“I Want Every Human to Live in Peace.”

So do I Mr. Hussein, so do I. Maybe, if more of us can be like you and Sergeant D, it can happen. From the United States Central Command site, comes this inpiring story of how an Iraqi fire fighter wants only the best for his country and how one soldier has made a difference in how America is perceived. The two men see each other as fellow human beings. Isn't that how it should be?

“I Want Every Human to Live in Peace.”
By Tom Clarkson
Gulf Region Division
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

With that one short, simple utterance, Abas Jasam Hussein, a 31 year old, unmarried, Iraqi fire fighter addressed his concerns for his country and hopes for its future. Though he spoke in a language other than his own, one could tell that he had thought long and hard on the subject.

The eight year veteran of the Baghdad fire fighting team has seen dramatic change during that time. Prior to Iraqi Freedom, if there were twenty individuals in his fire station, at any time during the day, that was a lot. Today, regularly, there are 120. Often he could not respond to a fire as there simply were not enough personnel or equipment to fight more then one at a time.

And pay? With an almost embarrassed smile he responds, “Under Saddam we made $3 to $4 a month and received a special inducement pay of an additional 20 cents for each fire we went to.” Today he earns $400 a month.

Clearly proud of the change he states, “Since the war I have received training in Germany and Jordan and we have received many new pieces of equipment. We now have new or modernized fire stations through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Project and Contracting Office. And Japan has donated 70 fire trucks and a number “command” vehicles.”

Much of the life saving equipment - such as the “Jaws of Life” and other hydraulic equipment to help get trapped persons out of wrecked cars - is new technology for the Iraqis. It is with this equipment that he regularly assists SSG Michael DiDonato to train firemen in a large, open field in the International Zone.

He beams when speaking of “Sergeant Di”, a member of the recently established Provisional Reconstruction Team, who stands nearby. Of his burly buddy and mentor he says, “We are learning much from “the father of the Baghdad Fire Department.” There is a great deal of truth to that fact. A New Jersey native, DiDonato has been here training Iraqi firemen since September of 2004 and is beloved by virtually all with whom he has so closely worked.

Hussein turns to him saying, “We need you to stay here and help rebuild Iraq. Not like your Manhattan.” He pauses thinking and with readily apparent sincerity finishes his thought saying, “but to make it at least better. I see (the U.S.) as very, very, very good – like a father.” With much sincerity he states with conviction, “I see the mercy inside the heart of the United States.”

Ask his thoughts regarding the US media claims of a civil war raging in his country and how he feels when he goes out to a fire. He answers plainly, “I feel very safe to come to work.” He acknowledges that occasionally fire fighters have been targeted by insurgents and, frowning in disgust says, “Firemen are for all humans in Iraq. We are not fighters.”

Addressing the significant differences between Kurds, Shiites, and Sunnis he speaks as a true professional. When trying to save endangered individuals, “I see only the human.” If but the rest of the world could only think, feel and act the same.

Vets for Freedom

I would like to make note of a great web site, that I recently discovered, Vets for Freedom. Their 'About Us' statement is below. Vets for Freedom's Executive Director, Wade Zirkle, asks that all visitors to the website, sign up. Said Wade, "Our organization is only as strong as our membership. Thanks again for the support!"

Vets for Freedom was founded by a group of Iraq and Afganistan War veterans who believe in the mission of freedom, specifically Operation Iraqi Freedom, but who have become frustrated with the way the operation has been politicized and reported to the home front.In January 2006, this group of veterans, enlisted personnel, and officers decided to take action. The result was the creation of Vets for Freedom, a non-profit advocacy group whose mission is to promote the unbiased, nonpartisan truth of military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan to educate the public and mobilize public support for the Global War on Terror. The founders and members of Vets for Freedom have witnessed the firsthand events, both the successes and failures, of the Iraq War. While their voice has largely been ignored by many policymakers and the media, they have earned the right to be heard and will use this organization to lend their insights to this worthy cause.

Read about our Founders here.

Read an open letter from our Executive Director here.

Read the story behind Vets for Freedom here.

“Combat Barbie”

It is always a pleasure for me to post news of military women. Cpl. Krista Bullard earned the friendly nickname of 'Combat Barbie' for her combat reaction on a 50 cal. during an ambush.

Fighting paralegal proves her mettle in Baghdad battle
By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Monday, March 27, 2006


CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait — You wouldn’t think this blond-haired, blue-eyed paralegal with a warm smile is a force to be reckoned with when she’s behind a .50-caliber machine gun.
But you — and the fighters who ambushed her convoy — would be wrong.

Army Cpl. Krista Bullard proved her combat mettle in late January when her convoy from Camp Arifjan came under attack close to Baghdad International Airport. Bullard, a private first class at the time, was the turret gunner in a Humvee when the enemy unleashed fire on her convoy at night. She returned fire with 61 rounds from her .50-caliber machine gun, causing secondary explosions at the enemy position. It was her first convoy manning a .50-caliber machine gun.

“I can’t say I wasn’t scared, because I was really scared,” said the 20-year-old from Altamont, Ill. “I didn’t want to be shot, but I wasn’t going to duck down and crawl in the vehicle. I was the .50-cal gunner. That was my job.”

Not only did Bullard earn the Combat Action Badge for her reactions in the incident, but the nearly 5-foot-10 woman received the friendly nicknames “Combat Barbie” and “Jag-Bo” from her fellow soldiers in the 37th Transportation Group out of Kaiserslautern, Germany. During this deployment, the 37th Transportation Command is known as the 37th Transportation Group.

The Rest of the Story

... conspicuous gallantry and indomitable courage above and beyond the call of duty ...

"Never leave a man behind." David Bleak honored that credo, with his heroic actions. A warrior passes on. But, his record of bravery remains behind to inspire us all.

Medal of Honor Recipient David Bleak Dies

BOISE, Idaho - David Bleak, a Korean War medic who received the Medal of Honor for rescuing a comrade amid hand-to-hand combat in 1952, has died. He was 74.

.

Bleak died Thursday at Lost Rivers District Hospital in Arco of complications from emphysema, Parkinson's disease and diabetes, family members said.

Bleak was a 20-year-old sergeant in the medical company of the 223d Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division, when he volunteered to go with a reconnaissance patrol, U.S. Army records say.

The Army's description of his actions on June 14, 1952, said Bleak killed two of the enemy with his bare hands and a third with his trench knife, and then shielded a comrade from the impact of a grenade that had fallen near the man's helmet.

