by divisive political and news figures, who are ripping apart this great country just so they can reach a higher office or gain more followers and ad dollars.
Most Americans are good, and we need to remember this. Always.
While we face great challenges as a country, America has stood together for more than 240 years, and it’s only by pulling our country closer together that we can pass on a better future for our kids.
We need to hold and cherish the beliefs that got us here today. Beliefs such as patience, kindness, and a strong belief that our best days lie before us. These are the beliefs that got us to this point. And they’re also the kind of optimistic beliefs that will get us to a brighter future.
And with that out of the way, let’s get started.
One quick reminder before we get to the news…
If you haven’t already, please sign up for email notifications. (It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time. Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books in some series they love sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon. Doing this provides a recurring, monthly revenue of $5 per month, and it’s the fastest way I’ll be able to return to becoming a full-time author again (my writing journey/curse), which means I’ll have more time to write fiction, cover news, and try to unite the country and motivate others — all things I feel drawn to do. Of course, you can also tell people about this newsletter, my podcast, and my books! And you can also even give a gift subscription to a friend. )
Also, a brief reminder, if you’re reading this edition by email and not listening to the podcast, click the episode headline with today’s date that is under my picture to go to the full webpage. Otherwise, the email will likely be cut off and shortened by your email provider.
One other quick announcement, which is kind of a big one. After many requests (like so many requests), I’ve created a Patreon page. You can now go there to help support what we’re doing here without having to set up your payment information with Substack.
Now to the news….
We’ll start this episode with the latest news about Saudi Arabia, and what’s happening with the threats from Iran. Then, we’ll move on to the following:
Lots of news about Ukraine and Russia, including the latest about grain shipments, a surprise attack on Russia’s Navy, an improvement in Ukraine’s satellite communications situation, and what the coming winter means (and why Ukraine is better prepared for this).
Besides these items, we’ll talk just a bit about how the Russian war plays into the rising tension with China.
And then we’ll cover just some scary new tech news that involves a flying drone and a robotic dog armed with a machine gun. Trust me, you want to know about this thing.
And, as always, we’ll end with our motivation and wisdom section.
The biggest news of late is this out-of-left-field threat from Iran to attack Saudi Arabia.
The Associated Press @APSaudi Arabia has shared intelligence with U.S. officials suggesting Iran could be preparing for an imminent attack on the kingdom. One of the officials described the threat as credible and said it could happen “soon or within 48 hours.” 
apne.wsOfficials: Saudis tell US that Iran may attack the kingdomWASHINGTON (AP) — Saudi Arabia has shared intelligence with American officials that suggests Iran could be preparing for an imminent attack on the kingdom, three U.S. officials said Tuesday. The heightened concerns about a potential attack on Saudi Arabia come as the Biden administration is criticiz…2:34 AM ∙ Nov 2, 20221,136Likes552RetweetsThis is, uh, concerning...
And it makes sense in hindsight. Iran is dealing with internal unrest that it can’t put out, and just last week, they put out a dire warning that the protests have to stop or serious bloodshed would follow. (See below.)
Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellThis could get a lot bloodier soon. But if it does, that might convert the currently peaceful protesters to angry, armed resistance fighters. I hope for the good people of Iran that they can take their government back soon. 
apnews.comIran’s Guard warns protesters as more unrest roils countryDUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard issued a new warning on Saturday to antigovernment protesters, even as demonstrations continued in cities and university campuses across the country for the sixth straight week.4:01 AM ∙ Oct 30, 2022But then things escalated even more, following the warning.
#IranRevolution2022 \n ","username":"IranReportsNow","name":"Cassandan","date":"Sun Oct 30 10:44:00 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
Cassandan @IranReportsNowWow!Despite yesterday’s IRGC’s commander threatening, and vast amount of kidnapping students in dormitories and universities, today’s number of students has gotten doubled!IT’S HAPPENING.Tehran university, Oct 30Day 43 of #IranRevolution2022 10:44 AM ∙ Oct 30, 20221,964Likes869RetweetsClearly, it’s impossible to say if this is a serious threat or something to distract from Iran’s problems, but we need to make sure our troops are protected.
I will also say that it’s probably not a bad time to ask if Saudi Arabia might increase oil production upon further consideration.
Because given how they've fought in Yemen... Uh, they might ought to be concerned...
But on a serious note, we have several thousand troops in Saudi Arabia, as well as several thousand in the United Arab Emirates and in Qatar. All would be potential targets that fall within range of Iranian ballistic missiles.
Reminder from just a couple of years ago…
Iran fired missiles at Iraqi bases that the United States
uses to fight the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
Four of the ballistic missiles broke up in flight;
10 hit Al Asad and two hit Irbil, officials said.
Moving along to Ukraine, there’s been a few things I want to share from there.
First, Russia has rejoinedits wartime deal on Ukrainian grain exports. This follows them briefly abandoning the deal following a Ukrainian drone attack against its Black Sea fleet. The drone attack only barely made the news,
But you can see a nice summary of the attack below.
