Soldier's Angels Could Use Some Help

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Right now, Soldier's Angels is:

• Helping people deal with events in Afghanistan
• Helping with Run for the Fallen
• Helping the families of Sergeant Alex Jimenez and Private Byron Fouty
• Provided flights to some special people for a special event when another organization fell through
• Providing more flights and other support to families of the fallen for an event this weekend
• Doing a special MWR event for wounded that will get them out of the hospital for a while
• Continuing their work at WRAMC, Bethesda, BAMC, and elsewhere
• Continuing to support the troops worldwide

Things are tight, and there is much to be done. What hurts a lot right now is that because of the recent unpleasantness, they are reluctant to turn to the milblogs for help. I think it is time we show Soldier's Angels, and through them the troops, that we do indeed still care. They need donations of all types: mileage, gift cards, gifts, cash, and more. So, please, do what you can for them.

LW

Dr. Fang -- Someone You Should Know (About at least)

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Last fall as part of my first embed, I came back via Germany so that I could visit Landstuhl Regional Medical Center as a blogger; and, I had the honor and privilege to spend time there with Soldier's Angels. While there are many things that can and should be said, what I will settle for now is a bit of the true highlight of my time there as a blogger.

One of the last interviews I had was with Dr. Fang. What I think was to have been just a quick and pro-forma interview turned into something more as we discovered some mutual interests and that I was not unversed in certain medical issues. In fact, somewhat to the dismay of PAO, we got into things to the point that Dr. Fang took me on mini-rounds.

Unlike a certain photographer recently tossed out by the Marines, I respect both patient confidentiality and have, I hope, some basic human decency so specifics are not a part of this story. Dr. Fang wanted me to appreciate the range and scope of what comes into LRMC, as it is much more than battle casualties. Cardiac issues, strokes, non-combat injuries such as broken bones, and even the unknown. Is it an insect sting, snake bite, or previously undetected condition if an otherwise healthy person goes to bed fine and is unresponsive the next morning? A very interesting hypothetical, and that is the type of thing that they can face.

Wounds are a large part of what comes in from the combat zones, however, and much time and thought goes into determining and executing the best means of treatment. Dr. Fang, and the others I met there, are determined to improve treatment, so I am not surprised in the least to read this story at Soldier's Angels Germany. Take the time to dig a bit deeper, and learn more about Dr. Fang and the others who are working hard every day not just to do for now, but to improve things in the future.

So, here is one face to put with discussions on the care our wounded receive, and on efforts to improve that care. Meeting and spending time with him that day was the highlight of the first part of my visit, and I hope that you will take the time to meet him now.

LW

AFP At It Again???

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Okay, the photoshopped Iranian missile photos came via AFP and AFP is known for what might charitably be called "interesting" photos (Dogpile fauxtography and AFP -- please, Google is so yesterday). So, guess where another interesting photo can be found?. If you are going to use a stock/file photo, at least get one shot in the right area and with the right gear...

LW

Happy Birthday A-Dub!

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Just want to wish AWTM a happy birthday.

LW

Some Overdue Thanks

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Jenny and I did make it back okay from our somewhat frenetic trip south. Better than 2400 miles in about seven days, 8 or 9 stops (depending on how you count one), and only one snafu (not on our part) during the trip. Not bad, but think I'm still a bit sore from the driving.

I want to take the time to thank Defendusa and John for the hospitality they offered on this trip. It was enjoyed very much, and it was a true pleasure to meet both of you. I will say that Jenny very much enjoyed her time at the home of Defendusa, but still doesn't understand why the cat didn't behave like Mr. Kitty her friend.

My thanks to all who helped make this trip a pleasure and a success!

LW

Some Nice To Scrape the Murtha Off My Shoes

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

How did you spend Independence Day? These 1215 people celebrated by re-enlisting in Baghdad.

And can you picture Trust?

LW

Venal Fat Liar At It Again

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Mr. ABSCAM Unindicted Co-Conspirator is out trashing the troops again. Not only that, but the Porkmeister even misses by a wide margin the number of benchmarks met by the Iraqi government. Not really a surprise, since the Blue Falcon is senile, but I do have to wonder why the citizens of Pennsylvania keep returning this laughingstock to Congress. Well, maybe they won't this time as there is a veteran running against him so go donate.

Meantime, Murtha is the military and security expert for the Democratic Party, and they wonder why no one takes them seriously in those areas???