Though he was wounded in the leg, Bleak began to carry the injured soldier, the medal citation said. Attacked by two enemy soldiers with bayonets, "he grabbed them and smacked their heads together, then carried his helpless comrade down the hill to safety."

Bleak returned to the U.S. soon after. In 1953, President Eisenhower awarded him the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military honor, at a White House ceremony.

Born in Idaho Falls in 1932, Bleak enlisted in the Army at age 18. He was singled out for medic training because he was tall and strong, said his son Bruce Bleak of Moore.

After his military service, Bleak worked at various jobs, including running a dairy farm and serving as a technician at the Idaho National Laboratory, a nuclear research compound, his son said.

He called his father a humble man who felt others had acted just as courageously but without recognition.

"He always said he carried the medal for them as well," the younger Bleak said.

Bleak is survived by his wife of 45 years, Lois; three sons; a daughter; two brothers; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, Bruce Bleak said.

Terrorist arrested, ordered under house arrest.

I'm sorry. I couldn't resist posting this story.

Crazy Cat Terrorizes Connecticut Town
Mar 29, 7:24 AM (ET)

FAIRFIELD, Conn. (AP) - Residents of the neighborhood of Sunset Circle say they have been terrorized by a crazy cat named Lewis. Lewis for his part has been uniquely cited, personally issued a restraining order by the town's animal control officer.

"He looks like Felix the Cat and has six toes on each foot, each with a long claw," Janet Kettman, a neighbor said Monday. "They are formidable weapons."

The neighbors said those weapons, along with catlike stealth, have allowed Lewis to attack at least a half dozen people and ambush the Avon lady as she was getting out of her car.

Some of those who were bitten and scratched ended up seeking treatment at area hospitals.
Animal Control Officer Rachel Solveira placed a restraining order on him. It was the first time such an action was taken against a cat in Fairfield.

In effect, Lewis is under house arrest, forbidden to leave his home.

Solveira also arrested the cat's owner, Ruth Cisero, charging her with failing to comply with the restraining order and reckless endangerment.

Darkhorse Marines deliver new wheelchair to Iraqi girl

Our troops seldom get credit from the MSM for stories like this. That is why I appreciate my friends in the blogging community who go out of their way to support our young men and women in uniform.

Darkhorse Marines deliver new wheelchair to Iraqi girl

By Cpl. Mark Sixbey
Regimental Combat Team 5

CAMP SMITTY, Iraq(March 16, 2006) -- An Iraqi family just set the noon meal on the table when some unexpected American visitors knocked on their front door.

Marines from Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment delivered a brand new pediatric wheelchair to the family of a disabled little girl in the town of Al Hasa, March 16. They are on duty in Iraq with Regimental Combat Team 5.

“We knew we had to help out in some way,” said Staff Sgt. Charles Evers, a platoon commander for Company I. “We don’t have a miracle cure, but we can at least give her a new wheelchair.”

The girl’s condition came to the company’s attention in January, during a routine patrol of the area. When her family brought her outside, Marines saw she had an old, rusty wheelchair, built for an adult.

“The girl was injured in a car accident two years ago,” said Evers, 27, from Lewiston, Idaho. “When we were there the first time, her father showed us x-rays of her spine. It’s actually separated.”

The girl’s parents, brothers and sisters greeted the returning Marines with smiles and hello’s even before they presented the new wheelchair.

“They seemed pretty happy about it,” said Cpl. Matthew Rivera, a squad leader. “When we first came in they looked surprised. Then we brought in the chair and their faces lit up.”

Moments after the Marines presented the gift, the girl’s father lifted her out of the old chair, placed her in the new one, shook the platoon commander’s hand, and said “Thank you.” He was so overjoyed, he repeated twice more.

The Marines left the home almost as quickly as they arrived, boarded amphibious assault vehicles and returned to Camp Smitty.

“I hope we make a difference with them, and left some kind of impression on these people,” Rivera said.

The battalion’s mission goes beyond maintaining security in the area and fighting the enemy, said Navy Seaman Yem Sophat, a hospital corpsman assigned to Company I.
“Besides combat, we help a lot of unfortunate people in this country,” said Sophat, 25, from Pomona, Calif. “I wish we could do more.”

“I wish I could give that little girl new legs to help her walk again,” said Rivera, 21, from Hereford, Texas.

“She’s adorable,” Sophat added.

Travels With Pace

I thought that this was a great photo. It is of General Pace, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. I found it on the DoD website, Travels with Pace. If you want to keep up with the war on terrorism and what the Chairman is doing about it, this has some informative links to a variety of stories. Here's the link: http://www.defenselink.mil/home/features/2006/pace03/index.html

Rumsfeld Pays Respects

I thought that this as a nice thing for Secretary Rumsfeld to do. It was a good story to post. But, I know to that this kind of story drives my liberal friends crazy and who am I to deny them that pleasure?

Rumsfeld Pays Respects to Flight 93 Heroes at Pennsylvania Crash Site

By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service

SHANKSVILLE, Pa., March 27, 2006 – Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld today paid respects to the 40 passengers and crewmembers killed here when they struggled against terrorist hijackers and crashed on Sept. 11, 2001. He declared their heroic effort a turning point in the war on terror.

.

"This is where America really started to fight back," Rumsfeld said of the passengers and crew members of United Airlines Flight 93, who attempted to reclaim their hijacked Boeing 757 before it could strike Washington, D.C.

"It's where a group of seemingly ordinary airline passengers gave their lives in extraordinary defense (from) foreign hijackers and in defense of our country's capital," the secretary told students at the Army War College, at Carlisle Barracks, Pa., later in the day.

.

The Rest of the Story

Should he be executed?

Zacarias Moussaoui, a 9/11 conspirator is currently going through the penalty phase of his trial. The maximum penalty is death. I, personally can't believe that any other option would be considered. Should he be executed? If they would let me, I would do it-for free and with pleasure.

Al-Qaida conspirator Zacarias Moussaoui testified Monday that he and would-be shoe bomber Richard Reid were supposed to hijack a fifth airplane on Sept. 11, 2001, and fly it into the White House.

Moussaoui's testimony on his own behalf stunned the courtroom. His account was in stark contrast to his previous statements in which he said the White House attack was to come later if the United States refused to release a radical Egyptian sheik imprisoned on earlier terrorist convictions.

