It's Only Money...

It is an immutable law in business that words are words, explanations are explanations, promises are promises but only performance is reality.
~~~~~Harold Geneen


I was reading this morning the news that Pres. Obama has told GM and Chrysler that they must reorganize or face bankruptcy. It does make me wonder if WE could get away with saying the same thing to him and his cabinet of big spenders... Trouble is, it's our money they're taking. Hilary Clinton has announced her plan on spreading the wealth around.

Here in Kentucky, tomorrow starts a double increase of the 'Sin Tax' on alcohol and tobacco. Last month the price of tobacco increased around 10$/carton due to the excise taxes placed on the manufacturers. Of course they had to pass those taxes onto the consumers. Me, being one... I guess I can quit smoking or I can stock up tonight.


A friend sent this to me last night, I thought it smacked the nail on the head in light of all the shenanagins going on in D.C.



When will it ever end?




And so it goes......

Links For The Day...

The angels are always near to those who are grieving, to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God.
~~~~~Eileen Elias Freeman



It looks like I'm being blessed today. My 'net connection has been stable for the last hour. So far I've been able to read a few of my daily addictions, was even able to chat with a friend via gmail. Always a good thing to chat with friends who live so far away.

Regardless of my problems, there are those who have many more than I. So many more...

Earlier I had stopped by "Congratulations on Your Individual Augmentee Orders", read his post on the two fallen Navy Shipmates who died in Afghanistan a few days ago. Please stop in and read his thoughts. Drop him a email as he doesn't have a comment section. Lord, Grant them fair winds and following seas in their final journey.

Babatim at Free Range International has a new latest post, his thoughts on the "new plan" or "surge" for A'stan and Pakistan. He also introduces a new-comer to the country and to blogging. A woman who left D.C. to learn about what is going on in Afghanistan and how the things she sees coincides with her studies from back home. I hope y'all take the time to read her thoughts and peruse her pictures. Don't forget to tell her "Welcome". I'm thinking it will give those of us here at home a different perspective on the happenings in-country.


I noticed that Bouhammer is now blogging on Multiply, as well as several other social media outlets. Troy's latest post is introducing a new link. Only the one he links to is a photo journalist. Rafal's pictures are definitely worth a thousand words. Click on Troy's post, and then do yourself a favor, click through to Rafal Gerszak portfolio's. There were some amazing pictures of 'Our Guys'. Did I mention Rafal is Canadian? Amazing people, those Canadians!


And for the latest "official news" from Afghanistan and Iraq along with some personal stories and some other great reads, you simply must visit War on Terror News. MsMarti and WOTN, both do a wonderful job of posting all items to be found about the G.W.O.T. Yes, it may not be politically correct to call it the Global War on Terror, but IMHO, changing the words that describe the actions of 'Our Guys' doesn't change what it is.

Perhaps this story will give you an idea as to what they are doing in Afghanistan. Or this one. Then, there's this one. Of course, here at home 'Our Guys' are preparing for deployments. You can read about that here. If you would rather see pictures, then a few pictures of the 1-108th CAV training in Camp Shelby take care of that wish.


And there you have it folks... as long as my internet connection holds up, you know where I'll be.
Yup, reading and catching up on the happenings of my daily addictions.




And so it goes......

Issues...

Technology... is a queer thing. It brings you great gifts with one hand, and it stabs you in the back with the other.
~~~~~C.P. Snow


Have had major issues with the 'puter the last few days... Me, being slightly illiterate in the repair and commands of this thing, have been banging me head in frustration. I'm hoping that the God of Geekdom will be able to work his magic on it in the next few days.

In the meantime... Please click on any of those little links on the right sidebar and read what they've been saying. Much more worthy of your time than this little bit.

'Sides, We're going to see the 'Brothers at War' showing in Dayton, Ohio... I'll let you know what I think when I return.




And so it goes......

Word is...

Never a lip is curved with pain
That can't be kissed into smile again.
~~~~~Brete Harte


Yup, a smile is upon my face again today...always a good thing. Those smiles can't be taken away from me nor wiped away by the words that others speak. My co-workers have been asking me the last few days what I'm smiling about, but I just smile. Another smile is the always the best answer. Leaves them wondering what's been going on in my life. Let me tell ya, it has been busy the last few days! I received a surprise the other night after work, and yet more of the same again last night. Just more reasons to keep that smile on my face. All I will say is...I'm loving it.



Though the word today is...National Medal of Honor Day.

So, do you know any Medal of Honor recipients? I only wish that I did. I've read books written about and by them, but have never had the distinct pleasure of meeting a M.o.H. recipient face to face. Silver and Bronze Star recipients, yes, but no Medal of Honor.

Be sure you click on the link above and read all the information they have on their site. It's a good place to start to gain some insight into what it takes to be one of Our Guys who receive a medal. Very deserving of those medals, they are. And I know for a fact that there are so many who deserve a medal that don't receive any or not the one they should have been given.

I was just reminded that there are no living recipients of the Medal of Honor from the G.W.O.T. It makes you wonder why that is. In my eyes, THEY are all heroes. This war on terror has been a long ongoing fight. I'm sure that there are many who are deserving.

Let's salute all those men and women who serve our Great Nation in times of peace and more importantly, in times of war. I'm sure they would all say that "I'm just doing my job."


But they do so much more. Right now, my hero is sitting on the couch.




And so it goes......

Crossing The Line...

