While the United states Armed Forces (private mercenaries) are stationed at 737 bases, in 130 nations around the world, defending “all freedom-loving people everywhere in the world,” the Federal court for the district of Utah hands down United states v. Angelos: judge Paul G. Cassell is forced to sentence Weldon Angelos to 55 years in prison for selling a few small bags of marijuana to a Federal informant.  Cassell was required to issue the draconian sentence because Angleos was wearing a pistol, strapped to his ankle at the time of his arrest.  At no time did Angelos attempt to use the gun.  This is a greater penalty than that for hijacking an airliner (25 years), a terrorist bombing (20 years), or kidnapping (13 years).

       [added 12/30/2023]