On Dec. 22, 2001, Reid was subdued by passengers when he attempted to detonate a bomb in his shoe aboard American Airlines Flight 63 from Paris to Miami. There were 197 people on board. The plane was diverted to Boston, where it landed safely.

Moussaoui told the court he knew the World Trade Center attack was coming and that he lied to investigators when arrested in August 2001 because he wanted it to happen.

"You lied because you wanted to conceal that you were a member of al- Qaida?" prosecutor Rob Spencer asked.

"That's correct," Moussaoui said.

Spencer: "You lied so the plan could go forward?"

.

Moussaoui: "That's correct."

The Rest of the Story

Raise your right hand.

"Do you promise to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help you God?" This judge does!

April 3, 2006 issue - The Supreme Court this week will hear arguments in a big case: whether to allow the Bush administration to try Guantánamo detainees in special military tribunals with limited rights for the accused. But Justice Antonin Scalia has already spoken his mind about some of the issues in the matter. During an unpublicized March 8 talk at the University of Freiburg in Switzerland, Scalia dismissed the idea that the detainees have rights under the U.S. Constitution or international conventions, adding he was "astounded" at the "hypocritical" reaction in Europe to Gitmo. "War is war, and it has never been the case that when you captured a combatant you have to give them a jury trial in your civil courts," he says on a tape of the talk reviewed by NEWSWEEK. "Give me a break."

The Rest of the Story

"Bush Makes Me Sick"

For those of you who doubt that the MSM is biased, this was on the Drudge Report.

XXXXX DRUDGE REPORT XXXXX THU MARCH 23, 2006 13:11:09 ET XXXXX

ABC NEWS EXEC: 'BUSH MAKES ME SICK'; E-MAIL REVEALED

**Exclusive**

A top producer at ABC NEWS declared "Bush makes me sick" in an email obtained by the DRUDGE REPORT.

John Green, currently executive producer of the weekend edition of GOOD MORNING AMERICA, unloaded on the president in an ABC company email obtained by the DRUDGE REPORT.

"If he uses the 'mixed messages' line one more time, I'm going to puke," Green complained.

The blunt comments by Green, along with other emails obtained by the DRUDGE REPORT, further reveal the inner workings of the nation's news outlets.

A friend of Green's at ABC says Green is mortified by the email. "John feels so badly about this email. He is a straight shooter and great producer who is always fair. That said, he deeply regrets the sentiment expressed in the email and the embarrassment it causes ABC News."

[UPDATE: Green sent email to ABC staff: "By now some of you have seen the DRUDGE REPORT featuring a private email I sent to a colleague in 2004. I want all of you to know how much I regret the embarrassment this story causes ABC. It was an inappropriate thing to say and I'm deeply sorry.']

I Ain't No Fortunate Son

It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no fortunate son, no no no,

Creedence Clearwater Revival

.

Some people are fortunate enough to be born to rich parents. They don't have to do anything at all, just come into the world. They draw their first breath-Rich.

.

Others come out of the gene pool, with exceptionally good looks-Movie Star.

.

Or maybe it's height and big hands-NBA MVP.

.

Perhaps, blazing speed-Heisman Trophy Winner.

.

They are all, as some people put it, members of the Lucky Sperm Club. They have it all, because, maybe, one sperm swam faster in the right gene pool, than all of the others. For whatever reason, they were born lucky-fortunate.

.

I was not born a 'fortunate son'. I am a member of another club. It is similar in concept. Members of my club, may or may not, have it all. But, we all share one thing in common and that is a 'lucky birth'. We are military parents, lucky enough to have had one or more children, who serve their country. By accident of birth, we became 'lucky', fortunate.

.

This is a club that I don't deserve to be in. I've always felt that I was not a good dad. Maybe, I ain't no fortunate son, but, by the grace of God, I am a fortunate father.

Jeans for Muslims

Do they come in 'stone wash'?

Italian Co. Designs Jeans for Muslims

By MARIA SANMINIATELLI,
Associated Press Writer Tue Mar 21, 2:50 PM ET

ROME - They're high around the waist, wide around the leg and have lots of pockets for holding watches, bracelets, glasses and other knickknacks.

A new line of jeans designed by a small company in northern Italy caters to Muslims seeking to stay comfortable while they pray.

"As far as we know we're the first, at least in Italy," said Luca Corradi, who designed Al Quds jeans.

The bagginess is to ensure the wearer avoids stiffness while bending down repeatedly during prayers. The pockets are for holding all the accessories Muslims have to take off while they worship. And the jeans have green seams — because green is the sacred color of Islam.

The Rest of the Story

The Final Inspection

Received this in an e-mail. I thought that I would share it.

THE FINAL INSPECTION


The Marine stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, Marine,
How shall I deal with you ?
Have you always turned the other cheek ?
To My Church have you been true?"

The Marine squared his shoulders and said,

"No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the Marine waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, Marine,
You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."

Sarandon to Play Cindy Sheehan in Movie...

Perfect.
You talk about life imitating art, or is it the other way around? Did I say 'art'?

The Rest of the Sad Story

What We've Gained In 3 Years in Iraq

Words of wisdom, from Don Rumsfeld, the guy that liberals love to hate.

What We've Gained In 3 Years in Iraq
By Donald H. RumsfeldSunday, March 19, 2006

Some have described the situation in Iraq as a tightening noose, noting that "time is not on our side"and that "morale is down." Others have described a "very dangerous" turn of events and are "extremely concerned."

Who are they that have expressed these concerns? In fact, these are the exact words of terrorists discussing Iraq -- Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and his associates -- who are describing their own situation and must be watching with fear the progress that Iraq has made over the past three years.

The terrorists seem to recognize that they are losing in Iraq. I believe that history will show that to be the case.

Fortunately, history is not made up of daily headlines, blogs on Web sites or the latest sensational attack. History is a bigger picture, and it takes some time and perspective to measure accurately.

Consider that in three years Iraq has gone from enduring a brutal dictatorship to electing a provisional government to ratifying a new constitution written by Iraqis to electing a permanent government last December. In each of these elections, the number of voters participating has increased significantly -- from 8.5 million in the January 2005 election to nearly 12 million in the December election -- in defiance of terrorists' threats and attacks.

I happen to agree with the man. But, then, I'm neither a liberal or a terrorist. I guess that I shouldn't have put them in the same sentence.

