Just so we're clear...
Hello friends. Today I wanted to make a statement about what's happening in my country to make clear where I stand on things. This isn't any attempt to change minds or to scold. This is just so you know where I stand so you are clear where my moral character is.
I do not support the actions of ICE and the government responses to their murders of Keith Porter, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. I do not support the foreign policy of this government with their threats to long standing allies and ignoring of international law. And I especially don't agree with pardoning 1600 insurrectionists who beat cops and tried to stage a coup.
I have served this country for over 21 years in our Army in both the Reserves and Guard. I retired a Major with four MOSs ( 13B, 91W, 11A, 38A ). I care greatly about where this country is going and how we get there. And the current events are embarrassing and infuriating to this combat vet.
On a personal level, I am half Ecuadorian and half Puerto Rican. I am brown. And I hate that I have to carry multiple forms of ID for when that fateful day happens when I run into ICE agents trying to make quota, knowing they'll happily ignore ID to detain citizens and even Native Americans. I hate that my Ecuadorian side of my family are worried about stepping outside even though they are all citizens. This past month has been terrible on a personal level.
So that is where I stand. That is who I am. If you don't agree with this you are welcome to no longer support me and not follow me anymore. You can do that. But if you support what the current administration is doing to my country I wouldn't want your audience and support anyway.
I'll keep on making my art and offer whatever small distractions I can to help us get through these times with friends around the table. Take care of yourselves, each other and I know we'll get through this. Slava Ukraini. Heroyam Slava.
Comments (221)
It is a terrible thing that is happening in your country. I have visited the USA on a number of occasions and have found your countrymen warm and generous. I live in the UK, by the way.
Right here with ya battle. Just ran across you a few days ago-got some awesome work here.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. The fact that we have the freedom to express our opinions is a testament to the greatness of our country. The hateful rhetoric some use to describe other Americans simply for having an opposing view is childish and dangerous. Some of us think our country is worth protecting. Charging an officer with your car or starting a fight while concealing a weapon is not the right way to make a change in this Country. Ive been a patron on and off for a few years and print and paint a ton of the models for my table. I respect your opinion. Keep up the good work
Thank you for sharing. Please know that the majority of Americans are outraged by the policies of this corrupt administration.
I don't agree with everything you've said here but can appreciate differences of opinion. Open dialogue is more important than any view I hold as I can't support any violence or deception. Thanks so much for your work and service to my home and yours.
I like to think of myself as a pragmatist, which these days makes me an enemy of both political sides as idealism runs rampant in every direction. I have only looked at a smattering of these comments, but I am impressed with the level of civility - even from those that feel the need to disengage from supporting mz4250. There is some stone throwing, but in relation to how bitter conversations have become across aisles, this is...encouraging. I think it is testimony to the universality of art, and the incredible work of mz4250. Kudos to you for not only this wondrous gift you have bequeathed the world, but also for standing up for your ideals. To those that think his words are in opposition to your beliefs, keep in mind there is a difference between what you do and how you do it. I will quote mz4250 - "I care greatly about where this country is going and how we get there." I believe in the rule of law and further believe that illegal aliens are breaking the law. There are so many directions this conversation could go, but for the sake of time let me just direct you to two "opposing" comments below, those from ssapp72 and Ryan Bussell. ssapp72, I believe, respectfully discusses his position and some of the reasons behind his position. There is merit to those reasons, but like so many things these days, half-truths, distorted truths and "alternative facts" have relegated these reasons to being no more than tropes...pre-loaded billboards that are triggered whenever someone shows an inkling of disagreement. Now take a look at Ryan Bussell, who seems to share ssapp72's position. He does not given reasons so much as he deflects the conversation to a previous administration that, in Ryan's words "did it better than Trump", referencing how the Obama administration deported more illegals than Trump has. Go back and re-read ssapp72's reasons. All of those tropes, if true, means that ssapp72 and anyone else with those same opinions, must find Obama to be a more effective president than Trump, at least on this topic. Given that Trump supporters have characterized Obama as the Anti-Trump, I am guessing they would not concede that logic. So, going back to the start of this post, it's not about what you do, it's about how you do it. Most Americans, by far, believe in the rule of law and that illegal immigration is...wait for it...illegal. But we don't have to lose our humanity, respect, and grace in carrying out those rules of law. The Obama deportation statistic is a perfect representation of that. I do wish ssapp72, Ryan Bussell, and any other dissenters remain, despite mz4250's comments. I also wish that mz4250 would have chosen slightly different words so that it did not seem as if he were shutting out dissenters. Conversation leads to enlightenment, while shutting it off leads to ignorance. This is and will always be an indubitable truth. Keep talking folks...and even more...keep listening.
100% support and doing my part in my neck of the woods as well. Thank you for this. And thank you for all your amazing work!
Good on you for making a post and taking a stand. Thank you!
Ah, now I see the end of your post, where you no longer want the support of people who disagree with you. So we can not simply disagree as gentlemen. Just remember that was *your* stance, not mine.
