A Finnish website is reporting that “Mika” - a 28 year old who claims to be a former member of both the Finnish Army and the French Foreign Legion - has volunteered to fight in Burma with the Karen National Liberation Army. The website’s only source is a Bangkok Post article that I cannot find online at the moment.
Of course, this report isn’t actually as bizarre as it might initially seem.
Mika would not be the first foreign fighter to actively support Karen, Shan or Mon military activities along the Thai-Burma border. Phil Thornton’s great book, Restless Souls: Rebels, Refugees, Medics And Misfits On The Thai-Burma Border, is peppered with these sorts of characters.
For anybody with a deeper interest, other accounts of the border - from sources as diverse as the Democratic Voice of Burma, the BBC and an old copy of Asian Survey - have something to tell us about the role of “mercenaries” in Burma’s festering conflicts. Interestingly, I have never seen a book or article written by a foreign fighter. Of course, I may be missing something.
If any New Mandala readers have suggestions, or more information on this topic, please feel free to share your references and wisdom.
94 responses so far ↓
1 patiwat // Jan 30, 2007 at 5:56 am
Don’t forget Rambo!
2 Tara // Jan 30, 2007 at 12:37 pm
I think there is a book written by a foreign soldier, actually. I can’t remember the name off the top of my head, but I remember reading a review of it. The author/soldier was a westerner who fought with the Karen. Perhaps someone else is familiar with it - I’ll try to look it up when I get the chance.
3 Diego // Feb 1, 2007 at 12:36 am
nic, perhaps you will be the first one…after or during your phd!
a
4 jeru // Feb 1, 2007 at 2:37 am
The Burmese people were once proud fierce warriors (history of wars with Thailand). How could they have taken so much abuse from General Newin and the military juntas that followed in never-ending succession.
5 New Mandala » Long-serving Karen General sacked // Feb 1, 2007 at 3:36 am
[...] It can be all too easy to foget that many people in Burma - including many Karen, Shan, Kachin and others - have fought for decades. Short-term mercenaries they are not! It is because of the life-long commitment of soldiers like Brig-Gen Htain Maung that the armed independence movements on Burma’s fringes now enjoy such long histories. [...]
6 Siam Sport // Feb 2, 2007 at 4:09 am
Myanmar don’t need more warriors…
Businessmen, doctors and teachers would be much more useful.
7 Charles F. // Jan 18, 2008 at 4:53 pm
An American who fought in Burma alongside the KNLA is Thomas James Bleming.
He wrote a book about his experiences, “War in Karen Country”, available on Amazon.com.
Yes, The KNLA does accept foreign volunteers. Just don’t be a Sylvester Stallone wannabe
8 chut // Jan 19, 2008 at 7:14 am
I used to hear about David when I helped on landmines issue. It would came out naturally like “Have you seen ampulation VDO from, David? ” and we know what David they refered to. Anyone has an idea or heard of him?
9 Thomas Bleming // Jan 23, 2008 at 8:08 am
I have just came upon your website where some individual made mention of a book that has come out recently about the Karen National Liberation Army, written by an American who joined their fight. that individual is me, Thomas Bleming and I am the author of”War in Karen Country” as well as “Panama -Echoes from a Revolution”. Both books can be seen on Amazon.com or by going to “Bleming Books” on the Google and /or Yahoo search to see the many hundreds of web sites on these.
Those of you who wish to look on the web for information using my name can do so as well.
I hope that those interested in the Karen national Liberation Army and their fight will purchase my book and they will have inside knowledge of their fight for freedom.
10 Berthold // Jan 25, 2008 at 5:09 am
Some French people had fought with the KLNA since the early eighties. Most of them were former professional soldiers and/or right wing activist.
Some were killed in action, as Jean-Phillipe COURREGES (1985), Guillaume OILLIC (9/11/1990), Olivier THIRIAT (1989).
Gaston BESSON, who fought on the croatian side in Yugoslovia war, claims he was with the Karen guerilla in his book “Une vie en ligne de mire”.
11 Karen National Union -USA // Jan 28, 2008 at 7:07 am
As of last Spring (2007), the Karen National Union representing the Republic of Kawthoolei has opened an information office in the United States. The Republic of Kawthoolei Information Office is located in Lusk, Wyoming and offers a wide range of services to those enquiring about the Karen National Liberation Army, republic of Kawthoolei, investing in and traveling to the Karen state, etc. Those interested in contacting the KNU information office can do so by using the web and typing in kawthooleiusa@yahoo.com , or you can phone (307)334-2507.
12 Whelton // Jan 31, 2008 at 7:55 am
If you were interested in maby going over there and working who would you contact , i know some guys who went to south America and a guy just hired them sitting in a park bench any ideas or sites would be great help.
13 Karen National Union (USA) // Feb 1, 2008 at 4:59 am
Dear Welton,
In reply to your question . We cannot nor do we recruit anyone within the United States to go to the Republic of Kawthoolei to fight.
Under the laws (U.S. Neutrality Act), this is illegal, however if you and your friends want to get an insight into the struggle of our people (which as of this day marks its 59th year), then may we suggest that you and your friends purchase “War in Karen Country”,
which was written by Thomas James Bleming and which is selling
world wide(see “Bleming books”, “Thomas Bleming books” on both the Google/Yahoo search modes), and within this book it contains all the answers to your questions as well as a way to contact the Karen National Liberation Army .
If you would contact us (use our e-mail) , we would be more then happy to discuss your plans, however we remind you and everyone else that we do NOT recruit within the United States .
The purpose of the Karen National Union Information Office is to answer questions about the Republic of Kawthoolei, offer information as to tourism/travel within the Karen state as well as information dealing with investing in Kawthoolei, the sale of Karen War Bonds (which give a 100 percent return to those investors), etc.
As for Mr. Bleming, he has promised to give 90 percent of the royalities from “War in Karen Country” to the Karen cause for freedom and has promised an additional one million dollars to purchase our country’s war bonds.
Mr. Thomas Bleming is the only American citizen within the Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army at the moment. He is the personal representative of Colonel Nerdah Mya, the Republic of Kawthoolei’s provisional head of state. Mr. Bleming serves as Consul General in the Karen National Union’s diplomatic section.
14 Karen National Union (USA) // Feb 1, 2008 at 11:35 am
The Karen National Union (USA) wishes the men and women of the Republic of Kawthloolei”s armed forces , the Karen National Liberation Army and all of the inhabitants of the republic ,its best wishes on this 59th year of the founding of the Karen state, the Republic of Kawthoolei.
Let us remind ourselves on this day of revolution to redouble our efforts towards bringing an end to the hostilities, which can only come by victory on the battlefield against our enemy.
Those of you in Kawthoolei, especially those of you on the front lines should know that your fight and sacrifices are not forgotten, nor are they to be in vain.
With a new year we hope that this will be the year when our Karen forces will vanquish the invader and then and only then will the Karen people be free to determine their own destiny.
Long live the Karen Republic of Kawthoolei!
Long live the Karen National Liberation Army!
Long live the Karen People!
Signed,
Thomas James Bleming
Consul General
Republic of Kawthoolei
Karen National Union (USA)
Lusk, Wyoming 82225
15 Whelton // Feb 4, 2008 at 7:04 am
I can understand , but do you accept canadian military personell.
16 Thomas Bleming // Feb 5, 2008 at 7:53 am
The Karen National Liberation Army will accept individuals from any country. I suggest you read “War in Karen Country” (available in Canada from Amazon.com in Canada by the way and it is selling quite well in your country by the way!!), for all questions you may have then make your decision.
17 Karen History and Culture Preservation Society // Feb 6, 2008 at 4:36 pm
Thomas I was under the impression that the current head of the Karen National Union is Saw Ba Thin Sein and he has been since 2000. The current US Representative for the KNU is Naw Louisa Benson and that Colonel Nerdah Mya is 201 and Headquarters’ Battalion commander and as such as no political office within the organisation - anything you could do to further clarify your position would be welcome.
