Boom Operators get all kinds of birds hookin’ up. And, when you’re lining up, which takes time, you also get a few “shout outs” from the pilot! Here’s a couple of shouts from Texa A&M and Middle Tennessee:

DVIDS Full Size Image HERE

DVIDS Full Size Image HERE

Just gotta love the shots we get from Boom Operators!

Without passion, we have no path. Without commitment, we have no honor. Without conviction, we have lost our way. Without faith, we have surrendered our soul. Without duty, we have forfeited our “six”. Without reverence, we have no passion.

So ask yourselves, without these, what have you? And, what will become of our great country, The United States of America?

[Thanks, Amy and Johnny, for the muse - the words just fell out.]

“Atlas doesn’t shrug, Atlas heaves with cries of agony at our myopia.”

After Greta from Hooah Wife left a comment here, I flew on over to her blog. It’s been a while since I graced her blog-step and felt, time to do some readin’! I found a little snippet there from Silke where she wraps The Daily Show and George Will’s latest column into a question, “Is the Bush administration right? Are we defeating terrorism by promoting democracy in Iraq?” Her information sources from which to draw a conclusion are continents apart in respect to their circles of knowledge and influence. And the overall thrust of her piece, what I came away with, is that the Bush Administration is looking through a hollow tube in respect to fighting terrorism and terrorists. George Will’s quip, as you’ll see, is the narrowing of that tube.

Now, bear with me, ’cause The Daily Show and George Will are extremes in the ways of logic and breadth of knowledge imparted to the consumer (either the viewer or reader, respectively).

Tackling the first “outlet” or source I wondered, is The Daily Show where everyone should be getting enlightening and informative content or instruction? The content there, even though from the outside it’s goal is humor, actually hides the tip of a spear plunged into the heart of truth. Jon Stewart hardly makes me think. In fact, that show hardly makes me chuckle anymore. In the day, with Craig Kilborn, the funny bone used to get a good tweak! Now, all this show does is confirm my realization that today people are far less interested in learning and more interested in feeding their own isms. You don’t have to work to get the news and you can laugh at the same time!

It’s hard work to learn something. Shows like The Daily Show are easy to watch and therefore spoon feed the consumer tainted facts and news items. And, since there is news in there, well, learning is great! Hmmm …

Now, George, poor George … you always raise the bar just too dang high! Or, maybe it’s not a bar but a pretzel? Once we’ve taken the time to look up all your “cool” words, you’ve tossed us into the weeds at 70 MPH. Sometimes we need a curling iron to straighten out a few of those cryptic sentences you always love to throw at us. Yet, I have to credit you on a sentence fragment that captures your view, albeit tainted by Inside The Beltway ooze. The quip, “F-16s are not useful tools against terrorism that issues from places such as Hamburg …”, really shows the fact that you think all George Bush is doing requires an F-16 and a Striker or two. So very myopic, Mr. Will, in my estimation. You leave the reader with this view you’ve offered as the only option George Bush and this administration have chosen. How very pedantic of you (to those of you in Rio Linda, pedantic is narrowly, stodgily, and often ostentatiously learned: UNIMAGINATIVE, PEDESTRIAN).

To be true to the entire effort, or the defeat of terrorism, does not require just one thing. There is no silver bullet (not the beer, doh!) to get to world peace. The Silver Bullet World Peace brigade, led by the Main Stream/Drive By Media, are so far from seeing the real solution as a whole concert of strategies, tactics, and tasks. They truly have deserted any clear research because it is too hard to stay in front of the bloggers and folks like Stratfor.com. And none of these elitists have ever experienced what it takes to defeat an enemy such as the likes we have today. They sadly grew up forgetting what the WWI and WWII generations faced. To actually have men like Neville Chamberlain selling you up the river without a spoon?! Appeasement and group hugs, as I have said before, are not going to stop the evil we face today.

While George Will’s sound bite, more appropriately a written quip, is cute and snags the reader, it falls disastrously short of carrying the real water to the fire.

George Will knows better; he is a man that studies history. It seems he has fallen into the same old same old world view lethargy. Inside The Beltway Pundits fail us all and have tainted the “gene pool of ideas”. The only place anyone is going to find the answer to the question Silke posed, is to study history. It’s a chore I know, but nothing of value ever comes without work. And armed with that knowledge, one must apply, with metered adjustments for today’s world, a strategy and action plan that is executed with strong conviction. To not learn from the past is to provide fertile soil for self destruction. Again, George Will has studied history, yet he is clouded by the tarnish found on all the media types revolving inside the beltway centrifuge.

I remember, as many of you ex-Military types do, we had to study world, US, and military campaign history. In basic training we had study hours devoted to these subjects. I loved to learn about how a certain campaign or individual battle was thought out, planned, and then executed. And at every level commitment and conviction were the keys to a resounding victory. As our brethren in the blogosphere are so quick to forget, or never learned as we did, a battle requires logistics that boggle the mind. We cannot win this war on terror without looking at the bigger picture, or more to the point a map to the future.

To many are stepping into the fray without the greatest weapon of all: historical context of war with an enemy hell bent on innocents being destroyed.

To those that say Democracy is not capable of defeating terrorism, riddle me this: when compared to every other despotic country or system, pick one that is more capable? And, no matter your answer, remember that tin horn dictators care less about the system as long as they are still in control and can still kill those that oppose them. Oh, and just remember, to Achmed-any-jihad, you are an infidel. Even though you side with him now, when he takes over you are also fated to die. You’re not safe either, Code Pinkos … you he likes least of all. He is using you as his tool to defeat us all.

Sad. Truly sad … Atlas doesn’t shrug, Atlas heaves with cries of agony at our myopia (a lack of foresight or discernment: a narrow view of something)!

A recent press release from the White House outlines President Bush’s efforts to stop kleptocracy. Here’s a short snippet from the release:

“For too long, the culture of corruption has undercut development and good governance and bred criminality and mistrust around the world. High-level corruption by senior government officials, or kleptocracy, is a grave and corrosive abuse of power and represents the most invidious type of public corruption. It threatens our national interest and violates our values. It impedes our efforts to promote freedom and democracy, end poverty, and combat international crime and terrorism. Kleptocracy is an obstacle to democratic progress, undermines faith in government institutions, and steals prosperity from the people. Promoting transparent, accountable governance is a critical component of our freedom agenda.”

Here are the three primary objectives set to “reduce the opportunities for kleptocracies to develop and to deny safe haven to corrupt officials, those who corrupt them, and the proceeds of corrupt activity”:

• The Strategy Has As Its Foundation In The President’s Proclamation, Made In January 2004, To Generally Deny Entry Into The United States Of Persons Engaged In Or Benefiting From Corruption.
• The Strategy Advances Many Of The Objectives In The National Security Strategy By Mobilizing The International Community To Confront Large-Scale Corruption By High-Level Foreign Public Officials And Target The Fruits Of Their Ill-Gotten Gains.
• The Strategy Reaffirms The President’s Commitment To Ensure That Integrity And Transparency Triumph Over Corruption And Lawlessness Around The World, Expand The Circle Of Prosperity, And Extend America’s Transformational Democratic Values To All Free And Open Societies.

