CNN

All the moronic deceptions and distractions; birth certificate, black people won't vote again, he's a terrorist, muslim, or a socialist, etc. all those lies and deception only work on 27% of the population.
The rest of us don't watch (or believe in) the Fox media. Your comments only reinforce our perception of you and your Bush/Cheney regime.

Ralph – do you now see how silly you are?

That "community organizer" stuff has really been laughed off the radar screen by now. Americans know a scam when they see one.

Wow, you haters just can't get over the fact that Obama and Biden won! Just stick your heads in sand for the next 8 years and you'll be okay. How spiteful of you to deprive Biden's son of seeing his father sworn in as Vice President. He probably could have avoided going to Iraq entirely, but he will be going back. At least it shows he has some integrity. You Rethugs are just so mean-spirited, hateful and cynical. What a bunch. With people like you in this country, how will we ever get out of the economic slump we are in and bridge the divisiveness that surrounds us. Do us all a favor and move to a country where you will really have something to complain about.

I could not imagine that The National Guard would let Beau Biden miss his dads once and life time event.
Oh and to all the sore loser's who never learned how to lose gracefully or maintain there dignity I think I speak for most of us, reading your crybaby comments only makes us feel sorry for you, after all it must suck to never be happy unless someone else suffers... {Cynically Correct} Statement

Hummmmm, I wonder what boy Beau can cover up for Nobama this time while he's home on leave! One has to wonder.

What a great American family to have as Vice president and to have in our armed services.

I have a question. How do some of you morons think that this "new administration" is repsonsible for Beau Biden coming home? The president-elect and vice president-elect are not in charge yet. However, I do agree that if Beau Biden is given this type of privilege that it should be extended to other service men and women.

Hey Jim how many times have your father been Vice President of the United States? Idiot

It is great that Beau can be here for his father's swearing in as the VICE PRESIDENT OF THIS NATION (which is far different and dare I say significant in a much bigger way than being granted "R&R" to attend a birthday party or college graduation as alleged by Another Army Captain serving in Iraq, who perhaps should have thought of such things before joining up.)

PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP January 16th, 2009 4:05 pm ET
Hey C.W. At least we know for sure GW was a citizen.

-------------------------------

And we have a WINNER for the most pathetic comment in the whole blog!!!!!

Beau Biden is a captain. When other soldiers get to that rank they can choose to use their leave whenever they desire as well.

Welcome home Beau we thank you for your service, and look forward to you and all servicemen and women never having to return to that place.

Hey C.W. At least we know for sure GW was a citizen.

For the record, I never said he should not be there. I said we need to extend to courtesy to other too.

@ karen- missouri

You are 1/2 sheep, 1/2 lemming.

To Amber. My comment stands. It depends on whose eyes you are looking thru. To the young father at the birth of his first born, to him that is most likely the most historic moment. You need to realize the world does not revolve around this inaguration.

For all you people who are **cough** "offended" by Beau Biden being allowed to have leave to attend his father's inauguration, might I suggest you take up the matter with the CURRENT Commander in Chief, President Bush.

I think it's great that Beau can see his father be sworn into office of VP. How often does one's father become VP of the United States? I feel sorry for those who are so selfish (regardless of their own family status) to want to deny Biden's son's short leave and complain. Why can't they be happy for another's family instead of jealous?

gray in MD January 16th, 2009 1:42 pm ET
i'll serve our military when the threat is right here on our own land. i think its ridiculous that all of our "wars" have been on other's land. since when is it necessary to defend american liberties on foriegn soil??????

Duh, how about WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam? Would you really rather we fought those wars in NYC, LA, Miineapolis, Iowa, etc.? I've seen thousands of dumb comments on CNN's blogs, but this is the absolute dumbest.

So many bitter comments. So much hate over something like this. No wonder our country is so divided.

Jim @ 2:29 pm

Please. Let's have some perspective here. Let me clear it up for you:

YES. Your FATHER being SWORN in as VICE PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is more important than a college graduation or a baby being born.

Sorry, but your comment just sounded really silly and sour-grapesy.

They say he was due for R&R. How convenient!!

@Boston Irish.Caaas,potato famine,losing to the english.It shows.

Get your father run for VP, get him elected, it's not a mean fit to attract a favor. Beau is not your fault.ENJOY

Wow, the extreme righters are out in full force today,.
They do nothing but complain and point fingers.
Never hear them brag about the almost destruction of our country
that their party has "gifted" us with.
If Bush and the pubs had not pushed this illegal, unwinnable war
down our throats we would not even have this issue.

As long as he was due for R&R, there should be no comments made at all. If he was given special privileges (undue R&R or TAD for the purpose of being able to attend the inaguration), then that is different.

To who said this is more historic that having a baby or a graduation, etc, it depends on whose eyes you are looking thru.

lou January 16th, 2009 9:50 am ET

How much did this personal trip for the benefit of the Bidens cost the American Taxpayer? I'll bet every American serving in Iraq would have liked to have a free trip home to watch their kids graduate, get married, have a job ceremony, celebrate an anniversary or birthday, etc..

lou, actually ALL soldiers serving in Iraq or Afghanistan get to come home (or go on vacation) for 2 weeks R&R at some point during their tour of duty there. And, depending on their mission requirements, many folks get a fair amont of input as to when they get to take that R&R. For instance, my daughter will graduate from high school this year. My unit is aware of the situation, and will do all in their power to let me take my R&R during that special time in my family's life. And, yes, the Army does pick up the travel tab (with some limitations, of course). CPT Biden is not likely getting anything out of the ordinary here.

I'm with you Frankie! What a bunch of clowns. If the republican party was proposing the Trillions of dollars the democRATS are, can you just imagine what would be said? Nancy Pelosi just can't get enough money to spend! I won't have to worry about retirement money – I'll just put on a coat of paint and get in line with all the other welfare recipients that voted "that one" into office. It certainly could NOT have been taxpayers that did.