18 Nicholas Farrelly // Feb 7, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Further to this thread of comments, New Mandala readers hoping to learn more about Thomas Bleming and his exploits along the Thai-Burma border may find this article useful.
And I expect a number of other New Mandala readers are also waiting on clarification about Mr Bleming’s relationship to the KNU.
Best wishes to all.
19 Karen National Union (USA) // Feb 8, 2008 at 7:35 am
I am replying to the Karen History and Culture Preservation Society and the questions that they have asked.
First of all I am not in dispute of what they have stated (ref.Naw Louisa Benson being the US representative of the KNU in the United States) on this issue.
I have been duly appointed by Colonel Nerdah Mya as the Consul General (diplomatic section), of the Karen National Union
in the United States and furthermore I am Colonel Nerdah’s personal representative in the United States.
May I suggest that those wanting a more clearer view of the Karen National Liberation Army as well as the Karen National Union, that they purchase my book as all that your readers want to know is within its pages (to include over 50 photos, maps, etc.), and furthermore with purchasing this book they will be giving back to the Karen National Liberation Army a donation of 90% of the royalities to assist them in taking care of their wounded soldiers and the families of these men and women who have been injured in fighting for Karen independence.
Within my book ( War in Karen Country) your readers will find the necessary links (through e-mail addresses), for Colonel Nerdah and the KNLA and I hope that my book will bring them the aid that they need to win over a ruthless enemy.
Sincerely,
Thomas James Bleming
Consul General
Republic of Kawthoolei
Karen National Union
Lusk,Wyoming 82225-0914 (USA)
20 Karen History and Culture Preservation Society // Feb 8, 2008 at 11:42 am
Thomas, thank you for your reply but I believe, and the General secretary of the Karen National Union has confirmed this, that Nerdah Mya is not able to make political appointments. there is no diplomatic section of the KNU rather a foreign affairs section the current head of which is Saw David Taw. Regardless of this I am sure everyone welcomes your contribution to the Karens’ cause.
21 Nicholas Farrelly // Feb 8, 2008 at 1:23 pm
New Mandala readers can also catch a video of Thomas Bleming talking with the Casper Star Tribune about his time as a “freedom fighter”. The video includes a couple of shots of Bleming posing with weapons in Karen State. I expect that many readers will find the video rewards a download.
Best wishes to all.
22 X // Feb 8, 2008 at 11:55 pm
The KNU has a bad habit of warmly welcoming just about any nut-job who manages to cross the border. No doubt some foreign volunteers prove useful, but many are just a waste of time and resources. Bleming, I believe, is sincere in his effort to help, but he is also equally enthusiastic about self-promotion and aggrandizement. Does the KNU really need to cater to every warrior wanna-be that this book might encourage? Bleming spent very little time on the border and his understanding of the dynamics within the KNU and the history of the conflict should be called into question. I suspect Nerdah Mya has indeed encouraged Bleming in his belief that he is the Consul General. The KNU has enough trouble without having a clear misfit claiming to be their spokesperson in the United States. Someone needs to have a word with Rocky and reign in this potential embarrassment.
23 whelton // Feb 9, 2008 at 12:52 pm
To ‘X’ i have great repect for your comment but liek you said there are some people (myself) and many others who have extensive military background and we go offering our services now in todays world espessialy this situation wich i have just recently become familiar and informed on looks like a oppurtunity to help no one i know is looking forward to being the next rambo well one guy was but that dream ended in a street in iraq again i have great respect for him but his ideas were just wrong , i apologize this comment isnt directly aimed at you what you said is very true , also does anyone have a ny footage or articles on the situation there it would be great help to me.
24 Nicholas Farrelly // Feb 9, 2008 at 2:00 pm
This thread now has a sizeable audience - lots of people seem to be interested in the issues under discussion. However, many readers may not be aware of another side to the mercenary, Rambo, KNLA story.
Pastor Derek Melton is a character who has, until now, been overlooked here on New Mandala. According to one report: “Derek Melton never imagined his first trip to Burma would be inspiration for a movie, especially a Sylvester Stallone film”. Another article, this one with a picture of Rambo and Melton, notes, “Derek Melton is a minister that has been to Burma to offer aide to resistance fighters. He wrote about his experiences for Soldier of Fortune magazine”.
In his time in Burma “Melton also delivered approximately $5,000 worth of military supplies to Col. Largo. The supplies were provided by Soldier of Fortune magazine”.
Pastor Melton has an extensive website. Right now that website carries the following announcement:
“With great sorrow and pain I regretfully announce to you that my dear friend General Thera Lermu has been killed (martyred) in Burma by a bomb that exploded underneath the bedroom of the hut where he was sleeping in the Jungle. The bomb was intentionally set by the Karen corrupt political faction called the KNU. Their hitmen rebels carried out the dastardly deed. General Lermu held a masters degree in Business and Economics out of India and was one of the chief leaders of the KNU/KNLA Peace Council with Pastor Timothy - and is Pastor Timothy’s best friend. General Lermu is survived by his wonderful wife and children. This loss is a great set back for the Karen nation, especially the Peace Council. Be praying for his family, and the stability of the region. Their engines of war will be retaliating soon after his funeral tomorrow and many lives will be lost. Pastor Timothy needs our prayers now more than ever, for these wicked hitmen will attempt to remove him next. Please pray for safety!
Pastor Derek Melton”
Pastor Melton’s website also includes a large number of photos from his visits to Karen State. They are all worth a look.
Other sources that have reported the death of Saw Leh Mu (who I have seen called a Major, a Colonel and, now, a General) are the Democratic Voice of Burma and The Irrawaddy.
I hope this has been a useful overview for New Mandala readers.
More discussion and information on these issues is certainly very welcome.
Best wishes to all.
25 Johpa Deumlaokeng // Feb 10, 2008 at 3:00 pm
Having some connections with the Karen community both in Thailand and in the US, I must say I have never heard of any active recruiting of foreign military folks by the KNU. There have long been a very small number of foreign mercenaries finding their way to the Thai-Burma border. If memory serves me right, Jonathan Falla makes note of some foreigners in his book True Love and Bartholomew during his medical volunteering stint along the border nearly 20 years ago. But most of the commentaries about the foreign military “volunteers” tends to describe them as a bit odd and eccentric, combat junkies really, and not particularly idealistic.
There is an American named David who is a highly trained professional military man and who is indeed deeply committed to the plight of the Karen. He acts as a military adviser and is also very active politically here in the US. There are also a few American-Karens who served in the US military and have also been involved in training KNLA folks along the border. To the best of my knowledge they have not actively sought out nor engaged in any combat role.
I am close to a Karen living in the US who is very active politically here in the US and is connected to the highest echelons of the KNU. He has never heard of Mr. Bleming although he is currently checking with his sources along the border to perhaps clarify Mr. Bleming’s claims. He did find Mr. Bleming’s reference to the “Republic of Kawthoolei” to be rather, how shall we say….., novel.
26 Charles F. // Feb 11, 2008 at 5:01 am
The word “mercenary” seems to be getting thrown about quite a bit in this thread.
Nowhere in this thread - or his book - does Mr. Bleming advocate or advertise for mercenaries.
As I stated in my review of the book, anyone going to the Thai /Burma border looking to be paid to fight is in for a rude surprise - nothing there but grinding poverty and human misery.
An area that I’d like to touch upon is the fact that there is a faction within the KNU/KNLA that wants to negotiate with the SPDC. From my own research I have found that this group is being looked upon as traitors by those of the KNU /KNLA that wish to continue the armed struggle for indepencence. In reality, all they’re doing is negotiating how tight their chains will be applied.
