Cuba no longer a sponsor of terror, time for re-establishment of normalcy with Cuba, do you agree?

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:01:44 -0400

Its no longer a hint, the POTUS just notified members of Congress that he will remove Cuba from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism. The immediate reprieve I see directly is for the families separated for generations based on governmental ideas and policy.

There is history, some of it bad history involved here and we ought not be caught up in looking at things in a short sighted vision however, when is enough really enough? Is it time to remove them from the list? Are we really willing to let our country be vulnerable to an attack or is the status quo and the way to go?

http://www.stripes.com/news/americas/obama-hints-at-cuba-s-removal-from-list-of-state-sponsors-of-terrorism-1.339404

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 4:03 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:03:04 -0400

I'm not sure because he also said that we will no longer "regulate" what goes on in our hemisphere. Doesn't this open "our" hemisphere to countries that would be quick to attempt to gain "king of the hill" status?

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Apr 14 at 2015 4:07 PM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:07:18 -0400

Yes, but not for the cigars...
The foreign policies that the US based on Cold War ideologies has done extensive damage to the cultures we have isolated as a result.
There is a lot of hate that exists these days despite the fact that many of the threats and capabilities we worry about disappeared over 30 years ago already.

It is time to bring Cuba back into the global community.

Response by CPT Bruce Rodgers made Apr 14 at 2015 4:07 PM

CPT Bruce Rodgers — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:07:50 -0400

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Apr 14 at 2015 4:11 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:11:54 -0400

I try to be logical about a great many things, but my gut reaction was:

"We took Iraq off the state sponsors of terrorism list, too. Look how that turned out."

I realize we can't draw the same parallels, and shouldn't try to, but that was my first reaction.

If we want diplomatic links to Cuba. Open links to Cuba. Make GRAND gestures. Not little ones. This pussy-footing (like a cat) around is what caused the Cuba issue in the first place.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Apr 14 at 2015 4:13 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:13:52 -0400

I think Cuba is ripe for opening relations. The Castro brothers are not going to be around much longer and the time is now to start influencing those who are going to be the future leaders.

Response by SSG John Erny made Apr 14 at 2015 4:19 PM

SSG John Erny — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:19:34 -0400

CSM Michael J. Uhlig,

One the bright side is that the Castro's are very old and given the chance the younger generation may have different ideas on how the country should be run. Now this could be a double edge sword; an influx of currency could force changes within the government, or it could empower it.

Another down side is the fact that Cuba grows so much sugar cane, this could really hurt the sugar beet industry if we start importing cane sugar. The sugar beet is a very important cash crop for the American farmer, there are not really any alternate crops that could take the place of sugar beets. To make it even worse this limits the crop rotation schedule; fore example, Beans, Corn, Wheat, Sugar beets.

As for Cuban cigars they are not that great anymore, most of the skilled cigar families have moved to other near by nations to continue production. Arturo Fuente being the best example: Opus X any one? Monica did!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 4:19 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:19:47 -0400

I would like to see a move towards normalized relations with Cuba, given our current foreign policy team's track record of strike-outs and foul tips, I am not confident in their ability to get it done in a favorable, productive manner.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Apr 14 at 2015 4:23 PM

SGT Richard H. — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:23:14 -0400

I'd say yes, it's probably time. and speaking of time: Time will certainly tell if they need to go back on the list. Back before most of us were born, Cuba supposedly used to quite the island paradise. Maybe they are sick enough of being sanctioned into abject poverty that they are willing to toe the line....and it's not like we won't be watching their behavior.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Apr 14 at 2015 4:24 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:24:11 -0400

Someone is getting free cigars for life....and it isn't me.

Response by TSgt Tim (lj) Littlejohn made Apr 14 at 2015 4:57 PM

TSgt Tim (lj) Littlejohn — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:57:29 -0400

Did Cuba agree that they would not allow any terrorist camps, training grounds? No staging grounds to launch attacks on the U.S.? If not this is another bad deal by Obama!!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 4:58 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 16:58:19 -0400

I do not know quite enough about it....but because of Cuba's close proximity to the US, I think we need to annex Cuba by force, by coercion, monetary loans, and if that doesn't work, by a coup d'etat...I may be unpopular for this suggestion, but the Bay of Pigs was before my time, but as I understand it, it was the closest we came to experiencing a Nuclear strike....

