MARK 1:11

It is Done!

2011-05-02T04:06:00.000-07:00

I woke this morning to my cell phone vibrating and making a racket that means someone has text me. It's 0630 and my day off. I look, it's Jacob! This early in the morning it call only be bad news. I put on my glasses and take about 30 seconds for my eyes to focus and read the words, "Binn Laden is dead" It takes me another minute or so to get my bearings and read again. "Binn Laden is dead". I text back WTF? Jacob then tells me that Navy Seals got him in Pakistan. During the coarse of the next 20 minutes of back and forth texting a flood of emotions go through me and my son, still the warrior he was trained to be. He says he feels it is complete now. I say maybe, just maybe he and his buddies can put the horrible memory of war in a box in their mind and put it on the shelf. I pray to God that they can. For them, Binn Laden may be dead but the memories of war will last forever. Hopefully just not as frequently nor as strong.

God Bless America and all our great warriors.

Pops

Dozing on a Sunday Afternoon

2010-08-23T05:53:00.000-07:00

The first thought might be, so, I do that too. Sounds like a good idea. No NASCAR race, by the way, Kyle Busch won Saturday night for the first ever Tri-fecta in NASCAR history. You know how you are dozing and you hear something but can't quite make it out or wake up. That's what happened to me yesterday. I heard something and couldn't make it out and couldn't seem to wake up. I continued to struggle, hmmm a vehicle, ....a motorcycle......no a truck. Open eyes, barely......shadow walking by window. More awake. Shadow stops and appears to be looking in to the house. Weapon, burglary on a Sunday afternoon. Shadow approaches the door and stops. Damn, no weapon, Shadow trys the door knob, thank heavens I locked the door. I peak out.....hmmm, M/W, slender build, black T-shirt turning around as if looking to see if someone is watching. Blood pressure and heart rate rapid and still know weapon. OFFENSE IS THE BEST DEFENSE! I grab the door knob, jerk open the door and.......................................................

JACOB IS STANDING THERE.

Excuse my use of the military phrase, WTF! are you doing home! Was my first words to him.

Well hi dad, as he steps into the freshly decorated and painted living room, I really like it! Those are his first words. My warrior is home! Home on leave until he goes back to Fort Bragg on Sept. 23, to complete processing and be discharged. Life is good.

Another more informative post to follow after I get over the shock. I guess I should explain, he missed his home Friday because of de-briefings and our best guess work was for maybe Wednesday. Thanks to his 1st Sargent, who sign papers for him on a Sunday morning.

Pops

Words of Wisdom

2010-07-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

Stolen from my good friend and fellow blogger Mighty Mom over at Texas Siren.blogspot.com.

'If the enemy is in range, so are you.'
- Infantry Journal-

All is well with my young warrior and a homecoming is planned for him sometime in August. Although his ETS is in August he will be burning some save leave time. To say the least Pops is very very happy.

God Bless all and pray for our brave warriors in far away places.

Pops

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T06:35:00.000-07:00

I was watching FOX news this morning. They had a Historian on, I don't remember his name. He said a couple things that I felt are worth repeating.

1. Gettysburg was the 1st National Cemetery and it was made that way by President Lincoln.

2. Read the Gettysburg address, clik here. It took President Lincoln 2 minutes to read it. Clik on the link, it's worth the 2 minutes and more. It was on point then, it's on point for today.

3. It's not about family barbecues, It's about the fallen Warriors who for the past 200+ years have given their lives for us.

Thank you

Corporal Guy Ross Courtright, US ARMY, World War I, The Argonne Forest, Germany

Sgt, Guy Ross Courtright Jr. US ARMY, World War II, Burma

Specialist, Jacob Ross Courtright, US ARMY Baghdad. Iraq,

This is my special list, what's yours?

It's not about barbecues.

Pops

We Must Never Forget

2010-05-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

We must never forget. How many times have we said that or heard those words. How many times have we heard those words and really listened and believed in those words. We, that's you and me folks, moms, dads, grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles, sisters and brothers. We that's us. Never, pretty self explanatory, a long, long, long time. Forget, it will always, always be there! It must always be there, for if it is not, everything thousands and thousands of our brave young warriors, men and women of all our wars will have died in vain.
We must never forget.

Pictured here is my second grandson, Luke, son of our daughter Sarah and nephew of our son Jacob. Luke is pointing to the 82nd Airborne Division patch that we donated to the Blue Star Mothers of Fairfield County. This hand made quilt was made with donations of all the veterans that have served from Fairfield County since World War I. It was nearly a year in the making. A patch of the unit of each one of these brave veterans was stitched to this quilt by some loving caring woman. It was donated to the Mayor of Lancaster, Ohio, our county seat Tuesday evening. It will hang in our county courthouse as a memorial to all those who have served in our Armed Forces.

Luke went with me to observe the presentation complete with the singing of the National Anthem, prayers, the reading of the Roll of Honor of those veterans, the playing of Amazing Grace by a lone bagpiper, a 21 gun salute and taps. There wasn't a dry eye in the church, including mine. Luke is so proud of his uncle Jacob. Although he is only seven he has been forced to learn about people who go away and never come back. When Uncle Jacob's name was read as an Iraqi War Veteran Luke gave the thumbs up sign and just smiled.

It made me feel good my young grandson went with me for this occasion. It will make me feel better if he, nor his young brother or sisters or cousins have to do what his uncle has done. It will also give me great pride should he serve his country in as honorable manner as grandfather did, as his great grandfather did, as his great great grandfather did and yes, as his uncle Jacob did.

Memorial Day is not far off and to me it is imperative "We must never forget"

Honor Duty Faith

Pops

Words of Wisdom?

2010-03-25T07:49:00.000-07:00

Received this text from my Paratrooper yesterday morning.

The US ARMY and going to college are a lot alike. Both places make you sit through 3 hours of bullsh__ for 15 minutes of useful information!

This may explain why he dropped out of college after a year!

Pops

He's Baaacccckkkkk!

2010-03-19T01:31:00.000-07:00

Received text at 0428 hours: "I'm back"

Thank you Lord!

God Bless all our soldiers!

Pops

WOW! Has it Been That Long

2010-03-18T05:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been that long since I posted. There has been so much going on at my house. Jacob's sister is pregnant. This is number five and will complete our basketball team. WalMart has kept me busy working crazy schedules and I have been baby sitting the boys while mom takes the girls to ballet. But, enough about me and a little about my Paratrooper.

I got a text message on Saturday saying he would be coming home from Haiti on Tuesday. A day I had to work of course so I couldn't go down. No message until late Tuesday night saying maybe within 24 hours. All day Wednesday until late last night with a be at Pope around 2300 hours Thursday night. Now if you remember we went through this getting him and his unit out of the country and to Haiti. I think it took about 10 days. My reply to his latest text was. Text me when the wheels are up on the plane, then I'll believe it! REPLY: Copy. A soldier of few words.

Of course I went down a couple weeks ago in anticipation of his eventual return and stocked the refrigerator with Monster drinks and the freezer with Hungry Man meals and a large box of Cinnamon Crunch. Had to put something in there to sweeten his disposition. Did his laundry and cleaned up the bath. I figured he would enjoy a decent shower when he got home. That's about the extent of my housekeeping chores for him. I got enough of my own.

I would like to introduce you all to a newly discovered blog reported by fellow blogger Mighty Mom over at My Wonderful Life. The new site is run by the mother of a Marine and can be read at Are We There Yet? May I suggest you go over there and read he latest post. If you are a military parent I am sure you have walked this path.

God Bless Our Troops

Pops

I Met A Hero Today

2010-02-23T18:14:00.000-08:00

I met a Hero today, more to come. 'Nuff said,

Edited Thursday, February 25,2010
Edited Thursday, May 13, 2010

Until this post is completed, which it taking longer than I thought got to this web site for some awesome photos of what our troops are doing in Haiti. Clik Here

Pops

500 Miles for 30 Degrees

2010-02-22T19:07:00.000-08:00

The nice thing about being semi-retired is you can come and go pretty much as you please. At least as the schedule you are working or not working dictates. This week my schedule was to work Saturday. Tuesday (4 hours) and Friday. One of the good things the world's largest retailer does is give part-time employees vacation time. Prorated of course. Well ol' Pops has some left over from last year and with 10+ inches of snow on the ground and free room and board AND 30 degrees difference in temperature I headed south. This post is coming from Fayville! My home away from home. Yes, I know my Warrior is not here but. I did not come to see him. I came to UN-THAW! I know it gets colder and snow gets deeper where some of my blogging friends are but, folks I was so sick of snow and single digit temperatures it was come south or do drugs. I choose the later first but the local sheriff said NO! So here I am.

Having explained why I am here I have something else to report on. Usually I hate to use the word hate. It just seems obscene to me. There's a lot of things I strongly dislike but only a couple I really hate to say I hate.
These two things are:

Ohio in the winter time and driving the West Virginia Turnpike. I really love to hate those two things. I have had a life changing experience though so to speak. I no longer hate the West Virginia Turnpike as much as I did. The WVT is about 90 miles of up and down and up and down and round and round that you would ever want to drive. IMHO. Airborne Momma and I would count the minutes we were on that road and tried several ways to avoid it. Most turned out to be so much longer finally we just gave up and sucked it up. We drove it on our honeymoon to Myrtle Beach and drove it to Fayville and beyond every time we went south.

Why the sudden change you ask. Mountains, cold weather and melting snow. Put this together and you have icicles. Not just icicles but huge ice falls. Yes, this old guy has a little soft spot in his heart for the beauty created by Mother Nature, aka God. I left Ohio early Sunday morning to avoid traffic and reached the WVT a little past daybreak. Folks let me tell you for most of that 90+ miles of driving up and down and around and around the pageantry put on by the combination of the cold weather, mountains and melting snow was honestly indescribable. Miles and miles of crystallized melting snow with the sun shining on it provided an array of color and brilliance known to only a few travelers this past Sunday morning.

As I was driving on this nearly deserted highway and taking in this awe of power in these mighty mountains my mind wander. What force pushed these un-measurable tons of rock up at 45 degree angles. The layers of different soils so easily discernible as I drove. This indicated at some time in the life cycle of these mountains they were most likely covered by water. Now they pushed skyward nearly 4000 feet above the current ocean level. What force caused these stones to crack and let the melting snow trickle down and slowly again become frozen. Frozen to create this spectacle that I was now privileged to see. As the brilliant glow of the sun reflected on this show I drove and took this in. I was moved to stop and take some pictures. I had time and traffic was light. Then two thoughts went through my mind. Which ones would I take and which ones of these beautiful sites would I leave out. How could I a lowly man choose which was to be preserved in a photo and which was left to melt slowly away unrecorded. I would have to photo nearly 90 miles of mountains and it would take longer than this wonderful marvel would last.

No photos I or anyone could take, nor no camera could copy the majesty of what only the Big Guy created. I was privileged to see it and it will remain a beauty in my memories forever.

Yes, I know this is a military blog but we have a soft side too. Besides this blog is Mark 1:11.

God Bless our military at home and abroad.

Pops

Update

2010-02-19T16:26:00.000-08:00

As you may or may not have noticed I haven't posted the picture of my Warrior in Haiti through no fault of his. Rather through the ineptness of his computer ignorant father. It was, and still is a cool pik. He is being the good soldier standing in front of a barber shop with his cool shades. He is dressed in full battle rattle (I think). It's hard to tell when you strap on 100+ pounds of gear on a 150+ pound frame. He is dressed in the ARMY'S finest camo ACU's, BDU's, or what ever they are called today. But enough about him, how about me?

I am the parent of this rough and rugged Warrior and damn proud of him and his unit. The short story on my previous post doesn't do justice to the good these brave young men and women do. In war times or in times of natural disaster they are truly the best at what they do. Giving, caring, protecting and saving the citizens of the greatest country in the world or some other deserving country.

I just received a text from my Warrior who said they had just made a little PT jog through the streets in the neighborhood. Since my weather bug shows a current temp of 70 degrees and rain in San Juan he seemed in good spirits. San Juan, of the Dominican Republic, is the closest weather station I can locate. Perhaps it is not raining where he is at. Then again, maybe it is and he likes running in the rain. At 70 degrees it can't be that bad. He actually is lucky. I spent my afternoon shoveling snow, (more piks I can't seem to get downloaded). Last call was 10 to 12 inches. Geesh, I wish he was home!!

Other than that not much going on from what I hear. Just another fun day in an exotic location sponsored by the US ARMY, courtesy of the American taxpayer, you and me. Boy I hope he takes some pictures. I would like to have something for my money! LOL

Pops

Saving a Baby, An Airborne Story

2010-02-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

Many may wonder what our Warriors of the 82nd AIRBORNE are doing in Haiti. Here is one of many stories of the kind of metal and compassion our Warriors are made of.

Saving A Baby

Our next destination is a large warehouse building that the team of soldiers believe to be a camp for people left homeless by the earthquake. As we approach the building, we make our way through the front gate and around the side of the warehouse. You can see an abandoned car off in the distance and plenty of dust floating around in this secluded courtyard. Sergeant White enters the warehouse with a few men to see how many people are there, while other soldiers wait outside.

As I stand there watching the scene unfold, a woman holding a baby comes up to me and tugs on my jacket and points to her baby. I wasn�t sure what she needed until I shined the flashlight in her direction and could immediately what was wrong -- her baby�s foot was horribly infected. In my best high school French, I tell her to wait for the doctor, or in this case, the platoon medic, to come back out of the warehouse, along with our translator. Our translator (see separate article) actually grew up in Haiti and later joined the Airborne after he moved to the United States. We learn from the baby�s mother that a piece of concrete fell on the baby�s foot and it had become infected. With crowds of people standing around watching and with several flashlights lighting the way, the medic washes the baby�s foot and then puts on some antibiotic ointment and some bandages.

Then the translator explained to the woman how to change the bandages and the medic gave her some replacement gauze to put on the wound. As the baby was in a great deal of pain, one of the soldiers next to me took out a surgical glove and turned it into a balloon to give the child. As he handed the child the five fingered balloon that looked like a blue bird, the baby instantly enjoyed the new toy. When the soldier explained that it was a �poulet� or chicken, then the entire crowd started laughing, along with the baby.

This story stolen without permission from the Releigh Telegram. For this and many other AIRBORNE/Haiti stories clik here

God Bless our troops.
Pops.

Hurrah!

2010-02-10T17:25:00.000-08:00

I know you all are waiting with baited breath so just to let you know I got a picture of my warrior today! Now if I can just get the darn thing on this blog. Wish me luck! He is doing well he says.

Pops

Latest Update

2010-02-07T16:45:00.000-08:00

Has you may or may not know we have had a little snow here in the Midwest. Via modern technology I sent a pik of the drift in front of the front door to our house. A short unprintable epitaph was sent along with the pik.

Several hours later I received this text.

"Everything here OK, Hot as Haiti. LOL"

It's nice to know your kid has a sense of humor. Even if it is at your expense.

That is all. (Try to put a John Wayne draw on that)

Pops

Patience is the KEY!

2010-02-04T15:44:00.000-08:00

0614 hours "I'm on the bird"

0948 hours "I'm here"

1347 hours "Already have my cot up...(son & pop talk) it's hot here"

These were the 3 texts I got from my warrior today.

What can I say, I am a proud and thankful father,

God Bless all our Brave Warriors regardless where ever they are.

Update # @#%$#@!

2010-01-29T17:32:00.000-08:00

For those of you following the incredible non-Haiti deployment of my young warrior this update. As of 5 minutes ago he was sitting home texting Pops. It seems we both have the same sense or lack of sense. We are both watching Mike Rowe on Dirty Jobs. He is currently washing windows on a 408 tall office building. I would never do it but the Paratrooper, well if the $$$ are right just about anything is possible. After all he jumps out of perfectly good airplanes!

Go to this web site for some photos of the Black Falcons. The ones in Haiti.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=images/images_gallery.php&action=viewimage&fid=245407

Will keep you posted.

Pops

Still Waiting

2010-01-26T04:45:00.000-08:00

The title says it all!

For those of you who are checking on the progress of my Warrior he, along with many others of his unit are still stuck in Fayville. He reports he was close on Sunday actually beginning to be loaded on the plane then canceled. Something about too many airplanes and too small of an airport. Have I missed something about being AIRBORNE! Don't they jump out of planes for a living? For those of us who have been involved with the military throughout our life we know the way it works. We don't understand it, we just know how it works (or doesn't).

God Bless America and ALL our great Service members!!!

Ho Hum

2010-01-21T18:01:00.000-08:00

For my friends and fellow bloggers who follow the comings and goings of this blogs top subject Specialist Jacob well, Ho Hum. I just received a msg. from him that approximately 50% of his unit is BOG. Oops, sorry civilians, that's Boots on the Ground. That means half of his unit is actually in Haiti and the other half is at Fort Bragg. Now that makes a lot of sense. Then again we are dealing with the government. You see it is actually the government who set this mess up, not the ARMY. The question becomes, WHO? Who made the decision not to send the 82nd into Haiti first. Allow me this moment of copy and paste.

ITEM 1

The mission of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment is to deploy worldwide on short notice, execute a parachute assault, conduct combat operations, and accomplish the nation's objectives.

This little tidbit of information was copied directly from the 2nd Brigades website. Doesn't is sound as if these guy and gals could drop into a cow pasture and set up house. It does to me. The questions I have are 1. WHY the hell weren't they and 2. what freaking moron in this administration did set this up?

ITEM 2

By Jim Michaels - USA Today
Posted : Monday Jan 18, 2010 12:57:41 EST

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — This is not war, this overwhelming humanitarian effort. But after eight years of dealing with counterinsurgencies in Iraq and Afghanistan, the lessons learned there — getting into the communities to understand the people’s needs — apply here to the job of distributing food and water and providing medical help.

“Those skills are transferable,” said Army Col. Chris Gibson, commander of the brigade from the 82nd Airborne Division that is getting established here.

In Iraq and Afghanistan, soldiers and Marines have learned to seek out local leaders and learn gritty details about sewage, electricity and water. They’re doing the same thing here, but no one is shooting at them.

My heart goes out to the people of Haiti and I know yours does too. I just feel if the politicians would let those trained do the job they were trained for, perhaps, just perhaps things would have and be running a little smoother.

Thank you for allowing my rant. Oh yes, I will keep you posted if Jacob's status changes.

Pops

Humm! No news IS good news?

2010-01-19T13:07:00.000-08:00

I always believed no news is good news. Such is the life of a military parent. As I write this I am beginning to believe my old standby saying is failing me. I last got a text message from my Warrior about 2200 hours last night. It was short and sweet. Something like, at Battery, sleeping in truck, will keep you posted. I sent a short one back saying I would be up and text or call if things changed. I have a feeling something happened in the middle of the night and he didn't want to wake the "old man" up.

The good news, at least for the people of Haiti is FOX News is reporting the 82nd AIRBORNE is dropping food and supplies into Haiti. Although I didn't see any of the 82nd famous Red Berets' in the film. I would go out on a limb here and PREsume Paratroopers are also being dropped in to distribute the items and protect the population. Please note I said PREsume.

What is really bad is I asked Jacob about this last week. The mission of the 82nd is"rapid deployment" Find a cow pasture, drop a perimeter force and drop the grub and supplies. Gee Whiz, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure that out, I did.

As all military parents I sit and wait, ...and wait,.... and wait. I've done it before in a much more hostile situation so I can do it again. Damn it! Why couldn't that kid have been a accountant!

Please don't forget our soldiers in the Global War on Terror and still fighting in volatile combat zones.

Pops

And Waiting, and waiting, and........