The Rest of the Story

Poor Casey

Received this in an e-mail today from military poet (my term) Russ Vaughn. He writes good stuff and I thought that I would share this with you. Thank you, Russ.

Poor Casey
by Russ Vaughn

Poor Casey sees his mother,
Being used but once again,
To mouth words of another,
Likes of who did him in.
Poor fool she is, and poorly used,
To claim the mother’s place,
Of one who died and now’s abused,
By his mother now disgraced.

Poor Casey fought to win his war,
He fought to do what’s right;
His memory’s now become a sore,
In his mother’s fool cast light.
A young man felt the need to serve,
To meet his country’s need;
But mother felt the need for fame,
To salve her ego’s greed.

Poor Casey rests now sorely,
A boy stressed in his grave,
Served by his mother poorly,
A soulless left wing slave,
Who postures on the very ground,
That shelter’s Casey’s soul,
A foolish, faithless media hound,
Who disgraced her brave son's role.

Ah, Cindy, Lass, you sold your soul, for fortune’s fleeting fame,
To dance upon your son’s grave and disgrace his warrior’s name.
May God sometime forgive you, but we warriors never will,
You sold your soul, sold out your son, someday you’ll pay the bill.

Russ Vaughn

Note: May God forgive Cindy Sheehan; I will not, ever. In the history of this country no mother has ever done so much to disgrace the memory of a fallen, warrior son. Cindy Sheehan has placed herself in the infamous ranks of Jane Fonda and John Kerry, all traitors to their country. All three are opportunistic, soulless cretins who sold their souls for fame and political fortune.

Damn them forever.

Patrick Henry

I'm not sure why Patrick Henry came to mind today. But, he did. I tried to remember some of the quotes from his speeches, since so much of what he said more that 200 years ago seems so relevant to today. Here are a couple of quotes, that may be less known, that seemed to me, applicable to the MSM and to our 'Iraq policy'.


“It is natural for man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts... For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth, to know the worst, and to provide for it.”

“They tell us sir that we are weak, unable to cope with so formidable an adversary.But when shall we be stronger?”

Meet Tracy

For some time now, I have been sending e-mails that included jokes and humorous pictures to soldiers. Anything that I thought might brighten an otherwise tough day. Tracy once had a tough day that he shared with me. I left out the details, for Tracy's security, but here is what he said that I think that I should share with you:

.

Again I am safe and no one was injured except for the fucking dead ass terrorist assholes that I shot.

Tracy

please do not pass this information on to any news media as they are democratic idiots who will never tell the truth.

.

I had told him that if he ever came through Dallas, that I would like to meet him, shake his hand and personally, thank him for his service. I knew that Tracy had come home and was traveling around the United States. I thought that he was home for good. I had not heard from him for some time. So I was very surprised, when I received the following e-mail, yesterday:

.

Hey Barry I am in Dallas at the airport I just wanted to say hi I am on my way to ******** I will be here till 5:04 when my plane leaves from gate B-11. If you are at work I look for you if not I see you when I come back through here around OCT.
Tracy

.

I am old school. 'Keeping your word' and 'a promise is a promise', old school. I read that e-mail in an upstairs room. I got in my pickup, drove ten miles through residential and rush hour traffic (the tank was on 'E'), went through the line at the Airport tollbooth, parked, went through a security check point that was lined up with spring break travelers, made my way through the terminal and found Tracy-in twenty minutes after leaving home. He had literally, taken the first step towards the tunnel to board the aircraft. It was that close.

.

I say, or did all of that, not for me, but, for Tracy. We can assume that the military knows that we support them. But, we would be wrong in thinking that way. It is important to do tangible things. Things that show that we care. It matters.

.

It mattered to Tracy. It mattered to me.

.

It was worth everything to see Tracy smile at the sight of a stranger-me. It was worth it to hear a soldier say "Thank you". Can you imagine? A soldier thanked me. He shook my hand and hugged me several times.

.

Twenty minutes of travel.

.

Fifteen minutes of conversation in an Airport Terminal.

.

A lifetime memory.

.

Priceless!

.

God Bless you Tracy. God bless the United States military.

A Bridal's Wreath in Bloom

A Beautiful Spring Day in Texas

A Redbud blooming at my home.

What a Vet Has to Say.....

--is often worth listening too. Vets come in all sizes and shapes, all ethic backgrounds, many different nationalities. They are male and female. Tall and short. They wear different uniforms. Some have seen combat. Like me, some of not. We have different political philosophies. But, as I see it, we all have one thing in common. We gave up time, in the service of are country. Not just time, like five minutes lost falling asleep on the couch. But, years defending liberty and freedom. We value free speech.

.

So when a Vet speaks, he or she should be listened to. If for no other reason, than to extend the courtesy of listening to someone who was willing to die for the right of free speech.

.

A Vet will often measure what they say. Words can be used a weapons and Vets won't pull the trigger and fire indiscriminately. They will, however, fire back at those who target them and their country. But mostly, Vets stand at the ready, in positive support of their brothers and sisters in arms and in support of their country.

.

For a great piece on milblogging, visit Old Sgts Outpost. He puts the crosshairs on the MSM and explains what it means to those of us to say the good things that often go unsaid by the MSM.

.

Thanks Sarge, for proudly serving the United States of America.

.

Some of what Old Sgt had to say:

Lies, All Lies...unless of course they're mine

Bob Schieffer, must have gotten his feelings hurt when Gen Pace, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff slammed the press last weekend on Meet the Press. Schieffer closed out his episode on Face the Nation with a ranting against the top Military Officials saying that they needed to stop trying to sugar coat what is really happening in Iraq. According to Gen Pace last week on Meet the Press, the media will take certain footage of "bad" things happening in Iraq and play and replay those scenes over and over again leading the public to believe that this is happening all over Iraq. Pace also remarked that the media is not trying to provide the "good" things going on in Iraq.

As most of us on the blogging side of the aisle know there are many sites on the web that are promoting the good things that are going on. Many fellow bloggers make it a point on their sites to promote nothing but the good in Iraq and what the military are doing. Also noting that most MSM groups really have it in for the bloggers and how they are able to "scoup" stories or debunk some of the main stream media stories. I would venture to say that the MSM barely takes the time to read blogs on Milblogging.com. If they did they would be getting some of their information from those that out there on the "frontlines", and not from a reporter sitting in the safety of their hotel room in Baghdad or some other safe place not in the line of fire. If it were not for those brave individuals on the front lines doing what they are doing I would probably go along with the MSM's one sided stories.