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 5:06 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 17:06:27 -0400

I'm tracking this but I think we should wait and not jump in feet first to see if there will be any problems. I know the families want to be together, but so do the families of other immigrants that came to America. Cuba is too close to us to take a chance of letting them off the hook. If we were to have another Cuban crisis, it would take Obama too long to make a decision of what to do. If we're under attack, or going to be, he can't try and use diplomacy like he does. I'm wary of Cuba. Of course that's what I think, but it doesn't have any significance. He's already made a decision.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 5:07 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 17:07:33 -0400

One of my biggest issues with this administration is the idea that is a jack of all trades and a master of none of them. That everything has dollar signs affixed and not for the benefit of the country but the benefit of him and his administration.

Like HCR, Immigration, Gun Control, Cuba, Police Violence, Gangs, Detroit, Poverty and so much more you get the sense that it is a virtual grab bag of political wins without regard for playing nice and actually benefitting the country.

The definition of homelessness was changed to make it seem like the problem was on the decline but the very reasons for that fate was not addressed and he got a win for a problem that he did not solve but claim that he did.

I am not sure that the embargos are that effective but we see no sense of progress and security. Sequestration was a political tool to keep the military and Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Pentagon and political opponents at bay. The vehicle was spying on citizens and marginalizing them, passing legislation in the middle of the night and rushing through Immigration as a means to an end and that end, votes.

So Cuba presents a challenge with the end game, money. Security at the border is the way to enable him and democrats politically. So many pots in the fire that he can't possibly achieve any tangible benefit for the American people, relishing in prestige but not delivering anywhere.. and now dealing with drug cartels? Legalizing dope technically but not effectively decriminalizing the drug for financial gain.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 5:09 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 17:09:33 -0400

So, if Russia tries to bring missiles over again will our president draw a line in the ocean?

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Apr 14 at 2015 5:10 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 17:10:13 -0400

While I don't care a lick about their cigars. I think the more people experience our true culture and people, the faster their walls come down? Also, I would love to visit before American ruin their resorts.

Response by SFC Charles S. made Apr 14 at 2015 5:14 PM

SFC Charles S. — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 17:14:50 -0400

I voted No....I don't smoke any more but that would have been a reason to lean that way if I did...I know how good they are in my past life as a Smoker.

But I don't think it is worth opening the door for possible close range hostile actions. Fidel is not Dead yet. Just because there is a puppet on the throne now does not mean someone else isn't pulling the strings.

Response by A1C Charles D Wilson made Apr 14 at 2015 5:17 PM

A1C Charles D Wilson — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 17:17:13 -0400

I say open Cuba up and flood them with visitors. The more people on the ground can see more and learn more of what the Cuban people need and feel about our great nation. Big companies can set up hotels and bring this country (Cuba) up to speed. True we had issues back in the 1960's and 40+ years have been enough to make people suffer for a dictators rule.
Just my 2 cents on the mater but who am I :)

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Apr 14 at 2015 6:25 PM

MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 18:25:39 -0400

*scratches head with perplexed look on face*

I dunno on this one. Part of me says keep 'em right where they are 'cuz that's what we've always done. The other part of me says maybe it's time to let past sins be forgiven and work to build a better future for both Nations.

Things change and time moves on. Maybe we should as well.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Apr 14 at 2015 6:29 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 18:29:51 -0400

Who is and is not a terrorist changes daily depending on who we are or are not having back door dealings with on the side, or who are funding/training... It's an ever changing, arbitrary list that serves more as a political weapon than anything else...

Response by SFC Jason Porter made Apr 14 at 2015 6:54 PM

SFC Jason Porter — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 18:54:25 -0400

Just remember, when you go on vacation to Cuba the resorts are run by the Cuban Military... So your dollars go to the communist cause enjoy!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 7:29 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 19:29:02 -0400

Cuban Intelligence services are running a very repressive gestapo style operation in Venezuela, as well as Ecuador, and Bolivia, all due to that failed military dictator want to be Hugo Chavez. Their sphere of influence is real, and I am someone who has experience in this, on a very personal level. I can't go visit by birth country, and am listed as persona non grata in their listing. It was no issue for me, as I renounced my citizenship anyways, but it does create a problem, as I won't be able to visit any family unless I meet them somewhere else in the world. They are still exporting terror, and maintaining a population enslaved in misery, regardless of all the propaganda.