Task & Purpose @TaskandPurposeDrone attacked the Black Sea fleet by air and sea in the early morning, damaging at least one ship. Russia blamed Ukraine and the United Kingdom. 
bit.lyVideo shows alleged Ukrainian drone swarm attack on Russian warships in CrimeaDrone attacked the Black Sea fleet by air and sea in the early morning, damaging at least one ship. Russia blamed Ukraine and the United Kingdom.6:01 PM ∙ Oct 29, 202222Likes7RetweetsAnd the attack really did likely make history.
Chuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings | @ChuckPfarrerMAKING HISTORY: UKR's innovative small, unmanned surface vessels (USVs) conducted naval warfare’s first remotely actuated surface battle. Directed by Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) man-in-the loop control, these USVs can be maneuvered on recon, surveillance and attack missions. 
10:28 PM ∙ Oct 30, 20222,156Likes320RetweetsChuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings | @ChuckPfarrerNOTE: Though only partially successful, the UKR attack on the RU Black Sea fleet and the Sevastopol roadstead was an epoch making event. This will force the RU navy to divert major resources to secure ships at anchor, and will likely force them to reposition critical assets.8:10 PM ∙ Oct 30, 20221,007Likes96RetweetsBut the grain deal is back in place, so that’s good. And if more Russian assets are required to defend the fleet and naval installation from a similar drone attack, then I say that’s great news for Ukraine and the West.
Moving along, I came across this post and thought it was the perfect summary of what Russia constantly does. (And what Russia has constantly done for the past 10 or 15 years with Putin at the helm.)
Corinna Weber @5_513mRussian diplomacy:1. Russia creates the problem2. 🇷🇺 says: we can help fix the problem but give us something in exchange3. agreement is concluded, 🇷🇺 takes something4. 🇷🇺 violates the agreement5. 🇷🇺 says: we will comply with the agreement if you give us more6. new cycle6:19 AM ∙ Oct 30, 20226,710Likes2,077RetweetsIs that dead on or what?
We did make another contribution of aid. See below.
Paul McLeary @paulmclearyNEW: US announces a $275 million drawdown of military stocks for Ukraine: more HIMARS ammo, 155mm shells, 125 Humvees, 2.7 million rounds of ammo3:38 PM ∙ Oct 28, 202233Likes9RetweetsAnd part of what we sent was really important.
The United States is sending four satellite antennas to Ukraine in a move that will bolster the communication abilities of the Ukrainian Army, after the Russians have hammered the electrical grid (and Elon Musk spoke out about the too-high cost of providing internet through low-flying satellites).
Defense News @defense_newsElon Musk at one point announced that SpaceX could no longer afford to provide Starlink service to Ukraine, but later reversed course. 
defensenews.comUS sending satellite antennas to Ukraine after Musk’s Starlink U-turnElon Musk at one point announced that SpaceX could no longer afford to provide Starlink service to Ukraine, but later reversed course.4:30 AM ∙ Nov 1, 202220Likes5RetweetsI’ll share just a bit from the story (US sending satellite antennas to Ukraine after Musk’s Starlink U-turn):
“These SATCOMs are not intended to serve as a substitute for a service like Starlink,” she said during a Pentagon briefing. “They help increase communication efforts on the battlefield.”
…
“We’re seeing Ukrainian infrastructure and electrical grids being targeted by the Russians,” Singh said, “and these antennas provide an additional capability on the ground at a critical time when Ukraine’s infrastructure is being hit.”
So, I’m really glad we’ve helped strengthen Ukraine’s communication equipment, because communication is absolutely crucial in the middle of a war obviously.
Speaking of the war and the approaching winter, you really should check out this thread if you have a moment.
Mark Hertling @MarkHertlingGoing back to tweet #1 of this 🧵...what's all this have to do with winter?Yes, Ukrainian winters are tough. Many people are saying: "Ukraine has to gain ground before the winter sets in!"My response? "Why do you think that?" 9/11:33 PM ∙ Oct 30, 20221,001Likes44RetweetsGeneral Hertling explains in his thread that NCOs will absolutely make the difference. And that Ukrainian troops will continue to advance throughout the winter.
I want to share two quick political thoughts.
First, there’s this reminder that China is watching how all this goes down and looking to see if Russia succeeds or fails.
politico.eu/article/dont-l… @liliebayer @POLITICOEurope","username":"dave_brown24","name":"Dave Brown","date":"Fri Oct 28 13:27:41 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":1,"like_count":3,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://www.politico.eu/article/dont-... let Russia win, NATO chief warns US","description":"With Ukraine-skeptical Republicans poised for election gains, Jens Stoltenberg tells POLITICO a Russian victory would ‘send a message to authoritarian leaders — not only Putin but also China.’…","domain":"politico.eu"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Dave Brown @dave_brown24NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has a message for U.S. Republicans making election promises to slash Ukraine’s support: That will only empower China politico.eu/article/dont-l… @liliebayer @POLITICOEurope
politico.euDon’t let Russia win, NATO chief warns USWith Ukraine-skeptical Republicans poised for election gains, Jens Stoltenberg tells POLITICO a Russian victory would ‘send a message to authoritarian leaders — not only Putin but also China.’…1:27 PM ∙ Oct 28, 20223Likes1RetweetSecondly, for those who want the U.S. to seek peace, this is a nice reminder that it’s not that simple.