I have never seen a bad television program, because I refuse to. God gave me a mind, and a wrist that turns things off.
~~~~~Jack Paar


It's rare that I even turn my television on unless it's tuned to the Food Network or History channel. Sure, when the Hunny Bunnies and Booger Butt are here, there's cartoons for them to watch or maybe the Disney Channel. Other than that, I much prefer the music of my own thoughts. Or the sounds of life inside these walls as well as outside my little domain.

But...it seems that I've missed out on something. Fox Network has a show called Red Eye with Greg Gutfeld. It airs on late night television around 3am. Most nights I'm in bed long before that. Or should be unless I have a reason to be awake that late.

Supposedly, the show is satire. Commentary from a panel of idiots who make fun of anyone and everyone. Much like the Onion is considered. We all know what happened when the Onion wrote and put out a video about our disabled veterans. They crossed the line.

But my dear friend took exception to that particular piece Fox aired. Brat was livid. Red eyed and spitting fire livid... She had viewed the video over at Blackfive, where Uncle J had nominated it for the "douche of the week." Well deserved, I might add.

You see, Canada lost another 4 warriors in Afghanistan late last week. Brat was concerned that the families and wives of those warriors would view that piece of drivel. Didn't you know that Brat will do anything and everything for 'Our Guys' and their families? Yes, she does a tremendous amount! She also posted her link on FB where I read it and offered any help that I might be able to give. I sent out a short email to several of the big bloggers. As I told Brat, my voice in the blog-o-sphere is too small to be of any help, but hopefully they would. At least, I hope they do.

While those who read mil-blogs actually know what is happening and which ones are doing the deeds that fighting the bad guys require, those in the general public, don't. Any news and commentary about the war on terror will skew the viewpoint of those who watch. Amazing at what people will accept as truth when it's viewed on TV or read in print.

As Brat wrote me last night...NOT ON MY WATCH!


Please check out all the links above and leave a comment or three. Let's show 'em that they can't make fun of any of 'Our Guys', no matter what country they call home.

This just in. More and more are weighing in on the stupidity of Greg Gutfeld. Read those comments!




And so it goes......

The Thirteenth Hand...

There is no truth. There is only perception.
~~~~~Gustave Flaubert


Truth is something we all search out, answers to those questions that trouble us. Sometimes the answer we find is not the one we seek...Yet, the facts remain. They will stand the test of time. Sure, those facts can be distorted and twisted to support an agenda of falsehoods or perhaps an agenda meant to cause harm, or even an agenda to make an untruth more palatable. I'm sure the fact twisters have their own agendas. Whatever they may be...

It was this reason I searched for some truths this morning. My eldest sister; O'Wise One, had sent me a email telling the story of a tour group visiting the Iwo Jima Memorial in Washington, D.C.

I thought it was blog worthy as I will be visiting that place in the near future. There are several of those monuments I plan to view while in D.C. for the Mil-Blog Conference. But I digress. The email and then the search for the truth follows.




Six Boys and Thirteen Hands...

Each year I am hired to go to Washington, D.C., with the eighth grade class from Clinton, WI where I grew up, to videotape their trip. I greatly enjoy visiting our nation's capital, and each year I take some special memories back with me. This fall's trip was especially memorable.

On the last night of our trip, we stopped at the Iwo Jima Memorial. This memorial is the largest bronze statue in the world and depicts one of the most famous photographs in history-- that of the six brave soldiers raising the American Flag at the top of a rocky hill on the island of IwoJima, Japan, during WWII.

Over one hundred students and chaperone's piled off the buses and headed towards the memorial. I noticed a solitary figure at the base of the statue, and as I got closer he asked, "Where are you guys from?"

I told him that we were from Wisconsin. "Hey, I'm a cheese head, too! Come gather around, Cheese heads, and I will tell you a story."
(James Bradley just happened to be in Washington, DC, to speak at the memorial the following day. He was there that night to say good night to his dad, who had passed away. He was just about to leave when he saw the buses pull up. I videotaped him as he spoke to us and received his permission to share what he said from my videotape. It is one thing to tour the incredible monuments filled with hisotry in Washington, DC, but it is quite anther to get the kind of insight we received that night.)

When all had gathered around, he reverently began to speak. (Here are his words that night.)

"My name is James Bradley and I'm from Antigo, Wisconsin. My Dad is on that statue, and I just wrote a book called 'Flags of our Fathers' which is #5 on the New York Times Best Seller list right now. It is the story of the six boys you see behind me.'

'Six boys raised the flag. The first guy putting the pole in the ground is Harlon Block. Harlon was an all-state football player. He enlisted in the Marine Corps with all the senior members of his football team. They were off to play another type of game. A game called 'War.' But it didn't turn out to be a game. Harlon, at the age of 21, died with his intestines in his hands. I don't say that to gross you out, I say that because there are people who stand in front of this statue and talk about the glory of war. You guys need to know that most of the boys in Iwo Jima were 17, 18, and 19 years old - and it was so hard that the ones who did make it home never even would talk to their families about it.'

(He pointed to the statue) 'You see this next guy? That's Rene Gagnon from New Hampshire. If you took Rene's helmet off at the moment this photo was taken and looked in the webbing of that helmet, you would find a photograph.. a photograph of his girlfriend. Rene put that in there for protection because he was scared. He was 18 years old. It was just boys who won the battle for Iwo Jima. Boys. Not old men.

'The next guy here, the third guy in this tableau, was Sergeant Mike Strank. Mike is my hero. He was the hereo of all these guys. They called him the 'old man' because he was so old. He was already 24. When Mike would motivate his boys in training camp, he didn't say, 'Lets go kill some Japanese' or Let's die for our country.' He knew he was talking to little boys. Instead he would say, 'You do what I say, and I'll get you home to your mothers.'

'The last guy on this side of the statue is Ira Hayes, a Pima Indian from Arizona... Ira Hayes was one who walked off Iwo Jima. He went into the White House with my dad. President Truman told him, 'You're a hero.' He told reporters, 'How can I feel like a hero when 250 of my buddies hit the island with me and only 27 of us walked off alive?'

So you take your class at school, 250 of you spending a year together having fun, doing everything together. Then all 250 of you hit the beach, but only 27 of your classmates walk off alive... That was Ira Hayes. He had images of horror in his mind. Ira Hayes carried the pain home with him and eventually died dead drunk, face down at the age of 32 (ten years after this picture was taken.)

'The next guy, going around the statue, is Franklin Sousley from Hilltop, Kentucky. A fun-lovin' hillbilly boy. His best friend, who is now 70, told me, "Yeah, you know, we took two cows up on the porch of the Hilltop General Store. Then we strung wire across the stairs so the cows couldn't get down. Then we fed them Epsom salts. Those cows crapped all night." Yes, he was a fun-lovin' hillbilly boy. Franklin died on Iwo Jima at the age of 19. When the telegram came to tell his mother that he was dead, it was sent to the Hilltop General Store. A barefoot boy ran that telegram up to his mother's farm. The neighbors could here her scream all night and into the morning. Those neighbors lived a quarter of a mile away.'