2010-01-17T15:28:00.000-08:00

As I sit here on Sunday night waiting to hear not if, but when my Warrior will leave for Haiti memories of a different departure come haunting back. January 2007. Deployment to a much more serious place with a different mission. Then we had just enough notice to leave home and get to Fort Bragg for about a 18 hour goodbye. Now, I have plenty of time to get to Fort Bragg but no firm departure. This deployment is serious however, thank G-d, hopefully more humanitarian and not as dangerous. Having said that anytime an American Warrior hooks up so to speak he/she takes on the role of person in charge. That in and of itself can and is often times dangerous.

While waiting, I scanned my email and received this from the President of Gretchen's Chapter of Blue Star Mothers. Yes, they still keep me in the loop and for that I am grateful. That being said I am posting this as with many, many of us we have sons and daughters leaving sometime for Haiti but we must never forget our American Warriors still in Iraq and Afghanistan. This my friends is what it is all about.

The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's, but he has never collected unemployment either.

    He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student,pursued some form of sport
    activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and a 155mm howitzer.

    He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk. He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him,
    but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must.

    He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional.

    He can march until he is told to stop,or stop until he is told to march.

    He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient.

    He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry.

    He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts.

    If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low.

    He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands.

    He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job.

        He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay, and still find ironic humor in it all.

    He has seen more suffering and death than he should have in his short lifetime.

    He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed.

    He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away ' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful.

    Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.

    He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding.
    Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood.

    And now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so.

God Bless Them All!

Pops

Wait and See

2010-01-15T05:55:00.000-08:00

WOW! I can't believe it was the 18th of December when I last posted. With Jacob being home from about then until the 3rd of January.......well that pretty much sums it up. He is/was safely back home at Fort Bragg until yesterday. Actually he is still safe at home at Fort Bragg however, it appears he may be moving out shortly. His unit is part of the Global Response Force and he is expecting to be moving out sometime in the immediate future

You would have to be living under a rock not to know about the horrible earthquake in Haiti this week. It appears thousands may have been killed and homeless. Too be continued: 01/14/10 @ 2220 hours.

Continuing, 01/15/10 0854hours

I waited up most of the night on a phone call that never came. I am currently waiting on a text msg, phone call or confirmed report that my Black Falcon is heading to Haiti. I have been searching all my web sites for confirmation that his unit is in the air, on the ground, in place or what ever. My only clear source is that FOX news has just done a bit with Geraldo Rivera who is with a Col. Chris Gibson of the 82nd. Col. Gibson states they are just waiting on the airport to clear in Haiti so he can get his soldiers on the way. I guess if Geraldo Rivera says they are going that is the Gospel.

Well as of this moment I wait. And wait. And wait. It is the military way. It was 40 years ago and still is today. Some things never change.

Pops

*walmart IS INAPROPRIATE!

2009-12-18T18:20:00.000-08:00

Here's one post I bet you never thought you would see on my blog. It affects every Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman, and Coast Guard person and their family and friends. This just about has me ready to quit my part-time gig with the company. I am spreading the word and asking all my bloggers to do likewise. Here is the bottom line.

Wal-Mart is gouging the family and friends when they ship packages to an APO address. I am coping and pasting part of the article reported in the Stars and Stripes for you to read and then the link for you to continue on the whole article. I am also suggesting a world wide boycott of Wal-Mart and asking you to approach or call the store manager of your local store and complain. With this posting you will have chapter and verse at hand and there is nothing they can do but accept your complain and perhaps move it up the line.

By Mark Patton, Stars and Stripes
European edition, Wednesday, December 16, 2009

WIESBADEN, Germany — Overseas military customers ordering gifts online from certain retailers might get an unpleasant surprise when shipping and handling fees are tacked on at the end of the purchase.
Those same customers might be most surprised to find that retail giant Walmart had the biggest markup.
On a $120 purchase, Walmart.com charged $10.35 to ship to an APO address, compared with $2.10 to a stateside address. For most items, Amazon.com charged the same to ship to an APO address as a stateside address. And Target offered shipping on a $120 purchase to an APO address for less than to a stateside address. Continue the complete article by cliking here.

I hope to post the corporate office number tomorrow night on this blog and at Conservative Outrage.

This is absolutely disgraceful on the part or any major American Company.

*The lower case is done on purpose as any company that behaves in this manner does not deserve to be recognize with the professionalism of an upper case starting character.

Pops

Another Safe Landing....Well Sort Of!

2009-12-16T17:45:00.000-08:00

Ah, another day in the life of an AIRBORNE soldier! Up at 0300 hours, on base at 0400 hours. gear up for a nice "Hollywood" jump at an airshow, home and down a suds or two and call it a day. Well, that was the plan. Let's see when does a plan go wrong? Hmmm. Oh I remember. Just when you think all is well. It's like ABNMOMMA once told me. Never walk into the Emergency Room and say, gee it's quiet in here. She was a nurse you remember. Anyway back to my story.

Specialist Jacob and some other fine soldiers from the 82nd were scheduled to make a nice crowd pleasing "Hollywood" jump at an airshow today. Hollywood is a term used for a nice easy jump just the parachute and backup. No heavy equipment or gear. Jus step out, grap some silk and float to Mother Earth. Grab your chute back to the trucks and ride and ready for home. Hmm, now where did this all go wrong. Oh just about the time the wind started picking up and the air show got canceled, AFTER, everybody was loaded up in the birds. Not being one to waste a chance for training it is my understanding someone higher up than a Sgt. decided if the wind layed low for a while the group might as well jump. Well it did lay low FOR A WHILE. It started to pick back up when the last person went out the door of the second bird. The other two planes in the formation stopped their jumpers.

It is my understanding from a somewhat highly irriated Specialist and a couple of Sgts. they knew they were in trouble on the way down. Something about being sideways, I think he said. It is usually feet first. Apparently the young Specialist and 3 Sgts. landed on everything but their feet and couple of them on their heads. After being drug a couple of hundred feet and wobbling back to the pickup point said Specialist and said Sgts. were escorted by the Medic to the Docs office for evaluation. Bumps, bruises, bangs and abrasions were examined along with their mental capcities. All were informed to head home and report back in the morning. Oh yes, take 800 MG of ibroprofen. Just for good measure.

I await a text message from Specialist Jacob to make sure his brain wasn't severly scramble.

Film at 11:00.

Merry Christmas to all and I have to get up a 0400 tomorrow myself so, to all a good night.

I'll proof this tomorrow.

Pops

Damn, Wait and see for another day!

2009-12-01T18:03:00.000-08:00

I just finished listening to President Obama make his speech from West Point. I see the pundits on TV are all ready slamming the President's plan. From a strictly personal point of view it has taken him 3 months to make this decision so I will give myself a couple of days to digest it. I wasn't motivated to the point of standing up and cheering his speech and was turned off by his several references to the previous administration as failure there. That had nothing to do with the mission at hand. I felt it unnecessary and low class.

I have spent most of the day searching the web and blogs and news sources for solid units for deployment info but have found none I feel creditable enough to say Specialist Jacob is going or staying. Damn, wait and see for another day! I really don't want to put my Google earth to work again, I don't really want to have Reuters and other world news media on my favorites to monitor war news, and I really don't want to search the DOD web site for soldiers I might have met. I sure as hell don't want to wait out the dreaded "unidentified soldier, pending notification of next of kin". These are all things parents, wives, husband's and love ones go through when "their soldier" deploys.

Like all parents and love ones we will deal with it the best way we can and pray for our soldier as we pray for all soldiers in harms way. God Bless America and those who defend our freedoms.

They call me Pops

NON-URGENT REQUEST

2009-11-30T06:15:00.000-08:00

Today is ABNMOMMA'S birthday. While I will be somewhat sad about missing her my heart will be with the Speilman family who wife and mom passed away a few days ago from the dreaded disease breast cancer. As I have said before I had 32 years with ABNMOMMA and all our children are grown. She held everyone of our grandchildren. Now the Speilman family has no wife, no mom and no grandma. Don't worry about me just say your prayers for Chris Speilman and his four children.

I will behave and celebrate her birthday by doing something she was always getting after me to help with "house cleaning". Can somebody help me.? What is the ratio for vinegar and water for cleaning glass? That's what she always used and I don't know what the mixture is!

Merry Christmas to all and please help!

Pops

Veterans Day

2009-11-10T18:34:00.000-08:00

No words can or will ever be enough for what you Veterans have given us, the American People. Quite simply,

Thank You and God Bless,

Pops

In Memory

2009-11-07T15:24:00.000-08:00

No words can express this Nation's gratitude to our Fallen Warriors, or Heroes. I will only link to the Fox News Channel's site with bios on the Fallen Warriors, military and civilian at Fort Hood this week. God Bless them and give strength to their families at this time of need and comfort.

The Fort Hood Fallen:

Pops

A Time for Reasoning

2009-10-25T19:26:00.000-07:00

Good Evening,

Even though I have the pleasure of having my AIRBORNE Soldier home for the next week I am skipping posting about us. I am simply copying and pasting part of an article from PatriotPost.US I was reading. It just made me do a little deep thinking. Here is the partial text by Mark Alexander:

In a recent discussion with a colleague, I lamented the fact that too few American citizens understand their obligation, before all others, to support and defend our Constitution, much less, engender the ability to do so. She responded that, though she considered herself a conservative (mostly because she identifies closely with some conservative principles), understanding our Constitution was not her "passion."

My friend holds degrees from the nation's finest academic institutions and is professional in all her endeavors. However, like most Americans under 50 years of age, she never had a basic civics course and consequently has a difficult time articulating even the most fundamental constitutional principles.

The fact is, as Americans, we not only enjoy the rights affirmed by our Constitution, we have obligations to understand the mechanics of that affirmation in order to sustain it for our generation and those to come.

No matter what our calling, our occupation or our passion, we have a debt and duty as citizens to both learn about and support our Constitution, and we are obliged to do so above and before all other pursuits, for without constitutional Rule of Law, there are no other pursuits.

You can read the complete article here: Patriot Post.

Sometimes things don't always go right

2009-10-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

There is a saying in families associated with police work, you may have heard it. It goes like this. Some days you get the "bear" some days the "bear" gets you. In Ohio, the "bear" most often refers to our State Troopers who wear a Smokey Bear like hat. In Ohio, they are know as tough but honest and absolutely hell on speeders. Traffic Enforcement IS their number one priority.

Sometimes, here in Ohio, the "bear" just refers to a situation. If you get the "bear" the situation turned out in your favor. If the "bear" gets you.....well you get the point.

In the photo to the left you will notice small brown spots on Specialist Jacob's neck. These are called riser burns. Something like floor burns for you jocks. In the 82nd AIRBORNE it is a sign something did not go quite right while "exiting a high performance military aircraft at an altitude of approximately 900 feet".

Now, I am not quite sure how all this happens. I believe the risers are the straps that hold the BIG silk like canopy to a harness that holds the paratrooper. Accordingly if you are not in the proper position while "exiting a high performance military aircraft" when the BIG silk like canopy is opened these straps may slide rapidly up your face and cheek and give you RISER BURNS!

I have been informed that said paratrooper WAS in the proper position when "exiting the high performance military aircraft". I can only imagine this was truly The Day the World Stood Still. At least for a second or two because that is the only thing I can think of that would cause the paratrooper to be out of position. We all know a paratrooper never does anything wrong!

Where is he NOW!

2009-10-09T14:30:00.001-07:00

Ah, that's right fellow bloggers where is the elusive ABNPOPPA? You get two guesses. Keep in mind I just came back from Kansas City visiting Aaron, the elder, and grandchildren. Sarah, the daughter, lives four miles from the homestead. Jacob, the Warrior, lives at Fort Bragg (or where ever Uncle Sam tells him). Well for those who know me well, you guessed correctly. Fort Bragg. Hey! what good is having kids out of state if you can't go bother them once in a while!

Actually, most likely this will be my last trip for a while. My current employer, the world's largest retailer is cutting back hours in preparation for a big Christmas, yes, I said Christmas season. In order to not pay too much to their hard working employees they give us time off. Of course it is just before the season but none the less time off.

Not meant to offend any persons from West Virginia but the turnpike was a mess last night. Rain, trucks, idiots going 75MPH when the conditions dictated about 35. I had a dead man grip on the steering wheel for about 125 miles. Whine, whine my old arthritic hands hurt today from squeezing so hard for hanging on for dear life. Must of had an Angel on board or at least watching over me.

So far on this jaunt we have accomplished nearly NOTHING. Jacob says the ARMY has been working them long and hard. Just to prove his point he took about a two hour nap today. He got a 4 day weekend. Probably because the General knew I was coming. LOL. I tried to outdo him but failed. Tomorrow is Saturday and I WILL TRY HARDER!! We did manage breakfast at the Waffle House and picked up some manly groceries. Pop Tarts, chips, pop, etc. You know real healthy stuff. He mentioned something about mowing the lawn, fortunately, I was able to talk him out of it. It's not knee high yet.

Not sure what's in store for din din but I believe pizza was mentioned however so was BW3. Any body have a coin to toss?

Yo'al have a good weekend, I know I will!

Pops

Blogging from .....Kansas City

2009-09-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

GOTTCA!

Yes, I know you were expecting to see "Blogging from Fayville" Like I said GOTTCA! As I sometimes do I forget that I have other children besides the Warrior, Jacob. I really am not going to start a blog for each of the 3 children so I will use Mark 1:11 to blog about Aaron, the elder, and his children. Aaron is a carpenter by profession if you call building Target Stores, Bass Pro Shops, Arrowhead Stadium a carpenter, then that is what he is.

He's been a carpenter for about 15 years and lived in Kansas City for about the last 7 years. After soccer games today we went and toured the Bass Pro Shop in Blue Springs Mo. My golly, what they can do with concrete nowadays. On this project, Aaron was charged with doing some major concrete forming projects.

First I don't believe there is a straight line or square section of concrete more than 8 footling. The concrete is about 5 or 6 different colors, has animal tracks and leaf impressions in it and in some places in the store it looks like marble. He told me the smooth effect was because the dried concrete goes through a process where actual diamond dust is used in a grinding wheel to achieve the marble like finish. Another area looks like brown raw slate. Here again the concrete is stained a multitude of brown colors and muriatic acid is applied. Someway, somehow a rough slate effect is achieved.

If you have never been to a Bass Pro Shop it is an experience to say the least. This one has an aquarium with a locally caught catfish that weighed in at a WHOPPING 103 pounds! WOW! There were some other fish in there also but this catfish just dwarfed them. They also had stuffed animals of about every kind from North America. I took some pictures of my grandson Ryan, in front of a couple and hope to post them in the next few days. Tauri, my 5 year old granddaughter was being a little camera shy today. I did manage to get a sneak a couple of piks of her without her knowing, I think.

After the tour of the Bass Pro Shop we went home and watched Ohio State football, and of course my team the Oregon Ducks, It was happy in the house as both teams won. A cookout of dogs, brats, burgers and chips finished off the day. Children and grandchildren are so much fun. What a wonderful day. Now a shower, night-time snack and off to sleep. Tomorrow is another day.*

This post proofread by Ryan, age 10 and a straight "A" student.

I just wanted to let you all know a little more about my youngin's and what they are like.

God Bless America and our brave warriors!

Pops

CUT BAIT OR FISH, MR. PRESIDENT!

2009-09-22T07:15:00.000-07:00

This is a blog about my AIRBORNE son and his comrades. I am very reluctant to use this blog however, after careful consideration I am using it. Why? Because this affects him and every Soldier, Sailor, Marine and Airman fighting for OUR Freedom.

From about two months after 9-11 the Democratic far left has been screaming President Bush made the wrong move by going to Iraq instead of Afghanistan. President Obama was one of the loudest voices. He and other Democrats wanted the US's war effort directed toward the killing (maybe) or capturing of Bin Laden reportedly in Afghanistan. President Obama used that as a platform, so to speak, as one of his campaign promises.

After being elected he fired, President Bush's Commander of the war effort and replaced him with "his" new commander. Gen. Stanley McChrystal was installed and advised to develop a new plan for Afghanistan. He did just that. This week the Washington Post leaked a report that said,

Senior military officials emphasized Monday that McChrystal's conclusion that the U.S. effort in Afghanistan "will likely result in failure" without an urgent infusion of troops has been endorsed by the uniformed leadership. That includes Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mike Mullen and Gen. David H. Petraeus.*

Once again, a Democratic President is in a position of having American troops fight and die in a war without the Commander in Chief's full and total support. IMHO this is TREASON or at the very least cowardice on the part of President Obama. He has either purposely or through malfeasance failed to uphold his Constitutional oath.

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States." **

Malfeasance: noun Law. the performance by a public official of an act that is legally unjustified, harmful, or contrary to law; wrongdoing (used esp. of an act in violation of a public trust). ***

The oath says to the best of my ability and maybe this is as good as it gets, if so step down President Obama our young Warriors deserve better. Perhaps he could stay in the White House for a while and off the television long enough to read "his" General's report.

It is further being reported that when previously faced with this assessment in March of this year President Obama failed to act on it and said he needed more time. This classified report is only now coming out. It now appears President Obama does not believe HIS own Commander he assigned to conduct this war effort. It is also being reported on Fox News that General McChrystal was instructed by his superior, Secretary of Defense Gates NOT to appear before Congress after the report was prepared and given to this Administration.

According to top Presidential advisers President Obama "wants more time" before making a decision about what to do in Afghanistan. MR PRESIDENT HOW MUCH MORE DAMN TIME DO YOU WANT? HOW MANY MORE OF OUR YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN MUST BE KILLED OR MAIMED BEFORE YOU GET A SET OF KOHONIES AND GET INTO THIS WAR, (which you wanted as Senator, all 105 days) OR GET THE HELL OUT!!!

It seems to me President Obama is willing to rush forward with a health care plan, a plan to bail out the auto industry, a plan to raise energy costs by $1700+ for the average American, spend Trillions of $$$$ to put Americans back to work but unwilling to make a decision where the lives of our brave young Warriors are at stake.

And yes, I am upset to say the least, I have a dog in this fight and want him to have every advantage he and his warriors can get!!!

Pops,
Damn right I'm proud of my AIRBORNE soldier!

*By Karen DeYoung
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, September 22, 2009

**http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/pihtml/pioaths.html

*** Wikepedia

I Went to Church Today

2009-09-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

I went to church today as is my habit on most Sunday mornings. I have seldom mentioned going to church on this blog but, on occasions it seems appropriate. I am not going to try to convince you that you need to spend Sunday morning or Friday evening or whatever your Sabbath day is, in a temple or church or whatever. That's not what this post is about.

It's about the sometimes strangeness I see in totally what appears to be unrelated happenings in my life. Most of my followers know ABNMOMMA passed away in March of this year as the result of lung cancer. Many of you also know that my Pastor's wife, Linda, was diagnosed a short 5 weeks later with Stage 3 Breast cancer. Some of you even know I wondered out loud in my emails to you and on my blogs if these two incidents had some meaning to them. Meaning that I and my good friend Pastor were not aware of.

Thursday I emailed Pastor and asked him to say a few words for the family of Staff Sgt. Michael Murphrey at this Sunday's service. I admit with Pastor be retired US ARMY this didn't take much encouragement from me. Pastor fulfilled his promise as did our associate Pastor during morning prayer. I know Pastor begins to work on next Sunday's sermon and service on Tuesday so by Thursday when my email arrived late in the evening this Sunday's service was most likely completed.

After morning prayers the first Congregational song was "The Steps of a Good Man". It is from a passage in Psalms. It goes like this:

Psalms 37: 23-26 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down, for the Lord upholdeth him with His hand. I have been young and am now old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful and lendeth and his seed is blessed.

I never had the chance to meet Staff Sgt. Michael Murphery but I am certain of one thing. This is the kind of man God had in His Plan described in this Psalm. He gave his all for his family, friends and country. I am certain, in my mind, the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.

What does this mean. Do you see any possible Divine intervention in these two incidents in my life? It has to make you wonder. It does me.

As I proof read this before posting I noticed one mistake and I want to correct it here. Does it make me wonder, NO, Why? Because I know He has a plan. I just don't know all the details.