Margo Gontar 🇺🇦 @MargoGontar“If China invaded US - hypothetically - leveled LA, leveled Seattle, Portland, massacred thousands - would US just sue for peace? No.”Best explainer of what is wrong with the whole “peace deal with russia” idea 10:15 PM ∙ Oct 28, 20229,683Likes2,775Retweets(Also, if you listen to the podcast, you’ll hear a pretty epic rant and a pretty bold prediction.)
And yes, I’m trying to tease the podcast and get you to listen to it, thanks for asking! lol
Finally, before we get to the motivation and wisdom portion, check out this crazy story as part of our tech news for this week.
Task & Purpose @TaskandPurposeThis video of a drone airdropping an armed robot dog is the stuff of dystopian nightmares 
bit.lyThis video of a drone airdropping an armed robot dog is the stuff of dystopian nightmaresSit, stay, search, destroy.2:30 AM ∙ Oct 28, 202235Likes17RetweetsAn armed, walking dog, delivered by drones.
That’s pretty scarry, right?
Motivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"When you love what you have, you have everything you need."10:00 AM ∙ Nov 3, 2022660Likes145RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotNever give up on something you really want.10:00 AM ∙ Nov 3, 202262Likes26RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The biggest mistake of youth is thinking they can't learn anything from adults.The biggest mistake of adults is thinking they can't learn anything from youth."2:15 AM ∙ Nov 3, 2022417Likes104RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"When you love someone, you love the person as they are, and not as you'd like them to be." - Leo Tolstoy10:13 AM ∙ Nov 2, 2022575Likes126Retweets#amwriting #writerslife ","username":"AdviceToWriters","name":"Jon Winokur","date":"Wed Nov 02 03:00:02 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/Fgcnyo...
Jon Winokur @AdviceToWritersRemembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.STEVE JOBS#amwriting #writerslife 
3:00 AM ∙ Nov 2, 202286Likes17RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Visualize what you want to do before you do it. Visualization is so powerful that when you know what you want, you will get it."2:10 AM ∙ Nov 2, 2022696Likes178RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Be addicted to bettering yourself.4:15 PM ∙ Nov 1, 20223,181Likes851RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The distance between reality and dreams is action"7:25 AM ∙ Nov 1, 20222,175Likes514RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.4:15 PM ∙ Oct 31, 20221,105Likes230RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"To weep is to make less the depth of grief."- William Shakespeare5:42 PM ∙ Oct 30, 2022263Likes51RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create."11:35 AM ∙ Oct 29, 20222,695Likes741RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesThose who do not find time for exercise will have to find time for illness. - Edward Stanley2:01 AM ∙ Oct 29, 2022146Likes30RetweetsN. M. Curry @realNickCurryYou don’t have to be extreme, just consistent...3:26 PM ∙ Oct 28, 202213Likes3RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivationalOne setback 
10:27 PM ∙ Oct 28, 20223,275Likes587RetweetsWords of Wisdom @billionair_keyNo matter what happens in life, keep a good heart. A heart of trust & patience. Don't let the darkness of some people harden your heart.2:44 AM ∙ Oct 26, 20223,615Likes1,114RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_It’s not you vs the worldIt’s not you vs everybodyIt’s not you vs your haters It’s you vs you.2:10 AM ∙ Oct 28, 20221,158Likes288Retweets@CEOofHappYness, and decided to type it up and share it for the folks here on Twitter. ","username":"StanRMitchell","name":"Stan R. Mitchell","date":"Wed Oct 26 02:54:41 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/Ff9qZq...Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellSaw this on an Instagram video by@CEOofHappYness, and decided to type it up and share it for the folks here on Twitter. 
2:54 AM ∙ Oct 26, 202214Likes3RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
October 27, 2022
Episode 10-27-22
Hi friends!
Hope everyone is doing well!
And if you haven’t already, please sign up for email notifications. (It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time. Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books in some series they love sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. It’s recurring, monthly revenue of $5 per month, and it’s the fastest way I’ll be able to return to becoming a full-time author again (my writing journey/curse), which means I’ll have more time to write fiction, cover news, and try to unite the country and motivate others — all things I feel drawn to do. Of course, you can also tell people about this newsletter, my podcast, and my books! And you can also even give a gift subscription to a friend. )
Also, a brief reminder, if you’re reading this edition by email and not listening to the podcast, click the episode headline with today’s date that is under my picture to go to the full webpage. Otherwise, the email will likely be cut off and shortened by your email provider.
We’ll start this episode with the latest news about China, and there’s two big pieces of news from there. Then, we’ll move on to the following:
Russia is now (falsely) claiming that Ukraine might use a dirty bomb on its own territory. This, of course, makes no sense. So why are they saying this? We’ll dig into that a bit.