This is an excellent start, yet it is more broad and worldwide in scope. It would be nice if here at home we could start the process and become willing examples. Can you say Louisiana and Jefferson’ freezer or Bill Clinton and his library?

I was chuckling today when I received the most recent NewsMax article about Babs Streisand giving Slick Willy’s global warming charity a MILLION BUCKS! It amazes me that the media and the left are trying to use Abramhoff as a Republican-only scandal when we are privy to even tastier morsels. It’s not just the global warming craze but even the Clinton Library’s millions.

Remember these great articles:

NY Sun, Nov 22nd, 2004 - Saudis, Arabs Funneled Millions to President Clinton’s Library
LGF, Nov 22nd, 2004 - Saudis Give Millions to Clinton Library
Townhall, Mar 30th, 2002 - Saudi $ for Clinton
NewsMax, Oct 8th, 2005 - Saudis Funded Clinton After Nixing OBL Offer

Then, there’s all those last minute photo-ops between Clinton and the ALERA (Arab League of Extraordinarily Rich Anti-Semites) as Bill Clinton was trying to create his world policy legacy.

It was so disgusting to see Billy-Boy Clinton kissing-arse and basically saying, “Yass-ser, Arafat.” No wonder the Israelis have never trusted us. Recent acts (within the last 15 years) have proven that the US will throw money at the problem and take a photo-op as their badge of honor.

To think that we were continuously submitted to the Clinton Administration acts of stupidity as great feats in world diplomacy. Astounding. Connecting the dots we continue to see how 8 years of Clinton did nothing to stem the terrorism tide. His mismanagement provided tons of cash for his library, continued the status quo in the Middle East, and feeds an even deeper moral bankruptcy rivaling history’s greatest. And one primary benefactor of the world’s disdain and hate has been Israel.

We could have done better - we are now.

Our own kleptocracy has begat such a mess within our own borders. It seems to me that we need to go back to an old, tried and true, process for clean politics. If we reinstituted the stipend-based pay structure for our representatives I think we’d be making a good start. I remember some time ago Washington bemoaning the fact that without good pay we get bad representation. We continue to increase their pay and we still get bad management.

More to come …

Soldiers’ Angels supports Soldier Ride and lends it’s support in the way of volunteers and money.

(PRWEB) July 7, 2006 — Wounded servicemen and women cycling across the United States From Montauk, New York to San Diego, California to spread their inspirational message of courage and hope. The brave men and women participating in this event are cycling in support of their injured comrades recovering in military hospitals across the country. All of the participants are provided the adaptive equipment they need to cycle though missing one or more limbs.

Soldier Ride is a non-profit organization that raises awareness and funds for our injured soldiers returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan. This organization is 100% non political. It’s not about the war it’s about the soldiers. Soldier Ride organizes cross country and local bicycle trips used as rehab opportunities for soldiers recovering from major injuries and also to raise awareness.

Funds raised go out to such organizations as the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org) and Disabled Sports USA (www.dsusa.org) You can learn more about us at www.soldierride.org or please feel free to contact Nick Kraus at 516 994 5907.

Soldier Ride began in East Hampton , NY as an effort to raise money and consciousness for soldiers who were severely wounded overseas. Last year Chris Carney a local bartender embarked on his second cross-country Soldier Ride, cycling from Los Angeles to Montauk, New York. Soldiers from the current conflict and veterans, both disabled and not, rode with Carney on Soldier Ride. Over the last two years Soldier Ride helped raise millions of dollars for the WWP. These funds are being used to:

• Purchase thousands of comfort backpacks for wounded soldiers on their return (including guidebooks on discharge from service and entitlement benefits). These packs include such basic comfort items as phone cards, Fresh clothing, Portable CD players and small items that make a big impact for a returning injured soldier.
• Hire full-time benefits counselors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Brooke Army Medical to distribute comfort backpacks to amputees.
• Conduct adaptive sporting events and clinics to build self-esteem and independence for those who suffered catastrophic injuries, for example the Breckenridge Colorado Ski Spectacular and our recent Florida bicycle program.
• Develop peer-mentoring programs where rehabbed soldiers can lend support to their newly injured comrades. Organize Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symposia to help the estimated one in six soldiers who suffer from this disorder. Transport soldiers and their families between home and hospital, as well as purchase a van to transport soldiers to functions in the Washington D.C. area.

Soldier Ride has received extensive media coverage in The New York Times, New York Post, The New York Daily News, The Cleveland Plain Dealer and Newsday. The project has also appeared on NBC’s Today in New York, The O’Reilly Factor, Fox News Radio’s Tony Snow Show, HBO’s Inside the NFL and CNN’s Larry King Live.

Several notable people have helped with Soldier Ride fundraising efforts, including Jimmy Buffett, Jon Bon Jovi, Pat Lofaintane, Gary Sinise, Alec Baldwin, Tony Snow, Harris Yulin, Stephen Lang, Bill O’Reilly, Congressman Tim Bishop, Senator Bob Kerrey, and many more.
www.soldiersangels.org

Soldiers’ Angels will be hosting the closing ceremonies and beach party for the riders at Semper Fi Park in San Clemente on July 29, 2006 at 3 pm. Adam’s Attic, The Bader Band, and Jillian Russell will be performing at the beach party. Mayor Wayne Eggleston and the community are excited and happy to help Soldiers’ Angels honor these riders. Please join us in welcoming the riders by lining the streets and showing your support as they ride into San Clemente.

Soldiers’ Angels is an all volunteer, 501 (c) (3) non-profit based in Pasadena, Ca. Donations to help offset the costs of the closing ceremonies can be sent to:

Soldiers’ Angels
150 North Loop 1604 West, Suite 108-493
San Antonio, TX 78248
Attn: Soldier Ride

Please make checks and money orders out to Soldiers’ Angels. You can also donate on-line or adopt a soldier at www.soldiersangels.org. Include what your donation is for in the comments section.

It’s the Fourth of July!

Today, two people I enjoy reading have written very different pieces. I just realized that their subjects intersect perfectly. This intersection, in a nutshell, is that we have chipped away at our freedoms by trying, in excess, to be fair. In one hand we have those that aspire to bring political correctness to the fore, without regard for everyone’s freedom. And, in the other hand there are those that have made a mockery of protecting others and instituting a Nanny State that is surely causing Benjamin “Kid Gloves” Harrison to spin faster than if he were in a salad spinner! When ya slap both hands together they end up being shackled - we still have the key, you know.