Since I started blogging, now about two and one half months, I have come to understand why the MSM is so afraid of the Bloggers. They (we) have a clearer insite into what is going on and are looking at it from a more investigative side of news not a political agenda. As most know, the MSM's ideaology is to serve one purpose and one purpose only, the destruction of the American Mind. In otherwords, they don't want you to think for yourselves. They want to provide you with your knowledge of the happenings in the world.

The Rest of Old Sgt's Words of Wisdom

Actual exchanges between pilots and control towers

This is off-topic stuff for what I usually post in my blog. But, it's funny and I thought that I should lighten things up a bit.

.

Tower: "Delta 351, you have traffic at 10 o'clock, 6 miles!" Delta 351: "Give us another hint! We have digital watches!"

********************************
Tower: "TWA 2341, for noise abatement turn right 45 Degrees." TWA 2341: "Center, we are at 35,000 feet. How much noise can we make up here?" Tower: "Sir, have you ever heard the noise a 747 makes when it hits a 727?"
*********************************
From an unknown aircraft waiting in a very long takeoff queue: "I'm f...ing bored!" Ground Traffic Control: "Last aircraft transmitting, identify yourself immediately!" Unknown aircraft: "I said I was f...ing bored, not f...ing stupid!"

**********************************
O'Hare Approach Control to a 747: "United 329 heavy, your traffic is a Fokker, one o'clock, three miles, Eastbound." United 329: "Approach, I've always wanted to say this...I've got the little Fokker in sight."
***********************************
A student became lost during a solo cross-country flight. While attempting to locate the aircraft on radar, ATC asked, "What was your last known position?" Student: "When I was number one for takeoff."
************************************
A DC-10 had come in a little hot and thus had an exceedingly long roll out after touching down. San Jose Tower Noted: "American 751, make a hard right turn at the end of the runway, if you are able. If you are not able, take the Guadeloupe exit off Highway 101, make a right at the lights and return to the airport."

************************************
There's a story about the military pilot calling for a priority landing because his single-engine jet fighter was running "a bit peaked". Air Traffic Control told the fighter jock that he was number two, behind a B-52 that had one engine shut down. "Ah," the fighter pilot remarked, "The dreaded seven-engine approach."

************************************
A Pan Am 727 flight, waiting for start clearance in Munich, overheard the following: Lufthansa (in German): "Ground, what is our start clearance time?" Ground (in English): "If you want an answer you must speak in English." Lufthansa (in English): "I am a German, flying a German airplane, in Germany. Why must I speak English?" Unknown voice from another plane (in a beautiful British accent): "Because you lost the bloody war!"
**************************************
Tower: "Eastern 702, cleared for takeoff, contact Departure on frequency 124.7" Eastern 702: "Tower, Eastern 702 switching to Departure. By the way, after we lifted off we saw some kind of dead animal on the far end of the runway." Tower: "Continental 635, cleared for takeoff behind Eastern 702, contact Departure on frequency 124.7. Did you copy that report from Eastern 702?" BR Continental 635: "Continental 635, cleared for takeoff, roger; and yes, we copied Eastern... we've already notified our caterers."
***************************************
One day the pilot of a Cherokee 180 was told by the tower to hold short of the active runway while a DC-8 landed. The DC-8 landed, rolled out, turned around, and taxied back past the Cherokee. Some quick-witted comedian in the DC-8 crew got on the radio and said, "What a cute little plane. Did you make it all by yourself?" The Cherokee pilot, not about to let the insult go by, came back with a real zinger: "I made it out of DC-8 parts Another landing like yours and I'll have enough parts for another one."
****************************************
The German air controllers at Frankfurt Airport are renowned as a short-tempered lot. They not only expect one to know one's gate parking location, but how to get there without any assistance from them. So it was with some amusement that we (a Pan Am 747) listened to the following exchange between Frankfurt ground control and a British Airways 747, call sign Speedbird 206. Speedbird 206: "Frankfurt, Speedbird 206 clear of active runway." Ground: "Speedbird 206. Taxi to gate Alpha One-Seven." The BA 747 pulled onto the main taxiway and slowed to a stop. Ground: "Speedbird, do you not know where you are going?" Speedbird 206: "Stand by, Ground, I'm looking up our gate location now." Ground (with quite arrogant impatience): "Speedbird 206, have you not been to Frankfurt before?" Speedbird 206 (coolly): "Yes, twice in 1944, but it was dark, -- And I didn't land."
******************************************
While taxiing at London's Gatwick Airport, the crew of a US Air flight departing for Ft. Lauderdale made a wrong turn and came nose to nose with a United 727. An irate female ground controller lashed out at the US Air crew, screaming: "US Air 2771, where the hell are you going?! I told you to turn right onto Charlie taxiway! You turned right on Delta! Stop right there. I know it's difficult for you to tell the difference between C and D, but get it right!" Continuing her rage to the embarrassed crew, she was now shouting hysterically: "God! Now you've screwed everything up! It'll take forever to sort this out! You stay right there and don't move till I tell you to! You can expect progressive taxi instructions in about half an hour, and I want you to go exactly where I tell you, when I tell you, and how I tell you! You got that, US Air 2771?" "Yes, ma'am," the humbled crew responded Naturally, the ground control communications frequency fell terribly silent after the verbal bashing of US Air 2771. Nobody wanted to chance engaging the irate ground controller in her current state of mind. Tension in every cockpit out around Gatwick was definitely running high. Just then an unknown pilot broke the silence and keyed his microphone, asking: "Wasn't I married to you once?"

Men of Honor

Staat, Tillman's ASU teammate, joins Marines

NFL.com wire reports SAN DIEGO (March 13, 2006) -- A former college teammate of Pat Tillman is following in his footsteps, leaving a career in professional football to join the military. Jeremy Staat was an 11-game starter for the Steelers in 1999. Pfc. Jeremy Staat, a former defensive lineman who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the St. Louis Rams, graduated from the San Diego Marine Corps Recruit Depot on March 10. Enlisting "is probably one of the best decisions I've made in my life," said Staat, 29. Tillman, who played defensive back for the Arizona Cardinals, was killed by friendly fire near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in April 2004. Staat said he was felt compelled to join the military after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks but Tillman, who was his roommate at Arizona State, advised him to stay with professional football until he qualified for retirement benefits. "He told me, 'You're a good player, you need to get good play.' Then four months later, at his wedding, I learn he's going to the Army," Staat said. Tillman's death gave him "more motivation" to enlist, Staat said. Tillman gave up a $1.2 million pro football contract to join the Army Rangers.