The Progressive House Caucus issued a letter calling for a negotiated settlement to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, but they then withdrew it. I’ll explain why they did, and what I think is the bright spot from this action.
Russian drones are increasingly raising concerns in Norway. There have been seven arrests already and we’ll explore what’s going on.
A deadly raid by Israeli troops against a new organization of Palestinian fighters, who also happen to use TikTok, and who are rallying the Palestinian people in a way that hasn’t been seen in years.
Things are getting pretty ugly in Haiti. If you haven’t heard what’s happening in that island country only a short distance from America, you might want to keep that on your radar. I’ll talk about that for just a bit.
I’ll also cover a short story to remind us all that the cost of freedom isn’t cheap, even in peace time.
And, as always, we’ll end with our motivation and wisdom section.
We start with China…The biggest news of late is two big announcements regarding China. The first is U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying China is speeding up its potential invasion of Taiwan, and that China has decided it will use force to “reunify” with Taiwan (something it’s never stated in the past). Backing up this news is the appointment of President Xi Jinping to a third term, while also pushing out a couple of rivals.
Let’s begin with the increased threat of an invasion or use of force.
Secretary Blinken made pretty big news when he said China has rejected the status quo in regards to the situation with Taiwan.
From the story:
Blinken said, "What's changed is this: the decision by the government in Beijing that that status quo was no longer acceptable, that they wanted to speed up the process by which they would pursue reunification.”
He added that China has also made decisions on exerting more pressure on Taiwan and holding out the possibility of "using force to achieve their goals" if pressure tactics do not work.
"That is what has fundamentally changed."
Also, making news at a different forum, Blinken stated that "Beijing was determined to pursue reunification (with Taiwan) on a much faster timeline," though he did not specify a date.
Clearly, all of this made quite a bit of news.
But so far at least, this appears to be a bit of an overreach by Blinken. The Pentagon did not seem to be on the same page.
As proof, I’ll share this part from a recent Pentagon briefing.
Question: Thank you, (inaudible). Two questions on China. Secretary Blinken said yesterday Beijing was determined to pursue (inaudible) unification with Taiwan on a much faster timeline. Does Secretary Austin agree with Secretary Blinken's assessment? And secondly, the U.S. military has assessed that China might have the capability to invade Taiwan by 2027. Is there any change in that assessment?
GEN. RYDER: So we continue to see China as the pacing threat. I don't have any specifics to -- you know, any comment on Secretary Blinken's comments, specific comments on those other than to say I think within the United States government, we all agree that we need to continue to work closely with our allies and our partners in the region and throughout the world, really, to highlight the fact that China continues to pose a challenge. And so we'll continue to do our part to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific, again, working closely with allies and partners. But beyond that, I don't have anything new to provide. Thank you.
But I don’t want to reduce the tense and quite real possibilities of China using force.
Without question, the leader of China strengthened his hand this weekend to prepare such a possibility.
Xi Jinping begins third 5-year term, elevates several allies along with himThe news coming out of the country is that President Xi pushed out two very-experienced rivals, one of whom was trying to reform the country. The other one could have become the next president.
They’re now both gone.
And John Ruwitch, a NPR correspondant out of Beijing who has covered China for 20-plus years described Xi’s re-appointment and power moves as thus:
John Ruwitch:
Let’s move to Russia/Ukraine news now…
“The big headline, as you say, is Xi Jinping getting another term. He's consolidated power in the party and in the military. He's eliminated rivals. The way it all went down this week just bolstered his power. And it surprised a lot of observers, frankly.
…
“The country faces huge challenges, though, particularly in economics and on the global stage. And it's really hard at this point to see who's left in the inner circle to stand up and offer criticism or even just an alternative viewpoint to the way Xi Jinping wants to run things. And that's worrying.”
As you’ve probably heard, Russia is now (falsely) claiming that Ukraine might use a dirty bomb on its own territory. (Russia's defense chief warns of 'dirty bomb' provocation.) This, of course, makes no sense. So why are they saying this? We’ll dig into that a bit.
Tom Nichols, a retired professor with a deep history involving Russia and nuclear weapons, was all over the story.
Russia’s ‘Dirty Bomb’ PloyFrom the story:
Let’s hope that this is just the Kremlin trying to engage in scare tactics. If, however, Putin and his circle are really considering a dirty-bomb provocation, it is likely because they would see such a plot as solving multiple problems at once. Russia would probably try to flip the script, and go from an aggressor likely guilty of multiple war crimes to the victim of a nuclear “event.” It might then issue an ultimatum to the Ukrainians that elevates the war to a nuclear crisis (which is probably the only way Moscow thinks it can win, now that the Russian army lies in pieces on the battlefield).
The Russians, in such a gambit, would likely be betting that a faked dirty bomb would alleviate the “first use” stain from any Russian decision to attack — or as they would almost certainly say in this scenario, “retaliate” — with a nuclear weapon. With nuclear weapons now in play, the West would have to decide just how much to commit to nuclear deterrence on behalf of Ukraine.
I wanted to share one other bit of news about the war in Ukraine, which I think has a bright spot.
