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

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:

Sara Horn, Publisher
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.

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

GUEST POST FOR: CAII - Coalition Against Illegal Immigration
CROSS POSTED FROM: CommonSenseAmerica

While Mexico praises its citizens for flooding across our border, it seems that we have worried our neighbors to the south with a little bit of law enforcement at our borders which may cause the tide to backwash.

From the Boston Globe:

Nearly 1 million people, many of them penniless, were turned back across the border last year, and analysts fear that tougher new U.S. border enforcement will inundate border towns with the desperate and the destitute.

Migrant shelter directors are scrambling for funds and considering hiring more staff to keep their doors open 24 hours a day in anticipation of a record number of migrants being repatriated.

“Everyone is getting ready because we’re worried there is going to be a mass deportation of people,” said Francisco Loureiro, who runs a migrant shelter in Nogales that houses up to 120 people a night. “We’re worried there’s going to be too many people to tend to, and we just don’t have the room for more.”

The article goes on to state:

“Repatriations are going to accelerate and the border zone is going to be hit the hardest with this, because the cities are going to be receiving people in search of resources and these towns don’t have them,” said Jorge Santibanez, director of the Tijuana-based Colegio de La Frontera Norte, a border research center.

“The government should be helping these migrant organizations and putting the infrastructure in place now,” he said.

That is probably the most sensible statement I’ve seen coming from south of the border in a long time. Mr. Santibanez recognizes that his own government should be doing something to help care for its citizens.

But, even more importantly, President Vicente Fox should be trying to boost his own economy so his citizens will be able to find jobs in their homeland instead of trying to send them north so he doesn’t have to assume responsibility for his nation and its people.

For more on this issue be sure to see:

Magnums Conservative Voice starts us out The Latin Pipeline
Red Hot Cuppa Politics says, “I’d like folks to embrace this fact: Nobody. Hates Immigrants. It’s the little “illegal” thingie that folks object to — and object strongly.”
DeMediacratic Nation asks, “If not English, then what?”
Right Truth says, “This should make you mad, really mad”
Valgerd’s Hearth says, “We can not allow the criminals free reign in our country.”

**This was a production of The Coalition Against Illegal Immigration - CAII. If you would like to participate, please go to the above link to learn more. Afterwards, e-mail the coalition and let them know at what level you would like to participate.

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!

Cross Posted from The Uncooperative Blogger

Sorry, I have not been blogging, but I have been on the phone all day with the House of Representative’s leadership. You will be happy to know it looks like they are holding strong against any path to citizenship for those here illegally, or temporary workers.

We discussed in depth what my opinions were on the subject and they were received well. I learned a bit about their problems with enfocement now, although I gave them a solution for that as well. hehe

After very lengthy conversations, I feel better about our chances of saving our country. Plan on losing the felony provision, because the Republicans don’t want it and tried to get rid of it previously but was blocked by the Democrats. Why you ask? Because it is a poison pill that the Dems want in it. The felony provision would make evey illegal tied up in the legal system and they want a fast track to deportation.

I made it crystal clear that no path to citizenship would be acceptable, and I was informed that is the message they are hearing, and there won’t be any path to citizenship. I informed them that “we the people” are paying attention and we will remember in November!

**This was a production of The Coalition Against Illegal Immigration [CAII]**. If you would like to participate, please go to the above link to learn more. Afterwards, e-mail the coalition and let them know at what level you would like to participate.

I hope that everyone has taken the time, before the brewskies, to thank the men and women who have served and paid the ultimate price. Please take the time to say a prayer for those left behind that carry on with their mission to protect everyone here in the greatest country in the world, the United States of America!

This is our simple flag, on a simple home, with a simple cause. Our daughters know the supreme sacrifice paid by so many so that they can enjoy so much. Today’s children, I suspect, do not know the history of our fathers, and the fathers before them.

We had a great time, as short as it was, yesterday. There are several members of the IMAA that get together and have a giant model aircraft air show. The best-est thing was that it took place on the old B-52 alert pads at Castle AFB! Oh yeah, to walk on the tarmac at Castle was a treat!