Saying you wish to ‘disagree as gentlemen’ to someone you’re actively supporting the deportation of is crazy levels of disillusionment
Have to disagree with you. Illegal immigration and the problems resulting from it has gotten way out of control. Illegal aliens are NOT "above the law" - and should be returned to their nation of origin, and not allowed to draw from our social safety net and public funds. We're already going broke. We cant afford the cost for everyone in the world who wants to come here illegally to come here illegally. Besides which it gives corrupt nations a pressure valve so that they don't have to reform.. which is why those nations never have to improve conditions for their citizens by much. US Citizens are held to the letter of the law, routinely. Time for the law to apply to illegal aliens too.
Hey, I've got to comment, although I know you made this statement about six weeks ago. I am an Australian looking in. And simply wow, what I am seeing is insane, disgusting and sad, I hope You're all sad.
Have loved seeing your work for a long time found the Patreon today and joined couldn’t be more pleased to see you taking a moral stance without fear of rocking the boat from the cult.
Totally agree, it's nice to finally see people starting to stand up to the lunatics that run our government
I have truly appreciated what you do as an artist. I now appreciate and respect you even more. 26 year Veteran here - Thank you.
The world is with you. It's surprising what we see every day.
Just curious if you gave a crap when Obama was deporting illegals at a significantly higher rate than Trump or when the Obama administration lost tens of thousands of children to human and sex trafficking when he released children to known criminals or if it's only an issue because "orange man bad.." I'd be curious to see a link to a blog where you were against Obama doing it better than Trump is...
"bUt ObAmA!" Yeah, he didn't arrest people doing their jobs of attending immigration meetings, extradite them without constitutionally protected trials to a country not of their origin to be in prison, execute citizens lawfully protesting and protecting others, take kids from cancer treatment... Don't bring your garbage here.
As I am also a Veteran of 23 years, it pains me to see how the government is treating everyone. Especially when people like you and I signed on the dotted line and put ourselves in harms way to protect the freedoms of the country. Very sad.
I'm white but I am also embarrassed to be American. I love my country and this is not what the USA is supposed to be about.
I applaud your statement. As a Canadian, I can't wait to go back to the US once it feels safe again. Courage, you are right, we'll get through this.
From one O4 (LCDR) to another I agree with everything you said and thank you for using your broad platform to spread awareness.
this is one of the very few subscriptions ill be keeping until the US Constitution is upheld again. thank you for making your position on matters known.
Dude, this is great. Im upping my subscription next paycheck!
I appreciate your service and your stance. Thank you for posting this. I support the rule of law, but I also cannot condone masked brownshirts violating both civil and human rights of innocent people (citizens or not) to keep the Epstein Files out of the news. As the grandchild of immigrants, I am ashamed of the state of this government.
I support what the current administration is doing in my country. We have laws. Don’t break them. I support legal immigrants, know a few great people. Per you instruction, I have canceled by monthly membership. Good luck , thanks for the great art.
So you support the president being investigated and charged for his crimes? You have laws... (don't forget to quote how high the DOW is in your complaining response about children being abused)
Thank you for your service and your commitment to our Constitution! Our family has you and your family in our thoughts in these troubling times. Stay strong!
While I can barely imagine the specific things you and your family are enduring know that I too agonize over the hate and injustice that currently runs rampant. Thank you for your art. Thank you for your perseverance. Thank you for the hope you express. I agree completely with you.
While I also wish that I could show my support by upgrading my membership, I am, unfortunately, one of those also finding it a bit difficult to balance a reasonable budget for basic needs and important hobbies (which are becoming increasingly important to maintain any sort of mental health). I am sorry about the position yourself and your family are placed in under the current circumstances. Be safe and be assured that you have the support of a lot of folks! And thank you so much for your service!
Totally understandable friend. I appreciate it
As someone who's just welcomed his third sponsored Ukrainian guest to stay with us here in the UK, and been following events over the Atlantic with horror, thank you for your stand, and for actually having a moral character! I don't usually post on forums in general, this is one case where I'm happy to make an exception. Keep doing your stuff, and thank you
Heck yes! Amen to all of it. F ICE! And thank you for your service!
Thank you for your service and your bravery to be honest. Stay strong.
I use your stuff a lot... and this inspired me to up my patreon tier. Thank you for being a good human.
I support you completely. I already thought you were a good person because of everything you give to the community, but seeing you take this stand makes it clear you are an extraordinary person. As a veteran who has given so much to this country, your perspective carries immense weight, and it’s heartbreaking to hear the fears your family is facing. I’m proud to call you a friend and a creator I support. Slava Ukraini!
Heroyam Slava!
New you were an amazing human just by the kindness you show through your work and for this community
Here to express my full-on support for your honesty, your generosity, and your love for others even when some of your countrymen have let you down. (And your art is amazing.) Slava Ukraini.
Heroyam Slava!
Honestly, i wouldnt have a problem with ICE, it is a country's right to seek people who are in their country without permission, However, using their position to work as an instrument of fear and murder for the ruling regime isn't something that should be tolerated by anyone, and the voices of people prepared to support obvious evil are quite frankly shocking. I appreciate this message, and I hope you continue to grow on here.
You are a true American and even more importantly a true good person, thank you
Fuck ICE
i love when awesome people have good opinions, ur the goat
Sending you my support and prayers from the UK. Most of us are watching what the administration is doing in utter horror and hope that the nightmare will soon be over. Thank you for speaking up and take care of yourself, your loved ones and your neighbours. Light will come after dark.