Members of the Progressive House Caucus issued a letter calling for a negotiated settlement to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.
From the letter:
As the risk of nuclear war increases, fighting in Ukraine escalates, and global economic insecurity deepens, 30 members of Congress urged President Biden to pursue direct diplomacy for a negotiated settlement to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.
In a new letter the lawmakers, while recognizing the “difficulties involved in engaging Russia given its outrageous and illegal invasion of Ukraine,” urge the President to pair the U.S. military and economic support provided to Ukraine with a proactive diplomatic push to seek a realistic framework for a ceasefire, consistent with the President’s own recognition that “there’s going to have to be a negotiated settlement here.”
The lawmakers propose an approach that could include “incentives to end hostilities, including some form of sanctions relief,” and an international arrangement to “establish security guarantees for a free and independent Ukraine that are acceptable for all parties, including Ukrainians.”
Thank goodness the progressive Democrats withdrew their foolish, misguided letter. (Liberal U.S. lawmakers withdraw Ukraine letter after blowback.) Now let's see the House Republicans who've opposed helping Ukraine step up their support, as well. How anyone could NOT support Ukraine's fight for freedom is a bit beyond me.
That concludes our deep dives for this week, but here are a few stories you should have on your radar.
First, this news out of Norway.
abcnews.go.com/International/… ","username":"ChuckPfarrer","name":"Chuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings |","date":"Tue Oct 25 15:13:57 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/Ff7F-y...Chuck Pfarrer | Indications & Warnings | @ChuckPfarrerDRONE THREAT: Oil and gas workers on Norway’s offshore platforms are reporting sightings of unknown UAVs. Norway's working thesis is that they're controlled from vessels or submarines nearby. At least 7 Russians have been arrested in Norway with drones. abcnews.go.com/International/… 
3:13 PM ∙ Oct 25, 20222,748Likes854RetweetsStory link: Fears over Russian threat to Norway's energy infrastructure.
And in the Middle East, I wanted to share this news:
NPR @NPRA brazen Israeli special forces operation killed 5 Palestinians and wounded 20 others yesterday. The target was the Lions' Den — a new armed Palestinian group. Here's what we know about them.
n.prA new group of TikTok-savvy Palestinian fighters tests Israeli forces in the West BankIsraeli troops raided the occupied West Bank saying they were targeting members of the Lions’ Den. Here’s what we know about the new armed Palestinian group.9:17 PM ∙ Oct 26, 202233Likes16RetweetsStory link: A new group of TikTok-savvy Palestinian
fighters tests Israeli forces in the West Bank
Finally, if you haven’t heard what’s happening in Haiti, you might want to keep that on your radar.
n.pr/3Dg3b0z ","username":"NPR","name":"NPR","date":"Thu Oct 20 19:07:39 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FfiPAX... are considering sending troops to Haiti. Why?\n\nHaiti's challenges include armed gangs, acute hunger, rising costs and a cholera outbreak\nPrime Minister Ariel Henry asked international community to intervene with armed forces\nThe U.S. and Mexico proposed a \"non-U.N.\" force to help resolve deepening crises\nStill, the call leaves many Haitians horrified, given past troubled foreign interventions"}],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":55,"like_count":131,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">NPR @NPRWhat’s going on in Haiti?The U.N. is considering international intervention due to "an absolutely nightmarish situation." n.pr/3Dg3b0z 
7:07 PM ∙ Oct 20, 2022131Likes55RetweetsStory link: Nations consider sending troops to Haiti,
despite troubled past foreign intervention.
Before we get to the motivation and wisdom portion, let’s remember this: The cost of freedom isn’t cheap, even in peacetime.
#OTD in 1994, Lt. Kara Hultgreen was killed when her F-14 Tomcat crashed on final approach to USS Abraham Lincoln after a routine training mission off the coast of San Diego. Hultgreen was the first female carrier-qualified fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy. ","username":"NavalInstitute","name":"U.S. Naval Institute","date":"Wed Oct 26 00:20:20 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/Ff9G6J...U.S. Naval Institute @NavalInstitute#OTD in 1994, Lt. Kara Hultgreen was killed when her F-14 Tomcat crashed on final approach to USS Abraham Lincoln after a routine training mission off the coast of San Diego. Hultgreen was the first female carrier-qualified fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy. 