God Bless America and all our brave Warriors!

May He Rest in Peace

2009-09-08T16:09:00.000-07:00

No words can ever express the sadness one feels when we loose a young warrior. This extended family of military parents has more often than not never met. As my friend and fellow blogger stated today, we wouldn't know each other if we walked through an airport together. This is true. But are hearts are joyful together as we celebrate the returning home safely of our young warriors.

In joy there must be sadness and with sadness there is pain. A pain that cannot be explained or described. This is the pain I and my extended military family feels at the lost of one of our warriors. Today, the Department of Defense announced:

Staff Sgt. Michael C. Murphrey, 25, of Snyder, Texas, died Sept. 6 in Paktika province, Afghanistan. More

May God be with his family and loved ones and may he Rest in Peace.

AIRBORNE! ALL THE WAY, SIR!

Pops

I'm OK

2009-09-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

First the good news, I'm OK. While at work today I nearly had a heart attack! But, I'm ok. My day started off quite normally as can be for a semi-retired part-time produce employee for the world's largest retailer. Toss the potatoes and squeeze the tomatoes. Stack the CoC (Corn on Cob), cull the lettuce etc. You get the picture. I was a little discourage because I had planned to have a little cook-out this weekend with my daughter and her family, Pastor and Linda, my partner from the county and his wife and Jacob, if he got a 3 day pass.

My, partner Steve emailed me and said he and his wife would be out. That was nice. I hadn't ask Pastor yet, figured I'd do that at church on Sunday. Jacob had been in the field since Monday and I had few messages from him save, "I in the field" Wednesday. Wednesday night, "I'm in the field". Thursday afternoon my daughter called and said she and her family were not going to make it as her husband, "J" as we call him as signed them up for a Corn Seed Selling dinner a month ago and had just told her. Besides farming about 500 acres he sells corn seed and paints silos for other farmers. I was a little disappointed and told Steve, my partner it may be a threesome as Sarah just canceled and I hadn't heard from Jacob.

Wrong thing to say. Shortly after the conversation with Steve, I get the text from Jacob, "I still in the &%%$#@@#&**&^$ field. Well that about bottomed me out. Held my head up high and said a couple Hail Marys, which is interesting because I am not Catholic. But, I felt the need to do something.

This morning I get a text from Jacob saying "How's work today?" Keeping a stiff upper lip I say doing well, 8 skids/pallets, for those of you from Loma Linda, still at work until 1045hours. That was at 0945hours. Text: "Just got back from the field" Well, I have something to be thankful for another exercise completed and Jacob back safely. Back to work. Needless to say more than slightly disappointed but nonetheless thankful he is in one piece. I don't like those night jumps but he doesn't seem to mind. I guess that's why he is AIRBORNE and I was military intelligence. No wisecracks please. I have heard them all.

Now I am sweating culling the lettuce 'cause I am running out. I'm getting mad at who does the ordering, my manager, my store manager and Sam Walton just for starting the business. Then with 3, 4x4 foot skids on the floor some jerk is tapping me on the shoulder saying "Hey, Buddy, where can I find some watermelons?" Can you say I D I OT! Do you know what that really spells. J A C O B!

I turned around and there stood Specialist 4th Class Jacob. That's when I almost had the heart attack! He had a grin on his face from ear to ear like the canary that ate the cat! I was so excited I literally was speechless! And for any of you that know me personally that's saying something. It took me a full five minutes to somewhat regain my composure. I know I looked like a fool but my eyes welled up and all I could say was "what are you doing here?" The reply, "I just wanted to surprise you". He succeeded! He even conned his sister and brother into keeping up the ploy!

Folks we so often hear about the bad side of the younger generation. We so often criticize them. We so often say we are blessed to live in this county. I am very much aware I am not the only parent who has been surprised by his/her soldier child but........This kid (our kids) are truly great. Yes, we must at sometime let them leave the nest and fly but we are blessed by the Grace of God to have them in our lives if even for a short time.

Thank you God and Thank you Jacob.

Has it been THAT long!

2009-08-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

Goodness gracious! I just looked at the date of my last post and it was August 19,2009. In a way I guess that is good. Since then Jacob has been on CQ, in the field and made another night jump. It was suppose to be at 2100 hours. Of course with the ARMY he finally made the jump at 0030 hours. To quote Jacob, "Dad, I landed so soft you would have thought G-d was setting me on the ground. I never had a landing that good". Coming from Jacob that is quite a big deal.

On a sad part I saw on the news where 45 brave young warriors had made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan last month. A co-worker at the world's largest retailer said to me she didn't understand all the fuss over Michael Jackson's death. Why, she asked was he revered for making music. I agreed with her and threw in Elvis. Then I casually said I don't understand why these 45 young warriors weren't given the same media coverage. Dianne replied they are the true heroes, they are the ones who should be on the news and revered. Of course I agreed.

It made me wonder, why isn't the media covering the Afghanistan war on terror. When George Bush was the President a day didn't go by without a body count. Now that Hussein Obama is President ABC and NBC don't run anything Afghan news at all. Is there anything to this media bias? I'll report, you decide. G-d Bless those young warriors and may G-d stand silently by their loved ones with his comforting arms around them.

On a lighter side I went to McDonalds the other day with Jacob's niece and nephew. Happy Meals are still in with the little ones I guess. While doing the order, wait, wait, and watch to very active 4 and 7 year old grandchildren I see a sign BEHIND the counter. It read:

Braille Menus and Picture Menus available upon request.

Now I don't mean to be un-politically correct HOWEVER, does that make any sense to ANYBODY!!!

Please correct me if I am wrong but Braille is a means for blind people to read by touch. Let me say again, THE SIGN WAS BEHIND THE COUNTER!!!

Picture Menus I would surmise are for people WHO DON'T SPEAK ENGLISH or perhaps can't read a regular menu. am I missing something here. If you can't read .........Oh I give up!

Have a good Sunday and a great week.

G-d Bless American and y'all!

The day the music stopped

2009-08-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

Friends you have got to clik on this link and read today's post from Citizen Soldier. If it don't make you pop the buttons off your shirt, check your pulse, YOUR NOT ALIVE!

The Ups and Downs of a Military Parent

2009-08-16T19:13:00.001-07:00

The text msg read; Leaving Fayville now. That was at 2030 hours Thursday night. We had waited all week to see if Jacob's 3 Day pass would be approved. I found out at 3:30PM Thursday afternoon with the first text msg. At that time no departure time was discussed. I, like the dummy I am assumed he would get up early in the morning and drive in Friday. WRONG!

The ups and downs. UPPER Great he's on his way. I will see my son in a short approximately 8 hours. Hoooorahhh!.........Let's see it's 2030 hours, translated to civilian time 8:30AM, plus 8 hours means he will get here about.....oh my....4:30AM. Let's see, again. he gets up at....0430hours drives 8 hours gets here at 4:30AM that's 24 hours without sleep. The next to last part is through West Virginia and the West Virginia Turnpike. Great, up-down-around a curve, up then a curve, down, at night time. Horse manure! DOWNER

Ok, think this through. UPPER If he gets here at 4:30AM you will have 20 minutes to visit, go to work while he sleeps and be home by noon. Then you can go to dinner and visit over some decent chow and a brewsky and ice tea (for me). Both can get to bed early, he can sleep in, you can go to work and be home and go from there.

DOWNER, I couldn't get to sleep at my normal time 9:30PM. Last time I looked at the clock it was 12:10AM. I had been tossing and turning and worrying about Jacob driving by himself and especially through the mountains. At 3:50AM I'M awake. The alarm hasn't gone of and I feel like I haven't slept all night. UPPER Shower, shave, coffee, reading the Internet news and Jacob walks through the kitchen door. DOWNER, It's 5:00AM and I'm late for work 'cause we been talking and I haven't paid attention to the time.

Home at 1:00PM. Jacob's asleep on the couch. He wakes up and says he couldn't get to sleep because he was too tired. Been there, done that, and own the T-shirt. UPPER Finally we get ourselves together and go to BW 3's for dinner. After watching NASCAR qualifying at BW3'S we go home. DOWNER We have a few left over items to discuss about ABNMOMMA which leads to other issues about me and what will happen when my time comes. The next thing I know it's midnight. He's going to watch TV I am going to bed. We have made plans to meet up with my ex-partner at the county and his father to go paint balling on Saturday. This a concern for me as:
A. I'm 61 years old and Steve's dad is only 51. Jacob and Steve are in their 20's
B. Jacob's unit was part of President Bush's surge force and he has earned his CAB. Both indicate he has been involved in some not so nice times. How will he react.

DOWNER Paint ball didn't go over well on a couple of counts. Jacob did pretty well but said it gave him some chills. The old man tripped over a tree root, fell smack on his kisser and someway hurt hurt his foot to the point it's very tender to walk on.
UPPER Sunday morning we both get up about the same time, drink about 2 pots of coffee and eat some stale donuts. I can hear ABNMOMMA groaning and then smiling saying something like that's my boys. DOWNER We finally decide it's time for him to head by to Fayville. We pack the car with a few things and Michael's leftover clothes, 10 pounds of hamburger I got from Wally World, final goodbye and he off to pick up Michael at his other grandparents.

DOWNER
Text; 1:30PM south bound on 33
Text 2;56PM West Virginia
Text 4:47PM Beckly (West Virginia)
Text 7:30PM Nc
UPPER
Text 9:59PM Made it.

Now as we have said so often, we deal with it. Phone calls and text msgs are nice but there is nothing like a hug from your soldier!

GOD BLESS AMERICA & ALL OUR WARRIORS

Bumper Stickers on a Marine Base

2009-08-08T19:58:00.000-07:00

I hadn't realized it had been so long since I had posted. Specialist Jacob has just returned to his battery after spending a month in heaven as he says. He was assigned to the General's pool of drivers for the month of July. The highlight of his month long detail was driving the wife of a foreign head of state around while the head of state went to meetings. He said she did some shopping and had several meeting on base with other wives. He was most impressed when he transported her to a fancy restaurant, the name of which I forget. Shortly after arriving she returned, asked Jacob if he had eaten which he hadn't. She left and returned with what he called a huge plate of food for him. He said that really caught him off guard.

I have stolen a bumper sticker seen on a Marine base by my friend and fellow blogger Citizen Soldier. Go to his web site for some more very interesting bumper stickers. Here is one for Jacob.

Artillery Brings Dignity to What Would Otherwise Be Just A Brawl"

God Bless America and our Warriors

Darrell "Shifty " Powers RIP

2009-07-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

This email message was sent to me by a soldier who is currently protecting and serving us in Afghanistan. If he has time to send this to me we certainly have time to pass it on

Memorial Service: you're invited.
> >> We're hearing a lot today about big
> >> splashy memorial services.
> >> I would like a nationwide memorial service
> >> for Darrell "Shifty" Powers.
> >> Shifty volunteered for the airborne in
> >> WWII and served with Easy Company of the 506th
> >> Parachute Infantry Regiment, part of the
> >> 101st Airborne Infantry. If you've seen Band of Brothers
on HBO or the History Channel, you know
> >> Shifty. His character appears in all 10 episodes,> and
Shifty himself is interviewed in several
of them.
I met Shifty in the Philadelphia airport
several years ago. I didn't know who he was at the
> time.
I just saw an elderly gentleman having
> >> trouble reading his ticket. I offered to help,
> assured him
that he was at the right gate, and noticed
> >> the "Screaming Eagle", the symbol of the 101st
> Airborne,
on his hat.
> Making conversation, I asked him if he'd
> >> been in the 101st Airborne or if his son was
> serving.
He said quietly that he had been in the
> >> 101st.
I thanked him for his service, then asked
> >> him when he served, and how many jumps he made.
Quietly and humbly, he said "Well, I guess
> >> I signed up in 1941 or so, and was in until
> sometime
in 1945 . . . " at which point my heart
> >> skipped.
> At that point, again, very humbly, he said
> >> "I made the 5 training jumps at Toccoa, and then
jumped into Normandy . . . . do you know
> >> where Normandy is?" At this point my heart
> stopped.
I told him yes, I know exactly where
> >> Normandy was, and I know what D-Day was.
At that point he said "I also made a
> >> second jump into Holland , into Arnhem .."
I was standing with a genuine war hero . .
... and then I realized that it was June, just
> after the
anniversary of D-Day.
I asked Shifty if he was on his way back
> >> from France , and he said "Yes. And it's real sad
because these days so few of the guys are
> >> left, and those that are, lots of them can't make
the trip." My heart was in my throat and I
> >> didn't know what to say.
I helped Shifty get onto the plane and
> >> then realized he was back in Coach, while I was
> in
First Class. I sent the flight attendant
> >> back to get him and said that I wanted to switch
> seats.
When Shifty came forward, I got up out of
> >> the seat and told him I wanted him to have it,
that I'd take his in coach.
He said "No, son, you enjoy that seat.
> >> Just knowing that there are still some who
> remember
what we did and still care is enough to
> >> make an old man very happy." His eyes were filling
> up
as he said it. And mine are brimming up
> >> now as I write this.
Shifty died on June 17 after fighting
cancer.
There was no parade.
No big event in Staples Center ...
No wall to wall back to back 24 x 7 news
> >> coverage.
No weeping fans on television.
And that's not right.
Let's give Shifty his own Memorial
> >> Service, online, in our own quiet way.
Please forward this email to everyone you
> >> know. Especially to the veterans.

Rest in peace, Shifty.

"A nation without heroes is nothing.
Roberto Clemente

How Did I Let This Happen!!!

2009-07-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

That is the question I keep asking myself. Now and all the way back from Fayville. What was I thinking? Well, the answer to that was........I wasn't! At least not conscience anyway. Oh, I'm sorry, I forgot to tell you what I am whining about. Well not really whining about. Let's be kind and say questioning my mental makeup, my intelligence level, my......my......sanity (?)! Oops, off track again. I allowed my son and his wife to talk me into bringing my 15 year old grandson home with me. FOR THE SUMMER!! What was I thinking? Me and a 15 year old. I can't even take care of myself!

I guess that proves grandpa can't "just say no". What in the world will a 61 year seasoned citizen do and talk about with a 15 year old kid. When I was 15 I knew everything, much more than my mom and dad. I am certain I knew more than my grandfather. At least I thought I did! OK, so here goes.

First let me say this. Michael, my grandson, son of Jacob and Ally came to stay with us two summers ago after Jacob was deployed to Iraq. He then came back last summer. Now he is here this summer. What started out as grandma and grandpa trying to calm his fears about Jacob being deployed and him being the oldest has turned into a tradition. One, I do not think I will regret. At this time of my life I could use a little company. Let me give you a quick rundown of the first couple days.

Monday got home around 2000 hours. I unpacked, Michael played on the computer.
Tuesday 0400 hours, I got up to go to work. Michael was playing on the computer.
Wednesday 0400 hours, I got up o go to work, Michael was playing on the computer.
Thursday 0400 hours, I got up to go to work. Michael was playing on the computer.
Ditto
Ditto
Sunday 0800 hours, I got up to go to church, Michael sleeping on the couch by the computer.
Sunday 0900 hours, I got Michael up to go to church.
Sunday 1200 hours, I took us out to lunch. Just like 4 of the previous 6 days. Michael never buys!

I took him to the mall. Gave him $20.00 to get something to eat. Did I get my change back. No. He's just like his father. We went to the mall again. I had to buy diner with him having money (mine) in his pocket. He forgot his Sunday go to Meetin' shoes. I had to buy him some new ones. Can't go to church in Nikes, can you? I am done eating he is poky butting along. AHHAH! Now I know what's taking so long. Long brown hair, cute face in shorts and a Ohio University T-shirt. Well, good news, he appears to be normal!

On the serious side. Michael is a prince of a grandchild. He is always there to help me and her when necessary. He doesn't complain about mowing the yard or helping wash the windows. His pants don't hang down to his knees and he quite a smart guy. He would eat anything ABNMOMMA put on his plate and do anything she asked of him. I hope he can eat my cooking. We all know it's not even close to hers, edible but that's about it.

Today we were talking about grandma and her type of cancer. He goes into a dissertation on dominate and recessive genes and how they may have been involved in her illness. Later he asked if I thought Jacob was going to be deployed again. Secretly I think he worries about this more than he lets on. I told him I honestly didn't know however, the likelihood was great that he would. He then asks if Iraq or Afghanistan is going to be another Vietnam. He said he doesn't understand why we were in Vietnam. I did my best to explain it to him. Did we lose the Vietnam War he asks? No, the military did not lose the Vietnam War, the politicians may have but not our soldiers.

You want to know what a 61 year seasoned citizens and a 15 year old young man talk about for two and a half hours? Try, I didn't quite understand the sermon today. Can you be religious and NOT go to church. Hmmm. Had to think on that. Why didn't he ask the Pastor that one? Well I believe it does say somewhere, "wherever two or more are gathered in His name"

Needless to say folks this is going to be a very good summer for me and I hope for Michael.

God Bless All,
Pops
Deo Volente

Fay'ville

2009-07-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

Folks it was a quick but wonderful trip to the Home of the 82nd AIRBORNE. Nothing compares to Fort Bragg and the men and women stationed there. My apologies this is late but I was doing something nearly every minute. Really I didn't have that many minutes to start with. I got in about 2000 hours Friday night. Visited with Jacob and family for a couple hours then headed for the motel. Arrived there about 2200 hours. Showered, shaved and turned on the tube and, and, AND I COULDN'T GET TO SLEEP!!! Keep in mind I get up at 0400 hours to go to the Big W by 0500 hours. I should have crashed like North Korean missile launch! About 0230 hours I finally got sleepy and turned the tube off and dropped off to Never, Never, Land. Not Neverland Ranch!

Do I sleep until noon. Heck no! The ol' bod is use to getting up at 0400 hours and that's what it did. Do you have any idea what there is to do in Fay'ville at 0500 hours on a Saturday morning? Not a whole lot, that's for sure. After waking the rest of the clan up Jacob and I went to breakfast/lunch by the time he got moving. Some nice conversation and then back to the hotel. Fort Bragg had a concert with a country and western fellow, I don't remember his name and the Golden Knights descended. Oohs and Awes coming from everyone. They signed autographed pictures for what seemed like hours.

Then came the salute. About 8 howitzers lined up and as every state in the Unions name and nickname was called the state flag was marched out and a cannon fired off. The crowd cheered as their states name was called. That was the good part. Every state received a huge round of applause that was only drowned out by the roar of the cannon. America Proud.

On to the fireworks which were pretty darn good if you ask me. Although having seen more than a couple of displays I was not hanging on each thump, whoosh, and bang like the little kids. It was a very good evening. Home for Jacob and family and back to the hotel for yours truly. A little better sleep this night as everything seemed to be catching up.

THEN;

Sunday and the party. Sgt. Anderson, who will be referred to by his Christian name, Kody, was kind enough to have a little 5th of July get together and I was cordially invited. There is nothing quite like a party where the main game is "beer pong" If you know what that is, OK. If you don't your are probably better off. Kody did the grilling and the section guys and their wives did the chillin'. His bacon wraps were fantastic. I know because I ate more than I should have. His wife Nicole, made Sgt. Taggart and me her Asian Salad. We both like it......A LOT! Sgt. Taggart was kind enough to respect my senior years and allowed me to get my second helping first. Good thing too. After he got his there just wasn't much left.

The evening broke up about 2300 hours with most people leaving and going home. Of course there are always the selected few who wish to continue their partying ways. With the help of two other designated drivers this group was taken to a nice small neighborhood tavern. Which I understand they helped close up at quittin' time. I was a little out of place and made a diplomatic exit after depositing Specialist Jacob there. That was quite a reversal of previous times when I would pick him up at a watering hole, not drop him off. We both got a good laugh from that one.
I do believe I felt better on Sunday morning than he did.