Thank you for using your platform and fame. Evil only needs good men to stand aside to succeed and your voice is appreciated in the United State's battle with fascism. Thank you for your service and your morality.
You're good with me! I support you, I support the resistance, and Fuck ICE.
As an outsider to your country, we watch in fear as it turns into a reenactment of ww2. I hope that you and your family remain safe. And i hope that the people who leave the hate comments with absolute misinformation wake up soon. It just shows how small some peoples brains are that they spout the propaganda they’ve been fed. The entire world is watching and shaking their heads. Thank you for your stand against hate, racism, fascism, and bigotry.
Thanks for you virtue signalling. I'm out
As an Australian observer it's weird watching America right now. We rarely hear calm considered commentary on events. It's either the administration claiming a full scale invasion of murdering rapists or democrats claiming a pedo protecting rapist is directly responsible for the murder of its own citizens. I doubt either is characterised accurately. We've all watched the same footage, but both sides arrive at very different "facts". I watched those videos and both sides look like antagonistic fools. It seems to me you voted for an asshole....now live with it. Vote better next time or join an electoral campaign. Throwing hate around is not helping. (The op is not hateful....but some of the comments are.) Sure....protest....but don't take a gun. Don't park in the middle of the road blocking angry scared men with guns. You don't deserve death for stupidity....you did vote for it. I prefer our gun laws. Its hard to get one and you need a decent reason....although sport is a reason which is dumb. Play tennis....it's better cardio and less fatal. PS. I respect your choice to declare your values. I like to know who's work I am seeing. Sounds like your origins are causing issues in a country you served. That sucks. Thanks for the models...they're awesome. Based on the information we get over here history will likely support your opinion. I struggle to see how you voted for that guy...crazy.
regardless of the topic... there is absolutely tons of important footage that most people in fact, -not- watch, b/c it's -not- played on msm... This is one reason it's almost impossible to have a conversation with someone about something you know about when they think they "know about" it b/c they watch msm.... it's called the post-truth era. P.s. you are half right, that both dems & repubs are purveyors of nonsense... the scary things are what they say that are in fact recorded, but edited out / removed later etc.... PotUS is one wicked fool.... but there was an "apology" issued, 3 times, that was never fully played on the MSM, and made it look like he didn't, when he actually did... it doesn't redeem him as a person, it is an illustration of the corruption of the media... this same news network had the full version online only, but then it was removed.... so, go ahead, tell me I'm a conspiracy theorist, and I hallucinated that, and so did a couple friends of mine, like people I talk to, not type to. pps... I think you're getting there, keep going though, don't get complacent with your criticism, the issues go so much deeper. Basing opinions on political entertainment theater (which is what MSM is, with <5% pure truth, and 95+% mis- Mal- dis- -information or just spin), is a waste of your precious seconds on this earth. I've watched some of your news from down there a tad and it tickles me sometimes due to its somewhat more apt portrayal... but I've also heard some of the same nonsense stances as well. Right on bro!
Longtime free follower but just paid for a year of the wyvern membership after reading this. Thank you for your past and *continued* service to your country and community.
I'm just here for your 3d print work dude. I dont give a shit about your political stance
I don’t know why I’d do this to myself but I’ve read some of the (fortunately scarce) comments of people upset with you about this post and it makes me so sad. It’s all this conspiracy-tinged language and absurd misinformation. It’s like they live in an entire alternate reality that they can’t seem to see out of.
As someone of Mexican decent, I get it, but luckily I am "passing" so will not likely be selected for quota. I hope this can all get behind us and we all learn from it. Thanks for your service, but on and off the battlefield.
I may not agree with everything you’ve said here, but I respect you for putting your opinions and beliefs out there. Respect from this Air Force veteran and best of luck in your artistic endeavors!
Very disappointed in your ignorance and lack of understanding, I have supported you for years now, never caring about your political stands or anything of that nature, but since you want to make a statement, lets me correct you on a few things. First ICE has been operating for over 2 decades without all the bs going on today, they have been operating under the same laws and procedures. What has changed is the democratic stance. They have decided to use ICE as a scape goat, they have called for protesters to show up at operations to interfere, that is not a peaceful protest, that is insurrection. That would be like you, in the military, doing an operation, and people showing up and interfering with your duty, your job... Immigration is very important to this country, but legal immigration, the oath people take when coming into this country, the values are important, skipping that is slapping every legal immigrant in the face, defending illegals is a violation of your oath as a military officer. Speaking of the jan 6th, im glad they were arrested and put in jail, until all the suppressed evidence starting coming out that shows the FBI actually lead the way in for them, still does not make what they did right, but it does make it entrapment.
I have been alive for nearly 50 years, being a great guy, awesome track record. But if I murdered someone tomorrow, people would have an issue with that. In one fell swoop, all the good I was and did would be called into question, so for me, that what is going one here. We can, with a wave of a pen, make all these illegal people BE legal. It would be easy, cheap, effective, but some people do not want successful brown people showing up unsuccessful non-brown people, is how I see it. My wife calls me naive for thinking that people are generally good, that racism isnt everywhere, that people arent afraid, all that, but this last year has opened my eyes pretty wide to how wrong I was to think there are more good people than angry people.