12:20 AM ∙ Oct 26, 2022233Likes49RetweetsMotivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellWhat’s your favorite motivational or inspirational quote?! 👊❤️Retweet and let me know!I might even share some of them in my next newsletter!2:50 AM ∙ Oct 23, 2022@StanRMitchell And those who were dancing were thought to be insane, by those who could not hear the music. Frederich Nietsche","username":"PauleneTurner","name":"Paulene Turner","date":"Sun Oct 23 08:10:23 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":1,"like_count":0,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Paulene Turner @PauleneTurner@StanRMitchell And those who were dancing were thought to be insane, by those who could not hear the music. Frederich Nietsche8:10 AM ∙ Oct 23, 2022@StanRMitchell Not an alcoholic but always found solace & inspiration in the Serenity Prayer \"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference.\"","username":"garner_fretz","name":"Garner Fretz 🇺🇦🌻","date":"Sun Oct 23 04:05:55 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":1,"like_count":1,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Garner Fretz 🇺🇦🌻 @garner_fretz@StanRMitchell Not an alcoholic but always found solace & inspiration in the Serenity Prayer "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference."4:05 AM ∙ Oct 23, 20221Like1RetweetMotivational Quotes @motivation_qot"If you can’t be kind, be quiet."4:00 PM ∙ Oct 22, 202272Likes19RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. The present is here, live it."4:10 PM ∙ Oct 22, 2022814Likes248RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"Go easy on yourself. Whatever you do today, let it be enough." - Anonymous4:19 PM ∙ Oct 22, 2022494Likes101RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you'll start having positive results"10:15 PM ∙ Oct 23, 2022939Likes228RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined."9:45 AM ∙ Oct 22, 20221,025Likes255RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life."10:00 AM ∙ Oct 21, 20222,218Likes604RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotDreams don’t work unless you do.10:00 AM ∙ Oct 21, 202250Likes16RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesThere are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle. - Albert Einstein10:01 AM ∙ Oct 21, 202255Likes7RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesKeep your behavior positive because your behavior become your habits. - Mahatma Gandhi2:01 AM ∙ Oct 21, 2022378Likes97RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Time is limited, your potential isn'tSo get moving2:15 AM ∙ Oct 21, 2022713Likes171RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Don’t make promises you can’t keep. Reputation matters. A lot."2:10 AM ∙ Oct 20, 20221,136Likes281RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qot"If you don't try, you'll never know."10:03 AM ∙ Oct 20, 2022189Likes46RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you all.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
October 20, 2022
Episode 10-20-22
Hi friends!
Hope everyone is doing well!
There’s a lot to cover, but if you haven’t already, please sign up for email notifications. (It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time. Here’s what I’m trying to do.)
Also, a brief reminder, if you’re reading this edition by email and not listening to the podcast, click the episode headline with today’s date that is under my picture to go to the full webpage. Otherwise, the email will likely be cut off and shortened by your email provider.
We’ll start this episode with the latest news about the Russian drones striking Ukraine’s power stations, and what effect they’ve had to date. Then, we’ll move on to the following:
What the drones look like, what their range and characteristics are.
Also, do the drones have a hidden purpose that’s only just now being realized?
One possible additional effect that the Russians are going for.
What Russian media are saying back home. True, the drones are knocking out Ukrainian power stations, but this isn’t affecting the frontlines. And things are as bad or worse than they were even a month ago. Wait until you hear what a Russian correspondent on the front line said this week.
We’ll also cover the latest news on the front in the south, in the region of Kherson.
We’ll also follow up on the bridge strike that Ukraine pulled off. What consequences are happening because of that.
Stepping back from the war some, could the Russian drone attacks using drones made by Iran affect how much Israel supports Ukraine?
Moving away from the war in Ukraine, we’ll touch on the protests happening in Iran.
We’ll also do an update on the U.S.-Saudi spat.
And, as always, we’ll end with our motivation and wisdom section.
The biggest news of late are the new drone attacks happening against Ukraine. (See story below.)
AP Europe @AP_EuropeRussian airstrikes struck energy, water and infrastructure facilities in Ukraine, part of a quickening effort by Moscow to drive Ukrainians into the cold and dark. 
apne.wsUkraine’s power, water supplies under Russian attack againKYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Airstrikes cut power and water supplies to hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians on Tuesday, part of what the country’s president called an expanding Russian campaign to drive the nation into the cold and dark and make peace talks impossible.9:32 AM ∙ Oct 18, 202232Likes29Retweets
Ukraine’s power, water supplies under Russian attack again
From the story:
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Airstrikes cut power and water supplies to hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians on Tuesday, part of what the country’s president called an expanding Russian campaign to drive the nation into the cold and dark and make peace talks impossible.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said nearly one-third of Ukraine’s power stations have been destroyed in the past week, “causing massive blackouts across the country.”
“No space left for negotiations with Putin’s regime,” he tweeted.
The new drones Russia is using are from Iran. You can learn more about them here: HESA Shahed 136.
They’re what I’d call mid-sized, 11 ft long with a wingspan of 8.2 ft. They fly pretty slow at 115 mph, and weigh about 400 pounds. Their range has been estimated as up to 1,100 miles.
They’re launched at a slight upward angle with the help of a jet rocket that gets dropped shortly after take off.
Defeating the great reset 🇺🇸🇮🇱🇬🇧🇨🇦🇷🇺 @CrPaulsenThis is a Shahed-136 Iranian drone that the Russians rebranded as Geran-2, a second before it hit its target in Kiev today.Venezuela is also purchasing these drones from Iran. 
5:41 AM ∙ Oct 18, 20223Likes3RetweetsHere’s how they’re stacked before they fire, using their rocket engine.