Bottom line it was a wonderful time and we got to spend some time together talking about ABNMOMMA which I think was good for him. I was lucky enough to have my grandson Michael come home with me just like in the past. He was very diplomatic saying he didn't care if I couldn't cook as well as grandma, we could just eat out more often. From the mouths of babes, go figure.

Well, that's my story and I'm stickin' to it!

God Bless America and our wonderful brave warriors!

Pops

BLOGIN' FROM FAY'VILLE

2009-07-03T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hey! What more could the father of an 82nd AIRBORNE Paratrooper ask for on Independence Day than to celebrate it with a bunch of battle hardened warriors! As the title indicates I am at the home of the 82nd AIRBORNE and Special Ops Units, Fayetteville, North Carolina. There's more Red, White and Blue here than any place in the world, IMHO, of course. I mean this town just ozzes Patriotism. You can almost smell it in the air. Perhaps that's gun powder.

I had an easy drive down from Ohio, home of Pops and of course my beloved ABNMOMMA. It was a little lonely as she always had the directions but somehow I made it. I am sure I saw her riding shotgun a couple of times just before each critical turn. That's where I need help the most.

Along with some goodies for the grandkids I brought Jacob 2 of his favorite pizzas from Ohio. I kept them warm by placing them on the floor of the car near the transmission. I don't really think he cared if they were warm. Not the way he and Mike, my grandson, were wolfing them down. Of course he greeted me with a cold tall frosty beer, of the A&W variety. It's one of those silly parent/son things I was talking about earlier.

His wife is planning our day tomorrow and of course fireworks at the end of it. Sometime during the day I have to get up the nerve to find out if there is a place we can go and jump out of a real live airplane. I don't think the ARMY will let me use their equipment like they may have done for President Bush. This may come to a shock to him 'cause I always said I don't think it's going to happen. I will keep you all posted and will tell the truth if I chicken out!

At some time we are going to try and get an update on Specialist Lesh. I will post it immediately if we are successful.

For those of you who read this have a Happy and Safe 4th of July! Remember those who keep us safe and free and those who have gone on to their just reward.

God Bless,
Pops, Deo Volente

Update

2009-07-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

Although the news on Specialist Lesh is slow and sparse a Sargent in Jacob's section was able to make direct contract with him. He said "I'm ok but coming home" Of course coming home means his wounds are serious but we rejoice in him actually speaking on the phone. I will be heading to Fayville in the morning and hope to actually talk with the Sargent who spoke with him. Until then please keep Specialist Lesh in your prayers for a quick and speedy recovery.

Bless all of you who have given up prayers and passed this along. I know many of you have as I have had comments from several new bloggers.

Have a wonderful 4th of July and remember our warriors who keep us free.

Pops

Deo Volente

Emergency Prayer Request

2009-06-28T20:30:00.001-07:00

Emergency Prayer Request

Good Evening fellow bloggers and followers.

I have an Emergency Prayer request.

I received a text from Jacob at 1203 hours this afternoon. He knows I get out of church around 1200 hours. When I saw the time I knew it was important. I called immediately. As best as has been determined at this point one of his fellow soldiers that he has kept in contact with since Basic Training and AIT was seriously injured yesterday. It seems he was involved in a secondary IED attack while going out on a rapid response to a primary IED attack. He received numerous shrapnel wounds on the left side of his body and face. He was talking and we are hoping no brain damage occurred. It appears the IED was packed with ball bearings which cause severe damage when traveling at explosive speeds.

Please put in your prayers and pass it on to your friends the complete and full recovery of Specialist Monte "Ike" Lesh.

Thank you so very, very much and Jacob thanks you also.

Pops

Silly Things Parents Do

2009-06-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

I received a text this morning from Jacob. Nothing unusual there. He often texts (?) me during the week. Secretly I think he is checking up on the old guy. Nonetheless I got a text. It was short and sweet so to speak. This is our brief but informative transmissions:

Jacob: Tonight, 2130 exiting another high performance military aircraft, make sure you wave.

Pops: Roger that, don't look down!

Jacob: Never!

Pops: K (For non texters, short for "OK")

Simple enough wouldn't you say. Notice the "make sure you wave" Therein lies the Post Title, Silly Things Parents Do. Go get a beverage, box of popcorn, turn off the TV and tell your spouse you are reading something written by a NUT. Well I am a Buckeye and Buckeyes are nuts!

It started a long time ago in a land far, far way, Georgia I believe is the name of the province, Fort Benning is the name of the hamlet. I received a phone call from PFC Courtright telling me he would be "exiting a high performance military aircraft" at a certain hour. Being the good father I am (I think so and I'm the one that counts for me) I told him I would wave to him as he floated down from the heavenly sky. Of course he thought I was joking and said he would wave back if time permitted. Fat chance he has about, I don't know 20-30 seconds to make sure everything is ok, drop his pack and prepare for the sudden stop. But I ramble.

At the precise hour like all good husbands at the appointed time I am sitting in my Lazy Boy with my remote in MY hand. ABNMOMMA was not allowed to handle the remote if I was home. I exited a high performance civilian Lazy Boy and since our passive solar house faces south, imagine that, walked out on the front porch, looked south, extended my right arm in the air and did a manly beauty queen wave. After about 10-15 seconds I returned to my former position as the King of my castle in my throne and again took up the remote and began to surf.

A puzzled look came over ABNMOMMA'S face. After a short time she couldn't stand it and asked the question, "What were you doing?" I explained in detail of course, it's the manly thing to do. She gave me that wifely look like, what did I marry, immediately put her nose back in the book she was reading and mumble something my ears were not to hear, which they didn't.

Ever since that first "exiting a high performance military aircraft" Jacob has gotten word to me of the jump. I in turn have gone to the front porch at the appropriate time and waved. More often than not shortly afterward I get a message informing me of the quality of the contact with mother earth.

In case you are wondering, yes, I will be on my front porch at 2130 hours tonight, looking south and waving.

Parents do the silliest things.

Tell me/us/the blog-o-sphere about your silly thing with your kid or kids!

They call me Pops

A Great Cartoon

2009-06-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang,

All is well at the Mark 1:11 Outrage Blog. Just taking a little time and working on some good posts. I hope you will think they are good.

For a great laugh go over to the Jungle Hut, Jungle Mom does a Saturday Morning Cartoon and today's is so worldly appropriate. Check it out @ The Jungle Hut.

Happy Father's Day to all the dads.

Pops

Let George Do It

2009-06-12T15:03:00.001-07:00

Before I get started I want to wish Sgt Mark, soon to Civilian Mark Middlebrook a very happy life and good luck with his new college life and puppy Glider. Most of you know Sgt. Mark from his father's blog, The One Percenters. Sgt. Mark is leaving the Army today. Drop over to Sgt./Civilian Mark's blog Outside the Wire and wish him a good life. Congratulations for a job well done and thank you for your service to our country. HOOOOOOAAAAHHHH!

Has you may have noticed this blog has been a little quiet lately. With Specialist Jacob home at Fort Bragg and doing training missions and the like our family has taken a little breather. I would take this time to say that my lovely daughter has taken the time and opportunity to schedule us a little 4th of July trip to Fayville. Now this will be fun. It is the first time I have ridden 8 hours in a van with four children ages 6, 4,2, and 6 months. My son-in-law Jason remarked this will be the first time he has been in a van for 8 hours with me! Just kidding Sarah, just kidding, (She reads my blogs, when she's bored, I think). Jacob is scheduled to "exit a high performance aircraft at approximately 900 feet altitude" and fall effortlessly to the ground and land on his feet, we hope, on July 4th.

But, that's not why I am blogging today. Ever since Jacob joining the ARMY and got his AIRBORNE wings I have thought about jumping out an airplane. I have a friend who doesn't live far from here with two sons in the ARMY, both AIRBORNE and I am embarrassed to say she has jumped! Every time I see her, usually at the world's largest retailer while I'm working she asks me if I have jumped yet. I beg off and come up with some excuse as to why I haven't. Well today I am MOTIVATED.

Today, at the young age of 85 the First President Bush bailed out of an airplane to celebrate his birthday. Now this guy has got some intestinal fortitude if you ask me. If he can do it I am here to tell you I can do it. When I go to Fayville in July I am going to see how Jacob and I can get together someplace and sometime and give it a shot. NO GUTS, NO GLORY. (Besides, I am tired of being called a "leg" by him and his buddies!") Maybe I get a little respect like an old guy should get. Then again, maybe I'll get a broken leg! Ouch! Hmmm, Broken leg, time off work, Let me think about this.

God Bless America and our Brave young Warriors

Is This What our Sons and Daughters are Fighting For!

2009-06-10T17:56:00.000-07:00

It is taking all the control I can muster not to let off with a string of epithets that would make this post XXX.

This seven minute video is despicable to say the least. Catch the bumper sticker on the white van at the end of the video.

Clik here for a disgusting muslim (I refuse to use a capital M) protest.

In God We Trust, America, Love it or Leave it!!!

Pops

This kid has to be military

2009-05-30T15:18:00.000-07:00

Things are going well with Jacob and the ARMY so I have decided to post something lite. No Airborne Dad not lite beer! Lite humor!!

MOSES AND THE RED SEA

Nine year old Joey was asked by his mother what he had learned in Sunday School. Well, Mom, our teacher told us how God sent Moses behind enemy lines on a rescue mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. When he got to the Red Sea, he had his army build a pontoon bridge and all the people walked across safely. Then he radioed headquarters for reinforcements. They sent bombers to blow up the bridge and all the Israelites were save."

"Now, Joey, is that really what your teacher taught you?" his mother asked.

Well,no, Mob but if I told it the way the teacher did, you'd never believe it!"

This child has to have a parent in the military!!

Give credit where credit is due. This story stolen from the May/June 2009 issue of Backwoods Home Magazine.

Pops

Are you going to finish strong!

2009-04-30T17:31:00.000-07:00

My fellow blogger the Most Rev. Gregori has absolute the most awesome video about shear guts and determination at his blog LET THE TRUTH BE KNOWN. It is a must viewing. I give it a 10 for 10! Clik on his blog and then on the video. If this dosen't make you so glad for what you have you ain't gotta a heart!

How you going to FINISH?

By the way, Specialist Jacob landed on his feet Tuesday night and then fell on his butt. He called and whined about a bruise. I am going to have him view this video and then ask him again how the ride down and landing was. Betcha, he changes his mind!

AIRBORNE ALL THE WAY!

2009-04-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

First let me thank all of you who responded to my post of the passing of my wonderful wife. I thank you for your prayers and comments. I wish I could personally thank you all in person. She was a wonderful person who will be greatly missed by me, her children, her grandchildren and patients. Bless you all.

A gentleman from the Funeral Home came to visit me today. He was a nice man and very considerate. He wanted to know how I and the family were doing. He left me with a brochure which I really didn't want but being a kind and gentler man today than two weeks ago I accepted it. I only mention this as the reason I am posting tonight. It discussed proper etiquette regarding Thank you cards and other appropriate issues. What it didn't discuss was when it was acceptable to return to your internet/blogging friends and family. Again, I just wish it were possible to personally thank all of your for your kind thoughts and prayers.

Mark 1:11 was named and dedicated to my youngest son, Jacob, who is in the ARMY. He is currently stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina with the 82nd AIRBORNE Division. He is in the same unit that Airborne Dad of the One Percenters son, Mark, is in although as of this time they have actually never met.

Mark 1:11 for those of you who may not know it is a Chapter and verse in the Bible. It is what God said about Jesus after Jesus was baptized by John.

Passage Mark 1:11:
¹¹And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

I felt this was an appropriate passage and summed up my feelings for him even before he joined the ARMY. I explain all this to lead up why I am posting tonight. During the past two weeks he spent nearly every hour of his leave with me. He drove me to the Doctors, to the Mall, and yes to the Funeral Home. He stood by while I wept and he stood by while I slept. Ramrod straight in his dress greens and spit shined boots. Nearly never showing emotion only concern for me and his brother and sister. In a statement, "he was there." This is not to say his brother and sister were not, but only to say he was. His mother was so terribly proud of him and worried like all mother's and father's do when he was deployed. She prayed daily not only for him but all the soldiers, sailors, marines and airman. She was a Blue Star mom and proud of it. She would approve of my posting tonight. This is why.

Jacob called today. He was on his way home from work. It was about 6:30PM for you civilians, 1830 hours for the military families. It was the usual questions about how you doing.? How was work? I returned on Tuesday. Everything OK? I did inform him I had received his text about his need to spill the contents of his stomach on his first run Tuesday morning. I got it about the time I was eating my breakfast. What timing. He just chuckled and said he would try to do it again. I told him he need not bother as I have been on runs and got sick also, so I know the feeling.

Then as a matter of fact he told me he had received the Army Achievement Medal today. He said it was presented by the BC (Brigade Commander) at an awards ceremony this afternoon. It was for dedication to his job and outstanding achievement in the performance of his duties. Of course I wanted to know all the facts and what it was about. He simply replied, I was just doing what I am trained and paid to do dad, that's all. Just my job.

After we hung up I thought to myself, Isn't that what they all are doing? What they are trained to do. Protect us, uphold the Constitution of the United States and keep us safe from harm. Every young man and woman who puts on a military uniform should be called up in front of the brigade and given a medal. Thanks to them all.

ABNMOMMA would approve of my posting, I'm sure.

The End of a Chapter

2009-03-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

¹ The Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
² He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
³ He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
⁴ Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,^[a]
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
⁵ You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
⁶ Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever.

ABNPOPPA and ABNMOMMA'S Great Adventure began on April 22, 1977. From a very strong discussion about woman's lib in college to the red color she wanted to paint the living room. Always, always a great adventure. At the young age of 21 she took up the challenge of raising a six year son which she was not the birth mother. She blessed me with a daughter and second son, Jacob, the warrior paratrooper.

We honeymooned in a two man pup tent because we couldn't afford a motel and it rained four of the 5 days. Soaked sleeping bags, soaked clothes but never a complaint. Always a smile and it will be better the next time.

She nursed not only the children she raised but in her 32 years as a Registered Nurse gave only the best care she could give to thousands of patients both in the hospital and later as a nurse who went to the patients homes because they couldn't travel to the doctor's office or pay to stay in a nursing home. I had the honor of driving her thru snow and ice to visit patients when the Sheriff''s department said any one on the roads would be arrested because they were so bad. Her patients needed her service and she was going to see they got it. During one winter blizzard the local police department sent out a four wheel drive vehicle to see she got to where she had to go.

She nursed her patients and nursed her family spending hours and hours with her mother when she developed pancreatic cancer. She nursed ABNPOPPA when he had emergency surgery on Christmas eve and she nursed more neighborhood kids than you could count.

She was a nurse's nurse.

She was a mom, grandma and wife to me for the best years of my life. On Tuesday morning she left the world we lived in together for nearly 32 years after a heroic battle against lung cancer. She was 53 years old.

This is not the end to our Great Adventure, only the ending of a chapter in the book. She has gone on to map out our next chapter as she always did finding places to stay, usually with a beach and usually with some historic sites. I will only have to say as I always did, where are we going and when do we leave.

Let not your heart be troubled, she has gone on to prepare the way, the same as our Savior.

ABNMOMMA, I love you Tiger! Thanks for giving me the best years of my life.

Pops

Things I don't need to know*

2009-03-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

After a whirl wind tour through the sunny south, Thanks in part to AIRBORNE DAD who did some kind of special sun dance for us yankees, we arrived back at Fayville on Sunday evening. Specialist Jacob and his 1500 close friends had gotten back on Saturday from there camping trip.

This trip was very special to us as we got to visit with Jacob's battle buddy, Sgt. Anderson's mother who had also recently arrived. We missed each other when our boys came back from their tour in Iraq. This was our first time to just chat and visit. It was just fantastic. For those of you who don't know Sgt. Anderson lost his father while he was stationed in Iraq. See my post of February 12, 2008. It tells Sgt Anderson's story. The story is continued on my post of 3/30/08.

Sgt. Anderson, who will now be called by his Christian name Kody, fired up the grill, got out some of his "secret Lousianna sauce" and barbecue up some fine steaks, burgers and dogs. Several of "the guys" just happened to show up at dinner time and like all good soldiers and their families they shared with each other. Even the beverage. I believe it was soda pop. At least the cans were silver like Diet Coke! Kody's new bride whipped up a southern salad of green onions, carrots, sun flower seeds, sliced nuts, and her mother's recipe for the dressing. It was fantastic.

What struck me as the oldest person there was this. First, as I looked on and listened to these young men who had just spent 10 days in the muck, mud, rain and cold there were no complaints. Not one. They discussed, no they dissected the training session in a manner of a surgeon. What went right. What went wrong. What could be improved on. How can we do this better. Jacob is the oldest and is only 28 but as I listened I knew I was listening and observing professional soldiers. The finest soldiers any country can produce. Truly, The One Percenters.

The second thing about these young men was the respect. When Kody saw me get out of my car with ABNMOMMA he immediately stood up, removed his sacred LSU hat and came to the car. He shook my hand and then gave me a bear hug like none other. He immediately went to ABNMOMMA and hugged her, a little easier then escorted her to the garage and secured her a chair. It was raining slightly and we did the cook in the garage barbecue. As the other soldiers arrived, it was always the firm handshake then the bear hug. ABNMOMMA and Kody's mother were always addressed as mom or Mrs. or mame. Lady's first through the serving line and appropriate seating at the table. Not one swear word was uttered in the presence of the ladies. Can't say as much in the presence of the men (me).

Every time I am blessed to see these young warriors I feel a sense of pride that sometimes in nearly uncontrollable. Guess, I'm getting to be an old softie. Be that as it may. These guys and gals are the absolute best people on earth, IMHO!

God Bless them for what they do and keep on doing.

*Better discussed NOT in mixed company. That's all I am saying.

10 Days with 1500 Close Friends.

2009-03-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

As you may have noticed things have been a little quiet on this blog. Mainly because Specialist Jacob has been spending the past week + with about 1500 or so of his close friends "in the field". I can tell you from a lifetime of living with him practice makes perfect but he hates practice. He would much rather play the game. Be it track or basketball in school or defending your country in real life. This kind of thinking scares the bejebers (are there 2 "e"s in bejebers?",out of me and ABNMOMMA but we have learned to live with it. That's the way he became a 92% foul shooter in high school, that's reason he went 8 for 8 at the foul line in the last minute and a half in a league champship game. Practice, practice, practice until it becomes automatic. That's the reason we have the best military forces in the world, period!

We have received no messages or phone calls from the young man much tothe displeasure of his mother but wifey has. Judgin from her verbage of he said he is "tired, dirty, and cranky" perhaps no message is a good message. He gets very cranky when he doesn't get his 2 to 3 hours of sleep. I am the same way. If I don't get my nap in the afternoon.....boy am I cranky.

Anyway just to let you know we are still on board with this blog and currentlly coming to you from Key West, Flordia I will be signing off now. Just another note. I am doing this from the laptop at the pool!. Really can barely read what I am typing so don't get on my case about the spelling. Half the time I can't find the little hand or icon or what ever you call that thing!

God Bless Amrica and our military who keep us free.

TROOP WITHDRAWAL

2009-03-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

I should be happy but I am not. Here's why. The troop withdrawal announcement has just provided the enemy with some very important information. President Obama has used our fine fighting warriors for another photo op. Going to Camp Lejuene and making this televised announcement is just that. A photo op and here's why.

What he said:

Let me say this as plainly as I can: by August 31, 2010, our combat mission in Iraq will end.

What I read:

Hello Mr. Taliban, I just wanted to let you know you can begin to increase your influence and violence after August 31, 2010. Feel free to increase your attacks on American troops. You see I was suppose to have all troops home in 16 months, well at least that is what I promised. But you know, words, just words. This gives you plenty of time to harass our troops and gain plenty of media to show more carnage and suffering.