Thank you Patriot Guard Riders!

"This guy's family deserves a peaceful funeral. It's not right what they're doing," said Franklin, who fought in the Vietnam War. "The only reason they're able to walk around like that is because the veterans fought for their freedom."
John Franklin, Patriot Guard Rider


Hecklers harass families of US soldiers killed in Iraq

Five women sang and danced as they held up signs saying "thank God for dead soldiers" at the funeral of an army sergeant who was killed by an Iraqi bomb.

For them, it was the perfect way to spread God's word: America was being punished for tolerating homosexuality.

For the hundreds of flag waving bikers who came to this small town in Michigan Saturday to shield the soldier's family, it was disgusting.

"That could be me in that church," said Jackie Sandler whose son Keith is currently serving his second tour of duty in Iraq.

The fringe group of fire and brimstone Baptists from Kansas has been courting controversy for more than 15 years, traveling the country with their hateful signs and slogans.

The Westboro Baptist Church first gained national notoriety when they picked the funeral of Matthew Shepard, a Wyoming student who was murdered in 1998 for being gay.

They have since picketed the funerals of Frank Sinatra and Bill Clinton's mother, celebrated the terrorist attacks of September 11 as an act of God's wrath, and have even targeted Santa Claus and the Ku Klux Klan.

But it was the callousness and cruelty of harassing the grieving families of soldiers at dozens of funerals across the country that has sparked a grassroots movement of bikers determined to drown out the jeers and taunts.

In Flushing, Michigan they turned their leather-clad backs to the five women and held flags and tarps up so that mourners walking past wouldn't see the signs saying "God hates fags," "fag vets" and "America is doomed."

The Rest of the Sickening Story

Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.

All of this posturing by Iran's 'leader' brought the memory of this old song back. The last time it was sung was when Jimmy Carter was President and he wouldn't sing along. It is a Song of Peace in the old fashion way.

Bomb Iran
(to the tune of "Barbara Ann" by the Beach Boys)

Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, BOMB IRAN!
Let's take a stand, bomb Iran.Our country's got a feelin'Really hit the ceilin', bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.

Went to a mosque, gonna throw some rocks.Tell the Ayatollah..."Gonna put you in a box!"Bomb Iran. Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.Our country's got a feelin'Really hit the ceilin', bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.

Ol' Uncle Sam's gettin' pretty hot.Time to turn Iran into a parking lot. Bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.
Call the volunteers; call the bombadiers;Call the financiers, better get their ass in gear.Bomb Iran. Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.Our country's got a feelin'Really hit the ceilin', bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.

Call on our allies to cut off their supplies,Get our hands untied, and bring em' back alive. Bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.Our country's got a feelin'Really hit the ceilin', bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.

Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, BOMB IRAN!Let's take a stand, bomb Iran.Our people you been stealin'Now it's time for keelin', bomb Iran.Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.

My Adopted 'Home Town'

I love the DFW area, and Dallas/Ft.Worth loves the military. It is my honor to see the troops welcomed home at DFW Airport, where I work.

Heroes Receive Warm Welcome in Dallas
DALLAS, March 9, 2006 - More than 260 Army, Navy, Marine and Air Force servicemembers were treated to a special ‘welcome home’ in Texas from Gen. Richard A. Cody, vice chief of staff of the Army March 4. Cody joined airport staff and volunteers from the “Welcome Home a Hero” program at the Dallas / Fort Worth airport to greet the service members.

“America is behind you,” Cody said in an address to the troops. “I know how important that it is for you to know, and you are about to see exactly what I mean here at Dallas/Fort Worth.”But the preview from the vice chief of staff did little to prepare the troops for the welcome awaiting them outside the customs doors.

Hundreds of people, including Girl Scout troops, Vietnam Veterans of America chapters, senior citizens clubs and individuals wanting to give personal thanks to America’s returning troops lined the terminal exit and filled the airport with deafening cheers from the first service member to the last.“Wow,” said one young specialist from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). “I’ve never seen anything like this. Thank you, all I can say is thank you.”

In comments later to the gathered crowd and reporters, Cody singled out one group of supporters.“I’d like to thank the Vietnam Veterans I see here today,” Cody said. “These troops are truly standing on your firm shoulders and it means a great deal to them to see you here today.”

“I didn’t have this when I came home,” said a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 920 out of Denton, Texas. “We are here every day to ensure these troops do. They don’t know it now, but in 30 years, their hearts and minds will often revisit this moment.”

Welcome home, General Cody and thank you for your service.

The Rest of the Story

In the Warrior Tradition

Father and son, Marvin and Dustin Weatherwax, of the Blackfeet Tribe were both honored by the Blackfeet Tribal Veterans. Both men have been Rangers. They have honored the Blackfeet and the United States. I am aware that Native Americans have served in large numbers in every conflict. But, I was still impressed with the statement that there are currently about 100 Blackfeet Tribal members currently serving in the military. They are to be admired and honored by all Americans.

Airborne Rangers Dustin and Marvin Weatherwax honored.
By John McGill, Glacier Reporter Editor
Wednesday, March 8, 2006 6:21 PM MST

Both were Airborne Rangers with the U.S. Army and both were stationed at Ft. Benning, Ga. Dustin Weatherwax, at home on leave before returning to Ft. Benning, and his father Marvin Weatherwax were honored Monday, March 6, at Blackfeet Tribal Headquarters.

The elder Weatherwax noted the difficulty of making Ranger in the Army. “There were 106 in my class, and only 11 completed the training,” said Marvin. “In Dustin's class there were 86 that started, but only six completed the training.”

The Rest of the Story

Welcome Home!

A great picture. An even better story.

"Suffer the little children..."

...to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them."

It is sad to see how little regard for life, that Islamo Facists have, that they would encourage their own children to become homicide bombers. I'm sure that there are some liberals out there, who ask themselves, "What did we do to make these people hate us so much?" They should ask themselves, why they support people who would kill their own children.

.

Hamas Launches Web Site Encouraging Kids to Become 'Martyrs'
21:55 Mar 07, '06 / 7 Adar 5766
By Ezra HaLevi

The Palestinian Authority's ruling Hamas terror group has launched a web site for children, preaching the moral desirability of being a suicide terrorist through cartoons and children's stories.