Ukraine Territorial Defense Forces @TDF_UAAnother day, another drone attack on our country. Ukrainian anti-aircraft defense once again do an exceptional job of protecting our towns and cities from these flying bombs.In the South, units of the National Guard and the TDF destroyed one "Shahed-136" drone each. 
6:14 AM ∙ Oct 20, 2022341Likes37Retweets
Paul Szoldra @PaulSzoldraHere's what it sounds like when an Iranian Shahed drone is coming in. Video sent by a western volunteer in Mykolaiv, taken about 20 minutes ago."They burn more than they explode. That's why they use them to target infrastructure," he tells me. 10:38 PM ∙ Oct 19, 20221,595Likes606RetweetsOne interesting thing about these drones is how inexpensive they are. Most analysts peg their value at $20,000 to $50,000 each. Unfortunately, many of the weapons systems that shoot them down cost dramatically more.
Just check out his thread if you’re curious. (A hint: the prices start at more than $100,000 for Stinger systems and go up to $500,000 to more than a million dollars a piece for some of the missiles we’re sending over there.)
@wartranslated 🧵\n\nThe Russian objective in the attacks on Kyiv isn't terror. It is just a \"side benefit.\"\n\nThe RFAF objective is suppression of air defenses (SEAD) by running AFU out of surface to air missiles!\n\nSEAD🧵\n1/ ","username":"TrentTelenko","name":"Trent Telenko","date":"Wed Oct 19 19:56:47 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{"full_text":"This uses air-defense missiles a lot, such usage is not sustainable in long term. 🇺🇦 needs more AA guns, like 🇩🇪 Rheinmetall has. Even 10-15 shells from AA gun are cheaper than drone they destroy, while missiles are much more expensive.","username":"wartranslated","name":"Dmitri"},"retweet_count":254,"like_count":1079,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Trent Telenko @TrentTelenkoThis is the single most important piece of data in this @wartranslated 🧵The Russian objective in the attacks on Kyiv isn't terror. It is just a "side benefit."The RFAF objective is suppression of air defenses (SEAD) by running AFU out of surface to air missiles!SEAD🧵1/ 
Dmitri @wartranslatedThis uses air-defense missiles a lot, such usage is not sustainable in long term. 🇺🇦 needs more AA guns, like 🇩🇪 Rheinmetall has. Even 10-15 shells from AA gun are cheaper than drone they destroy, while missiles are much more expensive.7:56 PM ∙ Oct 19, 20221,079Likes254RetweetsA quick reminder of just how many kamikaze drones Russia is firing will make you do some pretty startling math in your head.
The Kyiv Independent @KyivIndependent⚡️Zelensky: 233 Iranian kamikaze drones shot down over Ukraine in past month.The figure for the number of Iranian Shahed-136 loitering munitions shot down, along with "tens of missiles" was named by President Volodymyr Zelensky during his regular address to Ukrainians.8:54 PM ∙ Oct 19, 20221,600Likes281RetweetsBut it’s not all bad news for Ukraine. The drone attacks against civilian targets might be changing some minds in Israel’s government.
Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellWould be huge if Israel begins finally supporting Ukraine militarily. 
apnews.comRussia’s Iranian drones complicate Israel’s balancing actJERUSALEM (AP) — The Iranian-made drones that Russia sent slamming into central Kyiv this week have complicated Israel’s balancing act between Russia and the West. Israel has stayed largely on the sidelines since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last February so as not to damage its strategic relations…2:15 AM ∙ Oct 20, 2022
Russia’s Iranian drones complicate Israel’s balancing act
From the story:
JERUSALEM (AP) — The Iranian-made drones that Russia sent slamming into central Kyiv this week have complicated Israel’s balancing act between Russia and the West.
Israel has stayed largely on the sidelines since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last February so as not to damage its strategic relationship with the Kremlin. Although Israel has sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine, it has refused Kyiv’s frequent requests to send air defense systems and other military equipment and refrained from enforcing strict economic sanctions on Russia and the many Russian-Jewish oligarchs who have second homes in Israel.
But with news of Moscow’s deepening ties with Tehran, Israel’s sworn foe, pressure is growing on Israel to back Ukraine in the grinding war. Israel has long fought a shadowy war with Iran across the Middle East by land, sea and air.
Things are also going badly almost everywhere else for Russia on the frontlines.
Take a listen to this correspondent, if you have a moment.
Julia Davis @JuliaDavisNewsMeanwhile in Russia: anger and disappointment fill the studio, as the viewers are being prepared for the loss of Kherson and other territories. Host Olga Skabeeva bitterly questions why Russia was so wrong in the beginning, believing that Zelensky would run & NATO wouldn't help. 6:04 PM ∙ Oct 19, 202217,406Likes4,019RetweetsHe bemoans the situation, saying Russian forces near Kherson can only be resupplied by pontoon bridges and ferry crossings.
He says in some frontline areas, Russian troops are outnumbered 4 to 1, and they’re outclassed, too, by units trained abroad to NATO standards with modern, high-precision weapons.