My proof is that in the 80's it was tried, and remember how many people got on boats, rafts whatever means to cross a dangerous journey? It still happens, and there is a reason for that. More people are intent on leaving, with dreams of Florida, than there are trying to go into Cuba.
Doctors graduate in 2 years, and the only thing good that came about it was that Chavez, in his ignorant positions, went to get the benefit of healthcare to Cuba, they loaded him up on steroids so he could keep a facade on how great their medicine is, and how things were "receding". I am glad he did, and he died less than 2 years later. If he had the relation with the US, probably he would have stayed alive a while longer. But to each their own.

Venezuelan government is proactively working with Iranian and islamist radicals as well, giving them sanctuary and a jumping board to give them legal papers so they can infiltrate other latin american countries as well as the US with names as Jose, Pedro, etc. There is many instances that some people in Margarita Island where I was born, have seen pictures of some individuals (mostly ethnic arabs from Lebanon, Jordan, Palestinian origin) with ak47 in places like Afghanistan. In there there is a large population of middle eastern population that emigrated to Venezuela from San Andres Island (Colombia) and Lebanon since early 70's. And some of my childhood friends have told me that on that 9-11 day, some where found celebrating and toasting, even though they do not hesitate to come to the US with Venezuelan passports to benefit their business. Thank god that Marco Rubio pushed legislation and stopped at least the use of the financial system to some of those power hungry individuals.

-end of rant.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 8:15 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 20:15:50 -0400

We are the last hold out country against Cuba. Every place under the sun goes to Cuba . We have been able to go to Russia and China since the 1980's . The list of places we can't go is always getting smaller .

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 14 at 2015 8:43 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 20:43:19 -0400

They can be like Vietnam. Sometime after the war the people became capitalists and the government could not contain it.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Apr 14 at 2015 8:48 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 20:48:14 -0400

CSM Michael J. Uhlig, I would think that relations with Cuba could be normalized. It remains to be seen if the U.S. can get it right. Successful foreign relations have not been our strong suit of late. If so, maybe we can all go to the original Sloppy Joe's which was in Havana and not Key West! It was frequented by Ernest Hemingway, and my father went there c. APR46 while playing baseball for the Navy. This AP file photo was taken 15FEB46.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2015 10:43 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 22:43:10 -0400

I think it's probably time. We're allies with worse countries after all.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 9:22 AM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 09:22:54 -0400

I think it is long overdue. Families can reunite and travel freely to and fro. People can enjoy the culture that most have only ever seen in vintage travel posters. Cohibas would flow freely.

If for no other reason than I need a reason to wear pastel cigarette pants and cat-eye sunglasses while visiting. :)

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Apr 15 at 2015 9:28 AM

Maj Chris Nelson — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 09:28:46 -0400

Not sure how I feel about it....truthfully, don't really care a whole lot unless they start to stir up trouble again.....

Response by SSG William Patton made Apr 15 at 2015 12:51 PM

SSG William Patton — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:51:58 -0400

I vividly recall October 1962 and being at the brink of nuclear war. Castro, an unstable communist, cut from the cloth of Stalin, opened the doors of his country to the USSR and allowed them to place immediate range nuclear tipped missles 90 miles from our shore. We were an eye blink from halocaust. Cuba has since formented communist rebellions in South America, Africa and an attempted coups of the island of Grenada, which prompted President Reagan to launch an invasion of that country to rid it of the communists. Nothing has changed in the leadership of Cuba. So what has happened that all of the sudden makes Cuba worthy of diplomatic relations? Could it be our Marxist president is reaching out to like minded leaders. As long as Castro remains in power, nothing will change in Cuba. Dissidents will be harrassed and even murdered and communism will still be the main import, behind cigars.

Response by CPO Malcum Malveaux made Apr 15 at 2015 1:47 PM

CPO Malcum Malveaux — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:47:44 -0400

Yes they should be removed. It was a policy that hasn't worked, since they were placed on the list. I've seen some say would shouldn't have ties because of their oppression to their people, because they do not have a Democratic Government but when I ask what about, Russia, China, Saudi, and other Middle East Countries - no comments.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Apr 15 at 2015 2:14 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:14:05 -0400

I don't have access to enough information to decide whether or not Cuba is a sponsor of terrorism. I don't imagine many do. It hasn't been in the news.