What he said:

I intend to remove all U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of 2011.

What I read:

If August 31, 2010 didn't give you enough time to plan, let me give you this absolute date. December 31, 2011, got that? Start ramping up your terror campaign for January 1, 2012.

What he said:

The drawdown of our military should send a clear signal that Iraq’s future is now its own responsibility. The long-term success of the Iraqi nation will depend upon decisions made by Iraq’s leaders and the fortitude of the Iraqi people.

What I read:

We don't really need a strong presence in this area of the world. We can just turn it over to a nation with the very beginnings of a military and democracy. So what it took us nearly 200 years to develop into the world's best military power and strongest democracy. Iraq can do it without our continuing help in a couple of years. Israel, oh don't worry about them. I going to through them under the bus just like my grandma and Reverend Wright.

What he said:

The first significant shift could be with the 22,000 Marines in Anbar province, .....The Marines have already tested exit routes through Jordan with plans for a full-scale exodus during the "2010 calendar year," said Terry Moore, deputy assistant chief of staff for logistics for Marine Corps Central Command.

What I read was:

OK, guys, we know where they are going and most likely when they are going. Send out a couple of low key guys and keep an eye on the Marines. Let me know when they start to rampup. I'll start working on the ambush plans.

What he said:

This effort will be led by our new Ambassador to Iraq – Chris Hill. From his time in the Peace Corps, to his work in Kosovo and Korea, Ambassador Hill has been tested, and he has shown the pragmatism and skill that we need right now.

What I read:

Isn't the Peace Corps like a community organizer? Ah yes, the work in Kosovo, great job. Makes you well skilled to handle this minor problem. Another bureaucrat with impeccable record of what? Great job in Korea. Didn't they just launch or promise to launch missiles while our Secretary of State, Senator Clinton, was there? Change is coming to Washington D.C. you have my word on it. Where did I hear that?

I could go on and on, sentence by sentence and dissect what's wrong with the President's speech. I think my humble opinion has been made. Am I happy many of our troops are going to be out of harm's way, of course. What parent or loved one wouldn't. The bigger problem is this.

It was announced! Why in Hell do we have to announce everything! I liken that to the great basketball player Magic Johnson driving hard down the court and just before the famous no look pass going into stop action and saying, Hey, defender, I'm going to look left then pass to the right behind my back. Now what do you think the defender is going to do? I'll blog you, decide.

Why do we have announce everything? Can't we just quietly and with out a bunch of hoopla slowly withdrawal our brave young men and women warriors? Why do we have to make such a big media spectacle of this? Does President Obama not understand the dangerous position he has just put our troops in? Or.....does he not care? Is he THAT beholding to the "far left" code pink and move on .org and the morons that got him elected.

When does a 1st time elected president start to campaign for his second term? The day after he is elected for his first term. That's what this announcement and spectacle is about. Nothing more, nothing less. Re-election at all cost.

To do this to our fine and brave warriors is a CONSERVATIVE OUTRAGE.

Couldn't Be Finer, 'less I was in North Caroliner!!!!

2009-02-28T21:13:00.000-08:00

That's right folks couldn't be finer 'less I was in North Caroliner!! Oh my!!! I am in North Carolina!! How did that happen? It was raining and windy in the midwest today and as some of you know I was due for a trip to Florida. ABNMOMMA makes me go nearly every year. Usually in the dead of winter! Sucks! That's what she made me do today. In the wind and rain we left for Florida. I drove all the way to North Carolina to escape the wind and rain. Know what I got? More wind and rain! Where's the sunshine? Where's the warm temperature?

Well back to what could be finer than North Carolina? Din din cooked by a veteran 82nd AIRBORNE PARATROOPER. Grilled chicken and burgers just the way me and momma like em. Cooked long and through over charcoal not some fancy $500 gas grill. I just have to have some ashes and put some carbon in the air to offset Al Gore's energy efficient home!! Just kidding

We got to Fort Bragg/Fayville about 1900 hrs. this evening and by 2000 hrs. we were grillin' and chillin. Good food, good conversation, an adult beverage and some good times. It don't get no better than this. Well maybe some sunshine would help.

The troops including Specislist Jacob are heading for the field on Monday so we are making this a very special weekend. Spoiling the grandkids in 2 days is a tall task. WE CAN DO IT!! Then we're heading out to let the DIL deal with it. LOL LOL.

Seriously folks it was so nice to have Jacob and Ally, his wife, cooking and just going all out for us. We felt like king and queen. Pumpkin pie and ice cream for dessert. What more could parents ask for. It makes us very proud to have an AIRBORNE Paratrooper for a son. It makes us very proud to have a son that's an AIRBORNE Paratrooper!

It's after midnight and Pops is getting tired. It was hard to leave their house and return to the motel but....we must. Hmmm, wonder what the motel has for breakfast tomorrow.

Pleasant dreams all,

Pops

God Bless our service men and women. They keep us safe and secure.

Tis a Sad, Sad Day

2009-02-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

Tis a sad, sad day for military families I fear. I have not used this blog to strike out against the new administration. President Obama has now proven to me and to what I believe are many other people his true distaste for our country and those who would defend it. He has used a President Bush leftover administrator, Secretary Gates, to do his dirty work. The filming of our returning fallen will begin again. This is the way of the new President. It reminds me of another coward named of Ponitus Pilate. Let somebody else preform the unpleasant task, I wash my hands of it.

President Bush had the common sense and decency to honor our fallen warriors by NOT letting the left wing, liberal media make a spectacle of our soldiers coming home to rest. Now Secretary Gates has reversed the policy.* This will now become a media feeding frenzy that can do nothing but demean our brave warriors and cause grief for their families. Is there no one left in Washington with any intestinal fortitude or cahonies that will step up to the plate and tell President Obama he is wrong, just plain wrong. Elliot Richardson where are you when we need you!

President Obama, You tried to sneak this in on a day the your budget is taking first spot on the news. You detached yourself from it by sending Secratary Gates to make the announcement.

How DARE you desecrate the memory of these warriors!

They died for you and your wife and daughters. If it weren't for men and women like them you wouldn't never have had the opportunity to live where you do today! Haven't these families given enough! Their son,daughter,husband, wife, brother, sister, aunt, or uncle have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Let them grieve in private!

As the parents of a soldier, ABNMOMMA and I pray for the souls of these brave warriors and their families. We can no way share the pain you must endure everyday without your loved one. God Bless these families and brave, brave warriors.

I will end with this. President Obama, you have lost any creditability you may have had or might have gotten from me my family and many military families

FOREVER!

*As reported by CNN

I got a picture today!

2009-02-25T18:47:00.000-08:00

I got a picture on my cell phone today. I couldn't make it out driving 70 MPH down the highway. I know I am a danger to myself and other drivers. When I get a ring from Specialist Jacob I have a tendency to answer quickly. Like every good cautious driver I didn't pull over to text my reply,

Question: "What's that?"
Reply: Work
I look again, humm, looks like a truck in water up to the doors. That I figure is about a good 1 1/2 foot deep water. Ah,,,, lights come on. Yep, that's a stuck truck all right.
Question: You driving?
Reply: Nope, Riding in the back.
Question: Rookie?
Reply:Yep.
Me: Figures
Reply: We got it out.
Me: That's nice
Reply: Yep

That's the conversation of a fairly PO'd Paratrooper.

Now what's odd about this just occurred to me. Jacob spent 15 months as the first part of "the surge" into Baghdad in 2007 and 2008. He spent so much time driving a Hummer he wrote home and ask for a pillow because the seat was broke.

Now just why in the devil is the United States Army giving him Driver's Training.

Oh well. go figure!

BE PREPARED

2009-02-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

My fellow blogger linked to the Fayville Post for an absolutely awesome slide show presentation by them. They wrote a great article and the photos by Combat Photographer, Andrew Craft were perfect. Clik here to go to The One Percenters for this great article and slide show.

Therefore I will tell you about my early Sunday morning. I arrived at awake at 0642 hours. This was due to a hapless alley cat named DC. Actually this is Specialist Jacob's cat which he left here 5 years ago when he moved out to get married. I got the better end of the deal. I got a cat, she got Jacob. LOL LOL

Anyway nice an quiet until 0949 hours when my cell phone went off. It was Specialist Jacob calling to talk about the Bud Shootout the night before. Yes, we are NASCAR fans and proud of it. After the chit chat I say "whatca doin'", fishin', well sort of. Huh? the battery died on Kody's boat and we had to cast our way back to shore by hooking into the trees and reeling ourselves in. I am rolling at this time. You must understand from my rather silly point of view.

Two of America's finest, toughest AIRBORNE warriors drifting about in a boat and they run out of electric. You have to be kidding me. Kody has just made it through Ranger school. Now folks you gotta be tough and smart to be AIRBORNE but Ranger, even more so. Kody goes for a new battery and they get back to fishing with my grandson. Now I ask you what kind of lesson does this teach him? Even the Boy Scouts motto is "Be Prepared"

You know they recently slowed work days down a lot because of a little snow on the ground. Now two of America's finest fighting soldiers get somewhat hung up fishing. Don't let the bad guys find out about this.

I will say one thing for them they were resourceful and got themselves out of the fix they were in. There is hope. The real hope is the next time, THEY CATCH SOMETHING!!!

A Public Service Announcement +

2009-02-04T05:20:00.000-08:00

President Obama has announced his campaign of transparency numerous times during his campaign to become President. It appears to be working on his selected appointees for his cabinet positions. Where it is apparently not working is with his stimulus package, or renamed bailout. Below is a "copy paste" from the Official Whitehouse web site. I urge you to go clik on the site and leave President Obama a firm and strong, but nice, message regarding your feelings on American taxpayers bailing out companies that cannot manage the money they had.

You might also mention how the $ amount has grown with all the non essential spending by some of the congress. I believe they call it PORK! No disrespect to the pigs.

As a side note please remember President Obama has just asked the Department of Defense to reduce it's budget by over 10%.

Here is the excerpt from the Whitehouse web site:

President Obama is committed to creating the most open and accessible administration in American history. To send questions, comments, concerns, or well-wishes to the President or his staff, ...

www.whitehouse.gov/contact

+Too important NOT to pass on. Clik here and participate! Heard on the radio.

A small side note you may want to forward this to your friends. They have opinions too!

Thank you for your support & God Bless America

Waiting, Waiting and then some Waiting

2009-02-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

That's the way the Army goes. Waiting and more waiting unfortunately this time the waiting is at the hospital. That was Thursday morning sometime around 0340 hours. Now the waiting is until Monday morning or later, knowing the Army, most likely later.

Lettuce begin this way. It was suppose to start at 2350 hours Wednesday with Specialist Jacob exiting a high performance military aircraft from approximately 800 feet above the ground. At approximately 2130 hours I got a text message from said Specialist to "look south and wave at 2350 hours". This has become a ritual within the family and dutifully at 2350 hours I went to the front porch looked south and waved. He is suppose to wave back. Don't try to understand it's just something we do. My neighbors think I am a little nuts, I prefer eccentric. Knowing after the jump he is a little busy I trundled off to bed. I need my beauty sleep (desperately). He will send me a text message later letting me know all is well.

At 0500 hours I wake and check my phone for the text message all is well. This morning no message. I say to myself, this is not good. Can't call, that would be unmanly. Kind of like running out on the basketball court when your kid doesn't get right up after getting knocked down.
Well, off to work to wait. And wait. Did I mention waiting.

Text message at 0820, and I quote "at the hospital possible broken foot, will call later" Boy this ain't good. About 1030 hours the call comes through. The call went something like this, How's the foot? It hurts like hell, What happened? I don't know, I must have landed on a rock or dirt clod. Moonlight? None. Broken? Don't know, too swollen to tell, Dad I landed and screamed like a girl. (Now that's saying something for this kid) What's going to happen? I have to come back Monday for an MRI or when the swelling goes down. Oh! Gotta go dad, ride's here, love you. Love you too son.

Update Sunday afternoon, phone call to mom. Mom, I am out of percocet can I take a darvocet and how many? Yes, ever four to six hours (mom's an RN). Can you put pressure on it? No way. OK. Yada yada yada. Bye son, love you. Love you too mom.

Did I mention we were waiting................

Hooooaaahh! They Got Some Backbone!!!

2009-01-28T18:49:00.002-08:00

Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition!

Every Republican in the House voted "No" on the stimulus bill. This is a great, but small, victory for Conservatives. A small win in the Pork War of the current administration and Democratically controlled Congress. Now as not to get myself into too much hot water I want to go on record as saying I feel for the people who are hurting with job layoffs, loosing houses, and the like. I don't believe the Federal Government is here to "bail you out" I have seen too many stories of people who have been laid off and started their own business, hunkered down and cut household spending, and did what ever it took. As one man said on TV this morning, When God Give you lemons make lemonade! Start squeezing people, you can do it!

Now on to the good news of the stimulus bill. Eleven, that's right eleven rock solid, America First, Democrats voted against the Bill. These "dirty dozen-one" deserve our support. They are going to catch pure Hell from President Obama, his supporters and other Congressional Democrats. I say SUPPORT these America First Democrats.

They are:

F. Allen Boyd of Florida
Bobby Bright of Alabama
Jim Cooper of Tennessee
Brad Elsworth of Indiana
Parker Griffith of Alabama
Paul Kanjorski of Pennsylvania
Frank Kratovil of Maryland
Walt Minnick of Idaho
Collin Peterson of Minnesota
Heath Shuler of North Carolina
Gene Taylor of Mississippi
*

If any of you live in the states these courageous men live in, google their name, call their office, write them a letter and or email them. They need to know Conservatives appreciate their stand against the stimulus bill.

Don't forget to put pressure on your Senator regardless of which party they are affiliated with. With enough support a couple Democrats can help get this bill defeated and more reasonable package up for discussion. Let them know we, Americans, are tired of the Pork!!!

Thank You and God Bless America

*Names taken from Real Clear Politics .com

The Closing of Gitmo

2009-01-23T18:40:00.000-08:00

Get your Gitmo wear here!

President Obama you kept a promise. You have started the process to close Club Gitmo. I wonder if you have any idea what you may have done. I think not as I saw the ceremony and you had to ask an aid to be sure you covered everything in your Executive Order. Pretty sad.

I really do wonder if you have any idea what you have started. Why would you want to bring terrorists to American soil? They are prisoners of the Global War on Terrorism. It is a war you know. Not for land but for the minds of men. Rep. Murtha said he will take them in his district, I wonder how his constituents feel about that? What are you going to do with them?

It has all ready be proven that a minimum of 10% return to the battlefield. One is reported to be the 2nd in command of Al qaeda in in Yemen. It is also being reported he was responsible for a major terrorist attack that killed 14 people including one American. This is on President Bush's shoulders.

Any new releases and all the action of closing Gitmo is on your shoulders. Should you choose to release any more prisoners of the Global War on Terrorism and blood is shed because of their release, the blood of these innocent people is on your hands.

You have no plan
you have no place
You have no idea what may happen

Respectfully,
ABNPOPPA
Proud father of an 82nd AIRBORNE Soldier.

See further reports on President Obama's first few days in office at Conservative Outrage.

Post Script. I am adding this link should you choose to contact your National or Local representatives. It is about the easiest I have found. It also has voting records and bill look up options on it. Clik here.

President George W Bush, Go Home

2009-01-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

George W. Bush
President of The United States of America
January 20,2001 - January 20,2009

That's right, go home to Texas President George W. Bush. You have served your county well. Since that horrible day in September, 2001, you have kept our county and our homes, and our families safe from armed attack and terrorist homicide bombers. Go Home, President George W. Bush. You have served your county well. Take you wife and pets and gather in the sunshine of Crawford, Texas. Jog on trails free of all the political trappings you have endured for the past 8 years. Enjoy your parents, enjoy your daughters, enjoy your friends in Crawford.

Go to sleep tonight knowing the weight of the county you have served is no longer on your shoulders. Wake up in the morning feeling a new and invigorated you. Breath in clean air, smile at your wife, greet your friends with the air of confidence of a man who, has been there, done that, and owns the T-shirt!

Thank you sir and God Bless you and Mrs. Bush and God Bless America

ABNPOPPA & ABNMOMMA,
Proud parents of an 82nd Airborne Paratrooper.

Post Script:

While reading the blogs on my blog list I came across this excellent post by by fellow blogger, Pastor, Chaplin and College Professor, Dr.John Wesley Slider. Go to his blog to read a much better post about today's historical events than I could ever do.

Clik here.

Been a While

2009-01-11T12:12:00.000-08:00

Goodness, I can't believe my last post was January 5th. Some of you probably are quite happy with that. With the post holiday blues here in the house and the new grandson being born, and Specialist Jacob back in Fayville, things are a little slow and quiet.

With the war in Iraq off the front pages, gee I wonder why, (no bad news?) and a new President getting ready to take office, our soldiers have taken a back seat. See what happens when you do something good. The media forgets about you. I wonder sometimes if a person started a "Good News" newspaper (not in the Biblical sense) but a paper that printed only good news if it would sell. Print only the births, only the high school graduation rates, only the human interest stories that show a positive outlook for mankind. How about a story about what good our troops are doing in Iraq. The schools built and remodeled. Would it sell? Would you subscribe?

Some of you follow the blog Embrace the Suck, written by Mud Puppy. In a recent posting, response #3 to Airman Mom I believe he stated he would go back to Afghanistan basically for the sole purpose of doing more good for the people in Afghanistan. If you have read any of his previous posts you will understand the significance of this statement He does not write like this is his favorite place to be. I believe that is the difference between the American soldier and many other soldiers. Our warriors see the long term, big picture view and not just winning today. Winning in the long term.

I believe that is a view the Israelis have in their current conflict in the Gaza Strip. They are going for a long term solution after giving, and giving, and giving. Over 3000 rockets have been launched into Israel in the past years for no apparent reason other than to kill innocent civilians. Most of them since Hamas took over. If Mexico or Canada were to do this to the United States I would like to think we would retaliate to protect our citizens also. Fortunately for us our neighbors believe and respect the sanctity of human life unlike Hamas.

My good news for the day is the Queen as been on the net getting our March vacation travel plans in order. She has us booked at every relatives house we can stay at and then a couple of neighbors.. Nah, just kidding but, we are going thru Fayville on the way to my sister's house in Florida. Then on to her beloved Key West. Ever since she read those books by Hemingway and found out Jimmy Buffet liked Key West we have to go occasionally. This is fine by me. They have the Mel Fischer museum there and I can spend about two months between that and the butterfly arboretum (?). Not much of a beach for her to go to but sand, a books an occasional seagull, and the ocean waves lapping on the shore and she is content. And we all know, when "mommas happy, EVERYBODY IS HAPPY.

Everybody have a great week, month and life and please, please don't forget to pray for our troops.

God Bless America

Something old, Something new

2009-01-05T12:01:00.000-08:00

No, not, something borrowed something blue. The old stuff is Subvet a retired submariner who is on an aggressive and precious campaign to protect the unborn. This hard-core, rough around the edges guy has taken up the cause! The sad part is we need a lot more like him to "take up the cause". In the United States of America we spend millions of dollars defending convicted murders and giving them their right to life. You can read his blog over at:

http://agangershome.blogspot.com/

The Center for Disease Control (CDC)*reports that in 2004 over 800,000 abortions were completed in the United States and that doesn't include the states of California, New Hampshire and West Virginia. The Alan Guttmacher Institute, (AGI) reports over 1.2 million unborn, innocent children were murder before they had a chance to experience life as we know it in 2006! What rights to these silent citizens have? None! Check out the complete states here

Support the 36th Annual March for Life in Washington D.C. on January 22, 2009. Post this date and reason on your blog, tell your friends, call your local radio talk show, DO SOMETHING! Choose life, your mother did.