His bottom line assessment:
“There won’t be any good news in Nov or Dec, and Russia will suffer severe territorial losses in the next two months.”
It seems to me the Russian people are being prepared for another big breakout by Ukrainian forces in the south, much as the Ukrainians broke through in the east in the Donbas region last month.
One other bit of great news for Ukraine is the result of the bridge attack.
Look at the delays currently happening.
Anton Gerashchenko @Gerashchenko_enLines to get on the ferry crossing to and from Crimea stretch for kilometers.Truck drivers (not allowed on damaged Kerch bridge) have to wait for 3 to 4 days to cross. 7:05 AM ∙ Oct 13, 20221,380Likes261RetweetsThese kinds of delays would seem to have real strategic impacts as they continue.
Let’s move from Ukraine to the Middle East; to the spat between Saudia Arabia and the U.S.
Things haven’t improved, and now concrete consequences are being put on the table, such as these below by Senator Chris Murphy, a Democrat and serious foreign policy guru for the left.
@ChrisMurphyCT gets specific — he says the U.S. should remove its advanced missile defense systems from Saudi Arabia & send them to Ukraine or Poland/Romania.\n\nThis would have one-two punch of punishing the Saudis & directly helping Ukraine. ","username":"AndrewDesiderio","name":"Andrew Desiderio","date":"Fri Oct 14 01:30:41 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/Fe_kGQ...
Andrew Desiderio @AndrewDesiderioOn Saudi Arabia, Sen. @ChrisMurphyCT gets specific — he says the U.S. should remove its advanced missile defense systems from Saudi Arabia & send them to Ukraine or Poland/Romania.This would have one-two punch of punishing the Saudis & directly helping Ukraine. 
1:30 AM ∙ Oct 14, 20221,154Likes311RetweetsFull image from above:
Moving north, the uprising in Iran continues, but for now, it remains contained.
@ksadjadpour sees the anger spreading across Iranian society: \"If all of these brushfires combine together in one inferno the regime is going to be in trouble.\" Our conversation with the always insightful Karim Sadjadpour on @NewDay: ","username":"MarquardtA","name":"Alex Marquardt","date":"Mon Oct 17 16:21:21 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
Alex Marquardt @MarquardtAA month after the protests in Iran began, @ksadjadpour sees the anger spreading across Iranian society: "If all of these brushfires combine together in one inferno the regime is going to be in trouble." Our conversation with the always insightful Karim Sadjadpour on @NewDay: 4:21 PM ∙ Oct 17, 20221,246Likes535RetweetsOne important thing to consider is that while many want to see Iran’s government toppled or weakened, not many Muslim countries want to see women fully empowered. (See below.)
@vali_nasr. “Because the example that Iran is setting is much, much bigger than Iran. Every Muslim girl around the world is watching [Iranian women] in awe.” ","username":"amanpour","name":"Christiane Amanpour","date":"Thu Oct 13 16:44:56 +0000 2022","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
Christiane Amanpour @amanpourMany nearby dictatorships would like to see Iran weakened – but none “wants these young girls to succeed,” says @vali_nasr. “Because the example that Iran is setting is much, much bigger than Iran. Every Muslim girl around the world is watching [Iranian women] in awe.” 4:44 PM ∙ Oct 13, 20225,086Likes1,964RetweetsAll right, we’ve covered a decent amount of news, so let’s end with the motivation and wisdom portion now.
Motivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Jon Gordon @JonGordon11Hope is a strategy. Too many say it isn’t. Yes, it needs to be followed by action. But don’t underestimate the power of hope. It keeps you going when you want to quit. Because you have hope for tomorrow you take one more step today.2:45 AM ∙ Oct 14, 2022222Likes55Retweets
Inspirational Quotes @TheQuoteBoook_Nothing worth having comes easy.9:17 PM ∙ Oct 17, 2022850Likes156RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"If you can't handle stress, you won't manage success."9:45 AM ∙ Oct 17, 20223,835Likes799RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"You succeed by doing. Not by thinking about doing."10:10 PM ∙ Oct 16, 20222,690Likes583RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_We can change our lives. We can do, have, and be exactly what we wish.2:10 AM ∙ Oct 16, 2022751Likes187Retweets#success #advice","username":"ysuccess_quotes","name":"Success Quotes","date":"Mon Oct 10 21:26:37 +0000 2022","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":0,"like_count":3,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Success Quotes @ysuccess_quotesLife begins when you start something, and blooms when you keep doing it.–Michael Bassey Johnson #success #advice9:26 PM ∙ Oct 10, 2022Life Quotes @RTLifeQuotesPlan with surgical precision, schedule and lock the door behind you. - Greg Seker2:01 AM ∙ Oct 9, 202242Likes5RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesThe secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age. - Lucille Ball6:01 PM ∙ Oct 7, 202259Likes12Retweets
Wealth Inc 💰 @WealthInc247Surround yourself with the right people. You are the company you keep.4:20 PM ∙ Oct 7, 2022668Likes170RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesOne of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors. - Plato10:01 AM ∙ Oct 4, 202250Likes12RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you all.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