LW

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

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, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. —Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain [George III] is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

Happy Birthday America

LW

My Hat's Off

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

to the people who pulled this off. This was one hell of an op, and my congratulations to those who made it happen. If any of you are ever up this way, you have a beer (or two) on me.

LW

RIP "General Hammond"/Don S. Davis

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

We oft have cause to complain about the portrayal of the military in the drek that comes from Hollywood. Yet, for many years now there has been a very positive portrayal in one particular show, Stargate SG-1, and in particular through the character of General Hammond. The general showed some of the best qualities of a leader, including putting himself at risk (career or in the flesh) in order to look after his people and ensure no one was left behind. Indeed, there were those who felt that the character often showed more traits of an Army leader than an Air Force leader, and that should be no surprise as Don S. Davis, the actor making the portrayal, served in the Army ending his tour of duty a Captain. He used his own experience and views to modify a character intended as a typical two-dimensional character into something far more. He continued this in guest spots after health issues caused him to step down as a regular character. It is with regret, therefore, that I report that Capt. Davis has passed. His was a welcome change from the murderous pervert/by-the-book unintelligent martinet that seems to be all Hollywood knows of, or is willing to represent of, the military these days. From all accounts from those that met him, he was a warm, friendly, and talented man. Both he, and his portrayal, will be missed.

LW

A Banner Day For Those Coming Home

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Courtesy of Chuck Z., comes news of a company that wants to do right to our military families. Build-A-Sign is giving away 10,000 free customized banners to families that want to welcome home their loved ones from overseas. To make it even better, they are also going to donate 15% of any purchases made at that site to Disabled American Veterans. Please check it out, and help get the word out to our military families.

LW

A Visit To Barrett Firearms, Part 2

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

While visiting Barrett last week, I had the privilege to meet Ronnie Barrett and to have him spend some time discussing how things got started, the real story that certain anti-gunners get wrong, and a bit more. We shot this video in the vault, which one person there referred to as "the Candy Store", and I agree that it could make one drool. No free samples, alas.

Enjoy!

LW

Click here for Part 1

Delivery On Target

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Ouch. That's going to leave a mark.

The Saddest Thing About Barack Obama's Available Military Expertise... ...is that though he has Wes Clark in his corner, the only person he knows with the experience of getting a bomb on target is Bill Ayers.

Well done CY...

LW

A Visit To Barrett Firearms, Part 1

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

During my recent trip, I had the opportunity to visit Barrett Firearms, makers of a rather famous .50 caliber rifle, along with a number of other firearms and specialty ammunition to shoot in them. This is part one of that visit, and I hope you enjoy it.

LW

UPDATE: You can see the second part of the visit here.

A Trike Freefly

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Or, rather, a freefly about a trike and a man on a mission. This is quick and dirty, and done literally on the fly, but while driving across country today, I passed a wonderful trike and gave the driver a big thumb's up. We both ended up at the same rest stop a little later, and this is the result.

There is a bit of candy at the end, for the eyes, and it was fun to see all the people who came around -- and the thanks he got from those who had served. He noted that he, nor any others, would have the freedoms we do if not for our military. Enjoy.

LW

Early Summer Wolf Tour Mystery Portion

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Yesterday went very well, and Uncle Jimbo and I were able to do someone a favor along the way. Traffic was bad, bad enough that I think Jenny may well lean out and flip a paw to the next person who tries to remove our fender. Add in strong rain and hail, and the drive was interesting. Despite that, it was a very good and productive day.

I am going to be in mystery mode for the next couple of days, at that oft mentioned undisclosed location. I have, wisely according to Jenny, declined the hunting trip with Dick that Jimbo set up, and will have more soon.

LW

A Freefly on the Fly by Defendusa

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The Early Summer Wolf Tour continues, and it was a true delight to visit last night with Defendusa and her family. Jenny and I had a wonderful time, and while Jenny liked all the kids, she decided that Defendusa and Defendusa's eldest daughter were her new best friends almost on sight. Well, the daughter on sight and Defendusa handling meat while getting dinner ready and out ensured Jenny's rapt attention.

At the end of the evening, we decided to do a freefly on the fly, and we hope you enjoy this first effort at a freefly by either of us.

The tour continues, and if today goes half as well as yesterday, this will be a very happy wolf. My thanks to Defendusa and everyone who made yesterday so wonderful.