Something new, Not real new but, new to this blog. I am officially posting a new rather crazy, sometimes funny, sometimes sad, speaks his mind in the somewhat abrasive language of a soldier who has been there and done that, but always, always a straight shooter, (no pun intended). He goes by the handle Mud Puppy and you can read him at:

http://onemp.blogspot.com.

His creative writing style and ability to make the reader feel as he is carrying on a conversation is great. He is a career soldier who openly says he has been in too long to get out now. He is currently spending time in the Afghanistan sandbox at the expense of US taxpayers under the direction of the United States Army.

Stop by these two blogs for some real down to earth, tell it like it is blogging! And, pass them along to your friends!

Please pray for our troops, thanks.

* http://www.nrlc.org/ABORTION/facts/abortionstats.html

Time Off, A Terrible Thing to WASTE (ed)

2008-12-14T07:18:00.000-08:00

Time off from a rigorous training schedule is a terrible thing to waste. Time off from building concrete forms for industrial and commercial buildings is also a terrible thing to waste. Two brothers who have not seen each other in a long time and both being off for four days is, yep you guessed it, "a terrible thing to waste. Thus begins the saga of an 18 hour, 1000 mile drive from Kansas City to Fayville. Aaron, the elder called the other night and says he is on the way to Fayville from KC. This manly bond can only be duplicated by the bond between a father and son. Which I add was not available at this time. Besides, boys will be boys and there are things dads do not want to become evolved in. They also may not want to know about. You gotta have something to say when they misbehave and if you are with them, you got NO wiggle room.

Aaron arrived safely in Fayville on Wednesday night. Visited with his SIL and niece and nephews until Jacob got home on Thursday. I am not sure how it got started but take an older union construction worker, brother, a younger rough tough AIRBORNE paratrooper bother and somewhere the competitiveness will rear it's ugly head!

Remember when I beat your butt for yada yada yada. Yea, well remember when I did so and so to you. Yada Yada Yada. Hey, I'll drink to that. You get the picture. About 2200 hours Thursday night I get a text from my DIL saying basically glad this only happens once in a great while!

I won't go into the gory details to spare the lady followers of my blog. On Friday morning about 1300 hours I get a text message from Jacob. It wasn't asking for the name of a Bondsman in Fayville thank goodness. Message was "stayed home last night, had breakfast this morning and just put the old man back to bed. Old man referring to Aaron the elder. He can't handle it like he used to! I believe aspirin in mega doses would have been in order.

As I write this post, Aaron, the elder, is on his way back to KC and Jacob is pulling CQ. My daughter in law is most likely in the kitchen, sampling the cooking sherry and thanking the Good Lord, this only happens once in a GREAT WHILE!

Like I said, there are just some things a dad doesn't want to know about or take part in. Oh yes,

In my house, WE SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Happy Birthday

2008-12-08T20:11:00.000-08:00

This is a short but powerful post.

ABNPOPPA and ABNMOMMA are pleased to announce the birth of:

Jude Christian,

born today, December 8,2009 at 1137 hours. Weight 8lbs. 10oz. 20.5 inches tall.

Mother and son doing fine. We thank the Lord for this beautiful 11th grandchild!

That's all folks.

The War to End All Wars

2008-12-06T19:08:00.000-08:00

"December 7,1941 a date which will live in Infamy", so spoke President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This was his statement as he asked Congress for a Declaration of War. On this date the Nation of Japan launched an unprovoked attack on the United States at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. War was all ready being waged in Europe with Germany laying claim to Poland, France and Belgium. The next great prize would be Great Britain. Thus began the World War II.

In this attack, early on Sunday morning while families were preparing to go to church. While many were thinking of the upcoming holidays and many servicemen and women relaxed in the sun and the surf. The Japanese left in the wake most of America's Pacific sea force in shambles. Battleships, cruisers, destroyers and tenders were damaged or completely destroyed. Approximately 2400 brave young service men and women died. Nearly 2000 of these brave soles continue to lie entombed in the Battleship Arizona after 67 years. A memorial to all those who died that day.

Myself, I wasn't alive when the attack took place. I wasn't alive when the war ended but, I heard about it. I read about it in my American History books in Jr. High and Senior High School. Although my father was a WWII veteran and actually fought in the Philippines he never said a word about December 7th or what he did during the war. I do know my mother said he had horrible nightmares when he returned home after the war was over. This was also a problem with my uncle according to my mother. Nightmares and no talk. I ask myself,does this sound familiar? PTSD? I wonder.

I posted previously about how many of our WWII veterans we are loosing every day. This is sad of course. I wonder what our children in the Jr High Schools and Senior High Schools today. Is some teacher showing pictures of the destruction and devastation caused by this murderous attack. Are the teachers explaining it was necessary for the United States to take action after this attack. Are they relating it to the unprovoked attack on 9/11//2001 where 3000 plus, many Americans were murdered.

The sailors and airmen fought back on that December 7th with what ever they could get their hands on. The New York City Police and Firefighters fought back with what ever they could get their hands on. Now we have brave young men and women fighting aggressors again. This time in the mountains of Afghanistan and the cities and villages of Iraq. The United States has a habit of providing the world with safety and security. There is very little difference between our soldiers and sailors of 1941 and 2008. They have families of wives, husbands,sisters and brothers, moms and dads.

Our young soldiers of today are here and often in the news or in the mall. We see them, tell them thanks, send them cookies and cards at Christmas. Our veterans of Pearl Harbor are few and far between. Yes, you might see a few TV announcements or the famous movie "Pearl Harbor".

If you know a WWII veteran regardless whether he is a Pearl Harbor survivor call him and tell him thanks of his service. Let them know you care and you will never forget what his sacrifice means to you. On a personal side I will be calling Uncle Bob who is 85 years now. We most likely won't talk about the War but we will talk and I will tell him thanks. He will chuckle and change the subject and we will talk some more. I will visit with my father at his resting place not far from my home. We will talk also and I will tell him thanks, for more than just fighting for my freedom. They I will leave. Don't let these important heroes or their deeds go unrecognized!

Time Flys When You're Having Fun!

2008-12-02T17:10:00.000-08:00

That's my story and I am sticking to it!

I am so glad my partner @ the county showed me how to blog. I have met so many fine people here. One of the best things to come out of this blog happened the day of Thanksgiving and the day after. When reviewing the blogs I follow this is what I found. I do believe every blogger/parent of a serviceman got a phone call or visit from their service member. If that doesn't show what a fine bunch of young people there are in this country nothing will. It makes me so proud of my young soldier. He and his wife had a couple of single soldiers over for dinner since they couldn't go home. He and his wife even sent us phone pictures of the spread. Looked good on the cell phone and when I talked to them later in the day I heard no complaints.

All has been quiet in the Midwest lately. Slight snow fall today and temps in the 25 to 35 range pretty much normal for this time of year. What is not normal is the temps at Fort Bragg. I talked with Specialist Jacob this weekend and he was going camping this week with about 200 of his closest friends. He was trying to get the gas smell out of his heavy duty sleeping bag. Apparently the sleeping bag and a can of fuel came together the last time he went camping. Mom told him to wash it twice with a fabric softener and that should do it.

I believe Specialist Jacob is getting a little bored of the current field duties. He was always an adrenalin junkie. Always looking for something else new to get into. I guess my conservative parenting only held him back until he got out from under dad's wing. I really can't say anything as the first thing I did when I was discharged was join the police department. Like father like son I guess. Time will tell.

The hi-lite of my weekend came later Saturday evening. Aaron, the elder, has got 3-way calling on his cell phone. Well you know where this is going. After 10 minutes of trying to hook us up we had a 3-way call going between, Fort Bragg, KC and Ohio. We have the three of us watching about 5/6 different football games and flipping back and forth it was wild. ABNMOMMA had to leave the room as we were going from one to another so fast it was driving her nuts. ThenI spent the next hour listening to how my boys were soooo good as children and how angelic they were. I had to remind them both of the times I had to visit the local police station to pick them up. Nothing serious but, enough to get me out of bed. If I could have bottled the testosterone that was flying back and forth I could have made a million bucks selling it to guys over 50. (Sorry ladies it is a guy thing){:-)

We used to have a game of rassling. I would put a $5.00 bill on the coffee table and if they could pin me for the count of 3 they could have the $5.00 bill. Well needless to say it never happened while they were in school. On several occasions they tried after they graduated it still didn't happen. ABNMOMMA made us take it outside one afternoon and I had to give up the $5.00 bill. You can't tackle me in the house but it was fair game outside. Now both boys play the game with their boys so I guess it was worth all the bruises and the 5 spot.

Thanksgiving is over and Christmas is on the way but ABNMOMMA and I will be getting our Christmas present from our daughter, Sarah and her husband, Jason early this year. We just got the call and if the baby isn't here by 0700 hours Monday the doctor said it's gonna be born then! Gee, you think he could make it a little later in the day. I don't get up until 0700 hours since I am retired. Gee, again, I like saying that, hmmm "retired....retired......hmmmm...retired" What a wonderful word! We don't know what the 11th grandchild will be as the kids accept what God gives them. We just pray for healthy and mother comes though the delivery all right.

There are many programs available for support of our brave warriors this time of year I encourage everyone to take part in one of them and encourage your friends to do likewise.

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS THIS CHRISTMAS
CLIK HERE TO SEND A FREE CARD

Baby It;'s Cold Outside & I'm in Fayetteville NC!

2008-11-21T16:48:00.001-08:00

That's what Specialist Jacob said to me this evening when he called. It was good to hear from him as it has been a week. From what he said a very cold week in the "sunny south (?)". He, and from what I understand his whole brigade, has been in the field this past week. Apparently they are preparing for the next disaster the United States has to bail some foreign county out of. The temperatures have been below freezing during the night and the guys (and gals) have been sleeping in their Humvees. No, Not together to keep warm either. Dirty minds!

From the tone of his voice and what he said they did pretty well. They apparently were practicing setting up and tearing down and moving to another site. Something I wouldn't want to do when the temps are around freezing but you never know where you may wind up when you are with the 82nd Airborne. They put the "rapid" in Rapid Response

The 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, provides the ability to begin executing a strategic airborne forcible entry into any area of the world within 18 hours of notification. Their primary mission is airfield and seaport seizure. Clik here for more on the 82nd.

From what he tells me it is home for the weekend and back out for a couple of days next week and home for Turkey Day. This year home for Turkey Day even if it is not Ohio is wonderful. He will be with "his" family, wife and kids. Much better than last year for sure. Christmas is coming up and he will be in Ohio unless some stupid Dictator decides to play games. Then, I believe ABNMOMMA will take care of the Dictator herself and they won't have to send the 82nd. SHE WANTS HER SOLDIER HOME FOR CHRISTMAS! Well so do I

For those of you who went over to Conservative Outrage, thanks. Elizabeth and I continue our dialogue and I believe it is enlightening and good discussion. The offer stands to come over and comment.

Remember, Pray for our warriors and the United States of America

Conservative Outrage

2008-11-19T19:25:00.000-08:00

Hey gang! We have a good discussion going with Elizabeth, from New York, and a non Conservative,(liberal?). Drop on over and join the discussion. Remember be nice, no cussin', no spiting in the eyes, or gouging where it ain't proper. Be nice, Thanks. Leave some comments, no comments will be moderated or deleted. Can someone contact Redneck Preacher and let him know, I can't raise his blog for some reason.

Go to, shucks, you al' know the drill clik on the high lite http://conservativeoutrage.blogspot.com/

Veterans Day

2008-11-10T19:05:00.000-08:00

It's Veterans Day. We stand and salute those who have fought and those who have died to make The United States of America free. There are no words that can convey a proper "Thank you" to these valiant men and women. In their honor I ask only this, listen to the selection of songs on my blog. As you do say a silent prayer for them. Thank God for them and that He has blessed us with the finest men and women on earth. Thanks to men and women who have sacrificed their families, their bodies and their lives, we live in the greatest county on Earth.

God Bless you all!

Election Day

2008-11-04T10:28:00.000-08:00

Election Day is about over. In a way I am glad regardless of the outcome. I do have a horse in this race as you all know. The only person I blog with that may not be receiving relentless phone calls is JM. Her husband's post was about the best I have ever read about any election. If you haven't read it, you should. Clik. It truly puts life in perspective.

NOW for my stuff. Specialist Jacob and his section certified last week and they got basically a 3 day pass. He was excited as he got to stay home and do some yard work! Since returning from Iraq he has jumped I think 3 times maybe 4 all without major problems. Makes me happy and him REAL happy. Went to some type of First Aid training and learned how to start an IV. Made his mother happy as she is a nurse. I am not sure about the guys/gals he had to stick to learn how to do this. Will get back to you on this.

NOW for the really good stuff. I love the ARMY. After spending 15 months in Iraq most of the time in beautiful, exotic, Baghdad and driving mile after mile on roads and streets pock marked with IED explosions and more possible IEDS, the ARMY is sending him to ....., and the answer is.....DEFENSIVE DRIVING SCHOOL!

You just gotta love the ARMY.

Equally as important on the Driving School is my daughter, Sarah. She has informed us she is expecting a baby around December 5th (this year). Thank goodness, all this time I thought she was stealing basketballs from the Wal-Mart store I work at part-time. This will be number four and I don't know how many more. They don't believe in finding out the sex before the baby is born but ABNMOMMA says "she's carrying that baby in the front, it's a boy for sure". After 31 years of marriage I have learned one thing. Don't argue with the Queen!

Finally it is a beautiful day here and I have the windows open and the sun is shining. I wish this could last until April and then warm up. Alas, the Ohio winter will be upon us and I will be depressed until the spring when I can get out and back into my garden.

We live in the best country in the world. I hope you have done you your patriotic duty and privilege and voted. If not, there is still time. Do It!

A Blank Check

2008-10-29T14:36:00.000-07:00

A Hero is someone who, at one point in his life wrote a
blank check,

Payable to: "The United States of America "
Amount of: "Up to and including my life."

For: Freedom and Democracy

Signed: Every Soldier, Sailor, Marine & Airman

Quick Trip and Too Short

2008-10-14T20:22:00.000-07:00

We are back at the ranch after a quick trip to Fayville. I find the trip exciting going down but forever coming back. Children are meant to leave the nest, not the forest in ABNMOMMA'S words. I must agree with her.

The opportunity to post just wasn't available while we were there. We got in late and slept late Saturday morning throwing the schedule completely off. Oh, I really hate that. Finally, on Saturday Jacob and I went to Fort Bragg and just drove around looking at the various areas, monuments, memorials, new barracks, you get the picture. We did a little talking, well a lot of talking, as we toured. He is a good child. He goes there ever day and yet when dad comes to visit off we go to the post. He said it reminded him of when we lived in Wilmington NC and every relative that visited us had to visit the Battleship North Carolina. Personally, I could go there again and again and again.

He informed me I was still a "leg" as we toured the 505 PIR area. I still haven't totally said no to a jump. That might not qualify me for Airborne Wings, but it might get him off my butt about being a "leg". When I was in the Army Security Agency in the 60's my CO told me the government had just spent a small fortune sending me to school for a year and he wasn't signing off for me to break my leg and get a medical discharge. I didn't argue even though it would have meant a whopping $50 per month.

He informed me he now felt equal to his grandfather who fought in WWII as he (Jacob), had now jumped in to Sicily, Normandy, and Omaha (?). I don't know why this is so special. His grandfather, my dad, was in the Philippines and Burma during WWII and WAS A LEG! I think he was just remembering his grandfather who loved him and was a great role model for him as he grew up. They shared many a fishing trip and fishing story while Jacob was growing up. Some of them, .......well let's just leave it at that.

I got to him to pose for a couple of pictures and am going to try to post them when I get the dodad I need to download them from my cameraphone to my computer. He is not really smiling just a grin but that's not bad for a rough tough AIRBORNE guy.

'Bout the only other thing of note was the fact I thought we were going to be asked to leave The Golden Coral where we took everyone for dinner Saturday night. I lost count of how many times the grandkids went back for ice cream and sprinkles. Thank goodness there is no limit. I will admit they did eat a decent meal before they laid siege to the ice cream machine.

Touched base on most of the blogs I follow and those of you who follow me. Will try to get some comments on later in the week. Gotta go to the Docs in the AM and the BOE (Board of Election) for a training class in the afternoon. Where in the world did I ever find time to go to work. Retirement is wearing me out! Oh well, someone has to do it! Right Subvet.

Clik here for a good read on Abortion by my friend at Blowing San # 1

Please pray for our troops we still have 100,000+ fight the GWOT

Southbound and Down

2008-10-10T07:07:00.000-07:00

Just a brief post before we go SOUTHBOUND to Fayville. HOOOAH. The boss has a four day weekend and Jacob has a four day pass. Can't leave this chance go by. Retirement has it's advantages.

On the military side of it. I got a text message sent yesterday morning saying "look for me at noon, I'll be knees in the breeze". So like all good parents I went out on the porch, looked south at noon, and waved. I don't know if he saw me or not. Next text message I got simply stated and I quote, "I'm still alive" Nice news to get from your kid. He called his mom shortly afterward and said he had a nice soft landing which is always good! I don't know if he got to use the new chutes they are getting but will ask when I get there.

Hopefully, next post will be from Fayville, and who knows, maybe I can get him to hold still and smile for a good picture.

That's all folks,

God Bless America! It's the best damn place in the world to live, bar none!!!

Pops

Hope It Doesn't Rain!

2008-10-04T19:36:00.000-07:00

Just got of the phone with "Jr", Jacob, down in Fayville. All seems to be going well, kids are driving parents nuts, wife is shopping and Jacob is trying to watch multiple games without split/screen. Welcome to parenthood!

As was posted on fellow blogger The One Percenters @ http://theonepercenters.blogspot.com/ both Sgt. Mark and Specialist Jacob missed the next deployment to Iraq. Thank you Lord! That's the good news. Of course the bad news is some other parents have to worry when their young warriors are sent to the war zone in the Global War on Terror.

ABNMOMMA and I are leaving Friday for Fayville. A short visit and perhaps just a smidgen spoiling of the grandchildren. This IS our right and mom and dad don't really mind as we don't get to see them nearly as often as we would like. Even though I have retired from my county job I still work for the world's largest retailer 20 to 25 hours a week. ABNMOMMA says this will keep us from getting divorced after 31 years of marriage. She works from home and if both of us there all day and night she says,it would be stressful. For her maybe, but I can sit for hours and watch the History Channel, Dirty Jobs, and the re-runs of M.A.S.H.However, like another blogger, Subvet, at http://agangershome.blogspot.com/ She must be obeyed. Hey! I haven't stayed married 31 years and learned nothing!

Back to Fayville. Jacob and his unit are heading to the "field" for a little practice this week. He is overjoyed after spending 15 months in the field in Iraq. But, he approaches it with all the excitement of a root canal. Led by his "smoke" who also approaches it with all the excitement of smashing your finger with a hammer. Jacob agrees that is what they do and must, for them to return safely from the next mission they are sent on. Train, Train, Train, Once they are honed razor sharp, some politician, who most likely knows nothing about war or the military will dispatch them to a place far from their home, wives/husbands, children and the rest of their family. There they will do the work that only a few can and are willing to do. I just wish the damn, (sorry Chaplains) politicians would stick to screwing up Washington, they do an excellent job at that, and leave the wars to the people that know best how to do it.

On this trip my only military plan is to try to visit and hear preach an Army Chaplin I have had the honor of emailing with for the past 18 months. The last time I was down to Fayville he wasn't preaching on Sunday. Maybe my luck will change this time. If not at least I hopefully will get to see and visit him prior to his deployment in November. Jacob's "battle buddy" Kody is in Ranger training and I won't be able to see him as he is basically incommunicado until his training is complete. Hopefully we'll see him the next time.