'The next guy, as we continue to go around the statue, is my dad, John Bradley, from Antigo, Wisconsin, where I was raised. My dad lived until 1994, but he would never give interviews. When Walter Cronkite's producers or the New York Times would call, we were trained as little kids to say "No, I'm sorry, sir, my dad's not here. He is in Canada fishing. No, there is no phone there, sir. No, we don't when he is coming back." My dad never fished or even went ot Canada. Usually, he was sitting there right at the table eating his Campbell's soup. But we had to tell the press that he was out fishing. He didn't want to talk to the press.'

'You see, like Ira Hayes, my dad didn't see himself as a hero. Everyone thinks these guys are heroes, cause they are in a photo and on a monument. My dad knew better. He was a medic. John Bradley from Wisconsin was a caregiver. In Iwo Jima he probably held over 200 boys as they died. And when boys died in Iwo Jima, they writhed and screamed, without any medication or help with the pain.'

'When I was a little boy, my third grade teacher told me that my dad was a hero. When I went home and told my dad that, he looked at me and said, "I want you to always to remember that the heroes of Iwo Jima are the guys who did not come back. Did NOT come back."

'So that's the story about six nice young boys. Three died on Iwo Jima, and three came back as national heroes. Overall, 7,000 boys died on Iwo Jima in the worst battle in the history of the Marine Corps. My voice is giving out, so I will end here. Thank you for your time.'


Suddenly, the monument wasn't just a big old piece of metal with a flag sticking out of the top. It came to life before our eyes with the heartfelt words of a son who did indeed have a father who was a hero. Maybe not a hero for the reasons most people would believe, but a hero nonetheless.

We need to remember that God created this vast and glorious world for us to live in, freely, but also at great sacrifice. Let us never forget from the Revolutionary War to the current War on Terrorism and all the wars in-between that sacrifice was made for our freedom. Remember to pray praises for this great country of ours and also pray for those still in murderous unrest around the world. STOP and thank God for being alive and being free at someone else's sacrifice. God bless you and God bless America.

One thing I learned while on tour with my 8th grade students in DC that is not mentioned here is... that if you look at the statue very closely and count the number of 'hands' raising the flag, there are 13. When the man who made the statue was asked why there were 13, he simply said the 13th hand was the hand of God.
~~~~~

Now, the search for the truth, or facts...

According to Snopes.com, this in in fact, true. But... there are a few words that have been added to the original piece printed in 2000 by Michael T. Powers. Those are the ones that I've highlighted in red.

Words being added to distort or enhance the facts... Funny, that.

Since snopes won't allow their words to be copied and pasted, you'll need to click on the link above to read those words. A quote by the sculptor being asked about the 13th hand is there, too.

Here is where I am disagreeing with him and snopes.com, themselves. While the sculptor, Felix de Weldon said "13 hands. Who needed 13 hands. 12 were enough." He may not have seen that 13th hand, but it was there. The hand of God is an unseen force that many don't and won't recognize. Not being recognized for what it is, doesn't make it disappear.

I, for one, have felt the hand of God protecting me. Despite being in way too many accidents and incidents where I shouldn't have survived, I'm still here. And my search for the reason of being here and God's plan for me in this life will continue.




And so it goes......

A Year In Time...

Methinks I see the wanton hours flee,
And as they pass, turn back and laugh at me.
~~~~~George Villiers


I realized something late last night. And I had to get out of bed to verify. Yup, 'tis been a whole year since I first started this little bit of electrons in the blog-o-sphere. Actually the date coincided with Friday Funnies. March 20th.

A whole year. 275 posts so far. New friends made, old friends made dearer. Pretty funny in a weird way. Untold hours of that year spent here on the 'net reading those voices that clamour to be heard. Untold hours spent trying to determine what's truth and what's fiction.

Amazing what the past year has brought before my eyes. As I'm sure it will be amazing and enlightening to what this next year will be, too.




And so it goes......

Friday Funnies...

A poet is an unhappy being whose heart is torn by secret sufferings, but whose lips are so strangely formed that when the sighs and the cries escape them, they sound like beautiful music... and then people crowd about the poet and say to him: "Sing for us soon again;" that is as much as to say, "May new sufferings torment your soul."
~~~~~Soren Kierkegaard


Whew! What a week it's been. At times the days seemed to drag, then whoosh, the week is now nearly complete. Last night I slept the sleep of a newborn babe. I was out like a light, a deep dreamless sleep for more than a few hours. Amazing how much better you can feel after restful sleep. 'Tis a good thing, yes?

Today starts a new spring. The sun is shining and anything is possible. There are plans to write, so many things to do, places to go and people to see, and God is still King on High...

Put a smile on your face and start the day out right. Smiles and laughter are infectious. They are much more restorative than the gloom and doom that can be read here on the 'net. Today, I refuse to read about what all is wrong with the world. I refuse to read negative words that are written to bring about doubt. Today, I will only read positive thoughts, those written to uplift and brighten the world a bit. How bout you? What do you choose to read?

Perhaps a few funnies will help start the laughter and bring out a smile to share. Isn't that what life should be, sharing smiles and laughter? Things that are stored in our memory, and years later still bring a smile to those who remember. Yep, that's a life lived well.


But first a test...

This is a test for us 'old kids'! The answers are below, but don't cheat.


1) After the Lone Ranger saved the day and rode off into the sunset, the grateful citizens would ask, "who was that masked man?" Invariably, someone would answer, "I don't know, but he left this behind." What did he leave behind?

2) When the Beatles first came to the U.S. in early 1964, we all watched them on...The_____Show.

3) 'Get your kicks on______'

4) 'The story you are about to see is true, the names have been changed to_____'

5) 'In the jungle, the mighty jungle, _______'

6) After the Twist, The Mashed Potato, and the Watusi, we 'danced' under a stick that was lowered as low as we could go in a dance called the '_____.'

7) 'N_E_S_T_L_E_S', Nestle's makes the very best....._____'

8) Satchmo was America's 'Ambassador of Goodwill.' Our parents shared this great jazz trumpet with us, his name was _____.

9) What takes a licking and keeps on ticking?

10) Red Skelton's Hobo character was named____, and Red always ended his television show with "Good night and __ __."

11) Some Americans who protested the Vietnam war did so by burning their____.

12) The cute little car with the engine in the back and trunk in the front was called the VW. What other names did it go by? ___ and ___.

13) In 1971, the singer Don MacLean sang a song about the 'day the music died'. This was a tribute to ____.

14) We can remember the first satellite placed into orbit. The Russians did it. It was called___.

15) One of the big fads of the late 50's and early 60's was a large plastic ring we twirled around our waist. It was called the ____.

HA! Bet you thought I was gonna give you the answers here, didn't you? Oh noooo...they will be at the very end...
~~~~~

Deer Camp...

