Sing Along...

At the height of laughter, the universe is flung into a kaleidoscope of new possibilities.
~~~~~Jean Houston






What? You're not laughing or singing along? All I can say...Sucks to be you!



And so it goes......

A Few Drops...

If Heaven made him - earth can find some use for him.
~~~~~Chinese Proverb


Came across this notice the other day. One woman's wealth that she chose to share with the girls going to school in Kapisa province of Afghanistan. I wonder if she knows the ripples that will spread with her donation, and how many ripples will be created by those Afghan girls who will benefit by the knowledge gained at the school she donated the money to?

(photo was found in Photo Section at Quqnoos, specifically Afghan Women Suffer and Enjoy Life )
~~~~~

While most stories of how 'Our Guys' (Yes, the Canadian troops are part of 'Our Guys') help the Afghan people who are injured by IED's or from the dastardly actions of the Taliban, don't reach the eyes of the American people, or the world for that matter. The Canadians have reported one such story below.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD - Five-year-old Kamila Gul should not have survived the landmine blast that slammed shrapnel into her tiny body, most of it to her skull.

Medical staff at Kandahar Airfield hospital call her survival a miracle.

After more than seven weeks of care following emergency surgery to remove the shrapnel from her brain, the little girl - staring stoically from her hospital cot into the eyes of onlookers while she plays with a plastic yellow hairbrush - will be ready to return home within a week.

"The Taliban put the mine there. It killed my brother," her father, Fada Gul says through an Afghan translator.

The mine blast occurred on a small road near the family's farm.

"She is fine now. They take good care of her in the hospital. Thanks to all these medical staff," says Gul, seated cross-legged and barefoot on the bed beside his bandaged child, adding he's grateful to Canadians for all their efforts.

Read the rest here.

~~~~~


And so it goes......

Things Change ~ Not...

Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights.
~~~~~Pauline R. Kezer


How fast the past five days have flown by. It's been one family get together after another. Thanksgiving dinner at my big little brother's house with his wife's family, dinner with my children here at my house, dinner at my littlest sister's house with our entire family. A good time to be thankful for all the blessings we've received, and especially thankful for the family that remains.

Today, my daughter and I took a small trip down memory lane with a visit to her Aunt's and Grandma Kathi-n-Lois. How strange to think of that name again after so many years of not being in touch. When all my children were small, they had multiple sets of grandparents. Of course, they included the great grandparents still living during their youth. So they named them by whatever means they could to keep them all straight in their minds, mainly by adding the names of their aunts or uncles who were closer to their own ages. Sadly, the grandparents numbers have been reduced to just a few, yet the childhood names have remained.


Driving up through the Eastgate area, I was amazed at the amount of change that had taken place over the past 10-12 years since I had traveled Rt. 32. What had been farmland and small residential areas were now replaced with mega malls and strip malls of all sorts. As I drove, I kept saying... That wasn't there. Goodness gracious! It's an Auto Mile here. Look at that! When did they put that in?

Progress marches on. Farms disappear, subdivisions reappear in their place. There were a few landmarks I remembered from my many drives up the same road in the past. Dropping down the hill into Batavia, not much had changed from the highway view. Well, except a new exit road or two. How many times did I take the exit to Owensville to pick up or drop off my two stepsons? Too many to count, I'm sure.

Past Mercy Hospital Clermont, which was just a small community hospital in the years before to a much larger, multi storied building today. I remember well the trip that was taken to their emergency room when the call came about Dad having an accident. Only he hadn't arrived yet. No reason for speed. Yet we did.

Finally near the Williamsburg exit, I felt the familiarity of the road. New restaurant though across from the stop sign. New houses had sprung up along side. Remembered the right street to make my turn. Until we neared our destination. Wait, is this the right street? I don't remember that Nursing Home. Oh my, there's the driveway. You ready for this? Yep, let's do it.

Hugs given and received. Introductions to the newest nieces and cousins made. Conversations started and didn't stop for more than a few hours. Caught up on all the news and family drama's that are inherent to all families everywhere. Hours spent in the company of those whose presence should have never separated from us in the first place were it not for those family drama's... Well, never again.

A reminder that some things stay the same no matter the changes we've seen.



And so it goes......

Give Thanks This Day...

Thanksgiving is the holiday of peace, the celebration of work and the simple life... a true folk-festival that speaks the poetry of the turn of the seasons, the beauty of seedtime and harvest, the ripe product of the year - and the deep, deep connection of all these things with God.
~~~~~Ray Stannard Baker

Here at my house, I have much to be thankful for. Family, friends, job, health, roof, vehicle, free country, and the knowledge that there are men and women who voluntarily stand watch over me and mine. I'm blessed. As we all are.