BUSH WAS A DRAFT DODGER and SO WAS CHENEY!

The Bushbots are in full force on here... So Dear, Necons & FundaMENTAL conserviates remember this: your man GWB is the reason your families are in Iraq AND remember this Republicans are the party that wrecked America.

I have two sons in the Marine Corp right now. Oldest son did his tours in Iraq and the younger will probably be going in the near future. I am happy that some one, anyone serving gets a break. Sad to see such a bunch of whinners crying about their opinion of what's fair and what's not fair. Biden is proudly serving in a war when he had a lot of opportunity to stay home and safely earn a lot more money. Sorry he's not of your political klan.
Is it fair that the previous admin had no one in the military, let alone in Iraq? And both of them avoided serving in the conflict of their generation, as so many others who were not of the "social elite" were drafted to go. Cheney had FIVE deferments because he "had [more] important things to do".
It is great to finally have some one in the executive branch/office with more than votes at risk in our wars. Bunch of neo-con wimps – grow up!

Oh it's not what you know but who you know.... like he should be "special" Like a and the rumor is that Biden hasn't given up his senate seat becasue he want's his son to have it. Gee isn't that what we want to get away from... Nope just POLITICS as usual.

Terry you forget that Clinton dogged the draft!! Do u think Chelsea should be serving as well? What about her expensive colleges. And talk about girls expensive colleges, would expect the same for the Obama girls?

How ridiculous you are? At least Bush was in National Guard, served and respected his colleagues. Cannot say the same for Obama, or that draft-dodger Clinton or John Kerry who betrayed his fellow servicemen!

It works both ways OH great Terry!

@Indyvoter, simply because someone thinks Obama needs a "DUMMIES FOR PRESIDENT" book, doesn't mean he is not intelligent. You talked to him like he wasn't. For all you know he may have been working on his doctorate while Obama was doing coke. A lot of people think Obama doesn't have a clue about being President. That doesn't mean they are not intelligent. Before this is all over, I think they may even be in the majority. Oh, not being a dummy is not a requirement for being a member of Congress. Don't believe me? Look at all the dummies in congress now trying to prove they are not and definitely NOT succeeding. I'm talking BOTH parties. They can't be too smart being led by Pelosi & Reid.

Of course this is special treatment. It does not matter which sides it is coming fr it is still special treatement!!

I love all you people (like Jackie) pointing out suppositions to justfy their positions.

You cannot justify bad behavior with other bad behavior!

I have family serving and have not had leave for 2 yrs! Biden son was there not even 6mths and he is already on leave. How is that fair? It is true that most military people are missing important milestone in their families' lives. Why should Biden's son be any different?

As a military veteran and as an individual who has deployed numerous time to hot spots around the globe, I am offended that Biden's son was sent home to attend the Presidential Inauguration. There has been thousands of service members who have been deployed who have missed very important milestones in their lives like the birth of their children, first birthday, first Christmas, etc. Why should this particular serviceman be given special treatment. He can watch it on CNN like the rest of the military deployed abroad.

I guess there is one treatment for Americans and other treatment for government employees family members.

I too am a military spouse and I totally disagree with this. If soldiers can't be home to support their spouse at the birth of a child or a serious illness such as cancer, then Beau should be just like the rest watching from the TV screen in Iraq.

I'm not sure who wrote that he took his leave now instead of later. But you don't know what you are talking about. Officers don't take leave until all enlisted soldies have taken leave first. Beau should not be on leave this soon; secondly you don't take leave when you want when deployed. You take it at the alloted time given to you.

@Jackie in Dallas – So, if McCain and Palin had won, would you who are complaining be saying the same thing if Palin's son got leave to come home for it?

No, probably not, but you that are saying that is great Biden gets to come home for the inauguration, wouldn't be praising Palin's son either.

Personally, I don't think it's fair for someone from either party to get special treatment because of who your father/mother is.

too am a military spouse and I totally disagree with this. If soldiers can't be home to support their spouse at the birth of a child or a serious illness such as cancer, then Beau should be just like the rest watching from the TV screen in Iraq.

I'm not sure who wrote that he took his leave now instead of later. But you don't know what you are talking about. Officers don't take leave until all enlisted soldies have taken leave first. Beau should not be on leave this soon; secondly you don't take leave when you want when deployed. You take it at the alloted time given to you.

It seems to me that having your father sworn is as VP is a bit more historic than having a child born, graduate, etc...

As far as the "cost to the taxpayers" BS, do people actually think that we sent Air Force One to go pick Biden up from Iraq??? Of course not...there are daily flights from Iraq back to Germany back to the states. They put him on one of those, and if you read the article, he's on TAD while he's back here, so he'll even be put to work, probably in recruiting or PR.

I think it's great that the VP's son is serving in Iraq, and it will be good to have him visible at the Inaguration. This sends a big message to the country, that nobody is too good to serve.

OMG ppl..
Im sure there are times that u wanted to use ur personal time at work but NO was the answer because it wasnt a good time for the business. maybe time off was rejected for some soldiers because it was an intense time of war..

Many bloggers toss who has and who has not served our military. I am very thankful and blessed for all our troops. However, i'll serve our military when the threat is right here on our own land. i think its ridiculous that all of our "wars" have been on other's land. since when is it necessary to defend american liberties on foriegn soil?????? how the heck does that makes sense? get em b4 they get us?? is that the strategy??? Diplomacy before hostility.

WOW @ bill

"waiting for moderation"...

so is mine. Intense?... probably.
harsh?... so what???

not one curse word

wow cnn

Why am I still in moderation? It has been hours!!!! I certainly don't write comments that deserve censorship!!

susie-did you serve in the mililtary or for your country at all?

I like Beau and I hope he enjoys the inaugural. He has served his country in Iraq and it will be nice to take a break.

Kudos to Joe Biden and Beau for a job well done.