❤️
thank you for your service. I will not stand with illegal immigrants who kill and rape. I deplore your stand against those who attempt to remove those people from society who have defrauded our country and destroyed lives. sure some federal officers have made mistakes. they will be taken care of. I presume you saw enough unfortunate mistakes made in your years of service. you know what happens there. I understand how you and your family feel being targeted, I am sorry about that, they and you do not deserve that kind of treatment. best of luck to you and yours.
I thank you for your service, your models and your stance. This Specialist stands with you
I sometimes miss the E4 mafia haha
Thank you for speaking up. More people need to have this courage.
Makes me want to continue supporting you even more.
Thank you for using your platform to speak up for what is right. Appreciate it
Good on yah. Scary crap, made more terrifying by some of the people in your comments...
Thank you! It's important to speak out against evil as it only thrives when good people stay silent.
Keith Porter? Active shooter Keith Porter?
As usual, given our current electorate base - there 2 sides to every story and you are only supporting 1. I don't think you should treat your business websites as personal pages - like Facebook. I myself, will be canceling my support because you choose to bring the atrocities of the Left/Socialist/Democratic party out as they are many things they are not. Honesty, a subject that the left chokes on daily, is missing in the major liberal left controlled media - Good rammed an ICE officer, who had been dragged by another "protester" earlier this year, and was shot in the face. Alex, dear sweet angel that he was, was caught on surveillance video attacking and spitting on them, damaged an ICE vehicle, and was carrying the civilian version of our current military sidearm to a riot. He refused to disarm and 2 ICE agents did what normal people expect them to do....eliminate a deadly threat. The full-size semi-auto Sig Sauer pistol was in his belt. He reached, he died....I shed no tears. The Left has already had it's pound of flesh from the people who detained the drug addicted, criminal - George Floyd. The last holder of the presidency, opened the border, and crammed in as many invested people into the country and then used clandestine flights and bus trips to move as many people around the country as possible. This is the next problem of the left - Integrity. They used every dirty trick, lied, scammed, and refused to believe that the American citizens could figure out their plan. Trump and his supporters, legally won the 2024 Election. Since then Liberal judges and politicians have done everything they can to slow the "will of the majority". Wow, fraud - Minneapolis, Minnesota - the home of two riotous seasons of destruction and hypocrisy. Where the grassroots movement is funded by Left Liberal millionaires, and the Holy people of Somalia have defrauded and rapid the American economy by BILLIONS. Home of politicians who hate their country and stand in front of the media trying to keep from smiling while they steal their share from the taxpayer. I also find it funny that so many Europeans are speaking up about a subject they are dealing with themselves. Trying to move immigrants back to their own countries, whether your in Spain, France, Germany, or Britain - has created many more attackers and terrorists than are currently training in Russia right now. Finally, the movement of illegal immigrants has caused a number of other issues in America. Medical insurance, specifically, Medicaid has collapsed in many states because you can't add millions into a population that can't afford to take care of their citizens. Schools are failing, kids are graduating who can't read. Add a new population who doesn't speak your language, slows down the progress even worse. Trump has 3 years to go...Obama deported 3 million during his time in office... Maybe, by that time, you can learn to be honest, show some integrity, and be fair to ALL the citizens of our country.
He never said anything about being left or right. You, however, are arrogant enough to miss the moral issues at play here. Death by execution is not judgement - it is terrorism at the highest levels. This isnt politics, this is morality. You obviously have none. what an embarrasment of a reply you just gave lol. The point flew right over your head Happy to see you go.
Thank you for your service. Fuck ICE.
Stand strong friend. Let me tell you as a German: you absolutely SHOULD BE WORRIED. Run.
Thank you for your service and your message. Whatever anyone says in the comments, now is the time to speak up! Your voice matters, and I stand with you!
While I am not sure why you felt like you needed to post this, I have to ask did someone in our little family of supporters say or do something that made you feel the need to write this post? Please don't take this as not supporting you or your beliefs. I agree with most of them. Not all ICE agents however are bad, in fact the majority o them serve honorably, but the group of masked thugs certainly are. I know a few ICE agents that are disgusted with the activities that are going on. They work to process legitimate asylum claims, and treat all of them with respect. They help them fill out the necessary paperwork and process them so that they can have an appearance before a judge. Some of these new recruits have little training and are generally racist in nature. I believe they are doing a great disserves to this country. All I am saying is don't judge all of those who serve honorably by the actions of a few (relative to the over 80,00 anyway) criminal actors. Christopher Blanchard 2LT (RET), 09R 187th INF HHQ
No one asked me to write this post. This month has been particularly difficult for my family given they are immigrants and are very scared, even though they're all citizens. And then there are so many others in MN dealing with far worse situations right now too. Given I have an audience of thousands I felt they at least deserved to know where I stand. Thank you for your service and input.
Absolute support from me as well. I am a retired law enforcement officer and the actions being taken today sicken me as well. We can only pray to God that something changes and our country can return to some sort of normalcy. God bless you and thank you for your service to our country.