LW

Early Summer Wolf Tour Underway

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

While reading this story before leaving didn't help the blood pressure, I can already tell that the tour is going to be good. At least for me, and hopefully for you too.

We deal so much with the negative sometimes, that it can be easier than it should be to forget that there are a lot of decent people out there who get it. The first day of this trip reminded me of that in several ways. Part of the route yesterday was along the Purple Heart Trail. Then there are simple things like this which is one of the first things you see at the West Virginia welcome center on I-64:

Even in West Virginia, the home of Robert Byrd naming [Robert Byrd road, Robert Byrd highway system, Robert Byrd Skyline, Robert Byrd textile complex (white sheets cheaper than dirt!), Robert Byrd Blue Sky, Robert Byrd will name something else after himself soon], those who served and especially those who gave all outnumber the politcians (as it should be) in terms of the bridges and other items of interest named for them.

People also reminded me, watching how younger members of society interacted with older veterans along the way. For all that we see and hear, there are still those who get it; and, there are still those who believe in rational discourse -- especially those not in the thick of politics.

I had a very nice dinner last night with someone you will be getting to know later this summer. What? Do you think that we, the upfront, nice, open, and honest members of Team Blackfive would be up to something?

Continue reading "Early Summer Wolf Tour Underway"

Incredible McCain Girl Vs. Obama Girl

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Okay, this is about as close as I plan to come to politics for now, but in this fight I have to go with the IMG.

LW

Marine Puppy Video Update

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The video that created the uproar a few months ago is in the news again, with an AP story that says one of the Marines involved is being separated from the service and the other received non-judicial punishment. Given that I trust the AP to cover the military in much the same way I trust AFP to cover the mideast (not at all for the mentally impaired), I am looking for a better story. Unanswered are some important questions about the video itself and what happened, and I hope we do get those answers. That said, I am also glad that Corps has moved to deal with this, as this is not representative of the Corps or its members -- and the efforts of Marines to get puppies home from Iraq and/or to secure better lives and treatments for dogs there testify.

LW

Wine Review: Jar Head Red

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Don't say we are not a full-service blog...

Nice nose, rich red colour reminiscent of blood ruby, no eau de bunghole here, but instead rich with the leather and tobacco of an old-fashioned library or sitting room. The taste is full-bodied, and again strong leather and tobacco combine with ripe red berries and plums with a hint of dark chocolate on the side. The finish is long and strong with spice notes coming out. For a table wine, it is complex and full-bodied -- a fitting wine for the Corps and a good value at approximately $10 a bottle.

As an aside, if you are looking for some inexpensive wines that are well worth the money, also check out Herding Cats from South Africa (worth it for the labels alone); Juno, also from South Africa (the Cape Maiden labels can be eye catching); and, Banrock Station from Australia (a good ally despite their current leader) -- each at roughly $5 a bottle.

LW

The Gratitude Campaign

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Blogdaughter LDR has a short but wonderful post about how much the thanks people give to those who serve can mean. Given what happened to so many in years past, and it DID happen far too often, I am more than happy to point you to her post and to pass this along.

LW

Warning: The Wolf Shall Come Out of the North

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

While things are still extremely tentative, I did want to give warning to the citizens of the following locations for the dates shown. If you live near Virginia Tech, Friday 20 June; Raleigh, NC, Saturday 21 June; Atlanta, Tuesday 24 June; Huntsville, AL Wednesday 25 June; and Nashville/Murphreesboro, TN Thursday 26 June, be advised that myself and Miss Jenny may be in your area. Plans are still somewhat up in the air, but if you live in or near these places, and would like to get together with a fat mangy wolf -- and, maybe even do a free-fly we can post -- let me know via and we will see what works out. I can make no promises yet, but thought I should give adequate warning.

LW
BTW, whoever gets the referent for the title, well, I will come up with something other than to simply say that you are a true uber geek...

Listen In To Bob Connolly

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Via MaryAnn, I've learned that Lou Dobbs will be interviewing Bob Connolly -- whom you met last week -- on his radio show today between 1615 and 1630 hours (Eastern). Go check it out.

LW

The Longest Day

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

June 6, 1944. If you don't know this date, you should. Start with this post, and follow the links. Find the movie "The Longest Day" and watch it if you can.