Today and every day, sending much love and so many thanks from my house to yours!





And so it goes......

A.W.O.L...

It is only when we silent the blaring sounds of our daily existence that we can finally hear the whispers of truth that life reveals to us, as it stands knocking on the doorsteps of our hearts.
~~~~~K.T. Jong


A slew of thoughts clamoring to be processed.

Off to do some pondering.

In the words of one our Great Warriors, "I shall return."



And so it goes......

Sticks, Stones And Words...

It is easier to find a score of men wise enough to discover the truth than to find one intrepid enough, in the face of opposition, to stand up for it.
~~~~~A.A. Hodge


Do you remember that little adage from your childhood...

Sticks and stone may break my bones but words will never hurt me?

Yeah? Well, let me tell ya, words do hurt. Words spoken in anger are often repented in leisure. You've heard that one, too, haven't you? Words are very powerful things. They can be used to injure, anger, ridicule, inspire and motivate the people they are spoken to. Words of praise or words of grievance can make or break a career even.

The question has to be asked of oneself... how do you want your words to be taken?

The reason I'm asking this is due to the fact words have been spoken against one of our Warriors. A few weeks ago, I wrote a post about CJ Grisham of 'A Soldiers Perspective' and his families issues with the Huntsville AL. PTA and local school system. We had hoped that those issues would be resolved. Unfortunately, that's not been the case. The PTA leadership has taken it upon itself to destroy CJ's career with the Army. Essentially, the Army has thrown him under the bus.

I won't pontificate about all the words that have been flung into space, I'll let you read the words from a few far more knowledgeable bloggers than myself.

From a fellow senior NCO; Bouhammer has called upon the "Pitchfork Brigade" with words of support and a plan for action...

BlackFive has written their thoughts with "Want Freedom of speech in the Army? Then Convert to Islam."

The Attack Machine has links to all relevant posts from 'A Soldiers' Perspective', (note: CJ has closed shop at the blog) along with a few well written words. They also have a post with who to contact to bring attention and action to this travesty.

Our dear friend from Canada; Brat, has been fuming and building up steam after finding out about the actions taken against CJ, Emily and their children. Unable to contain herself, she wrote her thoughts on how "A school in America forgets they are the parents' EMPLOYEE".

There are many more out in the blog-o-sphere who support our Warrior CJ and his family, and agree that the words and actions of one PTA of Huntsville Alabama along with the attending school system have overstepped the boundary of official duties.

My questions regarding this... If this is allowed to stand without proper dissent, who's next? And where will it stop?



And so it goes......

Finally, A Funny...

No matter how well you know the rules of netiquette, you will eventually offend someone who doesn't.
~~~~~Don Rittner


It's been quite some time since I've posted a few funnies for that humor fix we all need amid the bad news of the day. This morning, I almost spit my coffee out when I opened and read the email... I can sooo see my sister O'Wise One doing this. Yup, she's one of those tech-tards or would that be tech-turds?


THREE WOMEN, TWO YOUNGER, AND ONE SENIOR CITIZEN, WERE SITTING NAKED IN A SAUNA.

SUDDENLY THERE WAS A BEEPING SOUND. THE YOUNG WOMAN PRESSED HER FOREARM AND THE BEEP STOPPED.

THE OTHERS LOOKED AT HER QUESTIONINGLY. 'THAT WAS MY PAGER,' SHE SAID. I HAVE A MICROCHIP UNDER THE SKIN OF MY ARM.

A FEW MINUTES LATER, A PHONE RANG. THE SECOND YOUNG WOMAN LIFTED HER PALM TO HER EAR.. WHEN SHE FINISHED, SHE EXPLAINED, 'THAT WAS MY MOBILE PHONE. I HAVE A MICROCHIP IN MY HAND....'

THE OLDER WOMAN FELT VERY LOW -TECH. NOT TO BE OUT DONE,
SHE DECIDED SHE HAD TO DO SOMETHING JUST AS IMPRESSIVE.

SHE STEPPED OUT OF THE SAUNA AND WENT TO THE BATHROOM.
SHE RETURNED WITH A PIECE OF TOILET PAPER HANGING
FROM HER REAR END.

THE OTHERS RAISED THEIR EYEBROWS AND STARED AT HER.
THE OLDER WOMAN FINALLY SAID............

WELL, WILL YOU LOOK AT THAT....I'M GETTING A FAX!!
~~~~~

Well... I hope y'all think that was funny. I thought it hilarious! Now I've got to get busy. Lots of chores to complete and a few more boxes to get shipped. We've got too many deployed men and women who need to be shown some lovin'. Whacha y'all doing bout that? Lord knows that there are plenty to go around. Just get yourself over to Soldiers' Angels and do some good today.