It’s true that many situations can be misconstrued. Often times those that are hypersensitive seek errors in ones ways before they truly grasp any situation. And, it is our current attempt to make things even that so many have taken fair to an unfair level. Political Correctness has placed a major shackle on one hand in such a way that personal expression has been eroded. And, please, don’t bring up burning the flag as expression, that is a tired position and not expression but destruction laced with hatred. I’m referring to compliments and kindness, like kudos for the choices made in a career goal or even holding the door open for another. Today, while people that we elect continue to strip away what freedom truly is in the pursuit of fairness, we get inequality.

We also have a Nanny State that is getting more unbelievably out of control. How is it that protecting others from harm has become so restrictive? How can freedom for all allow those in high places to shackle the other hand without reproach?! As Jonathan Hoenig writes today in Smartmoney.com:

As we’ve pointed out in the past, free countries are always the most prosperous countries. From the former Soviet Union to still-communist China, every inch a society takes towards free-market capitalism results in unheralded prosperity and improved quality of life.

The Fourth of July, or Independence Day, is now appreciated primarily for fireworks and barbeque. Yet more than any other celebration, Independence Day is the quintessential American holiday because it clearly enunciates liberty and individual rights as the basic premises on which this country was founded. The Declaration of Independence, presented on July 4, 1776, put forth that all men are endowed with the rights of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” In America, man functions as an independent entity, free to live his own life independent of the church, government or so-called “public good.”

For many years, this country honored and preserved those principles. Yet, slowly, we’ve been steered away from the rugged individualism towards a collectivist free-for-all in which individual rights are routinely compromised, challenged, or tossed out the window altogether.

This country was FOUNDED on the principles of Godliness, God’s love and respect for us all, and His being the example we must all follow. If we follow His example, and His only Son’s examples, fair is but a given.

We are being shackled because we cannot see beyond the trees. These are the trees sown by those that have no love of God and this country’s principles. The trees are getting thicker out there, and so many have decided the forest is the trees - and visa versa. It’s truly shameful that this translates into a life without happiness, full of darkness and dread, where around every bark-strewn giant something evil lies in wait.

On this Fourth of July, our country’s 230th Birthday, I choose light. Well, light with a few alders, birches, Bushes (41 and 43), and a Mount McKinley or two for color and a break in the horizon!

Cross Posted at California Conservative

The above snippet is just a taste of Jonathan’s points. If you are a subscriber you can get all the benefit, ’cause it costs money for a Smartmoney.com membership. Or, watch him on Fox Channel’s Cashin’ In - he’s the pro-Capitalist on the panel. OK, the ONLY pro-Capitalist you’ll see on TV or in print!

You thought you were a blogger, a milblogger, with the tiger by the tail? There are some guys out there bloggin’ away and they each have long histories. And, as they like to say over at Old War Dogs:

“For those who have fought for it, freedom has a taste the protected will never know.”

And that’s not all. Here’s a short snippet from Russ Vaughn’s post on June 30th:

Those who toughed out those runs, stood in that door,
Don’t understand those who won’t fight anymore;
Can’t fathom their calls for retreat from Iraq,
Calls to pull out our troops, to bring them all back,
Thank goodness we’ve men who’ll stand in that door
And go all the way till the fight is no more.
Paratroopers are winners, who’ll stay ‘til it’s done,
But most Libs are quitters, who won’t finish the run.

I agree!

Thanks, Laurie of Soldiers’ Angels New York for showing me the way to the Old War Dogs site!

I hope all of you are having a great 4th of July Weekend! Now, GO PET THE DAWGS!

This is a follow-on, of sorts, from Amy’s previous post over at California Conservative and at her home blog Bottom Line Up Front. She says more than this one question I am taking out of context, but follow me here on this one key point.

Amy asks this question:

“What is someone saying who burns the flag?”

They burn Old Glory because they know that it offends so many of us to the core. If they were burning the flag in glee I suspect it would be noticeable - that the act is a happy event and a form of celebration. Yet, the hard looks on their faces, the venom in their speech, and the stamping on the flag in flames is exactly what it is - the flag is us.

If they could get away with it, they would be lighting us on fire and stamping us to death. That is what they are doing, make no mistake. There really is nothing there of any major substance, they just want us all to go away, die, expire, be null.

It is as basic as gutting you and I to the core.

And if I tried to defend the flag, which is my right and duty as a citizen of the United States of America, I would be arrested and thrown in jail for harming another person protesting. I am ex-US Air Force and I fought to keep the flag safe. No man, no team, no battalion is to leave our standard unprotected! If one must retreat, never forget the standard! Leave no man behind, and take our precious Old Glory with you - or be damned!

And, would there be any justice for me, the man that rescued Old Glory from being lit on fire and trampled?

Justice?

I say that has gone out the window. There is no one left to protect our standard, our banner, Old Glory. She has been left on that hill with no one there to protect her. She has been left unprotected on Capitol Hill. Not one but 34 men and women with more respect for the almighty vote and their pursuit of power and money left her undefended. She stands there, battered and in disgrace, left to the curs that they are with more time on their hands than most - and more money and benefits than the richest we know.

Our bravest get paid a paltry sum, and not one would leave our standard in the shape she is in now!

Oh, and it is more than the 34, my friend. It is the whole lot of ‘em inside the Beltway, in the Big Cities, and teaching in our Nation’s Universities.

Also posted at California Conservative

One thing that most of us know, those that seem to love to write at tireless rates, is words and their formation can impart different messages. I may not wield the pen as well, and I may spend more time in the passion of writing where the words come more from the gut than out of a need to truly communicate a clear point. But, I do pay close attention to my use of certain words where more than one meaning can belie a separate meaning from my intent.

In today’s Stand-To article, Today’s Focus, the US Army is paying close attention to how words are used in communicating everything related to the Global War on Terror. It is clear that our enemies are using our words against us. When such learned members of the Beltway use terms in an elitist attempt to speak over our heads, they actually provide more support and in turn embolden the enemies of the United States of America.

We, however, should not make the same mistake!

Let’s take this as an example:

A case in point is the term “jihadist.” Many leaders use the term jihadist or jihadi as a synonym for Islamic extremist. Jihad has been commonly adapted in English as meaning “holy war.” But to Muslims it means much more. In their article, Streusand and Tunnell said in Arabic - the language of the Koran - jihad “literally means striving and generally occurs as part of the expression ‘jihad fi sabil illah,’ striving in the path of God.”

This is a good thing for all Muslims. “Calling our enemies jihadis and their movement a global jihad thus indicates that we recognize their doctrines and actions as being in the path of God and, for Muslims, legitimate,” they wrote. By countering jihadis, the West and moderate Muslims are enemies of true Islam.