Sadly, I don't trust this Administration to make the decision with the best interests of We the People in mind. It seems that the President is desperately in search of a lasting legacy as all other attempts fall to ruin.

Response by SGT James Hastings made Apr 15 at 2015 2:33 PM

SGT James Hastings — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:33:06 -0400

Of course, like everything, this isn't simple. If my information is correct: Cuba still has human rights problems within it's borders. So many Cubans fled their country, many dying in the effort to get to the US. To remove our sanctions without Cuba removing their abuses doesn't seem fair nor does it give any benefit to the US, only to Cuba.

Response by LCDR John Bray made Apr 15 at 2015 2:34 PM

LCDR John Bray — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:34:26 -0400

The past relations have produced the desired economic effects. Now if we do this right we can become a partner in helping this generation of Cubans restore their economy and move forward. A win/win.

A people economically empowered can hold much sway over their leaders. China has shown how you can be "communist" and "capitalist"

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 2:39 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 14:39:23 -0400

Obama certified that “the government of Cuba has not provided any support for international terrorism during the preceding six-month period,” and “has provided assurances that it will not support acts of international terrorism in the future.”

Going six months without sponsoring terrorist and promising to not sponsor terrorist is very reassuring that Cuba will no longer sponsor terrorist. I love foreign policy logic

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 3:51 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:51:18 -0400

I think this transition as well as others is moving incredibly fast.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 4:26 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 16:26:52 -0400

To me personally this isloation of a communist country off the coast of Florida is a hypocritcal stance when we share diplomatic relations with countries such as Saudi Arabia, and China. Over 50 years have not changed the US or Cuba when all that the other felt towards the other was animosity and suspicion.

In attempting to reestablish normalisitc relations with Cuba we can begin to have a change for the positive in Cuban peoples lives, It may not happen in a month or a year or a decade but eventually the global community gets closer and information, ideas, and enterprises catch quicker and a world where dialogue is the first reaction to a issue versus saber rattling than that's a world where I feel safer at living in.

Response by SPC Matt Johnson made Apr 15 at 2015 6:05 PM

SPC Matt Johnson — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:05:14 -0400

if something doesn't work for over 50 years it's time to try another approach. On top of that it looks like US companies just got over a few million new potential customers and we got access to some amazing classic cars. There are so many more advantages to opening up trade and political relations with Cuba. Hell the Canadians have been going there on vacation for years

Response by SPC Matt Johnson made Apr 15 at 2015 6:19 PM

SPC Matt Johnson — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:19:57 -0400

Germany, China, Japan, Russia are all countries we have gone to war with, all are countries that either have had or still have Horrible human rights violations and we still have trade and political relations and with no travel restrictions over 50 years after the fact. given that Germany and japan have cleaned their act up and Russia is in the middle of under going sanctions. It all comes down to $$$$$$$$. and the USA stands to make a lot of Money by normalizing relations with them.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 6:45 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:45:55 -0400

I feel like we should have normalized relations with Cuba around the time the Soviet Union collapsed. By continuing the embargoes, we only give Cuban leadership the ability to point at the US and say "that's the reason you are poor" to their people. Remove all the restrictions on trade, and suddenly the leadership is accountable for the well-being of their people.

Plus, it would make a really great vacation spot.

Response by SSG Edward Evans made Apr 15 at 2015 7:39 PM

SSG Edward Evans — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 19:39:22 -0400

I've known too many Cubans, what was done to them by regime that claims to love them is sickening.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 15 at 2015 8:10 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 20:10:59 -0400

Cuba has a poor record for human rights. Maybe they aren't sponsoring terrorists, but they are the classic communist regime that suppressed basic human rights. This does not sit well with me. I hope we can bring change to this. I am not trying to bring democracy to every crap hole in the world but people should have the right of choice to do and say what they want without being placed in a political prison.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 9:10 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 21:10:30 -0400

Fido and Raoul will be gone soon enough, we should invade Cuba commercially like China and Mexico so the capitalist of this country can exploit Cuba and send the remaining good paying jobs there, so the last 25% of middleclass can join the working poor. See we can be just like Cuba eventually!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 9:23 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 21:23:22 -0400

I would like to see their human rights record first, before I can respond. And... are they still teaching subterfuge to willing agents intent on making us a socialist country?