And so it goes......

Yes, We've Noticed...

The government, which was designed for the people, has got into the hands of the bosses and their employers, the special interests. An invisible empire has been set up above the forms of democracy.
~~~~~Woodrow Wilson


Trying to keep with the things the power people in DC are doing can be a mind-numbing task. So much is being done behind closed doors while they espouse transparency. Uh huh... Our government is about as transparent as the Ohio River after a 3 day rain. So we watch and we notice those things being done, deals being made, bills slipped in behind other bills with no relevance to the original. Let's hope they notice we're noticing, and change their ways.

While visiting over at Coffeypot's place, I read the following piece and requested approval for re-posting. Coffeypot, being such a nice guy an all, as well as being a Veteran, permission was granted.

This was attributed to Sherry Hackett, Buddy Hackett's widow as the author, but that cannot be confirmed. It was intended for the September 11 Service Day but has taken hold on the web. Regardless, it is right on the mark and needs to be seen by everyone.

President Obama:

Today I read of your administrations' plan to re-define September 11 as a National Service Day. Sir, it's time we had a talk.........

During your campaign, Americans watched as you made mockery of our tradition of standing and crossing your heart when the Pledge of Allegiance was spoken. You, out of four people on the stage, were the only one not honoring our tradition.

YES, "We noticed."

During one of your many speeches, Americans heard you say that you intended to visit all 57 states. We all know that Islam, not America, has 57 states.

YES, "We noticed."

When President Bush leaned over at Ground Zero and gently placed a flower on the memorial, while you nonchalantly tossed your flower onto the pile without leaning over.

YES, "We noticed."

Every time you apologized to other countries for America 's position on an issue we have wondered why you don't share our pride in this great country. When you have heard foreign leaders berate our country and our beliefs, you have not defended us. In fact, you insulted the British Crown beyond belief.

YES, "We noticed.."

When your pastor of 20 years, "God-damned America " and said that 9/11 was "America's chickens coming home to roost" and you denied having heard recriminations of that nature, we wondered how that could be. You later disassociated yourself from that church and Pastor Wright because it was politically expedient to do so.

YES, "We noticed."

When you announced that you would transform America , we wondered why. With all her faults, America is the greatest country on earth. Sir, KEEP THIS IN MIND, "if not for America and the people who built her, you wouldn't be sitting in the White House now." Prior to your election to the highest office in this Country, you were a senator from Illinois and from what we can glean from the records available, not a very remarkable one.

YES, "We noticed."

All through your campaign and even now, you have surrounded yourself with individuals who are basically unqualified for the positions for which you appointed them. Worse than that, the majority of them are people who, like you, bear no special allegiance, respect, or affection for this country and her traditions.

YES, "We noticed."

You are 9 months into your term and every morning millions of Americans wake up to a new horror heaped on us by you. You seek to saddle working Americans with a health care/insurance reform package that, along with cap and trade, will bankrupt this nation.

YES, "We noticed."

We seek, by protesting, to let our representatives know that we are not in favor of these crippling expenditures and we are labeled "un-American","racist", "mob". We wonder how we are supposed to let you know how frustrated we are. You have attempted to make our protests seem isolated and insignificant. Until your appointment, Americans had the right to speak out.

YES, "We noticed."

On September 11, 2001 there were no Republicans or Democrats, only Americans. And we all grieved together and helped each other in whatever way we could. The attack on 9/11 was carried out because we are Americans.

And YES, "We noticed."

There were many of us who prayed that as a black president you could help unite this nation. In six months you have done more to destroy this nation than the attack on 9/11. You have failed us.

YES, "We noticed."

September 11 is a day of remembrance for all Americans.. You propose to make 9/11 a "National Service Day". While we know that you don't share our reverence for 9/11, we pray that history will report your proposal as what it is...a disgrace.

YES, "We noticed."

You have made a mockery of our Constitution and the office that you hold. You have embarrassed and slighted us in foreign visits and policy.

YES, "We noticed.."

We have noticed all these things. We will deal with you. When Americans come together again, it will be to remove you from office.

Take notice.

