Speaking to the graduating class at the Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut yesterday, President Obama said this:

May 20:

OBAMA: “So I’m here today to say that climate change constitutes a serious threat to global security, an immediate risk to our national security.  And make no mistake, it will impact how our military defends our country.  So we need to act and we need to act now.”

The president believing that events such as the drought in Nigeria, for example, create instability and make it easier for groups like Boko Haram to gain support.

If folks don't have enough water or food they become disenchanted and may turn to harmful groups that promise change.

That's what Mr. Obama believes.

But I think it's fair to say that theory surprised a lot of military people.

May 20:

SEN. JOHN MCCAIN (R-AZ): “The president of the United States says today, well, it’s climate change that we have to worry about.  I’m worried about climate change.  Do we give a damn about what’s happening in the streets of Ramadi?”

As for ISIS taking Ramadi, Mr. Obama contends the USA is downgrading them, but he does acknowledge there have been setbacks

With ISIS now controlling about half the country of Syria, I'd say setbacks might be a little too gentle.

Talking Points believes that all presidents should deal with problems in the here and now.

I mean it's fine to want a cleaner planet.  I do, and it's good to explore ways to eliminate harmful emissions.  Every sane person supports that.

But to tell a group of military graduates that climate change is a defense priority borders on delusion.

Are not people being burned to death and beheaded by savages who are bent on destroying America and the rest of the civilized world?

And the president is presenting climate change as a military priority.

That is like George Washington telling his troops at Valley Forge to concentrate on making wax candles and apple cider.

Good grief.

Most Americans understand that Barack Obama has an aversion to using U.S. power to right wrongs in this world.

Yes, he gave the order to get bin Laden and he uses drones to kill terror leaders.  I give him credit for that. 

But the Middle East is aflame. 

Yet there's the president urging the Coast Guard and other military branches to contemplate climate change.

I hope everybody got some cider after that speech.

And that's the memo.