The guys were all at a deer camp. No one wanted to room with Doug because he snored so badly. They decided it wasn't fair to make one of them stay with him the whole time, so they voted to take turns.

The first guy slept with Doug and comes to breakfast the next morning with his hair a mess and his eyes all bloodshot.
They said, "Man, what happened to you?
He said, "Doug snored so loudly, I just sat up and watched him all night."

The next night it was a different guy's turn. In the morning, same thing - hair all standing up, eyes all bloodshot.
They said, " Man, what happened to you? You look awful."
He said, "Man, that Doug shakes the roof with his snoring. I watched him all night."

The third night was Pete's turn. Pete was a big burly former Marine; a man's man.
The next morning he came to breakfast bright eyed and bushy tailed. "Good Morning," he said.
They couldn't believe it!
They said, "Man, What happened?"
He said, "Well, we got ready for bed. I went and tucked Doug into bed, patted him on the butt, and kissed him good night. Doug sat and watched me all night."
~~~~~

Testicle Therapy...

Two women were playing golf. One teed off and watched in horror as her ball headed directly toward a foursome of men playing the next hole.

The ball hit one of the men.

He immediately clasped his hands together at his groin, fell to the ground and proceeded to roll around in agony.

The woman immediately rushed to the man and began to apologize. "Please allow me to help. I'm a Physical Therapist and I know I could relieve your pain if you'd allow me." she told him.

"Oh no, I'll be all right. I'll be fine in a few minutes", the man replied. He was in obvious agony, lying in the fetal position, still grasping his hands there at his groin.

At her persistence, however, he finally allowed her to help. She gently took his hands away and laid them to the side, loosened his pants and put her hands inside. She administered tender and artful massage for several long moments and asked, "How does that feel?"

He replied. "It feels great, but I still think my thumb's broken!"
~~~~~

And now for those answers to the test...

1) The Lone Ranger left behind a silver bullet.
2) The Ed Sullivan Show.
3) On Route 66.
4) To protect the innocent.
5) The Lion sleeps tonight.
6) The Limbo.
7) Chocolate.
8) Louis Armstrong.
9) The Timex watch.
10) Freddy, the Freeloader, and Good Night and God Bless.
11) Draft cards, (Bras were also burned. Not flags as some have guessed.)
12) Beetle or Bug
13) Buddy Holly
14) Sputnik
15) Hoola-Hoop




And so it goes......

Reading Time...

Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.
~~~~~Joseph Addison


My mind is all jumbled with scattered thoughts. I really need to take a few hours to sort things out. Even to write some down that are important. Alas, time is against me. I've spent part of my morning reading. No surprise there. It's what I do to relax.

I thought I would share some links from what I've read so far...

Vampire 06 at Afghanistan Shrugged has a wonderful letter of apology that he wrote to Mr. Taliban. A must read for those who want to keep abreast of the current happenings in Afghanistan. Besides that, it was hilarious in a tongue in cheek type of way.


And here is a hypothetical preview of the first 50 days of President John McCain, had he been elected. Just a matter of perspective written by a insightful man.


Did you know that Canada will be financing the salaries of the Afghan National Police? Yup, 'tis true. Thank you Brat, for your tax contributions that allow this to happen.


Speaking of Afghanistan, which I do quite often... President Karzai tells international community to steer clear of Afghanistan's politics.


Also in news from the 'Stan, a report of a member of Parliament who was killed by a bomb, along with 4 members of his security team.


The Washington Post has an article reporting State Department members will be going to Afghanistan. This is in support of the "surge" of new troops set to deploy soon. Let's hope that they actually do something once they become 'boots on ground'.


From a post over at Multiply comes this little notice of a new bill to fund G.I.V.E. Not Surprising that this bill was introduced by two Democrats. They spend, spend, spend so I must work, work, work. And that reminds me that it's time to make the doughnuts. Happy reading Y'all!




And so it goes......

Family Wishes And Dover...

I believe in equality for everyone, except reporters and photographers.
~~~~~Gandhi

Families' Wishes Will Drive New Media Guidelines at Dover, Gates Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2009 - The wishes of the families will be the overriding principle guiding any media coverage of fallen warriors' remains arriving at Dover Air Force Base, Del., Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said today.

Gates directed a working group to come up with a plan to change a ban on such coverage imposed during the Gulf War in the early 1990s.

"The working group I tasked to come up with an implementation plan has reported back, and we will put a number of its recommendations into action starting next month," Gates said during a Pentagon news conference.

If several remains return to Dover on the same flight, for example, "the media will be permitted to cover only the dignified transfer of individuals whose families have given permission," he said.

"Further, should immediate family members wish to be present for the arrival of their fallen hero at Dover, and this can be done without unduly delaying a fallen's return to his or her own hometown, we will facilitate that travel, and we will fund it," Gates said.

The study began with a survey of the groups concerned with the process. Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael J. Basla chaired the Defense Department's working group. He said his group spoke with Gold Star Mothers, Gold Star Wives, veterans groups and senior enlisted advisors. "What we heard were two sides of the story," Basla said during an interview. "Some were very in favor of media access to the dignified transfers when the families agree, and some had concerns."

The concerns were all around wanting to put the fallen heroes in the best of light. "They were concerned that that may not happen if we lose control," Basla said. On the other hand, he said, many family members wanted to tell the stories of their loved ones.

Officials at Dover will work out how the process will work. If families do not want media present, then officials at Dover can accomplish the dignified transfer of remains for those fallen warriors before allowing the media out to the tarmac.