As Mr Farrelly pointed out in an earlier post, some of these individuals are being hunted down and assassinated. Some family members of these people have also been killed. You roll the dice, you take your chances.
I would wager that there are some people on this very board that wish for the KNU /KNLA to negotiate with their tormenters.
I have been in contact with Col. Nerdah “Rocky” Mya, and he supports the activities of Mr. Bleming. He considers him a good friend and a loyal ally. Nothing else needs to be said about it.
I recently spoke with an individual that was organizing about two dozen people to go to the Thai Burma border and assist the Karens militarily. Twenty-two people to be exact for those who make notes on these things.
But like so many of these ventures - 99.9% - it has come to naught because of finances. As anyone who has traveled internationally knows, money is king, and without it, you “aint going nowhere, boy”.
This thread had sat dormant for over a year until I mentioned Mr. Bleming and his book. Once Mr. Bleming took note of it, and responded, the posts began to take on a more personal note, calling into question Mr. Blemings motives.
Figuratively speaking, raise your hands if you believe Mr. Bleming has made any money by his involvement with the KNU KNLA.
Raise your hand if you believe that Mr. Bleming’s involvement has led to him being attacked and ridiculed.
For just one moment, put aside your personal feelings about Mr. Bleming and look beyond it, to the larger picture of the KNU / KNLA and what it needs to survive.
Would you prefer that they involve themselves in the narcotics trade, like so many other groups have done, in order to survive? Or would it be better if they availed themselves of the generosity and experience of people like Mr. Bleming?
Even the various aid groups are having this argument. Some would like the KNU /KNLA to quit the field and submit to the tender mercies of the SPDC.
Others want to see the world take a larger role in assisting the KNU /KNLA , both humanitarily and militarily.
If I had the money, I would be over there right now. I have the experience to assist them. In more areas than just militarily. But I don’t have the money, so I instead find myself on this forum, putting forth the argument that the KNU / KNLA needs outside assistance in order to prevail.
I would not dare to say that I’m an expert on Burma, the SPDC or the KNU /KNLA. But I know enough about the situation to know that unless the people of Burma receive some sort of assistance, the reign of terror they’re enduring will only continue, and most likely accelerate. Think “killing fields”. It’s already happening.
One last thing I would like to point out. As I stated in an off-line message to Mr. Farrelly, I personally know Mr. Bleming. I have known him for over thirty years.
While he doesn’t need me to defend him, I felt that I should stand up and be counted.
He lives a very frugal lifestyle, on 100% disability. What money he doesn’t use to survive on, he pours into the KNU /KNLA effort. He has borrowed money he could ill afford to, in order to assist them.
Call Mr. Bleming ” Don Quixote” if you care to, but don’t insult him by calling him a mercenary.
27 X // Feb 12, 2008 at 12:47 am
Bleming does give a supposed step-by-step guide on how to become a foreign volunteer with the KNLA. So “Charles F” is correct that Bleming is not advocating for paid mercenaries - just for volunteer/unpaid gunmen.
It is utterly irresponsible to recruit would-be volunteers so openly. The “vetting” that Bleming claims the KNU gives voluteers is nonexistent. There is no shortage in the past of foreigners with questionable backgrounds having wandered into the Karen State and been given a rifle, or even their own troops to command. It has at times been a “Fantasy Island” for the aspiring Rambo. Professional soldiers have fought with the Karen (ex-Legionnaires, etc) - but so too have delusional psychopaths.
Bleming might be charmingly Quixotic, but the problem is that he incorrectly presents himself as the official US representative for the KNU. The KNU leadership needs to clarify this matter and disavow Bleming’s claim - if for no other reason than it appears silly.
I have no doubt that Nerdah Mya might have left Bleming with the impression that he had been appointed the ‘Consular General.’ The Karen have a wonderful talent for playing up the “white brother liberator” fantasy in which foreigners like Bleming become enmeshed.
It is a dangerous, confusing conflict. Foreigners with little understanding of Karen factional struggles, the millennialism that infects their political/military “strategy,” - and the KNU’s own problems with human rights and democracy - should not be encouraged to blithely enter the fray.
28 Texan // Feb 21, 2008 at 4:31 pm
does anyone knows of another group trying to organize a trip to the Thai Burma border and assist the Karens or where I could find such information?
29 hans schilde // Mar 26, 2008 at 3:21 am
This statement is on behalf of Col.Nerdah Mya:
1.I never wrote a book called War in karen country
2.) I never ever appointed the author Mr.Bleming to be counsel general for the karen.
3.)
I never encourage foreigner to fight with us.We have enough soldiers of our own.
4.)
Concerning foreigners to come to our country: The Karen people arevery warmhearted and friendly.Therefore we treat any one with respect and share the little we have with them.
But we are not able to cure people who com to us with mental problems they got mostly during the war in vietnam.
5.)
For me the discussion on Mr.Bleming and his book is closed.
Nerdah Mya
30 Charles F. // Mar 26, 2008 at 12:53 pm
I find the letter from the Norwegian journalist, Hans Schilde, to be a bit odd.
1) Who said that Col. Nerdah Mya wrote the book, ‘War in Karen Country’? Tom Bleming’s name is on the front cover of the book.
2)Col. Nerdah Mya told me in an email that Tom was his “good friend” and that he was acting as consul general in the U.S.
3) Col. Nerdah Mya invited me to come over and “bring extra boots and equipment” for his troops
4) I think Hans is just showing his ass by adding that part in there stating that Viet Nam vets have mental problems. It would have been nice if Hans Schilde had just stuck with the facts like any legitimate journalist, but he instead had to inject some of his own prejudices into the conversation (Yes, Mr. Schilde, I know who you are, as well as your agenda)
5) Yes, the discussion of the authorship of the book is closed. Tom Bleming wrote it.
31 Dawid // Mar 28, 2008 at 3:13 pm
I find interesting the relationship between Christian missionaries and Karen nationalism. From what I can gather the long connection between Protestant Christian missionaries and the Karen people seems to have led to continual sympathy and support from American Christians and this has led in recent times to some armed help from keen individuals.
I saw a fascinating documentary about 10 years on the the God’s Army led by the charismatic chain smoking twins Luther and Johnny, who seem to have been particularly influenced by the particular Old Testament theology of Seventh Day Adventist missionaries.
They were only about 10-11 years old at that time . They certainly looked like mini-Rambos. Apparently they surrended to the Burmese military in July 2006. I be interested if anyone knows their current fate.
32 Charles F. // Mar 28, 2008 at 4:14 pm
Persecution of christians in Burma is well documented, so it’s probable that after the publicity of their capture (more on that below) died down, they were executed. The SPDC isn’t known for taking very many prisoners.
The twins were actually captured by Thai police and military 200 or so yards inside Thailand.
It’s my understanding that they were then immediately turned over to SPDC troops, who were waiting just a few hundred yards away.
The Thai authorities were more than happy to turn them over to the SPDC for quick and rough justice because the God’s Army was accused of attacking Thai’s and fellow Karenni’s inside Thailand - banditry.
If the Thai’s had held them, they were afraid - and rightly so - that Christian groups and the Western media would have screamed for mercy for them.
Much easier to just frog march them two hundred yards back into Burma and let the SPDC deal with them.
What isn’t generally known to the outside world is that the Thai military and intelligence have a quiet understanding with the SPDC, due to mutual business dealings.
Timber, gold, gems and other commodities ( oh yeah, drugs, too) are smuggled across the border.
In addition, the SPDC, with French help, are putting in an oil pipeline across Karen territory, and then into Thailand.
The SPDC is also - and again, with French assistance - damming up large areas in Karen territory.
The Karens are being forced from their ancient lands, and into refugee camps in Thailand.