Most of all, remember that on this day thousands of Allied troops went ashore to liberate Europe; and, all too many of them now rest eternally near that shore.

LW

Another Haditha Marine Acquitted

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Lt. Andrew Grayson acquitted all charges.

Two cases remain, those of Staff Sergeant Frank Wuterich and Lt. Col. Jeffrey Chessani. It is worth noting that these cases are raising some serious issues, with Wuterich's trail apparently being deliberately delayed until after his military defense attorneys retire and Chessani's trial already being described as tainted by "unlawful command influence" -- raising valid and serious concerns about their ability to receive a fair trial. All the more reason to keep spotlights on them.

Bob Owens has a write-up on events that you should read.

Expect an apology from John Murtha in *crickets chirping*

Expect MSM coverage of this and the other cases where no one was convicted in *crickets chirping*

Trolls in 3, 2, 1...

LW

Bob: A College Professor You Should Know

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Yes, that's right, a college professor you should know. Teaches in a business school, a pretty good one from all accounts and rankings. Bob is in the middle. You might recognize the gentlemen to either side

and they are the reason you need to go read the rest of the story by MaryAnn.

LW

A Battle Over, A Life Well Lived

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Marine Lance Corporal Robert Crutchfield had wanted to be a Marine, and he made that goal. He survived his time in the sandbox, only to come home and have some scum shoot him for not carrying more than $8 on him, saying that since he was a Marine and didn't have any more money on him, he didn't deserve to live. They left him for dead, but he fought a different battle then, and I was sad to read that his battle to survive is over. While I usually leave the politics for Jimbo, I do hope that the DA does up the charges and goes for the death penalty, for while he had begun to live his dream who knows what all he might have done.

May the light shine on his family and friends, now and in the days ahead.

LW

Is There An Illustrator (Or Two) In The House?

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

One thing that no longer surprises me in the least is the amazing array of talents to be found in our readers. Towards that end, if you are an illustrator or artist, please drop me a line using the e-mail to be found over there on the right if you might be interested in some possible work. Not saying it is connected to anything here, but would love to talk with you.

LW

Memorial Day: Remembrance

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Others speak far more eloquently than I this day, so I simply say to you:

If you see someone in uniform, or know they serve, thank them.

If you see someone you know has served, thank them.

Remember those who paid the ultimate price so that you are free to celebrate this day as you see fit; that paid that price such tyranny has been halted many times large and small; and, that gave unto each of us that greater love such that one laid down their life for another. Take a moment, if possible make it a special moment with family and friends, and simply remember them.

Remember them with thanks, with love, with joy, and celebration, for they would want it that way.

LW

Memorial Day Coffee For The Troops

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

When I wrote about Community Coffee and their troop special the other day, I didn't know that yet another coffee company was doing something special for the troops as well (I either missed a memo or a staff meeting). Green Beans Coffee literally serves the troops at FOBs and other interesting locations, and they have a special going on TODAY(!) to benefit TAPS and Soldier's Angels.

Stolen shamelessly from MaryAnn:

May 22, 2008 Pasadena, CA - Green Beans Coffee Company (GBCC) announces the “Memorial Day Green Beans Coffee Special.”

For every purchase made on May 26, 2008 at any location worldwide or online, Green Beans Coffee will donate $1 from your order to the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and Soldier’s Angels.

Green Beans Coffee has made a name for itself providing top-of-the-line coffee for U.S. troops stationed in war zones across the globe. They have more than 55 frontline locations in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Africa and other overseas locales. They have won the hearts and minds of the troops with quality coffee drinks and baked goods. Their cafés provide a safe, inviting respite for soldiers in dangerous lands.

Jason and Jon Araghi founded Green Beans Coffee in 1996. Its first store, Art Nouveau Café, was located in Saudi Arabia. The café became popular with local U.S. soldiers, who asked the brothers to open a café on a nearby military base. Green Beans Coffee grew with the U.S. military as its footprint expanded in Southwest Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Today, there are more than 55 Green Beans cafés worldwide. Green Beans Coffee Company believes in giving back to its customers that serve in the United States military.

The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provides a wonderful support network for the surviving families of those who have died in service to America. For more information visit www.taps.org.