Media professionals will have a strict protocol to follow when covering the story, Basla said. "If any part of the media violates those protocols, then their access would be restricted in the future. We're going to preserve the privacy of these families, and we're going to maintain the dignity of these transfers."

In making his announcement, Gates echoed those sentiments.

"We are committed to seeing that America's fallen heroes are received back to their loved ones and their country with the honor, respect and recognition that they and their families have earned," he said.

~~~~~

All I can say is that... WE WILL BE WATCHING!


This banner was taken from the Face Book group "No Media in Dover". Claire who pens the fantastic blog Knee Deep in the Hooah started the group. If I'm not mistaken, Brat and I were the second and third person to join. Tonight, there were 332 members. If you use Face Book, perhaps you might consider joining us.




And so it goes......

Just Because...

There's no such thing as bragging. You're either lying or telling the truth.
~~~~~Al Oliver








And so it goes......

Memorial For A Hero...

To live in hearts we leave behind
Is not to die.
~~~~~Thomas Campbell


Once again, my patriotic friend who resides in Canada has a beautiful post about one of 'Our Guys'; Sean Diamond.


Sean Diamond's family would have been celebrating his birthday today. Instead they will be having a memorial service for Sean. Please click on his name to read her words and thoughts in memory of Sean.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Diamond Family. Through this time of pain, may they know how much we grateful Americans share their sorrow. God's grace and blessings upon them all.


My thanks for giving me a glimpse into the life of another Hero go to Brat. She has been a blessing to me, and I am so lucky to call her "friend".




And so it goes......

History of St. Paddy...

Leprechauns, castles, good luck and laughter
Lullabies, dreams, and love ever after.
Poems and songs with pipes and drums
A thousand welcomes when anyone comes.
~~~~~Author Unknown

Just thought I would post a bit of history on the celebration of St. Patrick's Day...

Way back when I was in school, if you didn't wear a bit of green somewhere on your body, others would be allowed to pinch you. Of course, most of the boys would wear those silly green t-shirts that said..."Kiss me, I'm Irish." Did we? Aye, more than probably.

Tomorrow, I'm sure that there will be some young men and women who will be attired in those shirts. Who knows, they might get lucky, too. Especially if they've had their fill of those pints of green beer.
~~~~~

The person who was to become St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was born in Wales about AD 385. His given name was Maewyn, and he almost didn't get the job of bishop of Ireland because he lacked the required scholarship.

Far from being a saint, until he was 16, he considered himself a pagan. At that age, he was sold into slavery by a group of Irish marauders that raided his village. During his captivity, he became closer to God.

He escaped from slavery after six years and went to Gaul where he studied in the monastery under St. Germain, bishop of Auxerre for a period of twelve years. During his training he became aware that his calling was to convert the pagans to Christianity.

His wishes were to return to Ireland, to convert the native pagans to Christianity. But his superiors instead appointed St. Palladius. But two years later, Palladius transferred to Scotland. Patrick, having adopted that Christian name earlier, was then appointed as second bishop to Ireland.

Patrick was quite successful at winning converts. And this fact upset the Celtic Druids. Patrick was arrested several times, but escaped each time. He traveled throughout Ireland, establishing monasteries across the country. He also set up schools and churches which would aid him in his conversion of the Irish country to Christianity.

His mission in Ireland lasted for thirty years. After that time, Patrick retired to County Down. He died on March 17 in AD 461. That day has been commemorated as St. Patrick's Day ever since.

Much Irish folklore surrounds St. Patrick's Day. Not much of it is actually substantiated.

Some of this lore includes the belief that Patrick raised people from the dead. He also is said to have given a sermon from a hilltop that drove all the snakes from Ireland. Of course, no snakes were ever native to Ireland, and some people think this is a metaphor for the conversion of the pagans. Though originally a Catholic holy day, St. Patrick's Day has evolved into more of a secular holiday.

One traditional icon of the day is the shamrock. And this stems from a more bona fide Irish tale that tells how Patrick used the three-leafed shamrock to explain the Trinity. He used it in his sermons to represent how the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit could all exist as separate elements of the same entity. His followers adopted the custom of wearing a shamrock on his feast day.

The St. Patrick's Day custom came to America in 1737. That was the first year St. Patrick's Day was publicly celebrated in this country, in Boston.

Today, people celebrate the day with parades, wearing of the green, and drinking beer. One reason St. Patrick's Day might have become so popular is that it takes place just a few days before the first day of spring. One might say it has become the first green of spring.
~~~~~

And just one more Irish Blessing...

May luck be our companion
May friends stand by our side
May history remind us all
Of Ireland's faith and pride.
May God bless us with happiness
May love and faith abide.

And so it goes......

Who Knew...

You took my hand
You showed me how
You promised me you'd be around
Uh huh
That's right
I took your words
And I believed
In everything
You said to me
Yeah huh
That's right

If someone said three years from now
You'd be long gone
I'd stand up and punch them out
Cause they're all wrong
I know better
Cause you said forever
And ever
Who knew

Remember when we were such fools
And so convinced and just too cool
Oh no
No no
I wish I could touch you again
I wish I could still call you friend
I'd give anything

When someone said count your blessings now
'fore they're long gone
I guess I just didn't know how
I was all wrong
They knew better
Still you said forever
And ever
Who knew

Yeah yeah
I'll keep you locked in my head
Until we meet again
Until we
Until we meet again
And I won't forget you my friend
What happened

If someone said three years from now
You'd be long gone
I'd stand up and punch them out
Cause they're all wrong and
That last kiss
I'll cherish
Until we meet again
And time makes
It harder
I wish I could remember
But I keep
Your memory
You visit me in my sleep
My darling
Who knew
My darling
My darling
Who knew
My darling
I miss you
My darling
Who knew
Who knew

No embedding for this song was allowed...but you can watch here

And...That's all I've got to say bout that.




And so it goes......

Will You Help OUR GUYS...