The only ones helping the refugees are Christian missionary and aid groups. The U.N. aid is a joke, most of the money being spent on offices, villas and limos.
33 Dawid // Mar 28, 2008 at 7:47 pm
thanks for the info Charles, I didn’t expect good news,
I knew about Chinese support, but the French.
and to think the French president Sarkozy is talking about boycotting the opening ceremony of the Olympics because of the Chinese treatment of minority Tibetans.
smells to me of hypocrisy?
34 Ashley // Mar 29, 2008 at 12:45 am
Re. ‘God’s Army’ – extracts from Ashley South, ‘States of Conflict: Ethnic Politics in Burma’ [Routledge 2008 – in press - p.188]:
“Locally-centered millenarian sects - led by charismatic figures, often credited with occult powers - have continued to emerge among Karen communities in crises. Among the most well-known of these in the modern period have been Telecon and Leke cults. Both of these millenarian, syncertic Buddhist-animist groups await a Karen saviour, who will lead the people in a spiritual and social - and perhaps, political - revival.
[…]
God’s Army: Millenarian tendencies have also emerged in Karen communities further to the South, in Tenasserim Division (KNLA Fourth Brigade). ‘God’s Army’ - or ‘The Soldiers of the Holy Mountain’ - was formed in the immediate aftermath of the major Tatmadaw offensive against the KNU, in February 1997. Following the collapse of the Kaw Thoo Lei forces, villagers and KNLA remnants in the Htee Hta-Mor Hta area rallied around two twelve year old twins - Johnny and Luther Htoo - who led their followers to some surprising, if minor victories, in armed clashes with the invading forces.
Guided - or manipulated - by local Karen elders, the twins and their 200-strong, rag-tag militia enjoyed some notoriety in the Thai and international media. However, God’s Army eventually broke-up, under pressure from the Thai authorities, following a bloody siege of a hospital in Ratchaburi (Thailand) in January 2000. This incident was blamed on God’s Army, but was in fact instigated by the shadowy Vigorous Burmese Student Warriors (VBSW), whose members had taken refuge with the twins and their followers, before taking-over the hospital (and ultimately being killed by the Thai security forces).
Following their surrender to the Thai authorities in 2000, the Htoo twins were quietly settled at Don Yang refugee camp, near Sangkhlaburi, where they later married and had children of their own. In June 2006, Johnny returned to Burma, having apparently been tricked into leaving Don Yang refugee camp, by government intelligence operatives. By this time, Saw Shwe Bya, one of the original adult leaders of God’s Army had joined forces with the Tatmadaw, and established a ‘Karen Peace Group’ near Myitta, on the Tenasserim River.”
35 Charles F. // Mar 29, 2008 at 8:15 am
Ashley, thanks for the update on the twins. I had gotten my information from internet news sources and an individual who lives in the area.
My source told me that he had been physically present when Johnny and Luther were handed over to the SPDC, with onlookers clapping and breathing a collective sigh of relief.
36 Dave // Apr 30, 2008 at 4:34 pm
Hi,
I worked with the KNLA on and off from 1986 through until 1991. I have a book coming out on 30 June 2008 SHADOW WARRIOR published by Penguin in Australia. Unlike Mr Blemming, I spent a long time fighting alohgside and training KNLA troops. I did meet quite a few other foreigners whilst I was there, some good, some not so good. I can confirm that foreigners do fight alongside and train KNLA soldiers. One of my friends, Martin Donnely, was severely wounded there in 1985 and died of his woulds back here in Australia.
It’s all in my book if you want to have an informative view of the situation when I was there.
Cheers,
David Everett
37 Nicholas Farrelly // Apr 30, 2008 at 7:38 pm
Thanks David,
New Mandala readers who can’t wait for Everett’s forthcoming book - but who still want to learn more about those years along the border - may find interest in this extract from The New Light of Myanmar in the early 1990s:
The source is the Burma Press Summary available here. I’m sure we will get a different side of the story when Shadow Warrior is released. If any New Mandala readers want to volunteer to write a review please do get in touch.
Best wishes to all,
Nich
38 david everett // May 1, 2008 at 11:25 am
Hi Nich,
re-the New Light of Myanmar (NLM) article. It is relatively accurate in its depiction of events at that time regarding foreign soldiers and the KNLA but certainly not the French and US doctors and nurses. I met quite a few of these aid workers, and they had absolutely nothing to do with the politics in the region or the KNLA. They were simply there to help refugees and Karen villagers who had no access to medical help or money to pay for it. The ones I met made it clear to me that they were there on humanitarian grounds only. They were wonderful selfless people doing an extremely difficult job with little or no resources except for their medical expertise. I am saddened that the NLM actually printed that piece about the medical people, it was unhelpful and untrue. They were providing medical assistance to people who could not get it from the military government in Burma, it is that simple. But Unfortunately truth is always the first casualty of war.
Cheers,
Dave
39 Charles F. // May 1, 2008 at 11:25 am
Dave,
I look forward to reading your book. I’m always looking for information on foreigners who assisted the KNLA.
If you don’t mind, would you please tell me - us - why the foreign military assistance went off the rails and pretty much died out.
I know that in the past, several foreigners spent considerable amounts of time with the KNLA, not a week here, a few days there.
A short while back I saw a program that featured an American who has been living with the KNLA for several years. He’s supposedly ex special forces with service in Viet Nam, and stayed in Asia after ending his military career.
The media likes to portray these guys as mercenaries, but I doubt that few, if any, were actually paid. The KNLA is a real shoe string operation, so the money for mercenaries just isn’t there.
40 taipan // May 11, 2008 at 8:52 pm
Hi
As french former operative in Kawthoolei i have sent by different channels most of the french military advisers. Some have done good job other fail to succeed in fight or training. Some people come in Kawthoolei just as tourist or journalist. Very few was involved in operations. As Berthold said we lost some of our people in the field. At the time my successor Guillaume Oillic was a Saint Cyr officer promotion General de Montsabert and we lost a great officer. He will stay always in our mind.
I remenber some “former “green berets working with some of our former karen officers as Walter. They was here for training, not easy for them to go in operations.
Medic peoples and Non governmental organisations was very far from our work, but as they was living, for some of them, near our place some personal links was effective.
Our people never have been led by some belgium guy….only in some Bangkok bar..
I will be very happy to have some news from our american partners working at the time around the HQ…..
souvenirs of Kadangti and hello to all our karen brothers from the HQ commando. After 23 years so many left us from all side.
41 Charles F. // May 12, 2008 at 7:25 am
I would be greatly interested in an assessment from Taipan as to why the various military ventures failed in one form or another.
I have been told that the KNLA readily accepted the assistance, while the KNU leadership looked upon it with deep suspicion.
It is my understanding that the French led contingent was the only one properly formed. The remainder of the volunteers were just people who drifted into the area, stayed a while, then left.
There is no real supply train for the KNLA. Most of what they have is obtained locally in Mae Sot or Chiang Mae. Occasionally foreigners will bring in specialized equipment to donate, but that’s pretty much hit or miss.
I just read today that most aid groups in the area spend up to 90 percent of their finances on overhead. So, for every dollar that is donated, ninety cents of it goes to upkeep for fancy offices, computer equipment, etc. This is one of the reasons cited by a group I contacted as to why they won’t participate.
When Bo Mya was alive and running the show, things were lean and mean from what I’ve been told by knowledgeable people.
Now, the KNLA commanders and the troops live in the field under austere conditions, while the KNU live the life of Riley in Mae Sot and Chiang Mae. Small wonder that a rift has developed between the KNLA and KNU.
One individual I know who offered assistance was taken to KNU headquarters, where he was repeatedly insulted by the leadership, then told that his offer of assistance wasn’t needed or wanted.
He then approached the KNLA and was welcomed with open arms and many blessings.