Soldiers’ Angels is a grassroots 501(c)(3) non-profit comprised of 200,000 volunteers in over twenty different teams and programs with unique and effective ways to support members of the U.S. military. Soldiers’ Angels operates internationally to provide letters, care packages, and comfort items to the deployed, and support for their families at home. They also provide assistance to the wounded, continuing support for veterans, remembrances and comfort for families of the fallen and immediate response to unique situations. For more information, see www.soldiersangels.org or call (615) 676-0239.

For more information, visit www.greenbeanscoffee.com
Contact: info@greenbeanscoffee.com
Phone: US (415) 461-4023
Phone: Intl: +965-697-2223

So, you have two ways to help get good coffee to the troops. Please go do one, or both.

LW

Memorial Day: Remembering The Wounded

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Given that we are at war, those wounded in this fight tend to be most on our minds. They deserve our thoughts, our efforts, and all we can give them. That said, as you travel around this weekend, look at that older gentleman with the hook on his harm, the one with the glass eye, and the one with the obvious false leg. Those might not have come from an industrial or other accident; but, rather, from service in liberating Europe or parts of the Pacific and Asia. Those older ones deserve no less thanks and it is more important than ever to give it to them now for they are -- alas -- a dying breed. My father and his brothers who fought in WWII are gone, and their fellows are now few and far between. This year especially, make the time to search them out, and thank them. Do for them all as you would do for any one.

LW

Memorial Day: Honoring The Fallen

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

He scarce had need to doff his pride or slough the dross of Earth -- E'en as he trod that day to God so walked he from his birth, In simpleness and gentleness and honor and clean mirth.

So cup to lip in fellowship they gave him welcome high
And made place at the banquet board -- the Strong Men ranged thereby,
Who had done his work and held his peace and had no fear to die.

Rudyard Kipling

This day, I choose to honor those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedoms. We have highlighted some here, and as always we honor Major Mathew Schram. I have written before of my Uncle Foster who's body lies in the ocean off Japan, and others of my family for generations back lie also in graves unmarked and marked near battles at home and abroad.

I also want to honor Lance Cpl. Jeremy W. Burris, USMC. No, I can't say I knew him much at all, for fate had other plans. I give thanks that Matt Maupin is home at last. I wish I could have met these men in the flesh, and that I had gotten to shake this man's hand.

For all those known and unknown, take a moment this day to remember them, to give thanks for them, and to reflect on what their service means to us all. Remember what will, choice comes to us all and service in many forms be paid.

LW

To the God in Man displayed -- Where'er we see that Birth, Be love and understanding paid As never yet on earth!

To the Spirit that moves in Man,
On Whom all worlds depend,
Be Glory since our world began
And service to the end!

Final stanzas, The Choice, Rudyard Kipling

More On The Metro, and Why You Can't Find Yon's Book at the Base Exchange

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The story came out the other day (see here and here) about soldier's being harassed on the DC Metro. Well, Bob Owens did some digging (no surprise), and it seems one small spark created a lot of smoke. Well worth the read. UPDATE: Also, if you want to know what responsible media looks like, go read the corollary piece at Confederate Yankee.

Meantime, if you can't find Mike Yon's excellent book (go buy a signed copy) at your local miltary base, go over to his site for the scoop. Yes, there is a way you can help...

LW

A Way To Support The Troops

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

As you go and buy things for the weekend, consider getting some coffee from Community Coffee, as if you buy four bags and have it shipped to an APO/FPO address, they will double the order. I heard this through my friend Kiltbaby, who I believe has served me some of this coffee before and it was quite tasty. So, for those of you who send, here is a chance to send twice as much.

LW

Spiritual Warfare Update

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

I've been told I can share the following in relation to yesterday's post:

"Incident was in a convoy -- location somewhere in OEF -- Convoy took live fire, RPGs and the particular vehicle hit an IED. Right side took the worst -- driver has schrapnel wounds to his legs but will probably not even leave the AOR. Doing fine. Right seater was MEDEVAC'd to Landstuhl yesterday -- two surgeries so far -- last was brain surgery to remove schrapnel. They were able to get it all -- he is going to be fine eventually -- he is awake and being "normal" for him -- i.e., they will probably want to throw him out of the place by Monday! His wife has spoken to him and the doctors. All your prayers are greatly appreciated and obviously still needed -- TBI is nothing to mess with. These are my "kids" and I truly appreciate all the thoughts and prayers -- Soldier's Mom"

So, this weekend, keep these troops in mind, in prayer, in thought.