Response by SPC K Webb made Apr 15 at 2015 10:57 PM

SPC K Webb — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:57:05 -0400

I had to vote for "Do not remove them", but it has nothing to do with the Cuban Missile Crisis. It has everything to do with the fact that they still sponsor terrorism in Central America, that happens to trickle north across our southern border.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Apr 16 at 2015 12:29 AM

PO1 Glenn Boucher — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 00:29:19 -0400

I know that Cuba has been an enemy of the U.S. ever since the Cuban Missle Crisis. On the one hand I find it a bit weird that such a small nation with a petty dictator has remained on our watch list. Odd because if a Cuban refugee sets foot on U.S. soil they are granted asylum with a path towards citizenship. To me it's kind of confusing. Cuba is an enemy, yet their citizens ar almost fast tracked to citizenship. Our government has been in bed with nations far worse than Cuba and far more of a threat.
I am open for giving Cuba a chance and for the families to be reunited.
But with any nation we need to keep a close eye on them so we don't walk around with a knife in our back.

Response by SCPO Lee Pradia made Apr 16 at 2015 4:28 AM

SCPO Lee Pradia — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 04:28:14 -0400

It's about time a President had the courage to do what's right and just. Now maybe some of our products can say, made in Cuba instead of China.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 6:35 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 06:35:56 -0400

CSM Uhlig, I absolutely agree with this decision. I have read many of the responses and it seems many points of reality are missing. First of all, according to what we have known so far from the reports on this issue, the president tasked the State Department to make the assessment. They did their assessment and evaluation using whatever rubric they used and run it up with the Intelligence community (the national security apparatus and its intelligence agencies) before passing it to the president for the final say. So we can assume that the president agreed with the job that the State Department did which was blessed by the intelligence folks before he made that decision.

So let's break it down: Are we questioning the motive behind what the president did or the methodology? If we are questioning the motive then does it mean we don't trust the State Department or the intelligence folks who made the assessment and signed off the final assessment? Why can't we trust them more today than we did a few years back? Come to think of it, it is this same intelligence folks who told this country there were Mount Everest high weapons of mass destruction heaped up in Saddam Hussain's Iraq. What came out of that? Oh yeah we can't talk about it because that is history right? Didn't we wage a full scale war based on their assessment? We trusted them because they "saw what we didn't see and they heard what we couldn't hear" so why can't we trust them now? Yeah if we go by that argument then well let's say they know what they are doing. Unless we can all scream to the heavens that we cannot trust our intelligence folks and their decisions. If it comes to that point then we can all go home and sleep. If that is not the case then let's say the people that we voted into power have this country's best interest at heart and their decisions are meant to protect this great country.

Secondly, if we oppose his decision because Cuba is still ruled by communists who don't believe in democracy, human rights trampling dictators, then how was China looking when President Nixon visited it in 1972? Was Chou En-lai a democratically elected premier at the time? How was their human rights situation then? Let's ask ourselves, how much has changed in terns of the freedom of speech and other human rights situation since then and how is it looking now? Or we can't compare the two because China happens to be an economic power whose courting we can benefit from instead of some tiny island that is situated just 90 miles away whose relationship we can do without?

The president said, everything says relations haven't improved much for over 50 years because we continue to use the same method...why not try a different approach? If we want to cut off Cuba entirely off our foreign policy consideration then that's a different story because that will lead to many questions as to why do we maintain diplomatic relations with so many other tiny "non essential" countries around the world?

My point is, international relations and foreign policies are much complex than some make it to be. With that said, I agree with the president's decision. It is time to move on and chart a new course.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 8:08 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 08:08:47 -0400

I think Cuba is a wolf in sheep's clothing. I don't trust them. Just saying.