In English, there are some important terms that can be misinterpreted. I can say that for me, regarding terms not in my native tongue, I try to stay far away from using the much over used word jihadist. Once I knew that it’s root means one thing and the power it can impart is motivating, I figured it’s a word that can stay in the bag for a while.

The two gentlemen from the National Defense University at Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D.C., Dr. Douglas E. Streusand and Army Lt. Col. Harry D. Tunnell IV, have only just begun this training process. Their paper was promoted on June 22nd of this year on the DefenseLINK site. The DefenseLINK article, Loosely Interpreted Arabic Terms Can Promote Enemy Ideology, is written by Jim Garamone of the American Forces Press Service. Dr. Streusand and Lt. Col. Tunnell have been taking careful aim at terms being used and getting a better understanding out to the rest of us. Let’s take jihadists again, yet here is what their research has found:

The men asked Muslim scholars what the correct term for Islamic extremists would be and they came up with “hirabah.” This word specifically refers to those engaged in sinful warfare, warfare contrary to Islamic law. “We should describe the Islamic totalitarian movement as the global hirabah, not the global jihad,” they wrote.

And, this is a very enlightening paragraph:

The men point out that an al Qaeda caliphate would not mean the establishment of just rule, but rather a global totalitarian state where women would be treated as chattel, music banned and any kind of difference severely punished. “Anyone who needs a preview of how such a state would act merely has to review the conduct of the Taliban in Afghanistan before Sept. 11, 2001,” they wrote.

The correct term for the al Qaeda goal is global totalitarian state - something no one in the world wants.

If you use terms like jihadist, mujahdeen, and caliphate, you might want to go peruse the Stand-To, DefenseLINK, or National Defense University sites. We all need to use the correct terms to put the Global War on Totalitarianism on it’s heels, big time!

RELATED SITES:
US Army’s Stand-To, Today’s Focus
DefenseLINK article, Loosely Interpreted Arabic Terms Can Promote Enemy Ideology
National Defense University, Choosing Words Carefully: Language to Help Fight Islamic Terrorism

Also posted at California Conservative

Folks, this Sunday, the 25th of June, is the 10 year anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Khobar Towers. At a time where this country had returned to the ways of men like Neville Chamberlain and Jimmy Carter, we get one more big appeaser. And, appeasement gets you, what?

This:

AF.mil Courtesy Photo

And this:

U.S. Air Force photo by SrA. Sean Worrell

Ronald Reagan didn’t end the Cold War by making sure that the Europeans loved us and that the USSR was ready for a big group hug and a shot of vodka! Real, true force, a determined effort to develop new defensive technology, and having no fear to step into the fray prevents scenes like …
This:

U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Cesar Rodriguez

And, in the end, we never fired a shot at the USSR. We put enormous pressure on the Europeans, we made sure that the USSR knew we meant business, and we provided enough evidence that no matter how much you throw at us, we’re still gonna kick some ass!

So, Sunday, please pay special attention and pray for our departed brothers in arms from the Khobar Towers bombing. I’ll leave you with this shot of the memorial for our fallen at the former Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia:

AF.mil Courtesy Photo

God Bless and God Speed.

Also posted at California Conservative

OK, AF.mil and I gave you a quick look at what has been happening to the U-2 lately. The Dragon Lady has been going through some amazing upgrades over the years. I remember that the Blackbird would sit in her hangar, same old guts-N-glory equipment, without too many changes. There were quite a few upgrades, but I remember the flightline always abuzz across the way while U-2s were gettin’ a new look! Well, in AF.mil’s new story posted today, U-2s boast new, improved cockpit by SSgt. Andrea Knudson of the 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs, we get some great photos and a great description of how she lands, and why a “chase car”.

Last time I showed you all some far away shots of the pilot egressing from the U-2. The cool thing is that the following shot is a little more realistic (the stairs are not plain old engine run lifts for a C-130). Here’s a closer look at the pilot, Lt. Col. Lars Hoffman:

U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Andrea Knudson

Now, if you look closely, at the top of the stairs, you’ll see a gig bag. Here’s a tight shot:

Adapted from a U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Andrea Knudson

I blurred the name on the case. But, if you look at the image, it’s a dragon wrapping itself around a U-2. Oh Yeah!!! I always remember the cool patches and art for both the U-2s and the SR-71s. Squadron patches are always cool.

Now, for the gravy - the Dragon Lady’s New Look! Here’s a shot of the new control panel. And, being an ex-Avionics guy, I am DROOLING! This is so amazing to see in the U-2! You have to understand, my memories go back to the original dials and BDHI/HSI equipment.

(BDHI = Bearing, Distance, Heading Indicator)
(HSI = Horizontal Situation Indicator)

U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Andrea Knudson

Here’s some great info from the AF.mil article:

“The Block 20 aircraft is a new, modern cockpit with a computer on board that analyzes and displays a lot more information on three, 6-by-8-inch multi-function displays and two smaller displays,” said Lt. Col. Lars Hoffman, 5th Reconnaissance Squadron commander.

“The (displays) can be configured for information pilots desire in the layouts they prefer,” the colonel said. “Examples of information include altitude and navigation information, engine performance, moving map with mission course overlay, electronic checklists, diagnostic information on all aircraft systems and reconnaissance sensors, and multiple radio frequencies and settings.”

Ahhhhhhhh!!!

Adapted from a U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Andrea Knudson

Look at that, soooo pretty. I brought the shot in tight so that you could get a closer look.

Oh my, this is so great! I’ve been having to watch all these new birds come off the line and enter service, while an old work horse did the best with what she was given. Now, she’s got some new claws and some mighty teeth. As John Cleese says in Monty Python’s The Holy Grail, “Look at the teeth! Loook!”

Here’s a bit more from AF.mil:

“The Block 10 was a classic cockpit with round dials. Information was spread all around the cockpit and not easily readable by a pilot wearing a full pressure suit,” the commander said. “This up-front design of the Block 20 makes it easier for the pilot to read information while flying an aircraft that always requires a pilot’s full attention.”

The U-2, which has provided high-altitude reconnaissance for more than 50 years, has one of the highest mission completion rates in the U.S. Air Force despite the fact that the aircraft is one of the most difficult to fly because of its challenging takeoff and landing characteristics.

“It’s a very complicated aircraft. Depending on configuration, you may need 10 to 30 people needed to launch the U-2,” said Maj. Ramsey Sharif, a U-2 pilot from Beale Air Force Base, Calif., who is temporarily assigned at Osan. “A mobile pilot is in charge of getting the pilot airborne and back on the ground. They act as a safety observer and ensure a safe launch and recovery.”