Sometime in your life, hope that you might see one starved man, the look on his face when the bread finally arrives. Hope that you might have baked it or bought or even kneaded it yourself. For that look on his face, for your meeting his eyes across a piece of bread, you might be willing to lose a lot, or suffer a lot, or die a little, even.
~~~~~Daniel Berrigan



There have been times that I have blegged for some help with something that needed taken care of. Tonight I'm going to do it again. And here's why...

Troy over at Bouhammer put out a plea on his blog and on twitter. A while back, he was in contact with some of 'Our Guys' who are deployed to Afghanistan. Apparently there were problems with getting mail and supplies. While those problems might have been remedied temporarily, it seems that the problem has reoccurred. And it really bites my butt to think that we have a group of our men who aren't getting what they need. Especially food. Can you imagine doing what they are, and not having good food to give them the strength to continue? Why in the world they are having to request help from home is beyond my comprehension. But they are, and I'm going to beg your help. Yep, I said beg.

Sooo...if you would, go over to see Troy or if nothing else, email me. I have their addresses as well. We can't let them down, now can we?


And here's another request for a bit of a helping hand.

CJ, at A Soldier's Perspective, another one of 'Our Guys', has a slight problem. He has been sending Girl Scout cookies and coffee to those deployed down range. But his problem stems from the fact that he has been donated 350 pounds of coffee. It's wonderful that Starbucks donated the coffee, but CJ has very little money to cover the cost of shipment. Let me tell ya, that's a whole heap of boxes to ship! Not counting all the cookies he has waiting to ship out, too.

Most everyone knows that while serving in our Armed Forces is noble, it sure ain't going to make you rich. CJ has a family as well. So... a bit of monetary support would be greatly appreciated. Surely you could search under those old couch cushions for some spare change. Empty the piggy bank, cause every penny helps.


Could you, would you consider helping a couple of 'Our Guys' here at home get the help out to more of 'Our Guys' who are so far away? Please, pretty please??




And so it goes......

Invited To A Tea Party...

It might be more worthwhile if we stopped wringing our hands and started ringing our congressmen.
~~~~~Author Unknown


Anyone who has been keeping up with the latest escapades of our government and all those companies wanting bailed out must have heard about the "tea parties" that are happening across the country. There have been groups formed on FB, and around the 'net. O'Wise One sent me a email and a link that details a nation-wide call to prepare a "tea bag" to be sent to our elected officials. Hopefully this will give them some idea as to the thoughts and feelings of their constituents. Will it make a difference? Who knows, but at least it's a start. Has to start somewhere, yes?

It came as no surprise to read the following in the local news. Thousands gather (in Cincinnati) for Tea Party But this was the first I had heard of it taking place on Fountain Square today. Of course, After reading the main story, I had to read some of the comments. No surprise there either. Reckon the diversity of opinions and folks is what makes this country so great.


Now for the email from O'Wise One...

There's a storm abrewin'.

What happens when good responsible people keep quiet? Washington has forgotten they work for us. WE don't work for them. Throwing good money after bad is NOT the answer. I am sick of the midnight, closed door sessions to come up with a plan. I am sick of Congress raking CEO's over the coals while they, themselves, have defaulted on their taxes. I am sick of the bailed out companies having lavish vacations and retreats on my dollar. I am sick of being told it is MY responsibility to rescue people that, knowingly, bought more house than they could afford. I am sick of being made to feel it is my patriotic duty to pay MORE taxes. I live on a budget and I don't' ask someone else to carry the burden for poor decisions I may make. I have emailed my Congressmen and Senators asking them to NOT vote for the stimulus package as it was written without reading it first. NO ONE listened. They voted for it, pork and all.

OK Folks, here it is. You may think you are just one voice and what you think won't make a difference. Well, yes it will and YES, WE CAN!! If you are disgusted and angry with the way Washington is handling your taxes. If you are fearful of the fallout from the reckless spending of BILLIONS to bailout and "stimulate" without accountability and responsibility then we need to become ONE, LOUD VOICE THAT CAN BE HEARD FROM EVERY CITY, TOWN, SUBURB AND HOME IN AMERICA. There is a growing protest to DEMAND that Congress, the President and his cabinet LISTEN to us, the American Citizens. What is being done in Washington is NOT the way to handle the economic free fall.

So, Here's the plan. On April 1, 2009, ALL AMERICANS are asked to send a TEABAG to Washington D. C. You do not have to enclose a note or any other information unless you so desire. JUST A TEABAG. Many cities are organizing protest. If you simply search, "New American Tea Party", several sites will come up. If you aren't the 'protester' type, simply make your one voice heard with a TEABAG. Your one voice will become a roar when joined with millions of others that feel the same way. Yes, something needs to be done but the lack of confidence as shown by the steady decline in the stock market speaks volumes.


This was not my idea. I visited the sites of the 'New American Tea Party' and an online survey showed over 90% of thousands said they would send the teabag on April 1.

Why April 1??? We want them to reach Washington by April 15.

Will you do it? Will you spread the word? I will. Send your teabag to;

1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, D.C. 20500

Visit the website below for more information about the 'New American Tea Party'. I would encourage everyone to go ahead and get their envelope ready to mail, then just drop it in the mail on April 1. Can't guarantee what the postage will be by then, it is going up as we speak.
What will it cost you, but a little time and a 40 something cent stamp.

What could you receive in benefits? Maybe, just maybe, our elected officials will start to listen to the people. Take out the Pork! Tell us how the money is being spent! We want TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY. Remember, the money will be spent over the next 4-5 years. It is not too late.



~~~~~


Here's what is being said on "New American Tea Party". Be sure you read those comments. It appears that instead of an actual tea bag being sent, a picture of one or a facsimile of the original tea party be sent instead. Letters being most likely to arrive through the mail system.

Here's what Snopes.com had to say about the above email.

And on February 27th, there was a protest outside the White House. The Washington Independent reported it here.

It does appear that there is a movement taking place. Will you join in? It's that or I reckon we could call for the impeachment of every elected official that voted "aye" for the stimulus bills. Even those that voted "nay" need to learn that our voices and votes are going to be heard.

Again, I ask... Will you join in?





And so it goes......

Back In The Day...

There's nothing that can help you understand your beliefs more than trying to explain them to an inquisitive child.
~~~~~Frank A. Clark


Yesterday afternoon, after picking up the Hunny Bunnies and Booger Butt, we were driving across town to my oldest son's house. It had been decided that we should all go out to lunch.