Response by SSG Mannix Brooks made Apr 16 at 2015 9:50 AM

SSG Mannix Brooks — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:50:00 -0400

Look at what's happened last century and the time Cuba has been a pariah. 1. Went to war in Vietnam to stop communist from taking over, they did , we are not in conflict with the communist government now. 2. We backed the nationalist Chinese government which fled to Taiwan who is an ally yet still have mainland China on the list for most favored nation trade status 3. We are allies with Germany and even when the East was under communist control we welcomed them in with open arms after the wall fell. 4. We did not sanction Russia over land grabs in Georgia even while that country had troops in the coalition in Iraq (look what that has led to with Ukraine) 5. Japan is an ally 6. We are in 5 former Yugoslavian countries which count us as allies 7. We welcome any help the Iranians provide on ISIS even when the insurgents in the war were armed with some of their weapons and they have a proxy war going on in Yemen fighting against the same "allies" we want to fight against ISIS 8. Still okay with Pakistan even though they kept Bin Laden hidden 30 miles from the main officer training school. 9. We even helped Albania and the list goes on yet 90 miles away from Florida sits Cuba with 2 million of its 13 million people living in the US so if there is a chance to make it right why not now.

Response by Cpl Don "GUNNY" Miller made Apr 16 at 2015 10:25 AM

Cpl Don "GUNNY" Miller — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 10:25:38 -0400

Cuba no longer a sponsor of terror, time for re-establishment of normalcy with Cuba
POTUS is an idiot, they haven't changed one bit they are the same as they always were except one thing they are just older!

Response by BG David Fleming III made Apr 16 at 2015 10:43 AM

BG David Fleming III — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 10:43:49 -0400

Hopefully it will reduce the number of Innertube interdictions off the coast of Florida!

Response by MSgt Jim Bain made Apr 16 at 2015 12:16 PM

MSgt Jim Bain — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:16:19 -0400

Was in the Navy, back in the early 60's, (before joining the ANG), always wanted to see what was on the other side of the fence at "Gitmo", wonder what the status of the Naval Base will be now?

Response by SFC Wes Mead made Apr 16 at 2015 3:12 PM

SFC Wes Mead — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 15:12:00 -0400

You know it all depends on if everything is being told to us. Like the deal with Iran it's as clear as mud. I don't trust the government anymore

Response by SPC Angel Guma made Apr 16 at 2015 3:37 PM

SPC Angel Guma — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 15:37:33 -0400

Yes and no. Its probably because behind the scenes, they determined that the Russians either didn't have the means or the will to reestablish naval bases there like how they did in the good old days.

Response by 1SG Jeanine Peterson made Apr 16 at 2015 3:57 PM

1SG Jeanine Peterson — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 15:57:04 -0400

There is no significant change, so why are we changing our stance? Sure I wouldn't mind spending time on their beaches, or legally buying a great cigar, or our businesses prospering in selling to the Cubans, but the bottom line is Cuban leadership needs to really change.

Response by SFC Jason Porter made Apr 16 at 2015 6:45 PM

SFC Jason Porter — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 18:45:15 -0400

What about the human rights in that country? Until the renounce their dictatorship. I say no!

Response by SP5 John Clyburn made Apr 17 at 2015 12:42 PM

SP5 John Clyburn — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 12:42:46 -0400

Cuba has not changed its attitude not policies enough to "get friendly".
They still have human rights issues and harbor US criminals.
Another of President Obama trying to be the "Good Guy" to the CWOT supporters.
John Clyburn, 319th Bn Army Security Agency, 1961-63

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2015 8:42 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 20:42:50 -0400

Smells like legacy building with an unrepentant dictatorship. If they had returned criminals they have harbored, offered independent human rights monitoring of their own free will...perhaps a mea culpa. They did not. Qui bono?

Response by SSG Jay Flores made Apr 20 at 2015 1:15 AM

SSG Jay Flores — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 01:15:27 -0400

I agree, life the embargo, Cuba has come a long ways in recent years. As for the comment about treatment of their citizens, you're overlooking the United Sates, yes, in quite a bit difference, read and look around, what do we have here? Hatred for out President, Veterans being denied benefits they so rightly earned, racisim-killing one another, welfare abuse at it's highest-lazy bastard who ride the welfare rolls instead of finding employment. Every country has in's pros and cons, as we do here in America. Dpm't get me wrong, I love my country, I served 32 years in the U.S. Army with two tours in Vietnam. No one nor no one coiuntry is perfect.