Now, as you watch her taxi out, there is some interesting characteristics with a U-2. The wingspan is so broad that there are skids on the tips for landing and pogos (these are little flexible bars with wheels about a quarter the way in from the tip) for taxi and take off. Here, the U-2 has her pogos in place while taxiing:

U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Andrea Knudson

If you look just behind is her chase car, or “mobile pilot”. Chase cars were always racing around Beale AFB runways. It was sooo cool the first time I saw this muscle car RACING down the runway! The U-2 always had escort at take off and landing. Landing is a very crucial part of the operation. I cannot tell the story any better than AF.mil:

The colonel said the U-2 is the most difficult to land aircraft in the Air Force inventory. The landing gear configuration is unique so the “chase car” concept is used. Typically, a second U-2 pilot, the mobile pilot, is designated as the mission’s backup pilot who waits in a high-performance chase car at the end of the runway as the aircraft makes it landing approach. As the U-2 passes, the chase car follows it at high speed, with the “mobile” calling out the aircraft’s altitude via radio to the pilot.

“The pilot must maneuver the aircraft to two feet above the runway, and then stall the wings to touch down tail-wheel-first,” Colonel Hoffman said. “The pilot continues to keep the wings level as the aircraft slows to a stop and then allows one wingtip to touch the ground.”

This makes for a total team effort operation. The U-2 community is a tight-knit group with less than 850 pilots since 1955.

Did you catch that, 850 pilots since 1955! This is a very small team of pilots and ground crews. Personnel rotation for the ground folks was tricky business. I was so very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to rotate in to the 9th SRW. I’ll never forget those days - ever.

Here’s a quote from one of those lucky airmen:

“We’re an operational squadron doing real-world missions,” said Senior Airman Joshua Joyce, an avionics specialist with the 5th RS. “We’re providing critical intelligence information to senior leaders.”

Now, OK, so maybe I was a bit partial to the fact that SrA Joyce is an AVIONICS TECHNICIAN! Can’t knock a guy for getting one of his own in print, right?!

This last bit from AF.mil is how I’ll sign off on this piece:

The U-2 was specifically designed to carry reconnaissance payloads to extremely high altitudes. The Block 20 U-2 can carry thousands of pounds of reconnaissance sensors to more than 70,000 feet, and remain aloft for more than 10 hours.

Pilots wear a full pressure suit and helmet, similar to those astronauts wear in space, because of the U-2’s high-altitude mission.

For Immediate Release
6/21/06

Contact:

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AGreaterFreedom.com
sara@agreaterfreedom.com

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Where Faith and Service Come Together

The mission of AGreaterFreedom.com is to equip, inform and encourage members of the military and their families through the use of news, feature stories and commentary that will lead people to a more passionate faith in Jesus Christ.

Hoppin’ around the blogosphere and I found my other favorite girl, and she’s a Dragon Lady! AF.mil has a short piece on the Dragon Lady getting a face-lift. Here’s a short quote:

Airmen from the 9th Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base, Calif., help their pilot out of a U-2 Dragon Lady at Hickam AFB, Hawaii, on Tuesday, June 13. The aircraft is en route to South Korea. U-2s are undergoing a $1.5 billion upgrade. Cockpit instruments will be modernized with full-color displays that replace gauges and dials with state-of-the-art, touch-screen technology.

Egress from the U-2 on the ground is tricky business. There are tons of sharp edges everywhere. Those suits are tough, but you still don’t want to take a chance with any type of degradation of the fabric. It is a very hostile environment at altitude for the pilot.

Here she is, wingtip to wingtip:

U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Shane A. Cuomo

If you look carefully, to the left of the photo, you see the pre-post-flight debrief. The environmental team does some early talking to get anything out of the way now. Especially if there is a quick-turn for the bird. Every team is very possessive (in a good way) when it comes to the pilot. We all make sure everything is safe and the mission is a success.

Now you see the pilot being escorted by an environmental team member - notice he is completely sealed:

U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Shane A. Cuomo

Both teams, SR-71 and U-2/TR-1, go through extensive preparation prior to flight. A perfect analogy is if you know anything about what the NASA Space Shuttle or Apollo Teams went through, well, pretty much the same. The Dragon Lady pilot has so much more to do, as it is a one seater, and must handle both the flight and mission profiles. There’s so much going on, it is a very stressful duty.

And, here’s a snap I found of the Dragon Lady in flight:

Photo Courtesy AF.mil

I can’t tell you where this was taken - I’d have to kill you.

DoD DVIDS Photo by Spc. Ferdinand Thomas, 214th MPAD, Richmond, VA

Your freedom to hate the US Military,
Your freedom to vilify those prosecuting the Global War on Terror,
Your freedom to burn Old Glory, our standard, the banner of freedom,
Your freedom to key my truck because you hate my showing pride in my service,
Your freedom to be born and later carelessly take the life of the unborn,
Your freedom to feel guilt for your own success because others are not,
Your freedom to stand in awe of this great country,

This is your freedom, paid for by 480,000 servicemembers being honored at the WWII Memorial in Washington D.C. Each star represents 100 souls and the memorial has 4,800 stars.

DoD DVIDS Photo by Spc. Ferdinand Thomas, 214th MPAD, Richmond, VA

Will you continue to disrespect this man, someone’s Dad, someone’s GrandPa, someone who truly knows what freedom means? Can you take for granted, with all you have today, the freedom this man’s brothers in arms sacrificed? Are you so bent on being right that you have forgotten the fact that previous governments and regimes would snuff an inconsequential person such as yourself without a care? Has the value of freedom paid by so many been lost on you, ’cause you forgot? Do you not see that freedom is costly, requires commitment and sacrifice, and cannot be taken lightly?

Freedom is earned. It is blood, sweat, tears, and long periods of time alone in foreign lands and at home. It is a path not all take. It is the families left behind that continue to pay the day to day sacrifices for freedom.

Your freedom must be cherished, because you have been given the greatest gift.

God Speed to all before me. God Bless those left behind.

Also posted at US Army: Stand-To!

Also posted at California Conservative

I’ve been spending time on the CENTCOM site for months. There are so many stories about what our brave men and women really do today. It is true that any military has a primary role when at war. After the opposition has been vanquished, there are so many more things that can be done after the major fighting has ended. I believe that no matter what, we need to win the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people.

Some think that because the current administration has been successful in Iraq, every photo is a photo-op only. And, if the activity we are engaged in right now is not captured on film, there is room to cast aspersions or spin fabrications that we are failing at our ultimate mission. Leaving any negative spin to take hold threatens the entire mission (GWOT) as well as our men and women on the ground. It is a double edged sword for CENTCOM to capture the moments that should be something in which we all can be proud:

US CENTCOM DVIDS Photo by Army Sgt. 1st Class Sherry Eaton

And then make those moments, which are powerful and illustrative, taken in the correct light to provide clear proof we are successful in Iraq. Yes, maybe to some of the elites in the US, delivering some water and a few toys is a joke. It’s just sad that all this poo-pooing we get from those with an axe to grind, or a plank to set for an election, takes center stage.