I stand behind you and your words. The majority of people in this country are of immigrant descent unless you are Native American. I am Caucasian, but my lineage comes from foreigners who worked the coal mines and built railroads. Anyone who reads the words on the Statue of Liberty should know this country was built on the backs of immigrants, both with and without papers. No matter the color of our skin, we are one people on one Earth. Most importantly, thank you for your service.
Sir, The world wants so much for your country to, at the very least, return to the rule of law and your constitutional rights restored. We also hope for a return to a consistent foreign police and influence. The world is degrading to tribal violence and hate for others, for perceived enemies both "foreign" and domestic. Radicalisation and othering is a tool of the weak. The vicious little man children weak willed sycophants and grifters are destroying the world. Their hatered stems from a lack of education and an a hunger for power at the expense of others. The global march towards violence and oppression can only be snuffed out by education and empathy. It's my hope that you and family remain safe. I can't imagine the stress and anxiety you must be feeling. I hope for everybody's sake that will see an end to this soon, and the cretinous grifters, criminals and traitors are all procecuted to the full extent of the law. Best wishes Rob
I'm sorry brother. I'm lucky that my family are all black and white, so we shouldn't be effected directly, but dear god are we effected emotionally.
Very well said. Thank you for your brave words and actions.
Hell yeah, man. America is and always should be a melting pot. The only people that I’d want to leave are those who forget that.
Thank you! And thank you for your efforts here!
Even though I'm unemployed atm I am now subscribing to the $5 monthly membership in support of your work and your valued opinion. :)
Belgian here. Hope you guys get through this awful period well enough and that the American checks and balances will prevail in safeguarding democracy. As a European I find it hard to judge what is really happening other than what gets to me through the news and social media, which is appalling. I love your work. It got me into 3D printing and painting minis which has enhanced my DND sessions! All the best!
Awesome statement - I could not agree more! Never in my life have I been more terrified of the American government..and I'm a white dude...let's pray the madness ends soon.
I'm with you major. It's not Americans per say but our current sitting president and his cronies making our country look bad.
Just upgraded my membership just because of this post. Rock on and stay safe.
Love from Ohio. I left the Republican Party in 2016 when he was nominated the first time around and I'm very much Pro-Constitution, Anti Fascist. Keep on doing your thing and God Bless!
See here please
Much love from Northern NY and thank you for your service! <3 Just sitting up here freezing to death and watching things devolve into chaos, 100% with you!
Are you looking for pay stubs? 🙄. There is millions of dollars being poured into Minnesota to fund the protests and riots. (Riots are protests that turn violent). The same leaders are involved who were tied to Acorn, BLM, Antifa, and other groups. The FVI came out with a report this past weekend that Chinese, North Korean, and Russian money is being poured into these networks. Wake up. No, not everyone is being paid, but there are paid coordinators who are inciting these. They are connected, they are funded by foreign sources, they are stirring the pot to a boiling point which is going to result in a serious government crackdown. This has not reached anything close to the 1960s
Daniel - you're the one being manipulated. I strongly encourage you to reflect on MZ's post above and the harm that is being done to regular people and then ask yourself why you feel compelled to justify that harm.
Thank you for making this statement - I hope we all get through this sooner than later
Proud to know you :)
I want to thank you for your service and what you've done for my weekly dnd sessions. Having your stls for my table has been a blast. I couldnt be more appaled by what the government and administration is doing. What they are doing will destroy the freedom for all americans.
I'd like to think more Americans agree with this stance, but sadly too many don't. Thank you for your art, your service and your true patriotism.
I stand with you 🫡
Oh...I thought you were Asian! XD
From Australia I watch your government descend into fascism with horror. For God’s sake fix your broken electoral system! It’s not hard. You just need 1) compulsory voting 2) a single transferable preference vote, and 3) a bipartisan electoral commission that organises the elections. I have increased my pledge level to show my support for your beautiful statement of ethics and morals.
I’m 100% with you. Nobody should be silent about this. Thank you for speaking up. And thank you for everything else you do.
Solidarity from the UK. Many Brits know to distinguish the administration from the people (same with Russia, and I hate that I can make that comparison). Stay safe and look out for yourself and each other.
Thank you for your service. 🥺 My husband is also a vet and heartbroken.
Thanks for your service and patriotism. Keep being your wonderful creative self!!
I 1000% support you and am behind this message all the way.
God bless you and your family sir!
See here handsome
As a fellow combat vet, I stand beside you in anger and frustration. I don't wear my veteran ger out anymore because so many assume I support what is being done. I pray for a change and for America to become what we could be but haven't been yet.
Thanks brother. Stay safe out there
As a French and Belgian citizen, but above all as a human being, I am appalled by what is happening in your country and also by the consequences for Europe and the rest of our world. You have my full support.
I appreciate this! I'm also a military vet that swore an oath to defend the constitution, and watching our 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 14th amendment rights be violated so blatantly is sickening to put it lightly. I am so saddened over the fact that you need to make the extra effort to prove who you are. I was in different MOS fields than you (14T & 44C), but I feel that I would have enjoyed serving with you!
Thanks brother. And thank you for you're service
Pa'lante!