What is needed at this point in time is a well thought out, well organized ( and financed ) effort by certain individuals to sidestep the KNU and offer military assistance directly to the KNLA.
There are alot of people who would jump at the chance to go toe to toe with the detested SPDC - they only lack the resources and finances to get over there.
42 taipan // May 13, 2008 at 12:16 pm
The Knu/Knla fail to perform during the years after the 1988 burmese revolution because they was exactly in the same position than the other resistances in the thai border (as exemple the laos resistance). When you have your asset in the Thai Military Bank it is not easy to be free in his own strategy. You just follow the order of those who control your cash and who allow you to buy weapons..and i don’t speak about those who buy your logs and ore.
You can do what you want as “rodomontade” and “political blabla”….you will follow the orders. It is really simple…at the time we inform them about what was the futur for KNLA if they follow the track from other resistances in the area……and the answer was clear….they cannot move….politically and technically…..politically because they was inside deep “trade” at the border with teck, tin and refugies and technically because at the time foreign financial service was restricted to operate in thailand (only one as foreigner was authorized. It was the only one free option possible)….. To plan an offensive you must to be free to invest in equipments, in training, in logistic,etc…..if you don’t have this liberty or if you have it under control you will never reach your proper goal……you will work just for the other….you will never reach the negociation….the other will finish it for you but with is own goal…you will never be in time….
Starting from the day they tell us it was not possible for them to be “free” on this field and as consequence it was not possible to plan major offensive. We stop to send our technicians…..we was very sad for all our karen friends and for all our KIA in the field but at the time we have already the experience from other areas…..and the knowledge of some endings.
At the time the 3 generals (BoMya, Hla Htoo, Taru) understood the situation very well and from both side we knew how the future was already darked by clouds.
It is impossible to save people from themself. We was just people cheering to much liberty and if the karen people was brave and proud……so many high ranking was stuck with Thai handcuff they lock themself.
Independance start by controling his asset and his finance…….after it is just technical.
43 Charles F. // May 13, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Taipan,
Thank you for your views on the situation with the KNU/KNLA. You put into words something I have been thinking about for a long time, ever since I got interested in the plight of the Karens.
I have long thought that Thailand controlled the spigot on the border, turning it off and on as it suited them.
When Thailand wants to show displeasure with Burma, they open the spigot a little bit, and allow the KNLA to mount operations. Then turn it off when they’ve made their point.
A guy who spent some time with the KNLA wrote that from time to time the Thai’s would show up at the various KNLA camps for inspections. He was told to stay out of sight while they were there. Had the Thai authorities spotted him, the KNLA would have had hell to pay.
Your writing goes a very long way towards explaining the attitude displayed by the KNU towards my friend when he spoke to them.
You are exactly correct in your statement that, “Independance start by controling his asset and his finance…….after it is just technical.”
44 taipan // May 14, 2008 at 10:47 am
Hi Dave
I remenber Martin…….as french it was not easy for us to understand his english. Our english was poor and his accent was strong as i remenber…..we was always asking him…..”could you repeat please”…..details….details ….God bless his memory.
To Charles F…..so many occidental people are looking the resistance to SPDC or SLORC or what they want as a subsidiary option…..but did they understand the meaning of warlords or the Confucian way of live (even if they are Christian), or the meaning of cast in oriental societies…..most of the people have references from their own culture and it is not easy for them to project a conflict in different cultures .
Karen soldiers are between the best fighters in the world as the Hmongs or the Gurka (people from the montains)…..but most of the hight rankings are warlords as Burmese from SPDC are…It is just a twin face from the same problem.
45 dave everett // May 15, 2008 at 7:59 am
Hi Guys, sorry for the delay in writing back. Caught up getting this book of mine, Shadow Warrior, sorted out for its release in July. The problem I found when I was with the KNLA was staying out of the politics. You can’t waltz into a place and set up your own private army. There are a myriad of problems faced by the leaders and a lot of it is called diplomacy. Sure, people complained about the “fat cats”
in the KNU appropriating funds and travelling around Thailand in expensive cars, etc. But what people have to realise, somebody has to do the business to raise money and it can only be done through Thailand. The relationship between Thailand and the KNU is critical. Without it, funds dry up, no equipment or food gets through to the troops or refugees and foreigners are blocked from reporting on the problems. Hence the need for the leadership to mix it with the Thai’s. For respect they can’t drive along in old cards and dress like beggards, they have to do business in an appropriate manner. Sure, some may indulge a bit too much, but it is a necessary evil. The wheels of economics to wage war have to be greased, this is a reality. For every gun that is given you have to give a dollar, for ammunition, supplies, etc to keep the troops in the field. As a foreigner, you cannot get involved in the politics, it is not your business. To meddle creates all sorts of problems. One particular one I noticed years back was the Pentecostle church people coming into Karen territory, poasching other Christians and converting them to the Pentecostle faith. They have created all sorts of mayhem in their misguided ways by isolating and splitting family members by saying if they are not born again then they are not true Christians and they cannot mix with people who are not born again, even their families. This bullshit created all sorts of complicated problems for the Karen people who did not have a very good education level and became confused with the Pentecostle version of Christianity. The Pentecostles were not successful converting Buddhists or anamists, whom they should have been trying to save, they simply prayed on other Christian groups creating a division and instability when there was no need for it. This was very annoying to me as it created hardship that was not needed. They are promionent in creating divisions in the KNU leadership today. They should have stayed out of the politics and stuck to giving assistance to the refugees and displaced persons who needed it the most. I did not say anything, as it wasn’t my place to do so.
I don’t knoew anybody who got paid for their services as foreign fighters. You would occassionally get a grant when you went on leave to Thailand to renew your visa and have a break, but that was only about $10 000 Thai Baht. This barely covered your travel costs out of Thailand and back again. I ended up getting into big trouble because I tried to raise funds for the Karen cause illegally back in Australia because I felt too ashamed to ask the KNU for funding to support a program to guarantee supplies for the troops at wholesale prices. It was misguided on my part, but I felt the Karen had already been ripped off by to many foreigners with grand schemes.
I knew Olivia, the Frenchman in charge of the commando camp as well as a French Cambodian guy Haung (whom I was told was killed in a parachuting accident many years ago).
The Karen need political backing and good press for their cause, it is vital for them. Anybody can pick up a rifle and fight, but the pen is more powerful than the sword.
I hope I have addressed some of the questions that have been asked.
Take care all,
Dave
46 Charles F. // May 15, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Dave Everett:
I contacted your publisher, Penguin Books in Australia, only to be told that they will only handle sales in Oz. They put me in touch with the British company that is handling your book, who in turn told me that there is an American distributor.
This is as far as I’ve been able to get in obtaining a copy of your book.
If you know who will be publishing it in the U.S. please contact me and let me know.
I would like to write a review of it for New Mandala. But I have to obtain a copy first.
Taipan:
Your posts on New Mandala have given me a better insight into the workings of the KNU/KNLA, much more so than I’ve obtained from others who have been there.
One of the things I’ve wondered about from when you, Dave Everett and the others were there, was how did you get past the 30 day visa limitations imposed by the Thai govt.
I understand that journalists can obtain visas for up to two years, but for the ordinary person it’s either 30 or 60 days, I’m not sure.
When Tom Bleming was there, he had to run to Laos once a month, cross the border, then return to Thailand to get an additional 30 days.
This seems like a poor way to conduct ones affairs over there.
When you were there, did you have any dealings with Col ( now general?) Johnny? From news reports I’ve seen, it would appear that his area of responsibility is continually engaged in skirmishes with the SPDC and DKBA, and is losing ground.
There seems to be a real problem with the KNLA maintaining their weapons. A failure rate of 20% is quoted often. Was this a problem when you were there?
I understand that lack of finances forces the KNLA to purchase used and worn out weapons on the spot market, some of them dating to before the war in Viet Nam.