The conversation from the back seat caught my attention when I heard my 4 yr old Booger Butt explain to his 5 yr old cousin, Hunny Bunny 1..."Back in the day, I had so much stuff to do." Her response? "Yeah, well 30 years ago, I was always working"...

Kids! The things they say when they think no one is listening. I couldn't help but laugh at them.

I also can't help but hope that they will remember their time with me... back in the day!



A picture of Momma and some of the great grand children in our family. The Hunny Bunnies are the two holding their doll babies. Booger Butt has his arms crossed. He appears to be pontificating about something... yep, shades of his Pop Pop.




And so it goes......

Officially...

I think that if ever a mortal heard the voice of God it would be in a garden at the cool of the day.
~~~~~F. Frankfort Moore


From my in-box of received American Forces Press Service releases. These are the works and words from official places and people. So much more from there, but in the interest of space and attention, I've picked just three. If you would like to read more, just click the 'Official DoD' link on the right. Or use the little widget below 'News I peruse'.

U.S. Team Helps to Plant Seeds for Afghan Farmers' Success

By Army Capt. Michael Greenberger
Special to American Forces Press Service

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 12, 2009 - As the noon sun crept toward the mountains west of Janquadam, children ran from all corners of the village, greeting the group of soldiers from the 28th Forward Agribusiness Development Team.

Army Sgt. Allen Abbott, left, and Army Staff Sgt. Joseph McMurtrey, with the 28th Forward Agribusiness Development Team, use a compass and measuring tape to accurately measure and mark a local farmer's field for the future planting of a vineyard west of Janquadam, Afghanistan, Feb. 28, 2009. U.S. Army photo by Capt. Michael Greenberger (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

On this warm, late-February day, the team was on a mission to help a blind farmer develop his fields so he eventually can build a new grape vineyard.

The ADT, a National Guard unit deployed from Nebraska, has come to Afghanistan to assist and educate farmers on better farming techniques, and to introduce them to grasses and alfalfa for better animal health.

No strangers to this village, soldiers of the 28th have visited several times before.

"On a previous mission, we assessed the farmer's fields," Army Sgt. 1st Class Eldon R. Kuntzelman said. "Then we got a letter of agreement from the land owner, and later presented our plan to him."


"Marking and measuring the field was our primary mission," Army 1st Lt. Eric Sattelberg, agricultural team chief, said. "Our goal on every mission is to improve relations with the [local residents]. In the long run, this type of mission will strengthen the bond between Afghanistan and the U.S., because they know that we are here to help grow this nation rather than destroy it."...

(Click the title to continue reading the rest of this story.)

~~~~~

Security in Afghanistan Sets Conditions for Future, Mullen Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - Providing security for Afghan people until they can provide their own will help set the conditions needed to move the country forward, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said yesterday during a Public Broadcasting Service interview.

U.S. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, speaks with journalist Charlie Rose during a Public Broadcasting Service interview in Washington, D.C., March 11, 2009. DoD photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

The United States is "not there to run Afghanistan," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen told PBS interviewer Charlie Rose.

U.S. forces are training the Afghan military and allowing the government the time needed to take care of its people. "When we've gotten to that point, we're leaving," he said. "There's no question in my mind." ...

..."There are a large group of requirements in Afghanistan," he said. "We need police trainers, and there are plenty countries in Europe that do that exceptionally well. We need individuals not in the military who could take care of training ministries at all levels. We need development experts, whether it's in agriculture or other industries that would apply in that country.

"So we need a lot of help across a full spectrum of capabilities, not just the military side."

The chairman noted that Afghanistan is a long way from dealing with the Taliban.

"I think in any counterinsurgency, if you're successful, you get to a point where there's got to be some kind of reconciliation, but we're not at that point right now," he said. ...

(Click the title to continue reading the rest of this story.)
~~~~~

And now for some sweet news...

Deployed Troops to Receive Sweet Treat Overseas

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 - Deployed servicemembers in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo and Kuwait will not miss out on Girl Scout cookies this year, thanks to the troop-support group "Hugs for Our Soldiers."

Brownie Troop 61, from Duluth, Ga., display the Girl Scout cookies they plan to send to deployed sevicemembers as part of "Operation: Taste of Home." Courtesy photo (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

The group's first Girl Scout cookie drive was in 2004. Five years later, the group continues to partner with Gwen Lawrence and her Brownie Troop 61 to collect cookies for "Operation: Taste of Home."

"I currently have possession of more than 1,000 Girl Scout cookie boxes that have been donated by churches, civic organizations or placed in donation boxes in various locations," Kathy Orcutt, president of Hugs for Our Soldiers, said. "The big numbers will roll in next weekend when the service units complete their sales. I expect at least 3,000 more boxes."

As community members purchase their favorite box of cookies, they are encouraged to show support to local service members and their local Girl Scouts by purchasing an extra box or two for deployed troops so they can enjoy a taste of home.

The cookie drive will end March 22.

"Most of the cookies will be shipped to our troops," Orcutt said. "At least a thousand of them will be used here, at home, to support our 'Welcome Home' program. We'll place them in the barracks rooms of single soldiers who will be returning from deployment at the end of this month and in April. What a big surprise they will have -- to see that they didn't miss Girl Scout cookies this year!"

MaKayla White, 10, a member of the Tennessee Junior Troop 741 of the Little River Service Unit, collects cookies for Orcutt's group, and said she is glad to be participating in the cookie drive.

"It just makes me feel really good to do something for them," MaKayla said. "They are so far away. It's good to make sure the troops have some snacks. The troops always love our Girl Scout cookies. We are just so proud of them."

Orcutt said she believes Girl Scout cookies are among the most requested snack items for deployed servicemembers.

"Everyone looks forward to this once-a-year sale ... soldiers included," Orcutt said. "From the comments and thank yous we've received, it's apparent to me that when a soldier opens a box of Girl Scout cookies, takes his first bite, a memory of home enters his mind."
~~~~~



And so it goes......

Friday Funnies...