~~~~~

One last thing we've noticed... You may "talk the talk" on supporting our troops and giving them everything they need to complete the mission. But you have still yet to "walk the walk". We've been waiting for several months for YOUR decision for the needed troops for Afghanistan. Just this morning I read that four options presented have been rejected because you want a exit strategy. Which leaves me thinking that you and your cohorts are already planning on doing just that within the near future. Another message to the world that America is quitting before finishing the mission. Must be that 'Nobel Peace Prize' awarded for thoughts of things to come, eh?

Go watch this from Fox News.



And so it goes......

Thanks To ALL Our Veterans...

How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!
~~~~~Maya Angelou

Have you ever stopped to consider what this country would be if not for our Veterans?

Have you given thought to the many heroic actions that are done by countless men and women while we sleep peacefully?

Have you ever pondered how many have given their lives in the service of our Nation since the day our country was established? Or how many died bringing forth our freedom to be called the United States of America?


Do you ever wonder why it's only one day of the year that we are prompted to say "thanks"?

Perhaps, every day should be Veterans Day... for without all 5 branches of our Military, and every one of those men and women who have made up the ranks within, our world would be a much different place. Thank God for each and every one of them.

Now go shake their hands, give them a hug, and whisper or shout those few little words of gratitude they deserve to hear. To all of America's Veterans here at home or deployed around the four corners of the globe;

Thank YOU!!

Thank You!!
Thank You!!

Thank You!!
Thank You!!

And so it goes......

Breaking Barriers ~ In Iraq...

Pilots are a rare kind of human. They leave the ordinary surface of the word, to purify their soul in the sky, and they come down to earth, only after receiving the communion of the infinite.
~~~~~Jose Maria Velasco Ibarra


A dear friend sent the link to this story of a Captain in the Air Force who is deployed to Iraq. That isn't unusual in itself, but what makes this story really special, besides being my friends daughter, is that Captain Grannis is the first female Mi-17 helicopter pilot instructor to be tasked with training the Iraqi's pilots for their Air Force. Now, THAT is breaking some major barriers.

I am reminded of that old commercial for Virginia Slims...We've come a long way, Baby!

Please read the complete article on the wonderful accomplishments that Capt. Grannis has achieved since arriving at Camp Taji, Iraq. As I told her Momma, "be sure you let her know how proud we are..."

CAMP TAJI, Iraq -- Air Force Capt. Kacey Grannis, 721st Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron Mi-17 pilot, stands in front of an Mi-17 helicopter after a mission Nov. 5, 2009. Captain Grannis is the first female Mi-17 instructor pilot for Iraqi air force pilots at Camp Taji. She trains, advises and assists Iraqi helicopter pilots to develop their own air force. Captain Grannis is deployed from Andrews Air Force Base, Md., and hails from Sturgis, S.D. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Johnny L. Saldivar)

Female advisor invades Iraqi air space

11/4/2009 - CAMP TAJI, Iraq -- A female Air Force pilot deployed from Andrews Air Force Base, Md., works in a male dominated environment training Iraqi helicopter pilots.

Capt. Kacey Grannis, 721st Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron, is the Iraqi air force's first female Mi-17 instructor pilot at Camp Taji, a job which she describes as one of a kind.

"My primary duty as an air advisor is to train, advise and assist their pilots by expanding their knowledge base," she said. "I'm an American Air Force pilot flying in an Iraqi air force bird built by Ukrainians with an Iraqi co-pilot in a combat zone. Everything from the challenges we have to deal with, to the rewards that we reap from our relationships with the Iraqi co-pilots and the sheer 'cool' factor of the flying we get to do is rather unique."

In the Iraqi military female pilots are scarce, and upon notification their new advisor would be female, some Iraqi pilots doubted Captain Grannis' ability to handle the helicopter's large frame. However, the captain decided to let her skills speak for themselves.

"There have been other female air advisors, but not in this air frame," she said. "For the guys I was flying with, I think they were maybe not really sure what I could do, but they were at least willing to let me fly with them and let me demonstrate my skills. I was fortunate enough to have the best training in the world, so I was able to do what I know how to do. I believe I've garnered the respect I needed.

"One of my very good friends here is a member of Squadron 4's leadership," the Sturgis, S.D., native continued. "He's one of the most experienced Iraqi pilots here - he's an absolute wizard in the Mi-17 and he's known for being skilled for hovering without the flight control assist system. When I first got here, he wanted to fly with me to kind of gauge my skills. As we were out flying, I asked him if we could do some hovering with the auto pilot off, simply because I knew it was something he would find valuable if I could do it properly. I feel like the fact that I was able to one - do it, and two - do it well, I feel like he responded well to that."

Captain Grannis, who has more than 50 hours in the Mi-17, trains Iraqi pilots who have many more hours in the aircraft than she.