From your earlier post I would assume that all weaponry and munitions has to be approved by the Thai military, which might explain why so much of it is junk. Part of the Thai “short leash” program?
Regards,
Charles Foster
Triumph_Chopper_72@yahoo.com
47 taipan // May 16, 2008 at 9:02 am
to dave
I recruit at the time Oliver …he was from the 1°rpima….he join the first commando with JP Courreges..he left the HQ commando to create his own commando in 7 brigade area. ….and Heng (thierry) was in standby in BKK after a long term mission in cambodia…he was half french and chinese…not cambodian when i ask him to join the team involved in burma border. …he was the guy the most talented in guerilla warfare from all the experience he got training the cambodian resistance…..at the time as french we was alone in the area doing this work……not easy to go in Battanbang in raining season if you look like GI Joe….
Heng left us in a parachute accident few years ago……no helmet wearing…after all those battles around the world he died in french soil…
One point Dave when you said…”as foreigner you can’t do politics, it s not our business”….i don’t agree….when you are able to put your life in front you can speak and those who are not able to do it…cannot said nothing even if they are native…Life inside a commando is like living in a family….you fight for them and they fight for you….there is only one consideration….the ability to survive and to fight in team….front off all people coming from outside….even if they come from our side….
For my point of view it is a necessity to understand politic….we don’t do the war for the war….it will be the most stupid thing….we fight for our friend or family first, for some ideas after….for victory always…..we write our destiny involving ourself in the societies and helping those around us….I meet bastards in our side and good guys in the other side…..we must forge our own policy when we handle life and dead. Political convenance and bienseance are fuck in the field.
In some societies….the military cast is the first one…..this oligarchia rules politic……even if you are a foreigner…..if you come from this cast everybody will understand your position.
3 month Visas was take at the time in Penang (malaysia)…laos was still communist at the time….the coming back in BKK to eat Macdonald was so great…..when our visa was out…….we have to paid thai immigration….but visa was nothing front of the taking back of our dead. (a pleasant administrative promenade)
At the time it was capt Isaac (now Major general) who was in charge about the weapons maintenance…..money and planification are less accurate than 20 years ago….and Vietnam equipments are old in the Thai storages houses….
48 Charles F. // May 17, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Dave Everett,
Your comment about religious groups meddling is very timely.
Just today I read an article about Patrick Klein, the head of a Christian ministry, Visions Beyond Borders. he and his cohorts are heading in to Burma to hand out bibles to all the displaced and starving people in the Irrawaddy delta.
A little salt and they should be very tasty.
49 Pictures of the DKBA on the Thailand-Burma border // May 23, 2008 at 8:21 pm
[...] the border. Readers with an interest in these issues, and particularly those who have followed recent New Mandala discussions of foreign fighters linking up with the Karen National Liberation Army, will find much of what is [...]
50 Charles F. // May 29, 2008 at 5:38 am
I would like to take this opportunity to tell New Mandala readers that I am NOT (underline ‘not’) recruiting soldiers, mercenaries or anyone else for the KNLA.
I have made several posts on this forum, defending my longtime friend, Thomas Bleming, and in addition, defending the activities of the KNLA. Both are worth defending.
I have been contacted by several individuals seeking information on how to link up with the KNLA. Most of them are ex-military with needed skill sets. Some are war tourists, looking for an action fix. A few are professional mercenaries, looking for a job (sorry - no money with the KNLA).
But there is another group of people that I would like to mention - the mentally disturbed.
I’m sure that you (you know who you are) enjoy killing chickens and then having masturbatory sessions afterwards. But how does that equate to fighting in a real war against people that have the capability and skills to kill you? Have you considered gaining employment at a processing plant, or becoming a journalist?
To “Mr. J.”, I’m sorry that you are having nightmares about Rwanda and East Timor. But instead of “joining the crusade in Burma”, don’t you think your money would be better spent seeing a therapist?
And finally, to all of you wannabe Rambos who served in secret, hush-hush, “have to kill you if I tell you” Delta Force, SEAL units that only the President knows about, I would suggest that you remain at your secret moon base - we don’t want the war ending in one day. We’ll call you if we need you. But I would still like to have the free suitcase nuke you offered me, if any are still available (my neighbor is most disagreeable and needs to be dealt with).
And finally, why yes, Joanna, I do spend my off hours daydreaming about murder and mayhem. But it usually involves journalists. Too bad you’re not an eighteen year old Swedish girl with large breasts, and whose English is limited to, “Oh, you’re so big” - I have daydreams about them as well.
Charles Foster
Triumph_Chopper_72@yahoo.com
51 Jack Slade // May 29, 2008 at 8:41 pm
Ha Ha ! At last some humor on this blog! Go! Charlie Go!
I must say I am in the same boat as he is. Several people have contacted me and asked ” Do you really want me to go over there and fight?” I always answer the same way.” No! I don’t! I want you to WANT to get involved in a way that you feel comfortable getting involved in. Donate money, time, clothes, food, books for children’s schools. Send plastic sheeting for shelters, medicine, flash lights, binoculars, monoculars, MRE’S, Combat boots, Sandals, blankets, solar panels. PRAY FOR THE PEOPLE if that is all you feel comfortable doing.
When I go back to Burma it will be on my own dime and alone unless some one else wants to go on their own dime and for thier own reasons. I am not trying to recruit anyone. If I was the only white guy with in the borders of Burma that would be fine with me. However if you have serious skills… get your butt over there, if you think you are man enough for it.
There was one joker that I will simply call the “Redneck Ninja” (RN)
RN emailed me every day for a week solid. I finally told him to call me. When he did he was DRUNK! He was a wanna be Rambo who had to get drunk to get up enough nerve to call me! I was pissed. I was nice enough to the guy that he called me twice more. The last phone call I got ended badly for him. He was DRUNK again and told me this far fetched story about how some guy in a Suit had walked up to his place of work.(radiator shop) Shook his hand and pricked him with something that made him pass out. He swore he woke up 8 hours later at home while reaching for a beer in the fridge. He thought he had been interrogated by the NSA or FBI. I told him to call a shrink and stop “drunk calling me” as I had better things to do with my time… like pick my nose.
So if you have read some of my posts or the articles I have written for some e-magazines or whatever and you think I am a recruiter for the KNLA, think again… I am not! I am just some one who gives a damn about the people of Burma because I have met them and bounced their young ones on my knee. These kind people took me into thier homes and fed me like I was visiting family. Being concerned for thier safety and well being is the least I can do in return.
If you want to send clothes, food, money, or anything you think would help these people then please feel free to contact me and I can tell you where to send whatever you need to send. I have contacts for releif/ aid organizations in Canada, US, Austraila, UK, and even Thailand/Burma. Let me know what you would like to send and I can help you get it to the place where it will do the most good.
I am just an old soldier with a big heart, trying to do the right thing.
God Bless…… Jack Slade
52 A glossy feature on Thomas Bleming // Jun 14, 2008 at 1:12 am
[...] along the Thailand-Burma border will, to get up to speed, find these previous posts helpful (30 January 2007, 5 February 2008, 2 March 2008, 6 April [...]
53 Rambo and the real war in Burma // Jun 20, 2008 at 9:59 pm
[...] has been replaced, both here and in more general reporting, by the Thomas Blemings, Jake Slades, David Everetts and Derek Meltons of the world. For better or for worse, they have provided a new and publicly [...]
54 Nicholas Farrelly // Jun 24, 2008 at 8:51 pm
It is almost 18 months since this post on foreign fighters in Burma was first put up on New Mandala. It has, since then, been read many thousands of times. And there are fifty comments that do help shed much light on the issues that were originally raised.
But, somewhat curiously, we have still to learn anything more of Finnish “Mika” - the original inspiration for the post. Does anyone know what happened to him? Did he actually make it to the KNLA? Or was this a non-story right from the start?