I, on the other hand, see our efforts in a multi-faceted way. Yes, the bad guys must be vanquished. And yes, we need to win the hearts and minds to provide an excellent foundation from which freedom can take root. There are some very small things that can be done to bring about a smile or laugh:

US CENTCOM DVIDS Photo by Army Sgt. 1st Class Sherry Eaton

And we can all stamp out tyranny with smiles, laughter, water, protection, training, and good old fashioned friendship. It may be that the following small group of minds is not strong enough to topple an evil and maniacal regime:

US CENTCOM DVIDS Photo by Army Sgt. 1st Class Sherry Eaton

But by touching so many families, and religious groups, and the policemen and soldiers, we can ultimately create the most powerful force from which freedom is sure to grow.

I’m positive, yes I am. Maybe some day being positive will begin to take hold again here at home. I am holding my breath so don’t take too long, people!

Remember I asked at the beginning, to cut and run does what?

Cut and run, if we followed the time table originally proposed by the Democrats, would never have provided friendship building like you’ve seen here. Cut and run would never have allowed us to get Zarqawi. Cut and run would only get more votes for the likes of John Kerry, Nancy Pelosi, John Murtha, or Charlie Schumer. Cut and run will take us back to the days of a leaders that gave us bombing aspirin factories as a show of force, or not being able to rescue hostages in Iran, or the likes of present day Neville Chamberlains selling our country for some paltry price. Are more friends in the MSM or on Comedy Central a cost that today’s narcissists are willing to pay?

I think you’ve witnessed the answer to that last question. I think you all know what cut and run does. I think we all know what is at stake and why we press on under the weight of such negativity and selfish public gluttony.

Carry on, God Bless, and God Speed.

Also posted at California Conservative

In my CENTCOM e-mail today, this photo was mixed within some great news:

US CENTCOM Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Michael Skaar

Now, I just love it when the photo catches something ya just don’t see every day! No offense to the 1-158th or the 101st, I just made up the title as I was typing this posting. I couldn’t think of any other group other than the 101st to rhyme with “furry”. Sorry.

The story, Oklahomans Train Iraqi Police in Securing Baghdad, gives us some background into how the 1-158th Field Artillery of the Oklahoma National Guard is taking the time to train the Iraqi Police (IPs) the right way. Here’s a short snippet about how the new tactics they are learning are far different than the past under Saddam:

“In the past IPs never operated in quite the way that they do today and there were some growing pains at first”, said Sgt. Maj. Jimmy Venable of the 1-158th.

The IPs are coming around though and Venable went on to say that with each iteration of training the security situation continues to get better and better.

Training for the IPs has been mostly from the ground up, type of work since all police forces were disbanded when US troops first took control of Iraq said Venable. As a result US troops and contractors have begun with the basics, such as training the IPs in force protection (making sure that IPs are safe at their stations and in the streets) and investigation.

I suspect that there have been many trials and tribulations keeping the mission on track. It makes sense that to keep control, there needs to be some clear guidelines and cross-checks. Here, another key point made by Sgt. Maj. Jimmy Venable makes:

“One of the other situations that the 1-158th has to deal with is keeping the IPs autonomous from the influence of the local insurgency. The only resolution to this problem was to keep the IPs in the police station except when they are serving in their official capacity, sometimes they are even forced to stay” said Venable.

This should also have an effect on the overall effectiveness of insurgents, the IPs are making a big sacrifice staying at the station Venable added.

Keep it up guys, we’ve already turned the corner and are on the short stretch home!

Also posted at California Conservative

It’s Flag Day today. Here is my flag out front, as she always is, flying free! She’s not out just this one day a year. She’s a grand old flag and she remains free, as her colors portray.

You may know what the 13 red and white stripes symbolize. And, you may know the field of blue that contains all 50 precious states - the bright white stars. I’ll give you all a snippet from the USA Flag Site:

Today the flag consists of thirteen horizontal stripes, seven red alternating with 6 white. The stripes represent the original 13 colonies, the stars represent the 50 states of the Union. The colors of the flag are symbolic as well: Red symbolizes Hardiness and Valor, White symbolizes Purity and Innocence and Blue represents Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice.

I have a slightly different take on our flag, our banner, our standard, or just Old Glory.

The red and white stripes are the blood and tears of past wars, conflicts, and periods of growth this country has experienced in her time. These stripes stream from the field of blue, as each and every star has had their own struggles, internal and external, to remain free. Although the trials and tribulations have been severe at times, we as a country grow stronger - bound by the field of blue.

And that brings us to the field of blue. I believe that for me, the field of blue has always been the most powerful force. While binding those 50 stars together, creating a safe haven for all of us, the field of blue signifies the power of freedom enabled by our collective strength to be “one nation, under God”. I’ll grant that “under god” was not added until June 8th, 1954 - 52 years and 6 days ago! These words were added because our country had lost sight of the primary force behind the founding of this country, and our core belief that God protects us all and wants us all to be free. One courageous Senator, Homer Ferguson, (R-MI), and one brave President, Dwight D. Eisenhower, took up the challenge and put forth that we add those two awesome words - the words that bind those 50 stars, our 50 states, our country.

Our country, for which many tears and rivulets of blood have been shed, provided brave men an women from our great 50 states to take up arms in the name of freedom. On foreign soil for our own safety and security, we have answered the call. On our own soil, when we repelled forces dead set on occupying and destroying what is in our hearts. That blue field, binding the stars together, flanked by red and white stripes, well, she is our banner, our standard, our Old Glory.

The flag of the United States of America is freedom. Celebrate Flag Day, it is very important whether you realize it or not. If you’re here reading this blog, I think you realize it!

God Bless, and God Speed.

Also posted at California Conservative

Today is the second anniversary of President Ronald Reagan’s death. To some, he was the best President the United States of America has had since Theodore Roosevelt. For conservatives, and our brave men and women of the United States Military, Ronald Reagan brought back the pride and prowess the United States of America, and her armed forces, so rightly deserve. Here is a beautiful aerial shot of the USS Ronald Reagan, CVN 76, steaming into port:

The full story, over at DVIDS Hub, can be found here. The following is a very brief story provided by the folks at DVIDS (see below for full information on DVIDS):

Ronald Reagan Underway Following Third Port Visit to United Arab Emirates
The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) passes Palm Island prior to arriving in Jebel Ali for a port visit to Dubai. Reagan is currently deployed as part of a routine rotation of U.S. maritime forces in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.

