Blog # 8 - "The Onion"

"Troop Morale Boosted By Suprise Visit From First Dog"

1. This article is about President George W. Bush's dog, Barney who enlightens and helps the spirits of the men in the Iraq War by paying them a visit. This article includes responses from the soldiers who were greatly impacted by Barney's visit and things Barney did while in Iraq.

2. This article is funny because Barney did not really impact the soldiers' lives. Barney did not really go and meet important military figures in Iraq. Barney did not give any "handshakes" or "speeches", and the soldiers' were not really "taken with his presence." And the president would not send his dog over to Iraq thinking that he would inspire the soldiers. It's funny because a DOG was given strong human characteristics that were ironic and unreal. I laughed. It was funny.

3. I would call this piece of humor literature...a Travesty. Only because a travesty is when you add humor or ridicule of a serious work or subject, or subject matter and that is the war in Iraq. The author, I believe, is saying that Bush is basically not doing anything to give the soldiers help or encouragement, because by sending his dog, it's like sending no one. A dog cannot really brighten the soldiers or lift their spirits or anything...really. I mean as much as a president coming. So its a serious matter...but it's funny the way this author does it.

4. Yes, the writing is effective in making me laugh. For this article provides a very unrealistic event happening. Especially when the writer added in fake quotes said by high miliary officials and soldiers. And also actions a dog would never do. In addition, this was just making fun of Bush's lack of help in the Iraq. Right? Well anyway...for example, "During his visit, Barney impressed top military leadership with his attentiveness and steadfastness, yet he tactfully avoided addressing such highly charged issues as extended tours of duty and the shortage of effective body armor."
And also, '" As soon as he [Barney] stepped off the plane, it was clear he was interested in what was happeneing on the ground here,' said Gen George Casey, commander of Multi-National Force-Iraq who met with the First Dog in the courtyard outside his office at Camp Victory."
I also find it very cute that he called Barney the "first dog." hahaha. NO.