The Hamas-run Al-Fateh.net glorifies shahada, martyrdom, and presents the deaths of terrorists attacking Israelis as a time of celebration, according to a report by Palestinian Media Watch.

One of the stories on the site quotes a mother saying that when she heard her son had become a shahid, a martyr, she bought dates, candies and coffee to give out. An entire section of the site is called "Stories of the Shahids" and the most recently posted story honors Hamas terrorist Naseem Ja'abari, who murdered 16 people when he blew himself up on a bus in Be'er Sheva on August 31, 2004.

The Rest of the Very Sad Story

PA Indoctrination of Children to SeekHeroic Death for Allah - Shahada
Video links: http://www.pmw.org.il/

Iran Threatens U.S. With 'Harm and Pain'

To the 'leader' of Iran: Bring it on Big Boy! You ain't seen pain yet. Jimmy Carter isn't the President of the United States anymore.

.

Iran Threatens U.S. With 'Harm and Pain'

VIENNA, Austria (AP) - Iran threatened the United States with "harm and pain" Wednesday for its role in hauling Tehran before the U.N. Security Council over its nuclear program.

.

The Rest of the Story

Elite Troops Get Expanded Role on Intelligence

This is an excellent idea.

March 8, 2006
Elite Troops Get Expanded Role on Intelligence
By THOM SHANKER and SCOTT SHANE

WASHINGTON, March 7 — The military is placing small teams of Special Operations troops in a growing number of American embassies to gather intelligence on terrorists in unstable parts of the world and to prepare for potential missions to disrupt, capture or kill them.

Senior Pentagon officials and military officers say the effort is part of Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld's two-year drive to give the military a more active intelligence role in the campaign against terrorism. But it has drawn opposition from traditional intelligence agencies like the C.I.A., where some officials have viewed it as a provocative expansion into what has been their turf.

Officials said small groups of Special Operations personnel, sometimes just one or two at a time, have been sent to more than a dozen embassies in Africa, Southeast Asia and South America. These are regions where terrorists are thought to be operating, planning attacks, raising money or seeking safe haven.

Their assignment is to gather information to assist in planning counterterrorism missions, and to help local militaries conduct counterterrorism missions of their own, officials said.

The new mission could become a major responsibility for the military's fast-growing Special Operations Command, which was authorized by President Bush in March 2004 to take the lead in military operations against terrorists. Its new task could give the command considerable clout in organizing the nation's overall intelligence efforts.

The Rest of the Story

Governor praises student who taped criticism of Bush

	Gov. Bill Owens: "This is a high school. You assume that many of these students are fairly naive when it comes to public policy, and they deserve to have both sides pres- ented." (AP)

Gov. Owens, of Colorado said that he was surprised at the backlash against a student, who taped the liberal trash his geography teacher was presenting.

I'm not the least surprised. There is only the liberal point of view. It, after all is correct. Anything else is wrong. So, what the student has to be terribly wrong and he should be driven from proper society. The Governor said it best himself:

For his part, Owens said Bennish should have presented both sides of the
argument on Bush's policies.

"I'll bet that you don't have Mr. Bennish balancing later in the day talking about the good things that the United States is doing in Iraq, discussing why George Bush is not similar to Adolf Hitler," the governor said. "I'll bet there just aren't any tapes from any student of Mr. Bennish giving that other side."

The Rest of the Story

"Party and play where the terrorists come to stay."

I'm not surprised by this story, which states that some Gitmo detainees don't want to go home.

.

"If we return, whether we did something or not, there's no such things as human rights. We will be killed immediately," says a Syrian detainee. The MSM would lead you to believe, that life is hell in Gitmo. Is it?

Some Gitmo Prisoners Don't Want to Go Home

By BEN FOX

Associated Press Writer

Fearing militants or even their own governments, some prisoners at Guantanamo Bay from China, Saudi Arabia and other nations do not want to go home, according to transcripts of hearings at the U.S. prison in Cuba.

Uzbekistan, Yemen, Algeria and Syria are also among the countries to which detainees do not want to return. The inmates have told military tribunals that they or their families could be tortured or killed if they are sent back.

President Bush has said the United States transfers detainees to other countries only when it receives assurances that they will not be tortured. Critics say such assurances are useless. The U.S. has released or transferred 267 prisoners and has announced plans to do the same with at least 123 more in the future.

Inmates have told military tribunals they worry about reprisals from militants who will suspect them of cooperating with U.S. authorities in its war on terror. Others say their own governments may target them for reasons that have nothing to do with why they were taken to Guantanamo Bay in the first place.

A man from Syria who was detained along with his father pleaded with the tribunal for help getting them political asylum _ in any country that will take them.

"You've been saying 'terrorists, terrorists.' If we return, whether we did something or not, there's no such things as human rights. We will be killed immediately," he said. "You know this very well."

The Rest of the Story

"I shall never surrender or retreat."

"To the People of Texas & all Americans in the world...I shall never surrender or retreat. Then, I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism, and everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid with all dispatch. ...VICTORY OR DEATH."

These words were written Feb.24, 1836, by William Barrett Travis, in a famous letter, requesting reinforcements for the besieged Alamo. The reinforcements never arrived and the Alamo fell on March 6, 1836, 170 years ago today. The handful of survivors, except for women, children and Joe, Col. Travis' slave, were put to death at the order of Generalissimo Antonio López de Santa Anna Pérez de Lebrón.

The Alamo, has been a symbol of "the American character" that Col. Travis referred to, ever since.

Many liberals like to mock or make fun of Texans. Let them. They will never have, nor understand, the qualities of the Alamo's defenders.

Texas is the only State in the United States to have been it's own nation. It has produced Presidents and heroes. It has "American character." Texans never "surrender or retreat".

I am not a Texan by birth. As the expression goes, I got here as quick as I could.

From the Alamo website:

On February 23, 1836, the arrival of General Antonio López de Santa Anna's army outside San Antonio nearly caught them by surprise. Undaunted, the Texians and Tejanos prepared to defend the Alamo together. The defenders held out for 13 days against Santa Anna's army. William B. Travis, the commander of the Alamo sent forth couriers carrying pleas for help to communities in Texas. On the eighth day of the siege, a band of 32 volunteers from Gonzales arrived, bringing the number of defenders to nearly two hundred. Legend holds that with the possibility of additional help fading, Colonel Travis drew a line on the ground and asked any man willing to stay and fight to step over — all except one did. As the defenders saw it, the Alamo was the key to the defense of Texas, and they were ready to give their lives rather than surrender their position to General Santa Anna. Among the Alamo's garrison were Jim Bowie, renowned knife fighter, and David Crockett, famed frontiersman and former congressman from Tennessee.