Thank you so very much, President Reagan, for bringing back the respect and honor to our armed forces. I was one very happy camper when your first year in office happened to coincide with my first day in the United States Air Force. By the time I was launching SR-71s and U-2s, you were in full swing and bringing the fight to all that thought the United States of America was just a ratty carpet in an old mud room.

Thank you and God Bless!

The Digital Video and Imagery Distribution System (DVIDS) is provided as a public service operated by Headquarters, U.S. Third Army/Army Forces Central Command (ARCENT) on behalf of the Department of the Army in support of all branches of the U.S. military (Navy, Air Force, Marines) and its Coalition partners serving in the U.S. Forces Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility.

Cross Posted at California Conservative

Over at California Conservative I was taking a few moments to read one or two posts to catch up. I’d leave a couple of crazy, often times facetious sorts of comments (with near-riot consequences). I was pinged by the California Conservative after one such comment-drop. It seems they have a new series: Why We Fight. I was unaware of the Why We Fight Series over at Reporting for Duty, and I was asked to think about submitting a post.

Here’s the post I’m thinking of submitting folks, and I hope you like it. If not, well, who cares! Wander on over to someone else’s site where they are uncovering some whacko conspiracy theory about Newt Gingrich and Jack Abramoff having some unholy alliance! And while you are there, just realize, it’s futile, you’ll never catch them without wrangling more than a few moonbats in your lofty mission to rid the world of illegal-doers. Those wascaly wee-publicans!

I digress.

It goes without saying that my parents were, and still are, very supportive and proud. They were also very anxious because they both lived through World War II and Vietnam. Wouldn’t you be anxious if your only son goes traipsing off to join the military in such a topsy-turvey world that seemed fraught with peril?

There are three primary reasons that I chose to enlist in the United States Air Force. Along with the prime motivators that most can share with me, there are a few emotional and growth related reasons that I am sure many of you weighed as you entered service. I think we all have a few deep seated reasons that are quite similar, even if there are subtle differences. I’ll drop these on ya, one reason at a time.

Hearing about brave men taking to the skies to fly some of the fastest planes in the world captured me. I can still remember the days when I’d be outside playing, or on the playground, and we’d hear the “BOOM” from the sonic boom of our fastest and bravest. Later, with God’s ever careful hand, I was stationed at a base where I worked on “The Sled”. She is the most amazing girl in the sky. I know some of you go back to the P-51 or the B-29, but for me, the Blackbird is my girl. No one can come close - except maybe the Dragonlady, her closest sister, or the Spectre or “puff” as she is known. Oh my, we have some amazing birds in the sky, don’t we? And, each bird is given the greatest gift which is her crews and the ground personnel that keep her flying without mishap.

In the civilian sector, when I was very young, I would stand at the window at San Francisco International Airport, watching the ground crews ready the DC-8s or later some 747s, for the next flights to the four corners of the world. As a 5 year old boy getting ready to ride United Airlines with my family, those planes spoke to me in a very real way, and I wanted to be on the ground making her take people where they wanted to go - safely.

I was very fortunate to meet a great man, a Colonel in the United States Marine Corps, and his wife, that were very good friends of my Mom and Dad. They were my first, “Military Family”, and he was larger than life! Colonel Benedict, God rest his soul, was an amazing man with an amazing story. And yet, he was very quiet and the farthest you could get from braggadocios. And, Colonel Benedict was the kindest man I had ever met, outside the men in my own family. A man’s man, a great man, and a man of honor.

With influences like this, would you think that joining the military was a joke?

My Dad’s Dad, my Grandfather, worked to keep the British war effort in World War II on track and received the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire). I still have a very, very, worn piece of paper where the head office of my Grand Dad’s factory was praising his entire line for being far ahead of production and achieving higher than standard quality!

Uncle John, a Great Uncle on my Mom’s side, and one of my major male role models, was in the US Army. He was a tall man, quiet, and took great care in showing us he loved us. He would always take the time to talk to us and treat us like equals - even though we were little kids. I have so many other Great Uncles who served - going quite a ways back in time.

My Uncle worked as a civilian engineer on the electronics systems (I can’t tell you anymore than that - I’ll have to kill you, really!) on the first nuclear submarine, the USS Nautilus (SSN-571). If you know nothing about SSN-571, you really need to read up. She was, and still is, a marvel of engineering and commitment! Go Navy!!!

My Dad emigrated here from England. He told me stories of how their family had to endure the waves and waves of bombers and buzz bombs. And with the evil V-2 rocket on the horizon? Having been in the RAF as an ex-RAF Radio and Radar Site Operator, my Dad’s service instilled in me the commitment to ones country and the protection of those less capable of protecting themselves. There is a theme and something that is probably key to most of us that have served.

I had so many examples there was just no other path for me. College was to be later, and such an, anticlimactic experience. Those of you that have fond memories of college, I am in no way disparaging your experiences. But, for me, with my family history and my own experiences in the United States Air Force, anticlimactic is an understatement. Really.

With a lineage like that, why wouldn’t you join the US Military?

I remember sitting in the car, when I was small, and hearing my parents getting upset because Richard Nixon was impeached. And, even though they were upset, I knew that there was a thread of truth that must be explored before I could own that history.

Then, in High School, that terrible day where so many proud men (only men back then, there were no women in combat at the time) lost their lives. That day was the day that Jimmy Carter failed to keep this country safe. That day was the day he totally botched the insertion into Iran to save the hostages. He spent so much time “talking” and not enough time DOING, that we had no strength. The friggin’ “group hug” brigade was in charge, and the great United States of America was goin’ down fast. My parents were calling for that man to get tossed out on his ear. No luck, we were stuck with that flippin’ bucket of peanut shells and his loser beer swillin’ brother! What a pair (fast forward to Arkansas, people, see any similarities? i do)! Jimmy Carter’s failure to get our hostages out of Iran got me all fired up, and placed me at the table taking my ASVABs (my scores vaulted me into an area which got the Navy to HOUND me to go subs!).

Leadership, and the lack of it, became cemented in my mind as one of the most important skills and aspirations for me, as a young man. Without true leadership, so many things become a frightful debacle placing our great country on a collision course with the giant “Soviet Iceberg”! From there, and my personal search into John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Teddy Kennedy, and later Jimmy Carter, did I truly see what was all around me. A new, post ’60s fervor, was beginning to rise, and it was challenging all of my beliefs. It was also threatening our great nation, and was exacting a terrible price from every American.

I enlisted while I was a Senior in High School (DEP - delayed enlistment program) in the United States Air Force. It was my life changing moment.

Did ya think I would have done anything less?

In Basic Training, one of the guys in my flight, on a truly bad day, asked me, “If you woke up tomorrow morning and your bags were at the end of your bed at home, what would you do?” I said then, and I say to myself every FRIGGIN’ morning that I wake up, “I’m ready to go.” And I would do everything that I did, to the letter, even though some of the things that happened in the military and in the civilian sector weren’t that much fun at times. It has made me who I am, who my wife loves, and who my two girls look up to and love. That kind of commitment, and sacrifice, is something many cannot afford to experience. It is often a lonely road, and one a select few take every day. But those who undertake the challenge can say they have done something not everyone in the world has done.