I have an uncontrollable urge to make a political statement at this time, about who would you rather be in a firefight (foxhole) with a moose huntin' hockey mom or a man who supports killing innocent unborn babies. I won't because that is not what this blog is about. You can pick up my political comments @http://conservativeoutrage.blogspot.com/

If you have made it this far you have had the opportunity to listen to some music I have posted. Of course it is all patriotic. I have tried to mix it up a little as I like different types of music and hope you do too. Please leave me a comment and let me know what you think about the post and music.

God bless America and our military who keep us safe from harm

Conservative Outrage

2008-10-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

Getting real busy in retirement so please read my post at http://conservativeoutrage.blogspot.com/ .

Soldiers, Some Young, Some Old, Some Gone

2008-09-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to the family and friends of Harley Edward Huston.

Harley Edward Huston
September 13,2008

Soldiers, some young, some old, some gone. This post is dedicated to one who has left us this past week. You don't know him but you know of him and 16 million just like him. He is a World War II Veteran. On September 13, 2008 Harley Edward Huston's spirit left his worldly body to soar to the heavens and be with God. Although I didn't have a close relationship with Mr. Huston I know his daughter, grandaughter and son-in-law. By knowing them I feel I knew him.

Harley Huston represents what has become almost a forgotten generation. NOT because his generation did nothing of importance but, because they are passing on. Mr. Huston's generation lived through the Great Depression, fought bravely on 2 war fronts, freed millions of Europeans that had been overrun by the German war machine and island hopped to Tokyo, Japan, one bloody island at a time. Yes, they invented the Atom bomb but they also cured the crippling disease of Polio. Their hard work and perseverance built this county in to what it is today. The BEST county on the face of this earth. Harley Huston and his generation set the standards for our military to be the best in the world and set the American lifestyle to be the best in the world.

This is a generation that according to a Fox News Report of May 24, 2008 are dying at the rate of 1000 per day. According to Fox, they were once 16 million strong and now number approximately 2.5 million. Many of these veterans are still around. You see them in the parks, in the Wal-Mart stores and in the Veteran Day parades. The next time you see a veteran and you will know the the WWII veterans. They are the ones with gray hair, gnarled hands, some are a little stoop shouldered and their eyes get teary when the National Anthem is played. Just quietly and gracefully say, Thank you sir, thank you for my freedom and what you sacrificed for me.

Mr. Huston, with respect, I salute you. God Bless. For prayer clik on Psalm 23

A Veteran Speaks Out,

2008-09-11T06:56:00.000-07:00

This link was sent to me by my blogger friend Mighty Mom over at http://texassiren.blogspot.com/ It sends a powerful message for all Americans. It was done by a young veteran who did it on his own, without funds from anyone, because he felt he had to do it. I will let this young warrior speak for himself and the many, many young warriors it has been my honor privilege to meet in the last 3 years. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TG4fe9GlWS8

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Time for Some Good News

2008-08-27T18:32:00.000-07:00

As our young warriors continue to train for their next engagement some good things are happening. You won't catch this on the major networks. It doesn't involve mayhem, gore (not Al), or an anti-American spin. It is up to your humble blogger to bring it to you. I heard on the radio our brother Marines are giving up security in Anbar Province effective the end of this week. The Iraqi Security Forces will take over and protect their homeland. If you remember, the major networks made nightly news of Anbar as it was an AQI stronghold. Gee, where are the major nets now that the surge has turned the tide and the ISF are up to speed. This post is not about that. I just threw it in for free, which means no extra charge to read it. (Smile, I am) You do have to wonder though, why are the major networks not reporting GOOD happenings in Iraq?

Posts can go on and on but I just wanted to take us, you and me, away from the boring programing that has been on EVERY TV channel this week. Thank goodness for The History and The Discovery Channel. Not to be one sided, I am certain it will be the same way next week but, I still have two channels worth watching and I have to mow the grass.

For some good news clik on this link. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=50939

See what IS happening in Iraq. This is just a small part of what our brave warriors have accomplished since they have been there. I must put in a plug for Specialist Jacob who was home last weekend. During his deployment in Baghdad he told me part of the 15 months his unit was there they rebuilt and re-furbished 3 schools for girls.They also were with the Corp of Engineers when they built a water pumping station for irrigation of farmland so the Iraqis could begin farming in the region. For some good news from Iraq, like I said clik on the link. Kids are kids the world around.

Have a wonderful Labor Day and don't forget the young men and women who protect our FREEDOM.

God Bless America, America, Bless God

FINALLY A TIME TO JUST TALK

2008-08-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

It happened this weekend, not the way it was planned but it happened, FINALLY. As most of you know Jacob returned from Iraq in March. Due to the passing of his uncle that same day, our reunion was cut short. When his leave FINALLY rolled around in June, it was vacation to Atlanic City, compliments of the in-laws, thank them very much, then back to Ft Bragg because the boys started summer basketball.

During the July we managed to corral one of the grandsons and held him for ransome. We knew dad would come and get him sometime before school started. We were right! Got him!!

He rolled into the homestead about 2120 hrs, (9:20PM for you civilians) Friday evening. A two hour parking lot (accident) on the West Virginia Turnpike (?) caused the delay of a normally 8 hour trip. But he's home. Sit down eat some pizza from his favorite pizza joint and just talk and listen. Oh, what a wonderful experience. Just Mom, Dad, and child, (man). Conversation ran the gamut (sp?) from re-enlistment, buying his first home, little sister who is with child, was Michael, the grandson good?, (grandchildren are always good for grandparents!). It was just fantastic!

Saturday morning I went to work for a couple of hours and then.....the tradition breakfast at Bob Evans. We went there on a regular basis and just talked about everything and nothing. Dad's know about this type of talk. The first thing that happened was so emotional I had a hard time telling it to his mother when we got home.

I gotta set this up. We go to BE and are dressed in shorts, t-shirts and tennis shoes. No military stuff at all. We are shown our table and before the waitress give us our menus a guy from our church walks over. He puts his arm around Jacob and declares to the tables near and some far, "Welcome home soldier, we are so proud of you and what you are doing for us." Let me tell you a very humble rough tough soldier was visibility moved. Thank you's came from various other tables around us then. Of course dad was bustin' the buttons off his t-shirt but my soldier just sat there quite and humble and replied thank you sir and nodded thanks to the other people. It was a very moving moment in his life and mine. I believe it meant more to him than anything that he has ever had happen in his life. He understood the path he had chosen was the right one not only for him but for his county and the people who live here. He knew what he and all of our young men and women were and have been doing was well worth it.

Saturday we had a little surprise cook out with just family and friends. He and his little sister were talking and she asked him about PTSD. Do you have it, she asked, yes, he answered a mild case. What are you doing about it? Dealing with he says. This struck me as I began to think while they talked about it. Every soldier must have some PTSD coming back home. How do they deal with it? It was good to see little sister and big brother talking it out. Just for the record little sister is 2 years older but about 8 inches shorter than her big brother.

Later in the evening we just talked about everything and nothing. He told me the day went "good pops, good". That coming from a person who does not like the spotlight. Now just more talk and listen until midnight and our soldier racks out on couch, a place we found him on many a morning. Then just mom....and dad...and child asleep. In Jacob's bedroom his son was sleeping. The cycle begins again, another child and perhaps someday another parents worry but, for now, for this one night, this one moment, parents just breath a sigh of relief, thank their God, their child is home safe.

I just wish all of you could have been here. For Airborne Dad and Infantry Dad and the rest of you with sons and daughters "in harms way" I know you know the feeling.

He's off again back to Fayville and ready to do what all of our brave sons and daughters do. Protect us and give us the best county in the world to live in. They are so very special. That's why they are "The One Percenters"!

Please note the addition of two more of America's One Percenters on my Prayer List

Greg Funk, Army
Nathan Petty, Army

Have a great week and God Bless America!

2008-08-05T04:50:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

I have yet to ask for donations for this blog as I personally wouldn’t pay for most of the information that is printed here but……OH BOY, here is comes. Nah, not for me. If you haven’t figured it out yet I write on two blogs, Mark 1:11 http://markoneeleven.blogspot.com/ and Conservative Outrage http://conservativeoutrage.blogspot.com/ .

Mark 1:11 was started when my son Jacob went to Iraq to follow him and his unit. Conservative Outrage was started a couple of months ago to stand up for Conservative causes. I didn’t want the two blogs to mix as I support my son and the military and I support the Conservative base of America. Sort of “my son”, “my country”. That being said I read a number of blogs on a regular basis. One of them http://www.restart.typepad.com by Pastor John Slider has a post on July 30,2007 that not only affects our military but is an Conservative Outrage!

I invite you to clik on http://www.restart.typepad.com , scroll down to the July 30 post and read it. If you feel strongly about our military and the Conservative base that founded the greatest county on earth clik the “Contribute Now” and make a donation. This good Marine, an Iraq veteran of 3 tours in combat is being persecuted not prosecuted! He deserves our support!

Thanks,

ABNPOPPA

Proud father of an 82^nd AIRBORNE Paratrooper

Let's Not Forget Them

2008-07-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

One thing I have noticed lately and I feel a little sad about it is the frequency of blogging has slowed down. I am not sure why, perhaps it is summer and people are on vacation. Perhaps it is because the young soldiers our blogging family has been keeping track of and praying for are safe at back home. As I look back on the last 18-19 months when our soldier left it seems as most of the world I live in has stood still. Any vacation was taken at Fort Bragg to support our daughter-in-law and the grandkids. Preparations for them to come back to home (Ohio) for holidays were done. Finally the big preparation for the return of Jacob to the United States was done. The world just stood still, at least mine did. I am pretty certain ABNMOMMA’S did too. We need to keep in mind the 110, 000 brave soldiers still serving in Iraq.*

When Jacob deployed it was for 12 months and was bumped up to 15 months. Since he left in January we decided we would leave Christmas decorations up until he came home in January. Being a rather bull headed person after we learned of the extra 3 months I said something to the affect “those damn decorations are staying till he comes home.” Then he did come home to Fort Bragg and we found out his 30 day leave wouldn’t be until June.

ABNMOMMA put her foot down and the artificial tree and Nativity Scene succumbed to her wishes or at least I did. Now, herein lies my problem. We have 14 foot tall ceilings in the Great Room. Hanging in the Great Room are 16, 12 inch ornaments about 2 to 3 feet from the ceiling. To quote Subvet, “she who must be obeyed” has requested they come down. I say, since I am the one who has to climb up the ladder and reach about 6 inches longer than my arm will allow they should stay. Christmas is only about 4 months away! Safety first, don’t you agree?

What say you? C’mon guys I need your help on this one. Save me!

*Please note the addition of SSG David Cross to my Soldiers Prayer List. He was recently deployed to Iraq and his parents are part of our church family. Your prayers for his safety are appreciated.

G-d Bless All

ABNPOPPA

2008-07-02T13:20:00.000-07:00

Who among us would not post on our blog this memorable day. The day that gives freedom and justice for all of us in the greatest county in the World. Sure there will be the flags, parades and fireworks, a tradition that has spanned over 200 years. We are so lucky and blessed.

As my children were growing up and as I tell my grandchildren today one only needs to read two documents to live a righteous life. The first is the Bible and the second, of course is The Declaration of Independence. I firmly believe if one puts time and effort into these two instruments, lives by what the authors wrote, and follows them as the authors intended a person will have a successful life.

When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,

I have only copied the first part of the Declaration of Independence because I feel it contains two very important statements. The first,

"all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator".

It doesn't say only in church, it doesn't say not in the place you work, it doesn't say not in a court room and it doesn't say not in a school. The Creator endows every man, woman and child all the time everywhere!

You only have to go back to when prayer was taken out of the schools to see the moral decline that has taken over. First the schools, then work and now some state and local governments are trying to pass laws that would prevent Pastors, Preachers, Priests and Rabbis from preaching what the Creator has endowed on every man.

The second statement, "

That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed".

The key here is with the consent of the governed. It is not just the last Congress that was elected two short years ago but ones that were elected several years ago that began the downward cycle the Greatest Nation on earth faces today. The term "do nothing congress' is appropriate for the current congress. The slippery slope started when "we the people" began to demand less of the people we elected. It began when we decide it wasn't worth the effort to study who was running for what office or what they wanted to do, or...who they were connected with. Our elected officials have health insurance they don't pay for, bank accounts they don't have to balance, can take a trip anywhere in the world and say it is for government business and drive in cars we can't even begin to afford. All at taxpayers expense.

I say Bull Crap! It is time, "we the people" begin to form a more responsive government. It all starts with holding their feet to the fire this coming election day. The President of this great country is the most powerful man in the world but....it is the Congress that holds the purse strings. I don't care who you vote for as it is none of my business. I do care that you vote and encourage everyone you know to find out where these current congressmen and women stand on issues. What have they done in the last 2,4, or 6 years? Is it for their own political gain or is it for the betterment of this county! Have they voted on issues or skipped town when they thought the vote might hurt their chance for re-election? If they have put themselves before the betterment of this country. I say Vote them OUT! We don't need do nothings guiding this country. What do they stand for? If you don't stand for something you'll fall for anything! (Garth Brooks)

IMHO these last two that are running for President of the United States should resign NOW! Getting paid while being absent from your job to campaign is an insult to every American working man and women.

"..my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.

John F. Kennedy, Inaugural Address, January 20, 1961

God Bless

America

& Happy 4^th of July

General Electric, Who do you Support?

2008-06-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

This just really upsets me! I would use stronger words but my mother taught me better. It is OUTRAGEOUS! I heard it on O'Reilly again last week and it triggered something in the ol' grey matter. I finally found it and can't believe it is happening. It was originally reported in January of this year and apparently continues.

Several of us bloggers have sons currently serving in the GWOT, Global War on Terror. It has been reported that General Electric continues to do business with Iran. This after it has been proven that Iran continues to train, fund, and equip terrorists in Iraq.

Why this information is not aired in a big way is beyond me. On the O'Reilly show he stated that several states have divested all interests in investments in Iran. Has your state, or your, pension fund? Have you contacted your Congressman or Senator to find out why they have allowed this to continue? This is truly a "do nothing congress" and as long as our sons and daughters fight for this county major corporations in this county need to put their lives before the stockholders interest. If it weren't for our sons and daughters there wouldn't be any company or stockholders.

Boycott General Electric in everything and every way you can.

Supporting Links

www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/01/22/60minutes/main595214.shtml

doctordalai.blogspot.com/2008/01/general-electric-is-doing-business-with.html

And.... thanks for your support!

OH MY!!!

2008-06-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

OK,

Gotta get this going before I start to work replacing what was so carefully constructed over the past week. You see, the boys were here for a little weeks vacation while mom and dad went to Atlantic City, compliments of the in-laws, to gamble the milk money away. Well not really the milk money but to have a good time after 15 months in the City of Sadam and 2 months home at Fort Bragg waiting to go on the well deserved 30 day leave. So ol’ ABNPOPPA and my better half to quote Subvet, “she who must be obeyed”, ABNMOMMA were re-activated to the parental guidance role.

What was once a nice efficient, passive solar house and homestead was transformed by two of the three grandsons in to the Skateboard/bicycle Track of Champions while I was at work performing my super secret government operations, so secret I can’t even tell myself what I do. Zak, and Evan the 11 and 10 year olds without help from any adult or older sibling constructed the park you see in the pictures.

The good news is that after 4 days of riding and boarding in various stages of construction no trips were made to the hospital. ABNMOMMA was pressed into nursing duty for several scraps and abrasions but no broken bones. If you are wondering were the bricks came from if you look at the background you will see a partially dis-mantled flower garden wall. This wall must be rebuilt as the boss said it makes the ranch look trashy. Like the skateboard park is aesthetically appealing?

Oh well, I better get to work, the real boss is due home shortly and if it looks like I did something I might just get dinner.

Grandkids, you gotta love ‘em!!!

Hooah!

Flag Day

2008-06-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks,

My post is short and sweet this time. I borrowed it from a man named Red. In these times of trouble and tribulation maybe we ALL need to remember what it means to ALL of us who live in the best county in the world. Clik onthe link, The Pledge, on the left. You may have to paste it to your browser but it is worth it.

http://unknownprogrammer.home.comcast.net/~unknownprogrammer/index.html

Hooah!

Memorial Day

2008-05-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

1218 HRS. 05/25/08 (Sunday afternoon for you civilians)

It's strange how things work out. I had no real intention to post for a while as my family has been tied up in the ICU for the past week. ABNMOMMA's father had been ill. Our family was sadden when he passed away Thursday morning. He was a good man and a Veteran of the US ARMY. Nothing seemed right and I was resigned to not post on this important day. I returned home and read some emails and to my surprise a couple of my fellow bloggers mentioned my not posting. I had a couple of ideas but they just didn't seem right.

It's been said I have never had an original idea. So today I am borrowing from a man I will call a friend of mine, (he might disagree) but, here goes.

I went to a local church today, pastored by a retired ARMY Chaplin. He had invited me previously and today seemed appropriate. Here's a plug for you Pastor (Chaplin) Flesher, http://www.greencastlebiblechurch.org/. It was a good service started off by the Pledge of Allegiance being led by Sgt. David Grubb, and Iraqi Veteran. A moment of silence for those who gave their lives for us. Then a prayer by an Air Force retiree who in his prayer gave blessing for living in the greatest county in the world and being allowed to pray in any church or way we wished. This struck me as exactly what the thousands of Veterans who have died did for us.

How do we, the living, say Thank You to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice? How do we, the living, say Thank You for allowing us to pray in any way and any church we want? How do we, the living, say Thank You for those who never returned to the county they died for while in places named, The Argonne Forest, Pork Chop Hill, Omaha Beach, the Mekong Delta, Mosel or some unnamed mountain or valley in places like Afghanistan? The answer is we can't. I truly believe we can't. Saying Thank You is not enough, but it's all I have! May you find Peace in Heaven.

We go out wave our flags, go to the cemetery watch the parade and then off to the barbecue. I was in a major retail store yesterday and the display for grills was bigger than the display for flags. What has this county become? Folks, it is NOT about money, big houses, or fast cars. It's about Freedom, it's about Democracy, it's about being able to pray in any church, at any time, in any way.

A soloist sang a song, entitled "How can it be (he died for me)". Today, I will change that slightly and ask myself, Veteran, How can it be you died for me?

The Heart of It All

2008-05-17T12:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks,

Mathew 8

5And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,
6And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.
7And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.
8The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.
9For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
10When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
11And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.
12But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
13And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.

I was going to start of with "My fellow Americans", but I hear someone else all ready said that!

I will warn you now this is more personal blogging than thought provoking, then again, some would say I have never really had a thought provoking idea.

WOW, is all I can say! ABNPOPPA has been pressed back into service for the US ARMY. Nah, I didn't re-enlist, and didn't get called up, too old. I did, get a call from Fayetteville, home of the 82n AIRBORNE Division to report for duty as a youth monitor, aka, grandpa or baby sitter. Am I up to the challenge, you betcha Charlie! Three grandsons, 10,11, and 14 and me for 72 fun (?) filled hours. One of my fellow bloggers suggested something like chocolate about an hour before mom and dad get home. I am thinking about that!

It seems some of the husbands and wives get to visit Myrtle Beach this weekend as part of their debriefing since returning home from Iraq. Debriefing? Gotta think that one over. Anyway since ABNMOMMA'S dad has been in the hospital for some breathing difficulties, I am in Fayville, as I like to call it. and it's easier to type.

This is one town let me tell you. Flags and signs supporting our soldiers and of course Fort Bragg. What can I say? Fort Bragg, Home of the 82nd AIRBORNE, Special Ops, Delta Force. For an older Army veteran like me this is the mecca for our fighting forces. I am sure the Marines and Air Force and Navy and Coast Guard might disagree. Next week is All American Week and there is going to be more parades, brass, exhibitions than one can imagine. There have bowling tournaments, baseball games for our returning soldiers. The media may want to say the returning veterans are not getting greeted the way they should be and people are ready to give up on the GWOT but these soldiers want to win. You can just feel a difference in the air. You can feel the Pride, the Dedication, and the Courage of these young men and women soldiers as they walk with pride and their heads held high! These are the GREATEST Soldiers in the world.