I am very glad that he will be able to watch his father being sworn in as Vice President, a wonderful moment for the the country and the Biden family. Let us hope that all of our service will be able to come home for good from that ill-begotten war in Iraq.

Man! you got to love the bushies on this blog. You even hate the fact that an Iraq soldier is here on TEMPORARY DUTY...... yes you read right..... DUTY! For those with I.Q. above 80 that means .........STILL WORKING. And the repubs. still asking why the world doesn't take them serious ha ha ha ....ha to funny for words how people can hate because of ignorance. Stop hating right wing yanks the civ. world is very happy with Obama.......this coming from a center right type of foreigner before I get labeld pinky left ,liberal, socielite or any other wrong description repubs use to feel good about themselves. From the world to the yanks........have a nice day.

Nice special treatment.
Maybe Joe Biden and BHO can bring my husband home to see his child born.

"CAN SOMEONE PLEASE GET THIS GUY A PRESIDENTS FOR DUMMIES BOOK!!!"

Hey Matt:

And you've been the President-Elect exactly how many times? You graduated from where with a degree in what? You've been a member of which Branch of National Government?...Don't criticize a man's shoe size if you can't fit them. And If anyone needs to read literature for "dummies", based on your comment, you just might want to take a long look in the mirror.

January 16th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

Chuck, Tennessee January 16th, 2009 11:46 am ET

TO ALL WHO HAVE NOT SERVED IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM COMMENTING ABOUT THIS ISSUE.

It hurts the morale of our troops when they see a person get special treatment because of who they are. Military members are away from their families for months at a time, miss their children's births, first steps, first words, birthdays, graduations, and the list goes on and on. If you don't know what it is like to serve your country and make these sacrifices, then just SHUT UP!

Now, as someone who has served and made these sacrifices, I must say that THIS STINKS!
****************************************************************************

Wait a 2nd there.

You are saying because i haven't served in the US military, then I should not comment on this issue?

Well then, if you do not have a degree in the physical sciences, you shouldn't comment about global warming. If you don't have a degree in biology, you should comment about evolution. Moreover, if you don't have a degree in economics, you shouldn't comment about the economy, or Obama's plans for the US economy. To go a little further, if you haven't watched someone die of terminal illness, you shouldn't comment on the "right to die" issue.

You my friend, are the one whom should think before you type.

Chuck, shut up. It shows you know nothing abut the military.

Your leadeship is lacking if on a special occasion they won't let you come home.

This of course goes hand in hand with PRIOR PLANNING. I had 2 kids born while deployed and knowing this I held up my R&R the first time until my seventh month of deployment and the second time I actually took my R&R on month five and made it back on time both times.

If Biden's son were to come back again for R&R I might see a problem, but that is later down the line.

The DOD policy for military in IRAQ is that if they are on at least 12 month deployment orders, they are entitled to one 15 day R&R period back to the US. with the cost of transport paid for by the military. The member must have been in-country for at least 60 days, and have at least 60 days left in his/her deployment. Capt. Biden appears to meet these rules.

@ Terry and others whining about Bush's National Guard service, at least he did serve; which is more than Obama, Biden Sr. or most members of Congress can say.

Did Obama serve in the military or peace corp. or anything that served the people?
***********************************

Yes, he did. After graduating from an Ivy League university, he committed himself to working in Chicago's poorest neighborhoods to help the people struggling from the closure of factories and other jobs.

Any more questions?

cnn WHY IS MY COMMENT STILL WAITING MODERATION. THIS IS CRAP.JUST PRINT WHAT PEOPLE SAY. SENSORSHIP AT CNN SURLEY NOT. HUM

I served seven years. I am proud of my service. I served during the first Gulf War and spent 3 years and 7 months stationed overseas.
2 YEARS WITHOUT LEAVE!!!!
For those who are commenting about taking leave as if it were just a matter of submitting your 4187 request. That is a bunch of balony!!!

108th MI BN did not get to go home. Did not get to march in a victory parade. Instead, we went to Euro Disney with our COMPANY as a way of telling us to suck it up! Special treatment with Biden, you bet. I smell Kerry Ketchup Act Part II all over this one!!!

Then we reflagged from Eight UP to the 501st. Which was affectionately known as the 501TH (Five-O-Oneth)....

People keep griping about Bush's lack of service in the National Guard. Can anyone tell me which branch of the service Obama served in? A lot of men serve in the Air National Guard. Does anyone have a problem with it? Oh, guess if your last name is Bush, it is not a good way to serve your country. Look, either it's okay for everyone and that means Bush, or it's not. You can't condemn one for serving in the Guard and pat all others on the back and say "Job well done".

So, if McCain and Palin had won, would you who are complaining be saying the same thing if Palin's son got leave to come home for it? I doubt it. He is entitled, as all military, to apply for leave from duty. You take vacation days, sick days, don't you? In war, you rarely have that option. He's not getting special treatment, except that most likely he will have priority access to transportation.

Geez, you guys like to complain! Give it a rest, please. We know you don't like President Elect Obama and Vice President Elect Biden, and nothing either does is going to be the right thing in your eyes. Yes, those of us who aren't too fond of President Bush have been complaining for years - but we are complaining about things of substance for the most part. Like erosion of our Constitutional rights, the deaths of thousands of our military in a war that should never have been started, like the weak followup to the war in Afghanistan, like the gutting of our economy. And I'm not blinded by fervor about President Elect Obama; he's going to make mistakes, he's going to make decisions I don't agree with and you'll see my complaints then, too. But think about this, Biden is being sworn in as our country's second-highest elected official on Tuesday - if you were in his shoes, wouldn't you want your son there?

Gerry in Va. for Obama

It would have been wonderful for me to get leave from the War Zone that I was serving in for the birth of my child during the 1st Gulf War. That is a once in a lifetime event too.

Fantastic!!!!