I am one of only a handful that have launched and recovered the SR-71 during the Cold War. I am one of many that has supported the President’s Mobile Airborne Command Post, the E-4A/B. I have worked on a planes with nicknames like, “Rivet Joint” and “Looking Glass”. I have been privy to supporting the great many of the 7th SOS while I was at Rhein Main AFB in Frankfurt during the Cold War. I have walked up to the “wall”, I have seen Fulda Gap (that was an eye opener!), and waited to be saluted by an East German Officer. You see, during those days, they must salute first - that’s protocol. Oh, and that’s what happens when you LOSE! I’ve had some Airborne guys adopt me on a TDY because I cold hold my liquor (Te-Kill-Ya Shots, my friends, tons of ‘em in a 3 hour sitting) and still push them outta the way to get to the bar to get one more. “Who’s this runt moving me aside? He’s had WHAT?! Give him some room! Hoorah!”

Camaraderie. The Stars and Stripes. Freedom. Family. Safety. Clear objectives. God. Kids laughing. Wives grieving. Arlington National Cemetery. The War of 1812. Paul Revere. The Minutemen. The Constitution. John Wayne. Right and Wrong. Breaking the sound barrier. Midway. Pearl Harbor. World War II. Apollo 13. Navstar. Nike Missiles. The Other Cowboy Ronald Reagan. End of the Cold War. On and on …

That is why we fight. That is why we are who we are. That is why, when people say, “I support the military, but I don’t support the mission”, you all hear a scuh-fuffle from us. You all lie like a shag rug, and we see right through every one of you. And when you begin to sell us out, force us to wear blue friggin’ helmets and no American flags on our uniforms, answering to some group of tin horn dictators, just so the Europeans will like you better?! When you turn the White House into a Hooters or Motel 6? We’re still there, fighting the good fight, because we see beyond the President. We see Old Glory, our fallen brothers, and those that will continue to serve beyond us as why we fight. Presidents will come and go, but the United States of America shall never falter - not while we’re on watch!

You may think we are brash, pig-headed, cocky, “ate up” (you have to have served to know that one), lifers, and yes, some say we are immature. But, I’ll let you in on a little secret, those of you that see us that way …

We do not care. We know who we are. We know why you are who you are. And, when your house is being overrun by bad guys, guess who stands in front, between you and that threat, and takes the bullet so you, you whiner, can continue your litigious little forays into stupidity, suing my friends and neighbors?

The Great Men and Women of the United States Military! We answer the call, no matter WHO picks up the phone and calls us.

Sleep tight, and, you’ll have no more bed bugs while we are on the line.

God Bless, and God Speed.

Just to fill you all in, I have been trying to help out the Soldiers’ Angels organization get the word out regarding some folks in need of our help. I know that often times we all can be a bit cynical or get our “knickers in a twist” about the bad feelings, slanted news, and more often than not raw deal the US Military gets. I’m trying to get out there and use my skills to help the Soldiers’ Angels - ’cause I can’t sew and I truly suck at baking! We’d have brave men and women with cool scarves falling apart in front of their eyes or they’d be dropping like flies from those evil cookies that looney toon Milblogger, Fix4RSO, sent them!

Our first person in need is a soldier we’ll call Mr. Olson. He is very close to losing his house, being 3 months back on payments. He was with the 1498th Transportation Company out of Riverside, CA. He was in Kuwait first in 2003 and then was all over Iraq. In 2004 he was injured in Tikrit and sent stateside. Simply put, his injuries were from his foot being caught in a winch and he nearly lost it. This incident also affected his left knee and lower back. He was put on Med Hold until everything came back to normal. Needless to say, he had to go through physical therapy - but in 2005 he was released because the State of California says he’s just hoppin’ ready to get to work. However, his PT Test results say differently and he cannot return to his ANG Active Duty Special Work (Counter Drug Task Force in Southern California). His private sector job opportunities have fallen through as well leaving him without any pay at all. He moved temporarily to Washington State to go to Madigan Hospital for more PT. He has run out of money and wants to get back to California where the job market is improving a bit. He’d at the very least like to just get his electricity, water, and phone bills paid. If he could get some help with his house payment and a job, I think he’d be OK to carry on! It’s a steep hill to climb, but I think we all can help lighten the load.

Our second person in need is a sailor we’ll call Mr. McCutchen. He, too, is very close to losing his house. Without having any income at all, the weekly food bill is truly breaking the bank. The mortgage company has told him he needs to at the very least make one payment by June 5th - but he has no funds due to his injury and separation from the Navy.  He was injured in Iraq when the rear portion of the vehicle he was riding in ran over an IED. He struck his head during the explosion and has since been suffering extreme pain in his head and neck. He has been having blackout spells. His legs also swell to the point that he has difficulty bending legs to get dressed or to shower and walk. He cannot drive because of blackout periods nor can he do any form of exercise. His civilian job is driving an 18-wheeler. Because of the blackout periods, he cannot safely drive any vehicle. He was taken off active duty since his return from Iraq and has not been able to work. He has not had a paycheck since April and is getting behind in all his bills. Now, the Navy is trying to get him processed back on active duty so that he can continue and then complete medical treatment. He is currently being treated by a neurologist - does not know final results yet. The Navy cannot tell him when he will actually be back on active duty - has to wait for processing. He has 5, yes five, kids and his wife is a stay at home Mom (something I am happy to hear, and is very honorable!). They have lots of bills, as you all can imagine! We need to raise some very serious money to help the McCutchen Family!

Both these men are staring down the worst of all paths ’cause they’re gonna have to go on public assistance. Ouch! US Military personnel should never have to go on public assistance! If we could keep these families afloat just a bit longer, manage their runway so to speak, I think that they can get back to a normal life. I hope you can help, or maybe you know someone that can help both these families?

The best way to help is to either go to the Soldiers’ Angels web site and make a donation. In the “notes/comments” field be sure to mention your donation is for either Mr. Olson or Mr. McCutchen - or BOTH! And, if you just want to have me get my coordinator from Soldiers’ Angels to get in touch with you directly so you can best direct your gift, no matter what it is, we can do that too! Just be sure to leave a comment in this post with your e-mail address in the short registration process. That way I can send your contact info on. You can also just send me an e-mail. Use the following e-mail address:

Fix4RSO AT fix4rso DOT com

Last but not least, at a minimum, please say a prayer for both these families. Prayer is a power way beyond all understanding. Take a chance!

God Bless you all. God Speed to all our brave men and women!