"Pilots as a whole tend to be competitive and respect number of hours and skill level," she explained. "The dynamic itself is very interesting - the pilots we fly with have a lot more experience in the aircraft specifically than we do; there are definitely things that we have as coalition advisors to learn from these guys. They are definitely the experts on the aircraft systems and the performance handling characteristics. However, we're not necessarily trying to teach them how to fly, we're trying to teach them how to employ the aircraft in ways that are different from what they've done in the past."

Outside of the learning environment, the Iraqis have come to view Captain Grannis as family.

"I get a lot of attention because I'm a female, but it's very respectful attention," she said. "A lot of times these guys kind of treat me like their little sister which is a great honor to me because I know in Iraqi culture, family is very important. I'm honored that these guys consider me a sister. But I tell them 'outside the aircraft, I'm a woman, inside the aircraft, I'm a pilot. And because I'm your instructor pilot, you're going to do what I tell you to do.'"

One student who has responded well to the Captain's training is Iraqi air force Capt. Jabbar, who says he has no qualms working with another female advisor "if they are as talented as Captain Grannis."

"Captain Grannis is the first female pilot I've worked with," he said. "She's a very good instructor and she has good experience for training and teaching. She always gives good advice and she never gives up."

With the training he and his peers are receiving, Captain Jabbar has high hopes for his country.

"We're making good progress with our training, and I hope the Iraqi air force is a strong air force for this country," he said. "I wish peace for Iraq and I wish the Americans a good and happy life, and I hope they wish the same for us."

Captain Grannis does.

"This has been a great experience," she said. "I'm very fortunate to have been able to come here and meet all these great people. I'm honored to work with the officers, warrant officers and airmen of the Iraqi air force. Without exception, every one of them is highly patriotic and dedicated to the job they're doing and dedicated to the idea of a free peaceful Iraq, and I think that's amazing."

CAMP TAJI, Iraq -- Air Force Capt. Kacey Grannis, 721st Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron Mi-17 pilot, talks with an Iraqi air force pilot after a mission Nov. 5, 2009. Captain Grannis is the first female Mi-17 instructor pilot for Iraqi air force pilots at Camp Taji. She trains, advises and assists Iraqi helicopter pilots to develop their own air force. Captain Grannis is deployed from Andrews Air Force Base, Md., and hails from Sturgis, S.D. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Johnny L. Saldivar)

And so it goes......

Just Follow The Links...

Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.
~~~~~Confucius


It's been a busy weekend so far. The Hunny Bunnies and Booger Butt have been in residence. Anyone that has children or grand children will know of which I speak. Yesterday, after much pleading and reasoning, we ventured off to one of the area's multiplex theatre's to see the movie "UP". Not being a huge fan of animated movies, I was doubtful that it would hold their attention. Lo and behold, every one of them sat the entire 90+ minutes without misbehavin'. Shocked, I was! And I must admit, I found it entertaining as well. A very good kid movie.

Today, the youngins' are outside playing and riding their bikes while I try to catch up on everything that's going on in the rest of the world. Earlier we were able to catch part of the Fox NFL Sunday show being broadcast from Afghanistan. Talk about exciting stuff...

"Look Nana, is that ******? I think he's waving at us."
"No, sweetheart, it isn't. But He's there somewhere." And he was. Just not hangin' out with the NFL Sunday Show.

Catching bits and pieces here and there, I've came across a few blog posts and news bits that are important enough to share. All you gotta do is... the clicky click thing! Yup, It's up to you to keep up with the happenings in our growing ever smaller world.

Now for those little links you will be wanting to click.

First, with what happened down at Ft. Hood this past week. It was stated in most news that Maj. Hasan was slated to go to Afghanistan to counsel the Warriors who had been in firefights. Supposedly, the horror stories that he had been listening to while at Walter Reed and Brook Medical had somehow transferred themselves to him and he developed PTSD. That would be Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Well.... JR Salzman begs to differ with that supposition. Fair warning though, JR is a soldier. And he speaks soldier talk. Lots of the f-bombs and other words that most mothers don't like to hear. Let me tell ya, this one doesn't mind! JR cuts through the BS and says exactly what he and so many others in the military are thinking. So, go ahead and click if you aren't afraid of a little strong language.

It isn't often that 'first hand accounts' are found without having gone through a clean up process. Not so on this one. It is a email detailing exactly what one soldier saw through his own eyes during that massacre that Maj. Hasan has been alleged of doing. In my eyes, there isn't any alleged to it. Just cold hard facts. Smoking guns were seen in his hands no matter the reason or why for's. But I'm sure that our court system will drag this one out and milk it for all it's worth. While we continue to pay for his medical care, housing and all other related costs.

From the official side of things, a special to the American Forces Press Service...
In the Line of Fire: Fort Hood's First Responders Heroically Save Lives

I've been catching up on a few posts over at American Thinker that really do make you think. Most times, I'm nodding my head in agreement. Today's was... A Memo To ABC: There's a Reason He's not called Smith. Yeah, my head was nodding up and down like a bobble head on the dash of a car traveling down a country gravel road.

I know the Army has released the names of those who lost their life at the hands of Maj. Hasan. As far as I know, the names of the wounded haven't been. Airman Mom has a post up with the names and a picture of all except one. Now you will be able to put a face to those who were so tragically cut down while readying to deploy in service to our great Nation.


If after reading all of the above links, you get this overwhelming desire to do your part in helping those who have experienced the worst, PLEASE go visit the USO at Ft. Hood. We all know that the various USO's around the world help 'Our Guys' whenever and however they can.



And so it goes......

Fox NFL Sunday In Afghanistan...

There are several differences between a football game and a revolution. For one thing, a football game usually lasts longer and the participants wear uniforms. Also, there are usually more casualties in a football game. The object of the game is to move a ball past the other team's goal line. This counts as six points. No points are given for lacerations, contusions, or abrasions, but then no points are deducted, either. Kicking is very important in football. In fact, some of the more enthusiastic players even kick the ball, occasionally.
~~~~~Alfred Hitchcock