It would be nice to close the circle. And surely someone out there knows what happened, or was even part of it…
Best wishes to all,
Nich
55 David Everett // Jun 24, 2008 at 9:22 pm
I never heard of the guy or any Finish blokes working there.
I have some ionformation on the Karen in Burma on my website if anybody is interedted:
http://www.dangerousdaveeverett.com
There is also an article in todays Australian Newspaper on me that shed’s some more light on the military juntas inaction to assist people in the Irrawaddy Delta after the recent cyclone there:
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23910490-28737,00.html
Hope you guys find it interesting.
Cheers,
Dave
56 Jack Slade // Jun 25, 2008 at 3:13 am
It was this thread that lead me to actually get into the jungles of Burma, I would hope that Mika made it there as well. I know of several others who have made it into Burma and back. A couple of those people emailed me my own posts that had been copied from this thread, to inclued a reporter who will publish a story about the KNLA soon.
I would like to see this thread continue as it is a very informative source for people with questions about getting to Burma under their own power.
Mr. Everett, I have looked at your website and read everything there, very interesting. I used to teach improvised explosives and weapons at a school in California and understood what you were talking about in reguards to “mixing” and making your shape charges. After a friend turned himself into pink mist I swore off creating my own special blends. Do NOT try this at home kids.
The photos there on your site are very interesting. I will be posting my website here for people to visit. There will be new photos there as well. I will buy your book once it is attainable here in the US. Right now I am trying to save up to go back to Burma.
I hope you have better book sales than that Bleming fellow has had.
I will be in contact with you soon.( off site)
Cheers Mate, Jack
57 David Everett // Jun 25, 2008 at 9:23 am
Hi Derek, I just read what you had to say about the KNU. You sound very delusional and are completely off mark. Maybe you are misquoted, if you are I apologise. However as said in an earlier remarke I have made on this site, some Christian organisations have a lot to answer for regardiong creating disunity amongst the Karen on the border and are playing right into the hands of Burmese Military Intelligence and the Junta Generals. Your type righteous religious zealot crap is what is destroying the unity of the Karen people. You come along with hollow promises and religious zeal, then run off back to America and tout how you have converted the Karen people and leave a complete mess behind. The truth is you didn’t convert any heathens at all, you simply poached people who were already
Christians, then turned them against their family and friends because
these family and friends would not become born again, therefore you said they were not real Christians, creating division and disunity within the KNU . You and your ilk should go to Afghanistan and Iraq and preach your rubbish there. The Muslim extremists would take great pride in cutting your head off with a blunt knife. I do not feel that you are a true Christian, you come across as an uninformed, egotistical, big mouthed yank wanting to bolster your own standing amongst the Pentecostal faith in order to stay in the spotlight. I strongly suggest you stick to Christian conversion of non-Christians and refrain from trying to be a psyudo Karen politician and be a true Christian, not a nation wrecker. You are not a true peace maker, you are a trouble maker. I know Timothy, he was a nice guy until he fell under the spell of zealous Pentecostal preachers who steadily eroded his beliefs in Karen unity. These are dangerous practices you are undertaking. I feel that you are partially responsible for creating this untennable situation and ultimately responsible for many Karen on Karen deaths. You would be best placed saving soles than trying to be a politician.
58 David Everett // Jun 25, 2008 at 9:26 am
I look forward to seeing your site Jack.
59 PRO BRUMA ANTI Tibet // Jun 25, 2008 at 10:51 am
Ehhh about time one country that actually deserves it independence gets it seriously Burma deserves its own independents as appose to Tibet thats was a country based on slavery FREEDOM TO BURMA DOWN WITH TIBET’S SLAVERY!!!!!
60 Thomas Bleming // Jun 25, 2008 at 11:01 am
David,
As for Melton and that so-called “pastor” Timothy, both are on the s–t list with the KNLA. Both have betrayed the Karen freedom struggle with meetings and alignments with the SPDC.
Melton even crossed into SPDC territory to “interrogate” two Knla P.O.W.’s last year. These two soldiers had surrendered to the SPDC/DKB and after Melton had his go at them they were then tortured to death!
I received this information directly from Colonel Nerdah Mya when I enquired as to what happened to these men.
An order for the arrest of Timothy has been given by the KNU.
Timothy is wanted for questioning in the murder of the late general secretary Prado Manh Sha.
Timothy fled to Australia, then to the United States after he got word that his presence in Thailand was on shaky grounds.
It has been reported on this thread in the past that Melton and Timothy have, for a long time, been engaged in fleecing various individuals for money, to aid the Karen struggle and most of these funds have been used to go on elegant shopping trips in Mae sot and Chaing Mai as well as to pay for the air tickets for their wives and families.
Should any of your readership wish to make a contribution to the Karen struggle, they only need to contact Jack Slade (www.storminternational.com), as he and a Canadian lady are the ONLY two who have been authorized by Colonel Nerdah Mya to collect and accept donations for Karen humanitarian relief projects in the Republic of Kawthoolei.
Mr. Slade brought over about $8,000.00 (eight-thousand dollars USD), of medicines and related medical gear, as well as other much needed equipment for the KNLA which he presented to Colonel Mya.
He continues to work on funding for projects that he plans to do back in Kawthoolei later this year along with the Canadian woman.
By the way Jack it looks like my book “War in Karen Country” is finally taking off (thanks to the “Arena” magazine story!)
I will be forwarding a contribution to you efforts from the royalities!
61 Jack Slade // Jun 25, 2008 at 11:16 am
I met with several differnet political groups while in Thailand and Burma. The one overwhelmingly obvious thing I learned from the conversations I had with every single person I met was that, as a outsider from the other side of the planet, I would never fully understand the complex political situation in such a diverse and complicated enviroment.
I was advised by the Free Burma Rangers to never get invovled in the political side of things. I never had any intention of learning all the in’s and out’s, gossip and rumors of every group involved.
I am a soldier, a shooter, there to offer tactical advice on how best to defeat the people trying to kill innoccent farmers and thier familes.
When I heard about Timothy and Melton I told the person telling me that I did not want to hear about it. I have a limited amount of time ,when in country, to focus on what is important and those types will just be one distraction I do not need.
Since being stateside I have tried to approuch several churches in an attempt to get aid to Burma… I have been blown off by the pastors/fathers/Reverends/shepards of just about every faith within a 75 mile radious of my location. I had one of these “Christian Pastors” tell me that if his congregation started to give money to anything other than his church he would not be able to pay the bills and keep the lights on in the house of the lord. I threw two bible verses in his face (James 1:27 and James 2:14-18) If he knows his bible he will know in his heart that he is a hypocrite and not a true Christian.
NOT ONE CHURCH HAS GIVEN ME ANY ASSISTANCE FOR THE KAREN PEOPLE.
I should post their emails and websites all over the internet. I should visit those churches and leave fliers on every car in the lot on sunday telling how their Pastor/Rev./Father would not let me tell them of christians and non-christians that need their help. Tell them how their leader was more interested in linning his pockets and gassing up his SUV than helping people that are starveing and dyeing. I am not a vengeful person.
However, MY GOD is a vengeful God and they will be judged by him in the end. I only hope that they see the error of thier ways before they step off the planet and infront of the pearly gates.
When on the ground in some one elses world you should sit back, shut up, and observe…. Focus on the most immediate and important things to survive.
I have no use for preachers or politicians on the battle field. I will ask for forgiveness when I am done fighting or you can pray over my dead body. If I think you will help me feed my people, keep my guns, and leave me alone I might vote for you.
I wish I could tell you what I know will change the balance on the battlefield in favor of the Karen, but I know the SPDC can read too.
When I go back I will show the KNLA what I know and see what they can do with that info, no politics, no preachers, just bullets and brains.