I do not an agree with your political opinion at all but ice has made mistakes, but let’s be fair Minnesota is going insane. Ice is just getting tired of getting death threats constantly and getting into life threatening situations so I understand why we have ice but they made a mistake with killing those people and I believe those people should be charged but ICE is important.
ICE is barely old enough to drink (established in 2003), how important can it be when the overwhelming majority of the existence of the USA has functioned without it. Certainly not worth $75 billion.
I watch from the other side of the Atlantic with horror every day. This administration has no respect here, it was a joke but is now a threat to everyone who loves freedom and democracy. Your countries reputation may have been destroyed but we know there are still good people there. Remain strong, I hope you and your family come through this time.
Thank you for making this statement. It’s heartening.
100% agree. Thank you for your service!
As someone from outside the US watching this all unfold, it is great to see whenever anyone stands up to the insanity. Good on you, mate. I hope you and your family stay safe and I’m happy to keep giving you the few bucks a month to help you do what you love and make cool stuff! All the best from the UK 💛 don’t let the haters get you down
From one veteran to another, thank you. No matter someone's political viewpoint so many lines have been crossed in just a short period of time. You have my full support.
Thanks brother
Honestly I didn't even read this entire post but at the mention of ICE I am done either way left or right. And wIth that I will move along and end my support. There was no need for this post, it is posts like these that will only divide people more than they already are. I enjoyed the ride for the fun d&d modeling, there is no need for everything to turn into some political statement. Good luck in your future endeavors.
It is a clear sign of privilege to turn others very existence into a "political" position. Apathy towards the current administration is support for their actions. We have seen this before: "First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me." —Martin Niemöller
Just upgraded my membership to support you. Keep fighting the good fight.
From one vet to another I don't agree. We are a country of laws and people who cross the border illegally are breaking those laws. If they cross after being removed they've committed a felony. None of what is going on right now would have had to happen if Biden and liberals had simply secured the border. and yes, I too have my ID ready. Thanks for your artwork, as always it is amazing.
First and foremost they are civil penalties, not criminal. Second, if we are such a country of law and order what about the reckless murders, constitutional violations, and disregard for judicial orders at the federal level? You cannot support law and order and support the actions of this administration, they are contradictory viewpoints.
The media is about to ratings, left or right. They all lie for ratings. The money trail is the important thing to pay attention to. The same methods are used today as in the past, but there weren't riots. There weren't riots with the same signs, many of the same people leading them. It's exactly what happened in other countries where such riots are organized. Be a student of history rather than a lemming of modern media
What on earth are you rambling about?
100% agree with your stance. I serve Veterans every day, no matter their beliefs, but believe yours are proper.
In the current culture, having things that bring us joy and things that we can share with others is so important... Loneliness is one of the leading causes of depression, and it itself is considered an epidemic. I don't know if you realize this, but the work you do combats loneliness every day. You create incredible minis, we print those minis, paint them, share them with our friends and build communities where your artwork is constantly on display. You are making the world a better place one cool Kobold at a time... Thank you for the service you provide to the gaming community and to the service you provided our country.
Thank you friend
Well said. I support you. I, too, despair about the way our Constitution is being broken and our rights are disregarded.
Beautifully put.
I haven’t read all of the other comments, but I truly appreciate your making a statement, even though you didn’t have to - even though it might have been easier for you not to. But as a resident of Minneapolis, it warms my heart to see the outpouring of support like this. Thank you.
See here 😺
Thank you for this
So, is it ok to continue to support you if we disagree? Because that is my plan, if that's ok. I grew up loving a country where we could have differing viewpoints and even be passionate about different issues, but still be neighborly and kind to those who disagreed with us, even on important issues.
You can do whatever you wish. I only made this statement so you know where I stand. Stay safe and thank you for your time today.
Based. Thank you
Hard agree. I did not stand on the yellow feet and raise my hand for an America where unaccountable government agents can execute citizens on the street. The Constitution applies to everyone or it applies to no one.
100% agree with you. Thanks for taking a stand. I'm even happier that I support you. Stay safe. ❤️
From one Vet to another, I stand with you. I wish you and your family safety during these times.
Thanks brother
Right there with you, brother, thanks for using your platform to share your truth.
I am from Poland living in Spain, looking from aside what is happening in US, I think whole government is on some serious drugs now :/ stay safe.
Thank you brother. Stay safe out there.
Thank you for your service, and as another US citizen I feel you.
I stand with you!
Thank you for not staying quiet with such a large platform!
As a Brit with friends and family across the pond, I look at the news everyday about what’s happening in the US and it makes me so sad. Great respect to you for the service you have given your country and for using your platform rightfully to say what needs to be said. Please don’t ever lose hope, I believe America will find its way again.
A perfect example of true American values and exercise of free speech.
Thank you for this. You’re a good person. I fully support you and your position. I hope we can find a way to save the country from what’s happening. It gives me hope hearing from good people like you.
Canada stands with the victims. Take care of yourself.