Thats great news! Wow, so happy he is home... Who is paying for all of this?
Why did they not bring EVERYONE home for the event?

I think I am going to puke.

He would have made a better President-elect.

Chuck, Tennessee January 16th, 2009 11:46 am ET

TO ALL WHO HAVE NOT SERVED IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM COMMENTING ABOUT THIS ISSUE.

It hurts the morale of our troops when they see a person get special treatment because of who they are. Military members are away from their families for months at a time, miss their children's births, first steps, first words, birthdays, graduations, and the list goes on and on. If you don't know what it is like to serve your country and make these sacrifices, then just SHUT UP!

Now, as someone who has served and made these sacrifices, I must say that THIS STINKS!
****************************************************************************

Welll, Chuck, I have family members who have served multiple tours of duty, and THEY don't have a problem with this. Perhaps you should have made the same stink about Cheney and Bush dodging serving the military when they were eligible to do so. Palin's son went to avoid jail, and I'm sure they both would be here if McCain and Palin had won.

yey

Did Obama serve in the military or peace corp. or anything that served the people?

I have a family. I have children. When something important rolls around in life I want my family and my children there with me. There really isn't anything more to it.

Dwight Eisenhowers son came home from Korea for his 1953 inauguration.

joe bidens son was the attorney general of delaware when he got orders to go to iraq.if he didnt want to go he could have gotten out of it.

I was in the military for 24 years and I don't have a problem with that. He will be using his leave. That's goes on all the time in each branch of service.

Change we can believe it.........right.

Interesting – some people have advocating he get 'special treatment' because he is the VP's son by way of precluding him from serving in a war zone at all. The concern is that he might endanger the other soldier with him, being a "high value" target for the enemy.

With all the security being set up for DC during the inauguration, I'm kind of glad he's not going to be over there looking easier to hit.

And I am glad that he won't be standing next to any of my military family members who might get hit along with him.

Niun: January 16th, 2009 11:27 am ET

Of course he has to come early he can't just watch it on tv. HE just went there for an act.
___________________________________________________

the fact that you say he went there as an "act" is an insult to all military members. have gone over there? have you seen or done what our military personnel have to do? I didnt think so. So before you call someone's service an "act" walk few steps in their boots over there.
It's not like he is coming home for good, he is home on a leave and will return; and this leave will most likely be considered his R&R so he wont be able to come home until his deployment duties are fulfilled.

Hey SG
January 16th, 2009 11:35 am ET

Boy – that Joe Biden is just one of us isn't he! No preferential treatment in that family. I wonder if Sarah Palin's or John McCain's sons are coming home for the corronation?

NO.........they LOST! If they had one you would be saying how wonderful it is....................

You haters need to stop your whining and complaining. So what if this man is granted leave to see his father become VP? Who does it hurt, what is the harm in it? This country has more pressing issues than you haters complaining about something that really does not concern you. Get a Life!

To David B.

If the article doesn't interest you, why read it? They both are eligible to run for President and Vice President. So...just because they haven't served in the war means...? AND its not furloughing. I'm sure the guys in the army would love to witness life changing events, some people actually get to witness it.

It's a military decision. You got a problem with it? Take it up with the current Commander-in-Chief, George W. Bush. If you don't feel like doing that, then shut up and squawk about something important.

@Dexter in Houston TX -Amen

George W. Bush has never proven where he was for his entire time in the Texas Air National Guard. Repeat: NEVER.

Talk about privilege – his records completely disappeared! My guess is he was off partying somewhere.

The favor for Beau Biden: To come home to see his father sworn in as VP and then return to Iraq.

The favor for George W. Bush: To goof off while others served and died – and to never be held accountable.

I still can't believe there were enough bozos in our country to elect him TWICE!

Thank goodness that era is OVER!

Soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq get to come home on leave. They usually come home halfway through their tour, but I know of some who have taken leave early, for whatever reason. Quit making a big deal about him coming home. He's not getting special privileges, he's just getting leave!

TO ALL WHO HAVE NOT SERVED IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM COMMENTING ABOUT THIS ISSUE.

It hurts the morale of our troops when they see a person get special treatment because of who they are. Military members are away from their families for months at a time, miss their children's births, first steps, first words, birthdays, graduations, and the list goes on and on. If you don't know what it is like to serve your country and make these sacrifices, then just SHUT UP!

Now, as someone who has served and made these sacrifices, I must say that THIS STINKS!

I am going to repeat what I sent a few minutes ago, because if I ever said any of this before, it was in a totally different context.
I understand the bitterness of the conservatives in their attacks on Beau for getting to come home for his father's inauguration.
But I repeat: Where was their protest when George W was being leapfrogged over 50 on the waiting list for the National Guard in Texas, at least 2 of whom gave their lives in Vietnam after being drafted? That perhaps was more immoral, in that George W never has served a day in harm's way, and failed even to uphold his oath as an officer and a defender of the Constitution.

if old raggdy palin had won the VP slot (go figure) all you haters would not have a problem with her son coming home from iraq to witness her swearing in so you need to keep your pig mouths shut!!

God Bless President Obama, VP Biden and the First Familes!!

Obama/Biden 2012

So, another example of the promise of change. I will be looking forward to see more of his changes. Take a look at all of his choices so far – that should tell everyone who voted for him what to expect.

I certainly believe J. JR should be home for this occasion, and I thank him for his service!!!!!!! My comment is more towards the LOB-SIDED Media that picks and chooses the SPIN they put on things. Any child or family member DESERVES to be there....at any expense. I also hope this tag-team does good for the U.S. We need it.

Can you say..."Special Treatment"

You people all need to get a grip. Will this really make a difference in any of your lives? No. Leave people alone or get a hobby or something. Worry about stuff that really matters and forget about whether Beau Biden gets to come home or not. Geez.

This is great and the right thing to do. I am happy for the whole Biden Family, they should all be together on this special Day.

THANK YOU BETTYC and Sam!!!!