Fox News announced last week that they were going to be taking the Fox NFL Sunday team to Afghanistan for Veterans Day. Well...guess what?

They have arrived!

They've been spotted at Bagram Air Field. I'm betting they are having a wonderful time at the place that has been dubbed 'Pogadishu' by Old Blue. Plenty of troops with reflective belts there to shake their hands and express their appreciation for the NFL team coming to see what they do. I saw the following story of Terry Bradshaw going on a supply airdrop to one of the outlying bases that can't be reached any other way but by air. Read on...


From AF.Mil

Capt. David Huffsteler (right) assist Terry Bradshaw with a co-pilot seatbelt on board a C-17 Globemaster III Nov. 5, 2009. Mr. Bradshaw, former quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was in the cockpit during takeoff of an airdrop mission. Captain Huffsteler is a C-17 Globemaster III pilot assigned to the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron and deployed to Southwest Asia. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Angelita Lawrence)

by Tech. Sgt. Joseph Kapinos
U.S. Air Forces Central combat camera team

11/6/2009 - OVER AFGHANISTAN (AFNS) -- The quarterback was crouched in his uniform, scanning the field from under his helmet for his intended receivers. But this was no stadium; it was a C-17 Globemaster III flying over the harsh and dangerous terrain that is Afghanistan. And there was no football, but rather 18 much-needed bundles of food, water and supplies for troops at a forward operating base. The quarterback, in this case a loadmaster, found his targets. Touchdown!

Former Pittsburgh Steelers QB Terry Bradshaw would be proud, and he was. He was there watching the pass and reception on board the C-17.

Mr. Bradshaw and the rest of the team from "Fox NFL Sunday" is touring installations throughout Southwest Asia as part of an event with Armed Forces Entertainment. During the visit, they'll meet with deployed troops and sign autographs. The trip concludes with a two-hour broadcast of "Fox NFL Sunday" from Afghanistan Nov. 8.

Visiting the Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines are:
--Mr. Bradshaw, the Steelers quarterback from 1970 to 1983.
-- Jimmy Johnson, the Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins coach from 1989 to 1999.
-- Howie Long, the Oakland Raiders and Los Angeles Raiders defensive end from 1981 to 1993.
-- Michael Strahan, the New York Giants defensive end from 1993 to 2007.
-- Curt Menefee, a sportscaster.
-- Jay Glazer, a sportswriter.

To get to Afghanistan, the NFL legends tagged along on an airdrop mission. For the aircrew, it was the chance of a lifetime to meet several NFL legends, but also an opportunity to showcase the efforts of the Air Force supporting the joint fight.

"Terry Bradshaw is a hero of mine and to be able to show him what the Air Force does is really awesome," said Staff Sgt. Matthew Gaffney, an instructor loadmaster with the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron. "It's great to show them how we can take pretty much anything and drop it wherever we want."

Seeing the mission up close and personal brought a new sense of appreciation for today's military, something every American should be reminded of, Mr. Long said.

"When you're on a trip like this, you truly get to see how remarkable this generation of Americans is," he said.