Jack out
62 David Everett // Jun 25, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Hi Jack, what is your web site address? Thomas left an address there, http://www.storminternational.com but it is a Russian web site.
Cheers,
Dave
63 Jack Slade // Jun 25, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Tom- I am very happy to hear that your book is starting to sell more copies. The funds are much needed at the moment.
The website Mr. Bleming mentioned is still under construction and I wasn’t planning to release it until later this month or next month. I still need to set up a paypal type of account so that funds can be deposited directly over the internet. The correct webiste address is http://www.storminternationalcorp.com.
You can read what we have put there, but please understand that the site is not finished and in all actuallity this site was not going to be open to the public for quite some time. We had intended to stay below the radar until we had better equipment and services to offer.
If you would like to make a donation or contribution you can contact me via the website contact page and I can tell you how you may assist us in our efforts to provide assistance to the Karen People. Please do not email me about guns or weapons of any kind. We are not in the business of violating the weapons non-proliferation act and follow the rules of international law.
We are not mercenaries or missionaries.
Jack, out.
64 Jack Slade // Jun 25, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Additionally if you would like to donate to the “canadian woman” Tom mentioned her website is http://www.quebecbirmanie.com. She is planning to set up job training programs, CPR and first aid classes, as well as english classes, employment opportunities, and even computer classes in the Karen state of Kawthoolie.
My company is assisting her in her goals and logistical needs.
We need all the help we can get if we work together we can accomplish a great many things. Jack
65 Charles F. // Jun 26, 2008 at 1:07 pm
Two cautionary tales
Years ago, during the Nigerian civil war, a German mercenary by name of Rolf Steiner was hired by the Biafrian secessionists.
Steiner had been in the Hitler Youth, and had joined the French Foreign Legion after the war. He came to Biafra by word of mouth, part of a fifty man contingent.
When they realized that they might get killed, all the mercenaries but Steiner returned home.
At some point, Steiner was given his own battalion to command, mostly boy soldiers. He cut a dashing figure, and with his past history, he was a darling of the many foreign journalists covering the war. They never tired of writing about him.
Unfortunately, Steiner began to believe all the bullshit that the correspondents were churning out. He decided that being famous was better than being obscure.
He consented to one interview after another, sometimes even seeking out the reporters.
He portrayed himself as a hard bitten mercenary, graduate of the Foreign Legion, veteran of Dien Bien Phu and Algiers.
At one point he even wore an iron cross, to which he wasn’t entitled, being only 14-15 years old when WWII ended. But who’s checking when there’s a story to be written?
Eventually Steiner was kicked out of Biafra, allegedly for insulting the president to his face.
He made his way to the Sudan, to lead the rebels there in glorious battle against the government.
He was captured, tortured, gang raped and then sentenced to 30 years in prison.
After a few years, he was released. He died several years ago in South Africa, penniless and alone, buried in a paupers grave.
Our next candidate is Pauly Shore, the B grade comedian and actor.
Like most actors, Shore craves publicity. He NEEDS to see his name in print. Publicity is his life blood.
After several movies that bombed, his star was fading fast. People didn’t even recognize him on the street, much less ask for his autograph. What to do? What to do?
Shore used his connections to place his own obituary in the local paper. It was intended to create buzz.
He wanted people to start talking about him again. And of course, there was the added benefit of reading the many accolades he was sure were coming.
Most stories that appeared about him had words like “B grade actor”, “has been”, “failure”, and “jerk” somewhere in them.
Hmmm. This wasn’t quite working out.
Well, at some point it became known not only that he was still alive, but that he was the author of the obituary. Not good. Not good at all.
See him in the movies or television much these days? Didn’t think so. People in Hollywood are like people everywhere else - they don’t like being taken in and made fools of.
Chasing fame can be a bitch.
66 David Everett // Jun 27, 2008 at 3:32 pm
THOMAS BLEMMINg AND JACK SLADE
Hi Guys,
I have completed some research on fellows and unfortunately it is not favourable. Thomas, you have no authority to act as any form of ambassador or representative for the KNU/KNLA or any Karen organisation in the United States or elsewhere. I have spoken directly with Nerdah today and he has informed me of his concerns about your claims to act as a Karen spokesman in the US. Neither Nerdah, nor any KNU/KNLA official, spokesperson or soldier has ever appointed you as a Karen representative of any form. You are not his spokesman and you are creating all the wrong sort of publicity for the Karen struggle in Burma. You must please desist from this masquerade as you are only damaging the credibility of legitimate Karen organisations in the US and elsewhere. These people are mainly ethnic Karen who have escaped from Burma and by the grace of the US Government have been give a chance to live in freedom in your great country. They are responsibly undertaking dialogue with the US government and lobby groups in order to advance the plight of the Karen and ethic groups as a whole in Burma. Their charity is accountable to public scrutiny. Unfortunately, what you are doing is damaging the Karen movement in the US and in Burma. I do not want to turn this into a personal attack on your credibility, it will achieve no purpose. By all means spread the word of oppression in Burma to the world, especially the Karen, but please do not do it under an assumed mantle.
Jack, your website leaves a lot to be desired. You are simply damaging the credibility of the Karen cause with your activities. By all means promote their cause to the world, but the way you are doing it lacks integrity. I know your history, your secret weapons, etc, etc.. I have managed to find this out from Australia with only a couple of emails and telephone calls. Out of respect for your age and good intentions I won’t put it up here for all to see. I feel that you are misguided in your approach. If a journalist decided to investigate you, you will be severely embarrassed and worse still, which is my main concern, you will damage the hard work already undertaken by ethnic Karen in the US and elsewhere. I implore you to give this serious consideration with regard to your present activities.
Regards,
David
67 Daniel Pedersen // Jun 28, 2008 at 4:32 am
It’s Pado Mahn Sha, not Prado.
And I suggest you all pull your heads in.
68 Daniel Pedersen // Jun 28, 2008 at 4:38 am
By a Correspondent
Karen State, Burma
Soldiers of the Karen National Liberation Army have wrested control of substantial tracts of land within Burma’s Karen State and are building new villages so displaced people can return home.
Many of the areas were once densely populated by Karen farmers, but their homes and farms were razed in seek-and-destroy missions by troops of the ruling military regime, the State Peace and Development Council.
The KNLA soldiers have planted vast tracts of corn, to this point they expect a coming crop of 10,000 tonnes of cobs that will be sold across the border in Thailand to buy rice and build homes for anyone displaced by decades of fighting to return home.
At a tiny village, equipped with a medical clinic and a school, solar panels supply power for lighting and the KNLA soldiers have constructed secure water infrastructure.
On a tour of the areas under development, Colonel Nerdah, a KNLA commander, said it was time to rethink the refugee camps strung out along the Thai border and how displaced people could realistically be helped to come home.
“We must build the economy and provide security,” he said of trying to orchestrate a future for people who have suffered trauma so great they have been content to languish in refugee camps on Thai territory and hope for relocation to a third country.
“We must first recognise ourselves as Karen without waiting for anyone else to recognise us,” he said.
“The SPDC is stubborn, is backed by China and it is not going to give in.
“We must first help the people with health care and schooling.
“Then, when we have an economy again and the Burmese junta is unable to cross our demarcation lines, people will begin to recognise us,” he said.
Colonel Nerdah then explained the theory behind the new tactics.
The KNLA had finally won back portions of the state after crippling SPDC offensives beginning in earnest in 1984 that forced more than 150,000 people into Thai refugee camps.
Now they had to repopulate, he said.
“Karen State must be controlled by occupation,” he said.
“Now we say to people, ‘come home, you have your country and we can provide security’,” he said.
As we walked through one of the newly-established villages, one of three visited on our tour, he described the people living and working the substantial farms there as the true heroes of the Karen nation.
“The