Dont believe the Limbaugh kids who claim to be vets on here,the little wimps havent even got out of their mom and dads cellar.They are on from morning till late at night using a number of names and spewing moronic verbage.

God bless Beau Biden for his service to our great nation!!!
Because of the brave men and women just like him, each person who wrote the hateful emails have the "right" to their freedom of speech.
I'm thankful the military allowed him to return home to attend this historic moment in our nation's history.
God Bless America!
God Bless our Troops!!
God Bless the Biden Family!!!
God Bless President Obama and his family!!!

I read with interest the Republican attacks on the special treatment being afforded Beau.
Where were they when George W. was jumped over 50 on the waiting list for an Air National Guard post in Texas so he could avoid being drafted for Vietnam? At least 3 of the 50 he was immorally jumped over later gave their lives in Vietnam after being drafted.
This is a part of the Bush heritage I don't hear being mentioned on the way to rewriting history..

Wow look at all the pro Americans attacking our "heros" i guess when the coin is flipped you all look pretty stupid huh? goes both ways baby, keep crying and cying all you Bush supporters your all full of hot air, i would be too if i was that brainwashed. Its so clear that the United States needs to take a long hard look at the lack of education in this country. Hurry hurry everyone save the legacy, spread the blame, learn nothing, yay!!! way to be productive, its all me me me with these crazies.

Nice. It's an amazing moment for his father and the country. He should be there!

I plan to treat Obama like the democrats treated Bush. You libs will just have to get over it.

This is all foolish. We'll be bringing all our soldiers home shortly. This should be a day of celebration for everyone in the military. Haliburton stock is gonna take it in the shorts though. LOL!

I know of at least 2 people who missed the birth of their first children because they were deployed in Iraq. This is wrong. Beau should have stayed in Iraq and watched it on AFN (if they have it there in Iraq). I voted the Obama/Biden ticket, but this is purely and simply special treatment......................

Boy – that Joe Biden is just one of us isn't he! No preferential treatment in that family. I wonder if Sarah Palin's or John McCain's sons are coming home for the corronation?

This is Bush's war. It would be scandalous if Bush did this, not people who are against the war.

Hall for Obama January 16th, 2009 10:48 am ET

Bush Child will never go to war and fight for you, so get over that way of think. Did Bush go to war?
_____________________________________________________
Did Clinton? Did Obama? Get off your high horse.

This is Bush's war, not Obama's. It would be scandalous if Bush's family did this. But they are against the war. Obama's going to bring all the troops home. To the detriment of the Soldier of Fortune wackos in the Republican party.

Good. After the way this family has supported one another in the darkest times, they should experience the best times together.

okay people. his dad is going to be the vice president of the united states of america. he is coming home to witness a historic, national event.

then he goes back. NOT A BIG DEAL

maybe all you idiots complaining should join up and serve over there for at least 15 minutes before you bash the idea of J. Biden Jr., getting to get to come home to see his dad sworn in as VP.

Glad that he can attend the inaguration, how wonderful.

If this was a Republican's son getting this special treatment, the liberal media would have a "special report" and break in on all the channels. It's funny how media works when it's in there favor. Nothing against the Bidens, it is a very special occasion, but it would be made into something of "privlage" if it were on the republican side, and all of you reading this KNOW IT.

@ niun

Oh you're so right...he gave up his position of Attorney General of Delaware and went to Iraq after receiving deployment orders all to scam the Amurikan peeplez!!!

Seriously, the GOP and it's minions have learned NOTHING since November 4th.

Well, here we go – not even in office yet and there we are showing special favors.
Too bad that they do not give everyone over there that privilege – I was extremely ill and my son was told he could not come home.

Grow up. Life isn't fair. Keep in mind, Conservatives, that this is your mantra "life isn't fair".

He's the VPs son for crying out loud...he's going to get special treatment. So are Sasha and Malia. Just like Jenna and Barbara recieved. These people...people we have elected...ARE NOT LIKE EVERYONE ELSE and aren't going to be treated like everyone else.

Quit with the elitist crap too! You mean to tell me that SP's son wouldn't have come back for her *gasp* swearing in?!?! GIVE ME A BREAK!

I am so glad he gets to come home to see his dad sworn in as vice president! What a proud moment for him!!

Of course he has to come early he can't just watch it on tv. HE just went there for an act.

Hey, that's great. I didn't know the army granted furloughs for that type of thing.

I'm sure all the guys serving in Iraq who have missed the births of their children at home will find this ridiculous story compelling!

And for those on here who are knocking George Bush's National Guard service – Where did Barak Obama and Joe Biden serve? Oh, yeah, that's right. They didn't.

Hey! Clinton saw as much military action as "W" so get off the man's case about the war. He DID something to protect us.

It's nice the Beau got to come home. We'd be having a different conversation of Sarah Palin's son were allowed to come home for her swearing in. The whacked out left would be screaming favoritism and all kinds of obscenities. Already we see that Obama isn't everything he promised to be to everyone.

I believe my pleasure in the Obama prseidency will be eclipsed only by the dissappointment experienced by the kook fringe.

For all complainers who are making a mountain out of a molehill on this issue and complain that we need 'do for one, do for all' – fine with me.
I suggest we make it official – any serviceperson should be allowed to come home for the inauguration of a parent as President or VP.
There you all happy now?

Justanotherbeaker January 16th, 2009 10:33 am ET
I think this is great allowing the VP elect's son the opportunity to see his father sworn in for this once (maybe twice) in a lifetime opportunity.

I now expect my oldest to be allowed to come home in mid- to late May in order to see his brother graduate from high school (definitely something that will only happen once.)

--------------------------------

Thanks to your son for his service to the US, but this comment is pretty stupid. High school graduations are a part of everyone's life (unless you are a Palin or some other underachieving person). Being sworn in as the VP of the United States has only happened 44 times in American history.