Toward the end of the mission, the aircrew presented an American flag, along with a certificate, to the football legends to thank them for visiting the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines.

In December 2000, "Fox NFL Sunday" broadcast two shows from the flight deck of the USS Harry S. Truman, during a patrol in the Mediterranean Sea. Armed Forces Entertainment is the lead Department of Defense agency for bringing entertainment to servicemembers overseas.

The "Fox NFL Sunday" team holds up a flag onboard a C-17 Globemaster III that was presented to them by Lt. Col Richard Williamson Nov. 5, 2009, on an airdrop mission over Afghanistan. The NFL team participated in an airdrop that supported ground troops in Afghanistan. Colonel Williamson is the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron commander deployed to Southwest Asia. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Angelita Lawrene)
~~~~~

Sweet, eh? To the Fox NFL Sunday team... You guys ROCK!

But just so you all know... 'OUR GUYS' ROCK MORE!!!



And so it goes......

Ft.Hood Updates From DoD...

Our great modern Republic. May those who seek the blessings of its institutions and the protection of its flag remember the obligations they impose.
~~~~~Ulysses S. Grant


The video below is from the Department of Defense network. This was part of the statement Sec. of Def. Robert Gates has released on the horrific shootings that happened yesterday at Fort Hood, Texas. There have been reports of another death added to the tally, now 13 killed.

Please keep those prayers going. The families of the men and women who serve our Nation really need to know that the rest of America stands beside them, ready to lend a helping hand for whatever is needed. God bless them all...






One final note from Robert Gates.

WASHINGTON — Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has declared a moment of silence for U.S. military forces worldwide as a show of respect for the Fort Hood victims. The moment of silence is planned for 2:34 p.m. EST Friday — exactly 24 hours after the shooting in Texas. All U.S. forces worldwide are being asked to participate in the show of respect.

And so it goes......

Overwhelming Breaking News...

The healthy and strong individual is the one who asks for help when he needs it. Whether he's got an abscess on his knee or in his soul.
~~~~~Rona Barrett


This evening has a nightmarish quality to it. I wake to the news that a soldier who was scheduled to deploy to Iraq started a shooting spree on Ft. Hood, Texas. The brain goes numb with the absolute pain that this has happened. 12 soldiers lost their lives on home ground. Over 30 were injured. There is so much speculation as to the cause of this. That doesn't answer the family of those who lost their lives question of 'Why?' Nor will it. All we can do at this point is PRAY!!!


Watch CNN for latest...


There has been an URGENT CALL for blood donations. You can donate at your local blood bank for those in Ft. Hood. Please, please go do what you can.

Soldiers' Angels is now taking cards and notes along with 'new' stuffed animals for the children of the families that have experienced such a tragic day at Ft. Hood.

Was just reminded that CNN is still debating the cause and effects of PTSD for the shooter. BUT... he had NOT deployed yet. Should be a moot point, but they are making it a "reason".
So do yourself a favor, go to BLACKFIVE for the facts. Matt is staying on top of this sad news.


Okay, I'm going back to watching the news and checking for the latest on Facebook. Y'all stay tuned. And most importantly, keep those prayers going for all of 'Our Guys' and the families.



And so it goes......

The Last Rose...

Youth is like spring, an over praised season more remarkable for biting winds than genial breezes. Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits.
~~~~~Samuel Butler




The trees are becoming more nekkid each day that passes. Last week they were full of the glorious colors of God's crayon box. But now after a weekend of low temperatures dropping down into the 30's along with the wind and rain sweeping in from north east, not so much.

Gazing out my kitchen window this morning, I noticed this one rose that hadn't been bitten by 'ol man frost. Though all the others around it have succumbed to his fatal bite.

I'll miss the beauty of the blooms and especially the scent that wafted through my windows. Perhaps I could make potpourri from those rosebuds and half opened blooms left clinging to the limbs. Something I could take out and inhale whenever I need a quick reminder that summer will return. Good Lord willin'.

Which reminds me that I need to pull up the herbs outside the back door for drying... Always something to do out here in the boonies. But first, it's off to the paycheck place.



And so it goes......

The Truth Will Stand...