As a Canadian I’m fearful of what your authoritarian government will do to you guys and to us here up north. But knowing that MANY Americans are fighting back brings me hope and I stand with you guys and if I could I would be happily walking the streets with you
Retired disable vet here. This is a free country that is being destroyed by the media. I find it appalling that people are rioting and attacking federal and local police and encouraged to do so by their peers, the media, and some local officials. The police are doing their job, as the constitution states. The illegal immigration is a fraction of what happened under prior presidents. Less than 1 million under Trump, 3.5 million under Obama, over 5 million under Clinton. 12,500 unvetted immigrants every day came into this country under Biden. 486 KNOWN terrorists captured who came in under the insanity of open borders. Do what you wish with your business, but you certainly do not stand with the majority
We don't have to go about enforcement in the most insane way possible. Sure, rioting is bad, but we used to be more interested in the rule of law.
Thank you for taking a stand, and even more for having the courage to do so publicly. We stand with Minnesota!
Thank you for your service and your statement and your courage.
Standing with you. Thank you for being clear, brave, and honest about where you stand. Your service, your voice, and your lived experience matter.
I’m still sorry I never got the chance to meet you in New Hampshire when I lived there. I regret that even now. I am an emergency physician who happens to play D&D and thus found this page long ago and love it. I am a former military member, 11B infantry followed by 91B when it was a combat medic and worked on a very sus level doing 19K (M1A1/2) crew because we were short tankers. Got my blue cord, EIB, my jump wings, and my spurs. I served alongside people of every race, colour, religion, and many countries. I even contacted the Ukrainian embassy and volunteered to fight though I was told as a Physicain my loss would be too costly and I should do more DWoB or similar. Disappointed but I understood their logic. Now I watch my own nation regress into 1930’s Germany. “Papers, please!” Is an unacceptable thing. We are Americans. We have a broken immigration system which needs to be fixed to make the process easier, but in the meantime I think to the founding of our nation when people came here to be free of oppression. We live in a land that we stole, and had no rights to, but it happened and thus we should be even more open to the idea that others shall seek refuge here and join our society. Sure, there are some criminals, we can manage that the same as our own citizen criminals, but at the end of the day these are human lives who happen to simply live on a different side of a line that we made up on a paper map. When did we stop caring for the living things on this watery marble that we are all living together on? Strangely, I’m a pacifist, but Slava Ukraini, Heroyam Slava!
Right on brother. And thank you for your service too.
Thank you for this, and for your bravery and commitment to all of us. This made me tear up. Seriously. Thank you.
Love this. The time where it was fine to be apolitical has passed. Thank you for sharing, and I hope you, your family and friends will remain safe. And thank you for the amazing work you do for all of us to enjoy. Stay safe, stay strong, be loud and never give in 🔥🔥 peace from Norway ❤️
"The time where it was fine to be apolitical has passed." Keep that same energy when you find out why us older and wiser types were trying to put the brakes on the madness.
As a long time fan, I've seen multiple things from you indicating you're a good person... So that wasn't ever in doubt. But this solidifies it. Thank you for this, and I hope the best for you and your family 💙
I and so many others in the gaming community stand together with you. I could not serve in the armed services due to medical conditions, but I live my country and I hate where things have descended to. We will get through this. Keep your family safe - all of you who read this. With live, Victor.
Retired 11B combat vet here. Takes courage to speak out and use ones platform to make your voice heard and influence. While you mentioned any who don't agree can leave. It swings both ways I support you, your stance, and your families right to be here. I upgraded my pladge to support your art, your heritage, and your courage to speak out.
Thank you fellow grunt. God I miss the M240B lol
Thank you for your service. What is happening right now in this country is un-American. Protesting is a protected right. ICE has detained citizens, including Native Americans, denied due process, and are being used to intimidate people that the president thinks didn't vote correctly. I'm praying for the safety of you and your family as well as a move back to sanity in this nation.
"Due process" for deporting an illegal alien is not a full court case. It's a hearing, which they're getting.
I am right beside you! I am white but really this country was built by immigrants. So I guess Our fake president should sent back the statue of liberty and burn the constitution! Love you and your art.
Living across the Pond in Denmark, i can't even begin to imagine how it feels to live in the states... I am crossing my fingers hoping that we all wake up from this horrible nightmare...
In a dark time you are a shining beacon. Stay safe.
Thank you so much! I live in Minnesota and have been seeing all the bad going on here but I have also seen all the good coming out of this too. The community has really been pulling together and speaking out against the hate and I believe we will become stronger in the end. I'm an immigrant myself and became a citizen as a teenager but I have some of the same fears that many are going through these days. I'm thankful for people like you speaking out against the hate that's going on in this nation.
As a Army Veteran myself, I want to say thank you for your service. I understand why you would make this post as our policy stances factor many different ways in our works. Although I dont agree with all of your views I can respect you putting it out there, and this won't change my support of your great work.
This is such an incredibly mature response; I hope that you continue to see the human suffering imposed on this and reflect on the fact that we all made a commitment to protect the constitution of this nation… from threats foreign AND domestic. Thank you for your service; be safe, and be kind.
Semper Fi, brother. I am very sorry your family feels threatened, but it is not imagined. I have to believe that there are good ICE agents - at least that is my hope. Unfortunately, they are led by an Administration that is as evil as it is corrupt. I'm an old jarhead, and I stand with you.
I agree completely and support what you said.
From this navy vet to an army brother, you and your family have my unwavering support. Your family should not have to endure this. We are supposed to be better than this. We will be better than this again as soon as possible. Let me know what I can do.