There is no surprise more magical than the surprise of being loved. It is God's finger on man's shoulder.
~~~~~Charles Morgan


'Tis another Friday the 13th. Superstitious? Nope, not me. For me, it's a blessing in disguise. An early payday. Just means I have a few more days to pay those pesky things we call bills. Then again, it will give me a few more opportunities to purchase more Devil Dog and Snipers Brew Coffee. We tried the Snipers Brew for the first time this morning. We both concurred, a most tasty concoction. One I'm sure to include in future love boxes to my soldiers. Of course, I was reminded to make sure that it was the type that had been ground already. It was pointed out that most soldiers don't have coffee grinders in their hooches. Darn it!! Ahh, the smell is intoxicating. I love grinding and brewing fresh coffee beans.


Tis also the day for posting the funnies. A bit of wit to bring about that beauteous smile to the faces of those who possess a sense of humor. How sad the world would be without humor. God must have the greatest sense of humor. Why else would he send a plague of frogs? Yes, I know... still must have been pretty funny to see frogs falling from the sky.


Last rites...

The priest was preparing a man for his long day's journey into night.

Whispering firmly, the priest said, "Denounce the devil! Let him know how little you think of his evil!"

The dying man said nothing so the priest repeated his order.

Still the dying man said nothing.

The priest asked, "Why do you refuse to denounce the devil and his evil?"

The dying man said, "Until I know where I'm heading, I don't think I ought to aggravate anybody."
~~~~~

Best of Late Night...

"President Obama created a new White House Council on Women and Girls,
which deals with all things related to women. When Bill Clinton heard about it,
he said, 'Why didn't I think of that?' " -- Jimmy Fallon

"Celebrity birthday today. Osama bin Laden turned 52 today, and apparently
he's going through a mid-life crisis because he bought himself a bright red
1965 camel." -- David Letterman

"President Obama signed a bill today overturning President Bush's restrictions
on stem-cell research. He said stem-cell research can help save lives,
cure disease and help develop better hair plugs for Joe Biden." -- Jay Leno

"Over the weekend, we had the time deal and moved the clocks forward. And because of that, we lost an hour, and I'm thinking well hell, we've lost everything else.
Who cares?" -- David Letterman

"The federal government agreed on Sunday to provide an additional $30 billion to AIG. According to AIG, $15 billion will be used to build the world's biggest toilet, down which the other $15 billion will be flushed." -- Seth Meyers

"No wonder Obama has gray hair. That was the big story in the paper yesterday, Obama has gray hair. Wow, now his hair isn't black enough." -- Bill Maher
~~~~~

You can ring my bell...

A man is walking down the street one day when he notices a very small boy
trying to press a doorbell on a house across the street. However, the boy
was very small and the doorbell was just too high for him to reach.

After watching the boy's efforts for some time, the man moved closer to
the boy's position.

He stepped smartly across the street, walked up behind the little fellow
and, placing his hand kindly on the child's shoulder, leans over and
gives the doorbell a solid ring.

Crouching down to the child's level, the man smiles benevolently and
says, "There you go! And now what, my little man?"

And with a grin, the boy replies,

"Now we run!"
~~~~~

And on a purely personal note...for the man dear to my heart. Safe travels, Darlin, watch out for all those asshole drivers! They're everywhere...

"May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand."




And so it goes......

A Place To Call Their Own...

How hard it is to escape from places. However carefully one goes they hold you - you leave little bits of yourself fluttering on the fences - like rags and shreds of your very life.
~~~~~Katherine Mansfield



Reading my Armed Forces Press Service releases this morning, I came across the one below. Which ties in neatly with my post from last night. Nangarhar PRT has been busy working on projects that will help the residents of that particular part of the country. Wouldn't it be wonderful if each and every PRT could build a resource center for the women in their particular area? I think that it would go a long way in helping those women whose men folk are engaged in fighting. Just in case...

Resource Center to Provide Training, Education for Afghan Women

By Air Force Capt. Dustin Hart
Special to American Forces Press Service

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 11, 2009 - The provincial reconstruction team in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province joined provincial leadership March 7 for a groundbreaking to mark the beginning of construction on a women's resource center in Jalalabad, Afghanistan.

Gov. Gul Agha Sherzai of Afghanistan's Nangarhar province joins other provincial leadership in cutting the ribbon at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Nangarhar Women's Resource Center in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, March 7, 2009. The facility will provide a secure location for women to meet and receive educational and technical training courses. U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Dustin Hart (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

"We requested the PRT's assistance on this project, and now it has been funded," Gov. Gul Agha Sherzai said at the ceremony. "This is going to be a great place for all the women of Nangarhar."

The facility, slated for completion in about seven months, will include a two-story, 12-room building, and a surrounding privacy wall that will allow the women to meet and exchange ideas in a secure, private location. The center also will offer educational and technical training classes.

"I can't express the happiness this project will bring the women of Nangarhar," Sheela Barburi, director of women's affairs for the province, said. "The resource center will allow women to get training and make different products they can sell to make money and support their families."

The province doesn't have a facility that offers these types of services, which made supporting the project a priority for the PRT, Air Force 2nd Lt. Steven Klenke, Nangarhar PRT engineer, said.

"This facility will be exclusively used to meet the needs of the women in Nangarhar," said Klenke, who is deployed from Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. "It's a very exciting project to be a part of and an honor to work with the Department of Women's Affairs to create the center."

Air Force Lt. Col. Steven Cabosky, Nangarhar PRT commander from Newton Falls, Ohio, said the center will be a valuable addition for the province.

"The United States strongly supports equal rights for all women," Cabosky said. "While there is work to be done here in Afghanistan, this facility is definitely a step in the right direction."

The Nangarhar PRT is responsible for assisting the provincial, district and local governments in the province with their governance, security and reconstruction efforts. The team is working on more than 55 projects worth about $74.1 million.

(Air Force Capt. Dustin Hart serves with the 1st Infantry Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team, Nangarhar Provincial Reconstruction Team.)
~~~~~


This is just one of the good bits of news coming from Our Guys who are boots on ground. There are some that aren't so good. But isn't that life? You gotta take the bad with the good. Like right now, I've got to spend another day at the donut place. That's bad due to so many other projects that I need to work on, but good that I have a job to allow those projects. It all works out in the end, I think. A good perspective to have.




And so it goes......