Terry January 16th, 2009 9:32 am ET

As I read about Joe Biden's son serving in Iraq, I can't help but think about George W. Bush's disgraceful lack of service in the Air National Guard. I also note that his daughters, who could have served, were going to expensive colleges while other girls were being shot at in Iraq.
__________________________________________________
Do you feel the same about Bill and Chelsey Clinton? How about Obama did he serve? No.

Biden's son gets special treatment. Don't deny it, it is a fact of life.

Do you honestly think the vp's son would be treated like any other's son? Come on.

for all the DUMMIES, I’m pretty sure if you where becoming vice president, of cvs, or Wal-Mart, or even burger king they would not send you child from war back home to visit and be aprt of the ceremony. But this man is being nominated to VICE PRESIDENT OF THE United States of America, there is no favoritism with this it kinda just makes since. You people act as if he is staying in the states for like 9 mths then going back.

Wonderful, God Bless him for serving our country.

Lou, serve first and then talk about the process. He's going to be charged R&R leave. Get a clue. I've been there, done that.

God bless him and his family. All the haters get a live and reach down
in your soul only YOU can help yourself. This is a good thing.

Only those that had volunteered in the Services can criticize others for not volunteering. In my opinion, all high school graduates should do at least one full year of either military training or community service so they can better appreciate a college education often funded by our tax dollars. This is also another way to make these young adolescents mature faster and become responsible citizens.

It really doesn’t matter if you are the privileged son of a Republican or Democrat, the privileged have special perks.

I don’t see any special orders being cut for Joe black private on the front lines coming back to see President elect Obama sworn into office.

Now this is the true American spirit. Glad to see we are still a country divided.

why would you bash this??
youre trying to critique the fact the the VP's son is coming home?
why dont you look at him for he really is... a soldier.
be thankful for that at least.

Kirk, I did the math. In a best case scenario, 100 million would bail out 1,000 mortgages, and that's only if they only owed 100,000 or less. Which is probably not very common.

People have created a problem that is too big for their government to fix. Time to be a big boy, and stop sticking your hand out. If you are a Republican, you should really be 100% against money going to pay people's mortgages. Although we see enough deviation from their values that it's no longer surprising.

Oh Yes Biden son is just as important as anyone else over in Iraq and he should be given the chance to come home and see his father sworn in as VP.......you people out there are still wearing your sore loser shirts because Obama is President and you have to have something to grip about, you people will continue to grip about anything and everything during Obama's term(s).......every President elected has had an inaugruation parties and they have all spent big money, and Obama's should be no different, I don't care how many people are hurting in this country........Bush has spent 10 billion dollars a month on this war in Iraq that would have helped a lot of people too and probably not have gotten us into this mess we are in......so sit back and shut up

The military does this on occasion Temporary orders are not a free trip home. Don't offend other military members who have been given this treatment by the military you just don't hear about it on the news. Oh and Lou, you would not believe the amount of money the military spends on truly ridiculous things thats just the way it is. Also do you complain each time a service man takes a mac flight somewhere? Geez what is your problem?

It might not be a "courtesy" or "priviledge" consideration at all, but a security consideration, much like pulling Prince Harry out of his unit. I would not be surprised at all if it was eventually brought to light that Capt. Biden was brought home to minimize/eliminate the risk to his life on inauguration day, along with the potential fallout if the son of the newly inaugurated VP were to be killed by terrorists on the very day of that swearing-in.

If Bush/Cheyney had'nt started this whole mess in Iraq then we would'nt be having this conversation!

Joe was at Beau's bedside when he was sworn in as a Senator many years ago, now this is a chance for Beau to return the gesture.

Glad you're home Beau!

God bless the Biden's and the Obama's! Anyone who saw Joe Biden's speech yesterday on the Senate floor can understand the importance of having his family there to witness his swearing in.

Bush Child will never go to war and fight for you, so get over that way of think. Did Bush go to war? NO! maybe his son – in – law, but I don't think so.

Well, I voted for the Obama/Biden ticket, and this display of favoritism is very disappointing to me.

If it were you would you not want your son to come home or would you not want to see your father sworn in. Those of you that are hating, shut up and go and serve

For all you people who complain for one reason or another, just sit yourself down and think – how many in your lifetime get the chance to see a Father sworn in as Vice-president. There have only been 44 Presidents in U.S history. Any concession that can be made, should be made. If you begrudge this, you are petty and small minded. Get a Life!

For God's sake, he's only coming in to see the swearing in of his father. And of course, he should be a part of it of this historic day in history and his family. Any criticism of is purely idiotic and mean-sprited

Robin said, "what you do for one soldier should be extended to others."
I don't disagree Robin ... what I'm hoping is that, perhaps – just perhaps – this signals a new day for the military under Obama where the Troop's are considered humans and not just cannon fodder!

for those who say favortism for his son, he's going back to iraq. in all honesty he should be redeployed to another spot away from combat ala prince harry for security concerns. i can see this being an episode for 24, the VP son held hostage in iraq, go gettem jack!

A forty million dollar event for Bush and everyone including my self thought it was a waste of taxpayer's money. A hundred million for the king obama and everyone are on their knees (except me). I really think this is a waste of money. A hundred million would bail out a lot of mortgages as the demrats say they want to do. But what the hey, the taxpayers are about to hand over another 400 billion to them to squander away. The real big party starts and the beginning of the error is at hand. Grab your a– folks the theiving sobs are fully on the prowl.

All soilders deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan are entitled to a specified time of leave. He was just able to chose his at a time his father is being sworn in as VP. So, no, there's no favoritism or priviledge issues here. This just means he used up some of his allotted leave at this time. So, no, this is not costing taxpayers anymore money than if he were to use his leave at another time. BUT I will say this, if he can use his leave to see his dad sworn in as VP, then other soilders should be able to use it to be home for the birth's of their kids. and to attend funerals of immediate family members.