LW

Spiritual Warfare Needed

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

I've been talking with someone today, and they reminded me it has been a while since we asked/reminded you to pray, think good thoughts, or whatever-it-is-you-do for the troops. I ask you to do so, and if you can put a little extra in it for the next few days, it would be very much appreciated.

LW

UPDATE: I've been told I can share that "two people got hit by an IED -- one is stable enough to MEDEVAC tonight -- the other is still being stabilized. Both appear to be ok." More as it can be shared.

"You're Not Worth It"

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The news that you went from being worth $5 million to a mere $100,000.00 has got to smart. Here's hoping something else smarts, at least briefly, for you soon.

LW

The Love Goes Both Ways

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The last few weeks, you've heard a lot about different ways to support the Troops. Today brought a great reminder that the love and support does indeed flow both ways.

Last February, I met Amy Hammonds at the Soldier's Angels Executive Meeting. Amy has been taking care of a soldier since she joined Soldier's Angels in 2005, and on this deployment she has even been taking care of his team.

Last week, she got an instant message from him, saying he had sent her something. She responded that he didn't have to do that, and he replied

"i got a special surprise for you coming very soon since you been getting me all spoiled now its my turn and believe me you are not ready for this one at all."

Amy expected a card. Instead, she got...

A footlocker.

Continue reading "The Love Goes Both Ways"

The Right Firepower For Yemen Right Now

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

With so many things going on, it is hard to keep up with all the hotspots and problem areas. That is one of the great things about the blogosphere: you have experts who keep up with their areas of specialization for you.

The last few days, Jane Novak of Armies of Liberation has been bringing me up to date on some goings on in Yemen. Yemen, where the people behind the U.S.S. Cole bombing, the people who murdered four of our own, walk around free instead of being in jail as promised. Yemen, where blogs are most often banned, and a journalist -- Abdulkarim al-Khaiwani -- who has dared to tell the truth about this and more and dared stand for freedom is now literally on trial for his life. Well, not so much a trial (a farce long gone) as simply being sentenced for "insulting the president" and "demoralizing the military."

No matter what the lacy panty brigade at Foggy Bottom says (I am reminded strongly of a Retief novel brought to life, and not in a good way), the actions of Yemen in regards the murders of our sailors is at best a slap in the face. Add that to this farce of a so-called legal action, and...

Directing selected firepower is something the military does well, and while it is not yet time for live munitions, it is time for some firepower that has worked before. Send a Letter to the fine leaders of Yemen to ask that they stop the torture (real, not fantasy) of this man and his children. Shining a light on them, and letting them know we care, could make a difference. If not, well, we tried and have checked a needed box... So, fire for effect.

LW

Live Blogging America's Favorite Mom

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Okay, it is off to a very late start because of a golf game (sheesh, how often has that excuse been used!), but here is some live blogging (alas, not drunkblogging as in the best B5 tradition), but here goes:

I hope one and all lived up to the best tradition of the Chicago Democratic Machine and voted early and often. Not saying the dead voted, but I got in a few votes myself...

Donnie and Marie could get old, but...

Wow. First up is miltary moms. What a host of wonderful moms. Convoy, medical, and -- of course -- Patti. Nice job on each so far. The kids get to you. The phone call from the little girl to her mom pulls on the heart strings.

The favorite miltary Mom is Patti!

Wow. What a win, and even better is the video call with her son in Iraq! I noticed that more than one person got dust in their eye at that (always did like Marie).

What can I say about Patti -- I love Marie's line about "you can't walk through the screen, you have to stay here with me" Congratulations Patti! And congratulations SA on the semi-final win ($25k)! If memory serves, Patti is the only Mom to pledge her winnings to charity.

COE section:

Wow. Five two-year-olds? A blind mother. "Motherhood is multitasking at its best." That may well be the quote of the show. Again, amazing Moms. Tragedy and triumph over adversity. The Texas Mom wins. That was one where I would have had a hard time choosing.

Single Moms:

"The biggest challenge is keeping them on a straight path." Isn't that a quote for any Mom (or parent!)! A published Mom who made a difference. I love the hats on the third (and can identify with the eccentric part). Again, adversity overcome and three excellent choices. The hat lady wins! Excellent choice.

The musical interlude isn't too bad. Not the Cruxshadows, but not quite as much treacle as I expected (not to say diabetic coma is not a possibility for all the sugar, but...)