Thank you brother
Un abrazo y todo nuestro apoyo desde España. Ojalá que esta pesadilla termine y la cordura vuelva a gobernar.
Thank you for your service and thank you for taking a stand! 🫡 I'm happy to see more and more people speaking up. ❤️🩹
Minneapolis resident here - 1000%. Thank you for your service and for speaking up. FUCK ICE!!!
You don't need affirmation of your stance from me, or anyone else. That said, BRAVO. You're a good human, and I am with you.
It's a real shame when statements like this are controversial. You'll certainly continue to have my support! Best wishes out there, and here's to happier days ahead!
Absolutely on board with you too. I am very impressed that you are being clear and making this stand. Every single American should be standing with you and against these obvious illegal and immoral actions. Thanks for all that you have done for this country and all that you will do for the community.
I hate that you even had to make this statement. It's fucking ridiculous that anyone has to live in constant fear regardless of their status here, because they aren't the right shade of white.
As a Minneapolis resident I am so happy to see this. Your models bring so much joy to me and my D&D group. Thank you for voicing your beliefs.
Good for you and I hope nothing happens to you, or anyone else that's brown. It's sad how the nazis have come back. The greatest generation sacrificed so much all for nothing.
Thank you for your service. We'll said and I am happy to support you.
Love from the great state of Minnesota! Stay safe!
I will continue to support you and all you do. 100% agree. And it infuriates me that people have to live in fear. Especially vets that have served this country. You should be held in a place of honor. Not a being held in a place of fear. If there is anything my family can do for you we will happily do it. But for now I'll continue to support you. Thank you for your statement.
Thanks for speaking out!
Another veteran here (usaf) and I am with you brother.
Hell yeah brother
Thank you for your service and thank you for this statement.
Retired 92Y, combat vet. Hooah, Sir. You're not alone.
Thank you for your service brother
Well said
I'm a veteran, too, with plenty of time boots-on-ground as a 13B in the Iraqi surge and afterwards. ICE wasn't a problem until the insurrectionists started fighting them in Minnesota. I'm all for the right to bear arms, but I also recognize that when you engage in armed insurrection, you had best be prepared for the response to armed insurrection. Being a veteran, I've also seen firsthand that not only are our European "friends" woefully underprepared to deal with anything without us, they're only our friends so long as we're paying them. They aren't turning on us because of Orange Man Bad, they're going mask-off.
ICE became a problem when they decided quotas were more important than actually detaining criminals, and then implemented violent actions to achieve those quota goals. Insurrection isn't a real thing here - it's a word being used by the administration to manipulate you.
✊️✊️✊️
Oh, yeah…watch Bronze Age Caveman HEADBONE!
Anyone who sees this stance as controversial doesn’t deserve minis at their table
Thank you for including Keith Porter in your list.
Thank you, too, for the reminder. I had missed that one.
Happy to support you, thank you for your service and your strength to stand up and say what you believe.
I am in total agreement with you and appreciate everything you have said.
🙌🏼🙏🏼thank you for you're service as well!
Agree
Well said sir.
I already knew you were a great human being but this just solidifies it more. Thank you for using your platform to educate and bring awareness. FUCK ICE
Fuck ICE. Fascist pigs. As an American I’m ashamed. Conservatism will ruin this country. Literally everything about the current government is conservative. All of it. Read Burke. Read your own history. When monarchies fell and democracy rose, conservatism was the aristocrat's attempt at maintaining their undeserved advantages. Social hierarchy was and is the whole point; it's always been the ONLY point. There's a reason why conservatives are ALWAYS on the wrong side of history, fighting for slavery, and against women's rights, civil rights, gay rights, trans rights. There's a reason why conservatives are always against education and scientific progress for the sake of "traditionalism". There's a reason why conservatism always preach about "law and order" as a smoke screen for removing the red tape of accountability and oversight for the sake of "fast tracking justice". There's a reason why conservatives are always preying on the stupid, the weak, the hateful, the greedy, the ugly, the guilty; why they're always in bed with their nation's zealots and nationalists and supremacists, with literal nazis and slavers and the taliban. There's a reason why conservatives are constantly trying to smoke screen deregulation and the "freedom to exploit" as "personal freedoms" and "small government". There's a reason why conservatives constantly preach about "fiscal responsibility" as an excuse to cut social programs, while expanding national deficits with absurd tax cuts for the rich and private defence/faith contracts. There's a reason why consent and incest laws had to be passed to get conservatives to stop fucking their own kids. It's all been, and has only ever been, about social hierarchies and exploitation. That's it. And every conservative alive either knows it or is too stupid to understand they're the horses suckered into pulling the cart, greedy for the fucking carrot dangling in front of their faces and trampling everyone to chase it. Trump isn't some anomaly of conservatism, he's the epitome of it.
Is that why the leftists are the ones coming up with almost all of the death threats and engaging in open insurrection?
Lol
Thank you for your service. 🇺🇸
Well said, Sir. Sappers lead the way!
Hell yeah brother
Very well stated.
❤️
Now I want to support you even more!
I’m proud of you for using your platform to take a stand. 🩷