Thats wonderful!!!!! How sad it would have been had he not been able to attend this most wonderful happening, for how many times in ones lifetime does a son get to witness his father being sworn in as Vice President of the United States.. I can only imagine how proud he is of his father Joe Biden..

This is absolutely ridiculous and a waste of taxpayer's money! Too many of us have missed the birth's of our children and other significant events in our families lives because of being deployed. I'm sorry, but Beau Biden is not any more important than anyone else in this country that is serving in the military. I personally mised many significant events in my families lives, including the birth of my first child and was told I could not go home even though I was going to return just like Beau Biden is. It's all a bunch of garbage. I live in Delaware and have worked with many of the people he is deployed with and no special arrangements are made for their important family events. I don't care that his father is being sworn in as Vice President, he should be afforded no more privilege than anyone else in uniform! Plus, I can't recall the last time I saw anyone get leave while they were deployed unless they had a death of an immediate family member and were returned on Emergency Leave. What a crock!

I think it's great he will be able to come back to see his father sworn in. Same as I would have thought it would be great if it was a republican being sworn in. It's a big deal no matter who it is.

Hey RB, Bush children favortism. Is that to get into a good college? Is that to get into a bar or get out of an DUI? I do not remember them serving in the military. I do not remeber them even serving in government.

My prayers for everyone serving in Iraq. This is the first step in bringing them ALL home permanently! Let's not forget who sent them their on a bogus mission for the Haliburton Board of Directors.

unacceptable!

what crap! Again Do as I say not as I do....a lowly Lite Bird at that....what about important event for other...'once in a life time' seeing your kid born? Holding your wife's hand during the birth missed.......

Elitist again! I've NEVER been granted that type of dispensation when I deploy.......NEVER and neither are others! I don;t care WHO it is or WHAT party they are from..........

IT'S CRAP! right change.....hmmmm

Beau, great that you could be there to see your father sworn in. Hopefully, this will be a twice in a lifetime event!

I'm only sorry it's not Sarah Palin's son being allowed to come home
to watch his mother being sworn in as VP...

This is so typical... My husband and son are both active duty in the United States Navy, I find this to be appauling that special circumstances only applies to "certain " people, Seen it a thousand times. What is good for one is good for all... YEAH RIGHT!!!

I serve our country and I dont think its right that he can come home right after leaving. Gee what special treatment this is. Heck for exmaple the army either want let you go home or gives them hard time about seeing the birth of a child. Secondly let an enlisted person asked to go home to see their childs graduation or anything pertaining to there family. I am sure it will not happen. This is a ashame and i surely dont agree with it. Any military person reading this topic should voice concern.

It's true though – if it was the child of a Republican – everyone would be up in arms. Great he gets to come home, I would want him there if I was Biden too, but if my son/husband were in Iraq, I wouldn't want them to miss any milestones in our lives and they wouldn't receive any special treatment because of it.
And whoever is griping about Bush in the National Guard – I'm glad we have new President who has NO military experience and now he's going to be in charge of it. NICE!

I congratulate Captain Biden on his service. I am a conservative Republican. Not a repug, rethug, retardican, etc. We need to find some common ground. Service to country in the armed forces is a good place to start.

Wow, what a perk. I'm sure the guys I served with in Iraq would have loved to have been able to see their child being born, or would have appreciated being able to go home and support their wife when she suddenly started chemo a month after she found out she had cancer, or...well, you get the idea. This is stupid. He could have watched it on CNN just like any other soldier who isn't out on patrol that day and had the urge to watch. Think of all the other once in a lifetime events people are missing and this pales in comparison. If you don't think so, you really have no frame of reference.

I think this is great allowing the VP elect's son the opportunity to see his father sworn in for this once (maybe twice) in a lifetime opportunity.

I now expect my oldest to be allowed to come home in mid- to late May in order to see his brother graduate from high school (definitely something that will only happen once.)

All you PRESIDENT ELECT Obama haters are in for a long 4-8 years. I recommend going to your doctor and getting on some anti-depressants or just relax a little. I understand that not all soldiers get to come home for special events, but his father is being sworn in as the Vice President of the United States, which is a pretty big deal. I doubt any of you would be complaining if Sen. McCain had won and Gov. Palins son was coming home.

well my cousin had to miss the birth of his son while in Iraq.....no leve permitted....I guess it pays to be connected. You can't be given a leave for your son's birth but you can go see a silly thing like this. Amazing....geez one would think the NY times would have a problem with this,

I don't think this is a Dem/Rep Issue. I am a 8 year Air Force Vet of Iraqi Freedom and would say flat out this would not be extended to an enlisted man. An officer, well that's a different story. Plenty of times I saw officers get preferential treatment for family matters where enlisted men would not get a sniff.

This officer just happens to be the son of the vice-president elect. It is important to note that the order did not come from the JCS or President Bush/Pres-Elect Obama, but a Colonel in the Deleware ANG.

Get used to it folks – what were bad behaviors of Bush's administration will be accepted or even lauded practices of Obama's.

For example, how many articles have been written in the MSM about exessive spending on the Inauguration? quite a few...back in 2005...

RB.....you don't have to worry about bush ever having to make this kind of choice.....bush baby would never let one of his kids GO to Iraq......he'd just have grandpa pull some strings to let them stay state side and show up when they wanted to. That's how he did it, isn't it??

The military regulary allows troops leave for family illness and/or death. Which fits in this case because of the impending death of our capitalistic society by free spending Obamaniacs..

Complainers remember we are human beings.

Service personel often take personal leave or have you not heard???

They fight our wars, put their lives on hold, put themselves is present danger, and ask very little in return.

WELCOME HOME BEAU. THANK YOU FOR SERVIC AND BE SAFE.!

Isn't that convenient? I think every soldier should be allowed to come home for a while, since we are making special exceptions for Biden.

How nice for him to get special treatment. What a joke this is

The more I think about this egregious act of favoritism the agrier I get. My son couldn't come for the birth of this child or the death of his grandmother.