You can't run away from trouble. There ain't no place that far.
~~~~~Uncle Remus


There's a storm a brewin'. No, not the type you associate with rain, thunder and lightning. This is a moral storm of sorts. And it involves one of our Warriors. Let me try to explain, then I'll give you links so that you can read the first hand accounts by the family who has been torn asunder from the lack of morals by others.

CJ Grisham, who is a First Sgt. in the United States Army has been caught between the politics being played out in his hometown with his children's school system and the PTA. A while back, his children brought home notices that uniforms were to be worn. Meetings with the PTA and school board were held. CJ, his wife Emily, and their children attended to have questions answered. CJ had brought his recorder along with him and was taping the meeting.

Which by the way, last time I checked, that was still allowed in public open forum type meetings.

One thing led to another, and words were spoken that should have been left unsaid. Accusations from members of the PTA regarding the use of threats were lodged against CJ. Other members in attendance brought up facts regarding CJ, his service and related PTSD. NONE of which had any bearing on his attending a PTA meeting for his children.

As some of you know, CJ writes "A Soldiers' Perspective". As well as blogging for VA Mortgage Center-You Served, and hosts a Blog Talk Radio show of the same name with Troy of Bouhammer fame. He also writes tributes to Fallen Heroes on the website "They Have Names".

There has been rumors circulated, false rumors, false accusations and all kinds of hatred spewed forth against CJ and his family. For whatever reason, there have been those in the PTA who made it their mission to cause problems for them, and have gone to his commanding officer with calls complaining of CJ's behavior. It has become their mission to ruin his career. Blown everything way out of proportion, they have. There is much more to read on this at CJ's place. You can find it starting here, here, here, here, and here. CJ's wife, Emily pens a post with her thoughts. Earlier today, CJ put on the Armour of God. Because we all know that the truth will stand until the end of time.

While I know that I can't do much, other than offer my prayers and moral support. I can ask the readers who stop in here, to go over and give CJ, Emily and their children all the support you can muster. It's the least we can do for one of our own who has sacrificed so much defending the very same freedoms that are being used against him. Please go leave a supporting word, say a prayer, send them a note that they are not alone in this. When you attack one of ours, you can bet your last dollar that you will have to take on all of us who stand beside and behind our Warriors.



And so it goes......

Copenhagen In December...*Updated*

I do not believe in a fate that falls on men however they act; but I do believe in a fate that falls on man unless they act.
~~~~~G.K. Chesterton


I had heard about this proposed treaty several weeks ago on Facebook. There were several links to it by a few bloggers I keep up with. Now it seems that it has caught the attention of Glenn Beck and Fox News. You've heard about Fox News and our current President, haven't you? Yeah, well... Mr. Obama doesn't like Fox, and has tried to shut them out of the White House and all the goings on there. He's got all the rest of the news networks in his back pocket, who needs a dissenting voice?

But I digress...

Talking with the elder sister the other night, this Copenhagen Proposal and Lord Mockton's warning was discussed. She wasn't aware of these shenanigans that are going on behind closed doors. As an activist, O'Wise One is slippin'... of course she was drafting a letter to our Kentucky Governor; Steven Beshear, for renaming Kentucky's Christmas Tree to "HOLIDAY Tree".
Yep, that didn't go over too well. He caved into the demands of being 'politically correct'. For shame! Gov. Beshear's grandfather was a pastor. He should know the only reason for Christmas is due to the birth of Christ. If you do the clicky click thing on that little link, it will take you to American Family Action website, where you can find the email address to add your thoughts to send to Gov. Beshear.
As I listened to her words to Mr. Beshear, I was reminded that we still have the right to voice our opinions and recommendations as how to correct their actions. After all, they are representing the people who pay them via taxes.

**NOTE** This just in...

Governor Beshear has heard you loud and clear

November 5, 2009

The governor of Kentucky has changed his mind about calling the traditional Christmas tree on the capitol grounds in Frankfort a "holiday" tree.

As you may know, your American Family Association played a key role in this victory for Christmas and against the forces of political correctness who want to remove the word "Christmas" from the Christmas season. Last Thursday, we sent an email alert into the Bluegrass State asking 38,370 of our friends to call and e-mail Governor Steve Beshear urging him to reverse his decision. As a result, thousands of emails and phone calls flooded the governor's office.

Bottom line: it worked. Thanks for speaking up – and congratulations on your victory!

Sincerely, Tim Wildmon, President American Family Association

~~~~~

Now, back to the upcoming Copenhagen visit by Mr. Obama. What? Do you think he will pass this by? Not the 'One' who has rushed to appease all the other world countries with his a** kissing. (and that's just my opinion) Please watch the video below, listen well, form your own opinion to whether this threat is real or not. I'll leave you to it with this little bit of wisdom:

"All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing" and that my dear friends was attributed to Edmund Burke, but which in actuality was taken from a Russian film adaptation of Leo Tolstoys' book "War and Peace"...according to wikiquote. However, it applies itself well to this.

Build your own custom video playlist at embedr.com

And so it goes......