Response by SPC Denton Roth made Apr 20 at 2015 11:13 AM

SPC Denton Roth — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 11:13:10 -0400

We need to bring them into the fold of the United States because Russia is active again remember last time during the Cuban missile crisis how close we came to world war three. Thank God for President Kennedy.

Response by SFC Wes Mead made Apr 22 at 2015 1:14 PM

SFC Wes Mead — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 13:14:30 -0400

Well here is my 2 cents. We are friends with Saudi Arabia and they fund terrorists and they treat women very bad. So I really don't care if we drop Cuba. I do like their cigars though. Just saying.

Response by MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM made Apr 29 at 2015 5:41 PM

MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 17:41:32 -0400

Booking a trip now! Some of the best scuba in the world!

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 9:25 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 03 May 2015 09:25:38 -0400

If foreign policy happened in a vacuum, I would agree with keeping them off the Christmas Card list. But China is making inroads into Central and South America, and that's a bigger threat than Cuba.

Further, when Cuba was supported as a client of the Soviet Union, it was more of a problem. Russia cannot afford the economic outlay of supporting all the Soviet Union's former clients.

International trade was as responsible as anything for the collapse of the Soviet Union, and since Cuba is only 90 miles away, we will eventually convert it, if we can afford to be patient enough.

That doesn't mean I don't think the Obama administration is grossly inept in terms of foreign policy. But even a broken watch shows the correct time twice a day.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made May 3 at 2015 9:26 PM

LCpl Mark Lefler — Sun, 03 May 2015 21:26:31 -0400

I dont know what Cuba is doing behind the scenes but 40 plus years of sanctions has not gotten us anywhere, how about we try a more friendly approach because what we are doing right now it not working and in fact its just getting people killed who try to swim over here instead of flying or using real boats.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made May 3 at 2015 9:32 PM

SFC Collin McMillion — Sun, 03 May 2015 21:32:58 -0400

It is said, "discretion is the best part of valor", I don't believe that is being used here. Lowering the threat level is one thing, abolishing it is another.

Response by Sgt Jay Jones made May 3 at 2015 11:02 PM

Sgt Jay Jones — Sun, 03 May 2015 23:02:28 -0400

We have better relations with the government of Vietnam than we do with Cuba. We don't have 58,000 names on a wall because of Cuba. We have never been attacked by Cuba like were were by Japan, who is now one of best allies. Even Germany is strong ally and has been since 1946. I think it is time to take a new look Cuba.

Response by SGT Lawrence Corser made May 3 at 2015 11:08 PM

SGT Lawrence Corser — Sun, 03 May 2015 23:08:09 -0400

The might have removed them from the list but it is still a ways to go. They do deserve the benefit of doubt and a normalization of relations needs to be established, maybe start helping them with their human rights issues, help them be better introduced to the broad jumps that are going to happen when ma and pa walmart try and do come knocking. Overall good though.

Response by TSgt Christopher D. made May 3 at 2015 11:47 PM

TSgt Christopher D. — Sun, 03 May 2015 23:47:03 -0400

I wanna be able to travel to and invest in Havana. The cold war is over.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2015 9:02 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Jun 2015 21:02:49 -0400

Bout time........next we need to see the gates open and the commerce start flowing.

Response by SGT Nathan Huff made Jun 30 at 2015 9:03 PM

SGT Nathan Huff — Tue, 30 Jun 2015 21:03:08 -0400

I feel that starting to build a relationship now, creates a path to success when the brothers die. It also provides closer connection to other southern nations while slowing china's goals

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2015 11:40 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Jul 2015 11:40:09 -0400

Unfortunately I left recently, but I had a wonderful experience working for a year at the USINT, before and after the Dec 17 announcement. Like just about every other country in the world, the line for visas at the US mission is longer than any other post. I think that making it "official" and opening relations on the diplomatic level will ultimately better serve the locals, most of whom wake up not knowing what they will eat.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Oct 28 at 2015 5:28 PM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 17:28:47 -0400

I believe that it will be beneficial for both countries MAJ David Vermillion.

Response by LTC Trent Klug made Oct 28 at 2015 5:38 PM

LTC Trent Klug — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 17:38:27 -0400

Maybe, but it will take Cuba pulling up the minefield from around Gitmo.