A Look Back, A Look Forward
by MG William Flatt
31 December 2004
It is a common tradition to look back at the year in review and reminisce at all that has been done. Typically, I do not observe traditions for their sake, but this year I am moved to indulge and do precisely that.
2004 has been a good year for IMC. We have seen our best organizational growth since we were established in the wake of 9/11. Although we've had as many members drop out for financial (or other) reasons as we have had join, IMC has developed significantly and has contributed substantially to the nation's Patriot leadership.
Here in Indiana, we have completed the reorganization of our regimental T.O.E. as well as having commissioned officers to run these units. Some enlisted members have left, but some of those have returned since. Staff positions have been filled, as have branch specialties in Intelligence, Administration, Communications and Civil Affairs.
Nationally, IMC has taken a leadership role in helping to develop the 3rd Continental Congress. I have personally supervised the creation of a national militia network under 3CC authority. This includes a framework for national militia leadership and interstate cooperation. All that remains is for American patriots to support and participate in 3CC, and for the militias of the states to work together. Some of this is already happening at the regional level, and we intend to make it happen nationally. Although these tasks are easier said than done, it can be achieved, and we will succeed once Americans are resolved to do what is necessary to defend Liberty.
Our only constraints are time, money, and individual commitment. With proper outreach to the body politic of the patriot movement, we can call upon a sufficient number to be a part of the militia, and to participate in various ways with the 3CC and likewise with state assemblies with this common objective of restoring our Constitutional Republic. In other words, your fellow Americans are calling upon you to fulfill your duty as a Patriot.
As we begin the year in 2005, we shall take stock of our opportunities and challenges; we will continue our mission of recruiting, organizing and training; and we will continue to redefine the image of the modern militia through professional standards. We will also work jointly with units in neighboring states in accomplishing these things. You can expect to see IMC hosting and participating in a broader range of Civil Affairs projects, civilian leadership conferences, constitutional education seminars and speaking presentations at universities & elsewhere.
In 2005 we will also activate our Women's Auxiliary Corps as a family support and auxiliary operations division. As the saying goes, "We leave no one behind", and that applies doubly for the spouses and families of the militia. The militia is actually an extended family, and we encourage spouses to get to know each other and share their experiences and knowledge. Ultimately, we hope that our Auxiliary efforts will be successful enough to implement a youth section that would be a hybrid version of the Scouting program. The family of the militiaman is the future of the militia.
On this latter note, I want to emphasize that America needs a youth development program that cannot be subverted or shut down by a pack of communist lawyers from the ACLU. We must stand in defense of Christian, family values and the means to pass our American heritage on to our children. If it must fall to the militias to run youth programs in the absence of the Boy Scouts, then certainly we are prepared to pass on the basic values of reverence to God, Americanism, and self-reliance.
2004 is done, and I can honestly declare it was a great year. 2005 is here, and whatever may happen, I know that we will be prepared. Have a safe and happy new year!