Gee, I guess it really helps to have your father in the v.p. chair. What about all the other boys over there. What a slap in the face for our military.

if any of you even thought for just a moment that the dem. party cared about you and yours, you were obviously suffering from a momentary lapse in sanity. The Dems will always put themselves and their families first and they will always demand that the republicans and every other party pay for it. Dont beleive me? watch, listen and read. every time to see the dems even contemplating the spending of money, any time any of them want to "write" something into law then ask yourself who pays and who benefits? you will always find that the dems benefit.

The Obama/Biden Marxist-Leninist say "egalitarianism for thee but not for me". This is a horrible way to start the most radically left administration in history. Shame on them.

More special treatment for the Political Elite

Capt. Biden should stay stateside.

I'm a Democrat, but I have to agree with those who think Biden's son got special treatment. How is it more important to watch your father be inaugurated than it is to be there for the birth of your child?

Hey Al, at least they served their country. Clinton didn't nor Obama! So say what you want about Cheney and Bush.

Of course he's home..., the war is lost!

Al, NY NY:

Ask McCain about staying behind because it would not be fair to his fellow soldiers to leave the Hanoi Hilton early.

Don't be so narrow minded and think that Bush and Cheney are what defines the GOP.

I agree with Robin – there are many soldiers who never even get to meet their children – maybe then they should get to go home for the births of them.

Robin..Thank Bush and Cheney for not having these young people home! Don't start knocking Biden son for being on leave! Let's be POSITIVE! OBAMA!

must be nice to have people in high places......what about all the other troops that would like to be home for special events....like the birth of a child.....a child's gradutaion or wedding.....yada yada yada.......Biden's kid should be treated just like any other Soldier, Airman or Marine seving in Iraq.

Can you imagine the uproar if it had been a child of GW Bush or another Republican being extended such a courtesy?

again.....
outrageous preferencial treatment!
the guy just left a few months ago.....
and they will get away with it
shame on Biden, shame on the Dems, shame on the people that voted for these clowns

Guess it pays to have the incoming VP as your father. Wonder how his troops feel about? I'm sure thats not a concern....

Can his son not watch it on TV like everyone else? Who paid his transportation and security costs? American people probably.

Good to see this incoming Administration not giving out favors. Hypocrites

Some things never change. Although I respect Beau Biden for his military service, I think it speaks loudly to the point that who you know and and who you are are powerful forces. There's nothing like getting special treatment for the powerful. Who pays for this?

Congratulations and enjoy your father's inauguration, Sir!

I know Beau is proud of his father. Hope he runs for his seat in 2012

That is great that he will get to attend this historic inaguration!!

i think that is great ....my prayers are with ever man and women and their familys that are over there. biden is a good man. i think that obama made the right choice.

I'm not saying he should not be present for his father's inauguration. But what you do for one soldier should be extended to others. Such as allowing them to go home for the births of their children.

If it was a Bush child it would be favoritism in the eyes of the media... Why isn't there criticism for giving special treatment to a Lib/Dem politician's child?

and the GOP griping starts........."priveledged" "not fair to the other soldiers" How about Mr deferment, Chicken Hawk Cheney? Or "I'm gonna show up when I want to at the Alabama National Guard" Duh-bya?

That is great. Hopefully, we will have all our servicemen and women back here at home!! Thank you all for your service!!

Well, of course you have to let him leave to see his father be sworn in as VP.

If it were a Republican's son coming back, there would be people frothing at the mouth about "privilege" and "favoritism." But since it's a Democrat's son, there will be nothing about it.

And there shouldn't be for either one. His dad is going to be VP. It may or may not be the only time he's sworn in (depending on the next four years).

I'm glad Beau was given the consideration to come see Dad sworn in. And I appreciate his service to his country. I wonder how HE feels about the war in Iraq. He and dad may not see eye to eye...

Capt. Biden, so happy that you will be here to witness your father's swearing in. Have a blessed visit and a safe trip back to Iraq.

Well, let the snarky posts begin. It's great Beau can be on hand to see his father sworn in a Veep. Safe journey!

How much did this personal trip for the benefit of the Bidens cost the American Taxpayer? I'll bet every American serving in Iraq would have liked to have a free trip home to watch their kids graduate, get married, have a job ceremony, celebrate an anniversary or birthday, etc.. So much for "Change"..... They're all the same, we're duped again.

Beau, welcome home – I hope all is going well for you and the 261st in Iraq! Enjoy your time at home and be in the moment – you have a front row seat to an historic event. We al hope to see you back at JFHQ soon!

I am so happy that he is safe.....and that he will be here to witness his Father's place in History at this Historic Event.

God Bless our Troops.

Your libby president at his best:
"I'm going to bring home our troops in 16 months...wait, we can't do that, ok, nevermind"......."I'm going to close Gitmo right when I get in office.....wait, I cant do that, ok nevermind".

CAN SOMEONE PLEASE GET THIS GUY A PRESIDENTS FOR DUMMIES BOOK!!!

great! Now he can take the senate seat that is being kept warm for him. Thanks Dad!

Beau Biden is the CURRENT Attorney General of Delaware, not a former Attorney General.

He has to hurry home so he can steal.....uh....I mean write....his inaugural speech.

It is good to see Beau Biden will be on hand to watch his father in this historic moment. Hopefully, there will be a time soon when he and other troops will come home from Iraq never to return there. God willing, that time will be soon.

After Jan 20 2009 Obama is the man in charge. All the haters just suck it up.

As I read about Joe Biden's son serving in Iraq, I can't help but think about George W. Bush's disgraceful lack of service in the Air National Guard. I also note that his daughters, who could have served, were going to expensive colleges while other girls were being shot at in Iraq.

This is symbolic of the Conservative mentality. The Conservative slogan is: "Let others suffer and sacrifice while I prosper."