You can run stories about barracks in poor repair but forget to mention they are barracks from WWII and haven't been lived in for two years. The media also forgets to mention about the millions of dollars spent in new barracks for our fighting forces. Sorry, not meant to be a slam fest.

This is double high for ol' ABNPOPPA. Mom and dad away and the boys and grandpa play. And I am so lucky to be playing in Fayville and Fort Bragg. All I can say is WOW!

I am so lucky to be an American G-d Bless the USA and blogging from Fort Bragg!!

Hoooah! ATW!

This War Just Got Too Damn Close

2008-05-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Lance Cpl. James Fredrick Kimple

Lance Cpl. James Fredrick Kimple (Freer), 21, was killed in action on Saturday, May 3, 2008, in the Province of Iraq. He served with First MLG CLB1 Security Company and was stationed out of Camp Pendleton, Calif.

This young man lived just a few short miles from our home. Jacob played basketball against his school during his high school years. Please remember his family in your prayers as they go through these trying times.

James died doing what he wanted to do since age 16. He did it for his family and his country and will always be our hero. The few, the proud, one of our finest.

Please go to this web site to read more about this Fallen Warrior.

lancastereaglegazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080507/OBITUARIES/805070305/1023

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a trust fund which has been established at Fifth Third Bank for the education of his three children. All I can say is:

Freedom isn't Free.

National Prayer Day

2008-04-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

May 1, 2008
National Day of Prayer

Have you heard this on the news? Have you heard it at work? Have you read it in the newspaper? I think not! Folks, let me tell you I have heard more hoopla over Sweetest Day, Grandparents Day, and St. Patrick's Day. What gets me is only a portion of this great county we live in can celebrate these days. Never heard of Americans from Italy celebrating St. Patrick's Day with the same zeal as my Irish friends...have you? Mom and Dad don't celebrate Grandparents Day 'cause they have their own days to celebrate. What I am getting at is what has got to be one of the most important days of the year and nobody seems to be celebrating it, or at least a very few. This is not just Catholic Day, Jewish Day or even Muslim Day or Baptist Day. We in America what ever faith we are can certainly celebrate National Day of Prayer.

Why aren't the TVstations announcing it or the newspapers printing it. Hey America! National Day of Prayer!! One day every free American can celebrate. C'mon folks for once in your life do something a little different perhaps, say a prayer. I know my G-d won't mind receiving an extra one or two and I am sure the Jewish G-d, and the G-Ds of the other faiths will have some time to listen also.

Some may say this is blasphemy because there is only one G-d, but I think you get my point. Take a moment, ask a friend or relative or for goodness sakes someone you don't even know. Give thanks for living in the GREATEST county on Earth, The United States of America. And, while you're at it you might just remember the 140,000 young men and women in the military currently fighting to keep us free and safe, giving us the chance, without fear of reprisal, to pray any doggone place we want. Better yet, call your local TV and radio station and ask them where the coverage on National Day of Prayer is. I think I will. So in keeping with my thought of National Day of Prayer I, ABNPOPPA, am going to pray now for all of you and the soldiers, and the leaders of all the countries, and people of all faiths for a better tomorrow......Will you say a prayer for someone now, here's your chance.........

G-d Bless,

ABNPOPPA

Children of ABNPOPPA & ABNMOMMA

2008-04-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

This blog was not meant to be a running diary of my life and family however, it was strongly pointed out to me by a good friend we had more children. My friend pointed out my other children may feel left out since they had not been mentioned as my posts have been of my son, Jacob, who is with the 2-319th AFAR, 82ND AIRBORNE DIVISION. I tried to explain to my friend our other children received the same attention when they excelled only not over the world wide web.

This I find quite hard,but easy to do as our other two children are safe and secure in the US of A and not in the military. So now if you do simple math you know we have 3 children. They are two young men and one lovely daughter, all adults with families of their own. I wrote a story once and described them in this manner.

I was married to a beautiful, younger woman who graciously allowed me to help her raise 3 wonderful children; they are, Aaron, the elder, a carpenter by trade and a builder of ,strong sound buildings and homes. He took time to build ABNMOMMA and me a beautiful home. One we had been wanting for the first 20 years of our marriage. As I say to people who visit it, Aaron was the ramrod, I just wrote the checks. I am always careful to point out his signature door arch that he has put into every home he has built. He is quite the perfectionist and creative in his work. He has given me the next line in my family generation and an athlete. His son, Ryan, the spitfire is a soccer player extraordinaire, in poppa’s eyes or course. And his daughter is always willing to talk with poppa on the phone, and sometime never stop.

Our daughter, Sarah, is by degree a teacher, or rabbi in Hebrew. She worked her way though college and earned two degrees. One in what my un-political correctness terms as Special Education. Because of her I have grandchildren who can “sign” at 5 years old and have vocabularies better than old ABNPOPPA. She is the first child in my family to go to college and earn a four year degree. The whole family is exceptionally proud of her and what she has accomplished. Although educated she and her husband decided that raising a family in a Christian home was more important therefore, she is a stay at home mom. Her husband is a farmer, provider, father and good Christian man who believes in being a helpmate as was intended by G-d. I am extremely proud to call him my son-in-law and never worry about my daughter or the grandchildren.

Of course, if you have read my Blog you know of Jacob, the warrior, who has taken up the sword to protect the clan and homeland. Jacob could have been Joshua save the fact his great grandfather was named Jacob.

As you might have noticed our children's name all are Biblical which was somewhat intended. I wonder though about their occupations. A carpenter, a rabbi, and a warrior, do you believe G-d works in strange ways? Hmmm?

Where have all the Great American ICONS Gone?

2008-04-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

ICON: An important and enduring symbol: One who is the object of great attention and devotion;*

There is going to be a lot of buzz over the next couple of weeks with the passing of Charlton Heston. Charlton Heston like John Wayne, Audey Murphy, Presidents Truman, Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt, and Reagan, General Douglas MacArthur and General George Patton was a true American ICON. You see you don’t have to be a man of war or a president to be an ICON. You can also be a man of peace. Another one just came to mind, actually two, the Reverend Billy Graham and Bishop Fulton J. Sheen. An ICON can be a woman like Shirley Chisholm Black or Betsey Ross, or Clara Barton, Rosa Parks, or Grandma Moses.

These men and women were leaders in their respective fields. Some were heroes, some were movie stars, some made statements of sorts that changed the way this county grew and became a world leader. They all believed in America and the American Way of Life. They believed fiercely in their cause. They believed with hard work and a strong will they would and could help make this county better for all people. All were looked up to and respected for their Honesty, Character, Integrity and belief in this county. A belief that they had been born in the greatest county in the world. A country where everyone had a chance to excel and be the best at what ever they choose. The choice was theirs. A country God had smiled on and had given opportunity that is only found in the United States of America.

As I look around with the passing of Charlton Heston I ask myself, who will take his place? Who are the ICONS of America now? Do I look to Hollywood with their self-centered egotistical actors? Do I look to Washington DC for those who think they are elite and powerful? Who will take up the torch? Who will my grandchildren remember like I did of the Bishop Sheen’s, John Wayne’s and Charlton Heston's? I look over the county side and see no one. I ask myself, is it I who have set the bar too high that no one can measure up? Have my hero ICONS set the standard so unattainable that no American can now measure up? Who and where will the next Great American ICON be, where will he or she come from?

Silently I wait.

* The American Heritage^® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000.

What Soldiers are Made Of

2008-03-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

We have all heard American Soldiers are the best trained, best equipped and best led soldiers on Earth. They are made of something that only an American Soldier has. That something is born and bred into them. You can't buy it, you can't manufacture it, and it sure doesn't come in pill or capsule form. I have seen paratroopers jump from planes I swear I could throw a baseball up and hit. I've watched them tumble, roll, get up, gather up their 70 plus pounds of gear and run across a field just to hear their cadre say "Way to go Airborne!" Some of them barely are tall enough to keep their reserve chute from dragging the ground. Some them are probably outweighed by the gear they carry to survive in combat. But, their heart is as big as the very sky they fall so effortlessly from.

Who are they? What are they made of? Just flesh and blood, like you and me. But, with something inside them you can't name, some kind of drive that only a few have. One minute they are under fire from the enemy in life and death situations. The next they smile at a child that knows only he is hungry and the " American soldier" has given him something to eat, a smile and a pat on the head. Or maybe the soldier has just smiled at a puppy which reminds him of his child's puppy, safe and free in Anytown USA. He has been asked to do things he never thought he could or would do. He has pushed his body to the limit and then pushed again. He has accomplished that which he would have thought un-doable. Then shortly thereafter knelt to pray with his comrades for a successful mission and everyone of them is ok.

Ask them why they do what they do and you will get many answers. Words like Pride, Patriotism, Freedom, Family, Tradition are words you will likely here. I assure you when you pin them down they will say something like "it's just something I have to do, I don't really know why." If you have read my previous post you know about my son's battle buddy, Kody. If not, read it now, this post will make more sense.

Let me tell you about one soldier. Son of a former Marine and barely old enough to shave. At 19 he was one of the first surge paratroopers to enter Baghdad, not in the safe "Green Zone". On the border of the notorious Sadr City. His unit spent their first months kicking in doors, and I might add, kicking "butt" (sorry Chaplins). Patrols that lasted 3 days with little or no sleep. The chow was the wonderful MRE's. You know what? These soldiers were happy to have them! Did they complain about them? Hell yes! Have ever eaten an MRE? Most of these soldiers say "it doesn't taste too bad." But, cardboard tastes good if you put enough ketchup on it! Did they go on? Hell yes! Did they do their job to 110% of their capability? Hell yes, and then some more!

After 13 months this kid of soldier gets the message his father has passed away. He is on his way home, sad as the occasion may be, but home. No more mortars, IED'S. No more patrols where you don't know what is behind the next door or around the next corner. He spends his time at home with his family and lays his Marine father to rest. Now he has to pick up the pieces of his life and go on with his head held high. That's what his father would have said. "I'm in a better place now he would have told him. You have to take care of you now."

He has his ticket back to Fort Bragg, his home base. Home in the US of A. SAFE, HOT SHOWERS AND CHOW! What more could you ask for after what he has been through. Ride it out for a month until his unit gets back. What does this solider do? He requests to go back to his unit, they are still at the Combat Outpost and have a month to do. He gets a ticket, flies 18 hours, grabs some chopper rides and is back with his unit. Would you have done it? Do you have the guts to do it. I have asked myself that question many times since I found out about it.

Did this soldier take the easy way out, Hell no! He's an American soldier, an American Paratrooper, he has pride, faith and a heart that knows no boundaries. This, is what the American soldier is made of. You can't label it, you can't touch it, and you can't put a name on.

So, the next time you see someone in a military uniform, dog gone it, don't be afraid, walk up to them and say, Hi, I just want to thank you for my FREEDOM and keeping my family safe! The next time you go in "Harm's way" I'll be praying for your safe return. Who knows after you say it a couple of times you might just start a new revolution!

I waited to post this until the 2-319th Black Falcons arrived home last week. They are safely on the ground arriving at 0441 Hrs. , 4:41AM, Wednesday , March 19th.

Welcome home! and Thanks!

Thank You.

2008-03-08T14:14:00.000-08:00

This post is pre-written and will be posted as soon after BOG (Boots on the Ground) return date for my son, March 17th as possible. Unlike most of my posts is is relatively short but needs to be said.

My wife bore me a son
We gave the war a boy
God gave me back a man
Thank you Lord

To all the people who have supported me and my family and my son for the past 15 months no "Thank you" is enough but, it's the only thing I have to give. Your prayers and support helped me through some very tough times. I wish to name a few of you here and if I have forgotten someone please forgive me.

In no special order

Airborne Dad, theonepercenters.blogspot.com, Mighty Mom, texassiren.blogspot. com, Pastor Ed Boston, Dotherighthing blogspot.com, Infantry Dad, infantrydad.blogspot.com, Chaplin Lynn, worthmysalt.blogspot.com Pastor (Chaplin,retired) Flesher, greencastlebiblechurch.org, Don and Sue, Uncle Don, St. John Lutheran Church members, Sarah, my daughter, and all the members at Hope Bible Church, Walmart employees, George, Betty, Pat, Patricia, Steve.

Barb F and Dave P of Greencastle. may your sons be safe from harm.

Subvet, agangershome.blogspot.com, all the kind and wonderful people who have seen my "Proud Parent" lapel pin and asked me to send my thanks to my son. I feel like the people at these dumm award shows on TV. Sarah, my daughter, and all the members at Hope Bible Church, At work, Jennifer, Steve, Mary Mac, my boss, "J", who has put up with my moods (?) , Jackey, Charline, Margene, Teresa, Ian, Mary C, Debbie, Alice and Otto, Charlie C, Darrel, my other brother, Jeff, even if he likes the 20 car, Dayngr, dayngrzone.blogspot.com.

I have to mention this guy by himself for being one heck of a human being and one hell of a photographer, Andrew Craft,acraftphoto.blogspot.com/. I must tell you why. An exploded IED photo was posted on the net by Mr. Craft. It was near where my son was stationed. I had not heard from my son for a couple of days. I em'd Mr. Craft who was kind enough to em back and tell me NO servicemen had been hurt in the explosion. My anxiety level dropped to zero with his email. Thanks again Andrew. He does great work in my humble opinion.

Finally a special thanks to my daughter-in-law, Ally. What a girl, she bleeds Red, White (opps) and Blue and Army green (?), I am an old guy remember! She has put up with my 15 months of guidance, hmm, and said nary a word. She has been there for "our soldier" All The Way!!

To anyone I forgot I apologize. Thanks to all and

God Bless America

Dilemma

2008-03-08T13:02:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have read my thoughts, rantings, and raves I thank you. For those of you who have not maybe you are better off. I come to ask, oh boy here it comes, HELP! No I don't need money,you are off the hook. If you have read my first post I say this is not a red blog or blue blog. I just try to make it a blog that on occasion will be interesting, make people think and comment. Therefore give me information I may not have (aka comments).

We are currently in the midst of a a very long (winded) presidential campaign. Too long in my ever so humble opinion but, that's another story. Here's where I need your help. My candidate for the highest office in this land dropped out! Now I have to decide between currently 3 people, but in November 2 people. I am looking for why or why not to vote for a particular candidate. If you haven't all ready figured it out I am not a straight line party guy. I vote for the person whom I think will be the best for the America, not personally for me. My thoughts are if it's good for America, it's probably good for me. That is OK for me.

Being a male, sometimes chauvinist pig, ladies first. Sorry Gloria S. I ain't changing at this age!

Hilary Clinton: Don't really know much about the woman save what I hear and read. She's about my age, which is good. Don't need too young or too old of a president. She likes giving everyone health care. That is good. Being associated with the medical profession for over 30 years I don't know any person who has not received medical treatment when they really needed it. Who's going to pay for the health care? She stood by her man during some pretty tough times. That says to me she is capable of making a commitment and standing by it. Why she was so committed on that one I am not sure. She really has never managed anything that I know of, that's not good. She's a US Senator that, isn't a recommendation in my book.

Barack Obama: Don't really know much about him either. First time Senator with no significant mention of his record in the Senate. Seems to like to make people feel good. I have heard his speeches about raising minimum wages, that would be nice. If I pay a stock person at Wal-Mart more money to stock the shelves doesn't that make the cost of the merchandise go up? He got an endorsement from Louis Farrakhan, but rejected it. That seems reasonable. He doesn't place is hand over his heart during the National Anthem (saw the video). He doesn't wear a flag lapel pin. I don't wear a Flag lapel pin however, I am not running for the Presidency of the United States. If he wore it for political purposes that wouldn't be good. By not wearing it he shows commitment, that's good. He's a US Senator that, isn't a recommendation in my book.

John McCain: The first thing that comes to my mind is "war hero". My heart goes out to him for all he has suffered. Is being a "war hero" a qualification for the most powerful post in the world? He's from Arizona, never been there, hear it's got a lot of sand and is pretty hot and dry. I don't know what his management qualifications are. I will interject the thought, doesn't being President of the United States require some management experience? None of the candidates have any that I see. Some of the people say he's too old. Experience is not bad. My father-in-law is 76 and sharp as a tack. He doesn't always go along with party lines. Is that good or bad? Commitment keeps coming to mind. Is that good or bad? He's a a US Senator that, isn't a recommendation in my book.

Folks, there is my dilemma. Can you help me? I really would appreciate you comments and opinions. Now how many people ask you for your opinion?

Kody, May G-d Bless /What are You Thinking Barbra Walters?

2008-02-12T14:11:00.000-08:00

My original post that was started on 02/12/08 follows however, I have something much more important than my diatribe against Jane, the traitor, Fonda and Barbra, the moron, Walters. Please bear with me.

Folks there is still a war going on and with the Presidential race in the forefront of the news if you don't dig deep sometimes you tend to forget about it. Even more important is how the war affects families. I received a phone call yesterday from my daughter-in-law. Her husband is currently in Iraq. She had some sad news for me indirectly about the war. For those of you unfamiliar with the military every soldier has a "battle buddy". They, quite simply, look out for one another. Being a parent of a soldier I have had the pleasure of meeting many fine young men and woman assigned to the 82nd AIRBORNE DIVISION. One of these young men was PFC Kody Anderson, my son's "battle buddy". When you are a parent with a child in "harms way" you live from day to day expecting the worse and hoping for the best. Your daily prayer includes,please G-d don't let me see a military car pull in my driveway. You never worry about yourself and what might happen if something happens to you or what affect it might have on your soldier.

Unfortunately yesterday, 20 year old Kody Anderson, my son's "battle buddy, had the equivalent of the military car in the driveway. Yesterday, Kody was informed by his superiors, his father had passed away. Folks, if you know me personally you know my passion for our young men and women at war. Imagine what this young soldier is going through. Thousands of miles from home, defending the county he lives,loves and believes in, doing his best to follow a family tradition of patriotism that his father, and his best friend, have set for him and he receives notice of his father's passing.

I have only one request of all of you who read this post,forward it to someone who will pray for Kody and his family. He is a fine young man, a good Christian, and in the future he and his family will need all the Hope and Prayers we can give him.

G-d Bless your dad, Kody, He was one hell of a Marine!

Folks, somehow this Fonda/Walters thing seems a little insignificant now.

First off I am going to remind everybody I have a son currently serving in Iraq and my opinion may be somewhat slanted but, I don't think so. According to this forward by my friend Barbra Walters in going to honor Jane Fonda as '100 Women of the Century'. Now I am not sure what that means but I have a few expletives that might cover it. To the Chaplains, Pastors, and religious people who read this I will apologize now.

Ms. Fonda is in my humble opinion, is a traitor to every man or woman who has every worn a uniform in the United States Military. She has posed with the North Vietnamese while good people like Senator John McCain, (not an endorsement) was being beaten and forced to live in squaller and sleep on concrete floors. She continues her anti-American attitudes by protesting against the War on Terror which regardless of your personal feelings about the war in Iraq, murdered nearly 3000, that's 3000, Americans in New York City and Washington DC and a field in Pennsylvania. She refuse to acknowledge her role in the continued mis-treatment of the POW'S in Vietnam and states that our good soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan have murdered civilians and children.

In a speech to Duke University students in 1970, Fonda told the gathering, "If you understood what Communism was, you would hope and pray on your knees that we would someday become Communist." Upon returning to the United States, Fonda told the world press that U.S. prisoners of war were being well treated and not tortured. Again, I refer to Senator John McCain, ask him of his treatment. Her outrageous claims were later exposed when American POWs were finally freed and told of years of agonizing tortures and inhuman treatment. Fonda responded, not with an apology, but with an accusation calling our returned POWs "liars and hypocrites."

What are you thinking Barbra Walters?