The final assault came before daybreak on the morning of March 6, 1836, as columns of Mexican soldiers emerged from the predawn darkness and headed for the Alamo's walls. Cannon and small arms fire from inside the Alamo beat back several attacks. Regrouping, the Mexicans scaled the walls and rushed into the compound. Once inside, they turned a captured cannon on the Long Barrack and church, blasting open the barricaded doors. The desperate struggle continued until the defenders were overwhelmed. By sunrise, the battle had ended and Santa Anna entered the Alamo compound to survey the scene of his victory.

While the facts surrounding the siege of the Alamo continue to be debated, there is no doubt about what the battle has come to symbolize. People worldwide continue to remember the Alamo as a heroic struggle against overwhelming odds — a place where men made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. For this reason the Alamo remains hallowed ground and the Shrine of Texas Liberty.

"Lawn Services Done With Pride!! By An English Speaking American."

A lawn care owner, who's primary job is with with Arapahoe County Public Works (in Colorado), finds his job in jeopardy, because he advertizes that he speaks English. I was born and raised in South Florida, where it was common to see signs that said things like, "Hablamos Espanol" or "Nous Parlons Français". No one took offense. Miami is a multi-cultural city. Maybe, that makes a difference. How can this man be told that, he can't do the same thing in his advertizing-
in English?

(CBS4) DENVER

Arapahoe County is threatening to fire a veteran Public Works employee for promoting the fact that he is an English speaking American.

"They claim it's offensive and I've been accused of discrimination and harassment, believe it or not, because of this," said Mike Gray, a heavy equipment operator with the Arapahoe County Road and Bridge Department for 16 years.

The problems began last spring. Gray, 50, owns a lawn service business on the side. He was routinely driving to work in his pickup truck towing a trailer that he uses to carry lawn mowing equipment for his business.

On the side of his trailer, the married father of two affixed a sign that reads "Lawn Services Done With Pride!! By An English Speaking American."

The sign also gives Gray's phone number and the lettering is over a background of an American flag.

The Rest of the Story

No Sex Since 1955

A crusty old Sergeant Major found himself at a gala event hosted by a local liberal arts college. There was no shortage of extremely young, idealistic ladies in attendance, one of whom approached the Sergeant Major for conversation.

"Excuse me, Sergeant Major, but you seem to be a very serious man. Is something bothering you?"

"Negative, ma'am. Just serious by nature.""

The young lady looked at his awards and decorations and said, "It looks like you have seen a lot of action."

"Yes, ma'am, a lot of action."

The young lady, tiring of trying to start up a conversation, said, "You know, you should lighten up a little. Relax and enjoy yourself."

The Sergeant Major just stared at her in his serious manner.

Finally the young lady said, "You know, I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but when is the last time you had sex?"

"1955, ma'am."

.

"Well, there you are. You really need to chill out and quit taking everything so seriously!"

"I mean, no sex since 1955!" She took his hand and led him to a private room where she proceeded to 'relax' him several times.

Afterwards, panting for breath, she leaned against his bare chest and said, "Wow, you sure didn't forget much since 1955!"

The Sergeant Major, glancing at his watch, said in his matter-of-fact voice, "I hope not, it's only 2130 now."

(Don't ya love miitary time?!)

Dear Soldier

Dear Soldier

By Angie Falzarano

We asked for a few good men,

We asked for a few good women,

And we got you.

When freedoms were threatened...

You stood to the challenge.

When hope was lost...

You gave your strength.

When lives were at stake...

You sacrificed yours.

In the darkest of days...

Your light shined the way.

So with a tear in our eye,

And pride in our heart,

We want to thank you

For all that you do.

This poem was written by a co-worker.
We work at a large airport, one of two that
soldiers return through on their way to

R&R. At her own expense, she has it printed

on 4x5 cards. She gives them to every
soldier that she sees.

That,

is supporting the military.

I would have tried lawyers.

But, then, not all of them can swim.

Pentagon develops brain implants to turn sharks into military spies

Military scientists in the United States are developing a way of manipulating sharks by remote control to turn them into underwater spies or weapons.

Engineers funded by the Pentagon have created electronic brain implants for fish that they hope will be able to influence the movements of sharks and perhaps even decode what they are sensing.

Although both Cold War superpowers have trained sea mammals such as dolphins and killer whales to carry out quasi-military duties, this is probably the first time the military have seriously considered using fish.

The Pentagon hopes to exploit the ability of sharks to glide quietly through the water, sense delicate electrical gradients and follow chemical trails, according to New Scientist magazine.

The Rest of the Story

"Reaching From Here to There"

Soldier's Angel-Holly Aho has written a book highlighting what everyday Americans do to support our troops. Holly has begun a program to provide free copies to soldiers who request one.

From Holly's blog:

Now, for a bit more detailed information. Soldiers can request a copy of the book here. Currently there are about 20 soldiers on the waiting list to receive a book. As I've mentioned in the past, when I initially published the book I wanted it to be affordable so I priced it very low. If I'd known then that there would be an interest from soldiers themselves in obtaining a copy of the book I would have priced it higher to use royalties to purchase additional copies for military men and women.

The book's intention was for our troops to receive support by encouraging readers to get involved in personally supporting our troops. It didn't occur to me that the book itself would be used for that actual support, at least not in a big way. When I learned that soldiers themselves found encouragement from the book I was glad to hear it of course, but definately didn't want to hear of them paying for a copy of the book! They more than deserve encouragement and support and they definately shouldn't have to pay to get it. So that's where the Reaching From Here To There program started.

Donors can purchase a copy of the book for one of the soldiers on the waiting list to receive a copy, and include a note of encouragement and support along with the book. Also, a suggestion was made that wounded soldiers might appreciate a copy of the book, especially those currently in the hospital recovering. SA Germany provides transitional backpacks to the wounded at the Landstuhl hospital, and so a good start would be to provide a copy of the book for each backpack. The SA Germany angels tell me they fill approximately 50 backpacks a month.

More info.

To Purchase a Copy

A Hat Tip to Bob of Crazy Politico's Rantings