Working Moms:

Of course, am a bit biased by the first as she is a cook. Second one is with Covenant House, a good outfit from all I have heard. Stroller strides, sounds interesting, like the concept. Again, three hard choices. Covenant House wins!

Pseudo-Rap? Sugar Rap? Ahhhhhhh, my ears!

Adopta-Mom

Again, a good group of mothers. Wow, to adopt the meth babies is brave. Each of these women is very special. Adoption is something so very special (one of my nieces is adopted). The Hati mom wins! Some Moms adopt one, some more. All are so very special for giving that gift of love to those who might not otherwise get it.

FINALE APPROACHES

yea, I like Marie...

Patti Wins! Soldier's Angels Wins!

To go back to the above, it takes a special woman, a special family to adopt. I can't put into words what it means to both sides, and there are issues around such that do bother me in terms of making them truly a part of the family (joining organizations), but it is such a wonderful thing.

While some may call it trite (though not in my hearing is strongly recommended), Patti adopted an entire Army with her work, along with an entire Navy, air force, and Marines. Aside from some items that I imagine can't be transferred, the win goes to Soldier's Angels.

Again, my thanks for voting, early, often, and long. It is appreciated, and the troops will benefit.

LW
who remembers his Mom this day. First woman on Mercer University's rifle team, a complex and interesting individual who raised her younger siblings when needed and stopped short of two different Ph.D's. Thanks Mom.

And who apologizes for not drunk blogging, but my liver is not in as good a shape as Steven Green's...

Face of America 2008

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The warrior was having trouble with the hill, but despite injury he pressed on. Hands reached out to help, and were vigorously rebuffed. As the warrior slowed further, another came along side. Unlike the others, this fellow warrior was also on a recumbent bike, and this time, the hand that came out and helped push his bike along was not rebuffed.

The Face of America 2008 Bicycle Ride from Bethesda to Gettysburg was full of such moments. A mix of wounded or ill service members and "regular" riders, it was a collision of roads, a test of wills, and a testament to courage and tenacity. The "bikes" ranged from advanced racing bikes to specialized recumbents that were adapted to a variety of needs. Indeed, about the only means of motion not seen was through the use of teeth and biting, though I wouldn't put such past some taking part as there was that level of determination present.

That determination showed elsewhere too, with more than $109,000.00 being raised to help fund participation by service menbers. This is much more than just the ride, but also includes accomodations, food, bike use, cycling clinics, outreach, and more. A joint project of World Team Sports, Soldier's Angels, and the Semper Fi Fund and working with Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the National Naval Medical Center, and Brooke Army Medical Center, the ride is designed as both a fun activity for service members and a way to show the wounded and ill that they can still do many things, are a part of the team, and -- most of all -- they do not ride alone.

Continue reading "Face of America 2008 "

Please Vote Today!

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Chuck Z and I (Team Chuck Z) have just finished the Face of American Bicycle ride, and we did ride and we did survive. Pain is weakness leaving the body.

This ride was done by World Team Sports and Soldier's Angels. What I think was a bit more than 200 riders took part, and regular riders and wounded/ill troops took part. This is just one of the things done by Soldier's Angels. We have a way to help them keep getting family members to the wounded, to help with VALOUR-IT, and to do many of the other things they do, by themselves or in partnership with other groups, like this ride.

Today, and today only, we can vote for Patti as a semi-finalist in the America's Favorite Mom contest. Your votes have already helped win money that went to purchase clothing for our wounded. The vote today will run from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EASTERN(!), and today is the ONLY day you can vote for her. So, please, hit this link (note that it is NOT the same link as before) and vote so that SA has a shot at the grand prize. Please help, for that help DOES go to SA and from there to the troops. Please, take a moment to help make a difference. I can't tell you what this ride meant to the wounded and ill troops, nor can I express how much the other things done mean to the troops and their families.

Vote. Please.

LW
at the airport yet again...

LINKS CORRECTED!

As Blackfive notes, you can vote up to 10 times today. In the best tradition of Chicago, go vote early and often!

Some Thoughts On Soldier's Angels

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

Well, I got distracted the last couple of days (darn work!) and Jimbo beat me to getting up the news that Patti is a finalist in the America's Favorite Mom contest. More on that in a few, because a few days ago, a comment was made in this post which was frankly disturbing. It was disturb