Well, ya think people see me coming, more appropriately going, with them thar stickers on my truck window?! Uh-huh, they do - not to mention my bright red cap with the 9th AMS badge in white and red! I’ll get a snap of that up here soon.

To top of the whole model aircraft air show was that a few gents, known as the Section 8 Air Force, place lights ALL OVER their radio controlled planes and fly at NIGHT! The girls had a ball, well, and so did the parents.

If you’d like to read a bit about this event, the Modesto Bee has a short snippet found here, and we met THE David Gunnin! He’s my Dad’s neighbor and a good man. He and his wife have been great, and have been very good to my Dad after Mom passed away.

Here’s a shot from the 2003 Event at Castle AFB

I’m telling you this because before the night flight show, I took the girls out to look for the “red line”. There’s a question out there in your head, I know, “What is the red line?”

That is the primary boundary between being watched and being “jacked up”! And, at Beale AFB, jacked up takes on new meaning, lemme tell you!

As we were wandering around the inactive alert pad, I’m explaining what all happened with B-52s, alert posture, and tankers at the ready during the cold war. I took them over to touch some of the taxiway signs and lights, we followed the path of the Follow Me trucks - on foot. Then, BAMMO! The red line! We jumped over it, then back, then over, then back! It was pretty fun for them, and a little bit of the way-back machine for me.

Then, we walked back to where everyone was sitting. I told the girls to yell out to Mommy, with arms raised high in the air flailing around, “I jumped the red line and didn’t get shot!”

Uh-huh, Dad’s a riot, huh?

Take care, God Bless, and God Speed to all those serving today!

I have serious doubts about conservatism when I wander around the blogosphere. I was hopping around and landed on the top story at California Conservative entitled, “Chill Out Dude”. Gary is writing about a memo circulated within the RNC by Matthew Dowd (did you get this memo? i didn’t either. guess we don’t rate, eh?) - and all the research supports the whimps in the RNC anyway, so, what’s new?

Welcome to Wachingtun DC, where’s the pork, eh?

Anyway, here is a comment I left on California Conservative’s website:

Huh? I’m a Republican and I never got this memo. Oh, you mean RNC to RNC memo. Well, that’s a vacuum chamber I’m not privy to share with our power brokers.

Is everyone who writes on this site FROM California? And, are we all watching this country go down the tubes, one southern border state at a time? This piece speaks to Conservatives? OK, maybe not me, since I’m not well read, learned, and a dumb ex-USAF tool jockey.

I still vote. And, I gotta tell ya, I’m gonna deviate this November. I’m tired. California politics is a complete joke. I am a NATIVE CALIFORNIAN, I served my country, and my country is serving me spoiled milk and dry cookies.

Bah.

The warning signs in this post are, “internal poll” and “79% of self-identified conservatives”. I’m sorry, but to be conservative one has to make the sacrifice of non-comprimise on a multitude of issues in front of us - one being this amnesty mess.

Compassionate Conservatives are busy looking around realizing that we are being compassionate to everyone but ourselves. Is there something wrong with those of us that want a better life for OUR OWN CHILDREN that arrived on this soil LEGALLY?!

The tripe that was voted on this week is a clear message to those of us that ARE conservative and are surrounded by a state’s worth of people possessing a serious lack of visionary control. Stop making concessions to a group of people that are TRULY looking for growing the government - and in the wrong direction.

Have you actually READ the text? If you did, why is this section in the bill:

Sec. 759 - Screening of municipal solid waste

And, don’t get me started on the funds that are gonna fly out the door based on this bill. READ the appropriations, set asides, and grant proposals. Sheesh, is anyone fiscally conservative anymore?

Oh, and S.2611 should never have passed. If it is so full of “numerous atrocities”, WHY DID THEY PASS IT?!

Roe-v-Wade was a compromise, too. Where are we today, I ask you all?

Eeeks, I’d say I came out of my box, eh? And I’m sure many of you do not agree with me, and that’s OK. But one thing I have begun to realize is that no one cares anymore about themselves. I am not saying to be selfish is the goal. But, to truly look out for our children, and taking our current societal decay into account, are we really making a better world for them? Is their future sound? Are my two daughters going to be able to go out at night and be safe? Can my girls take a Senior Trip in High School and come home - not end up kidnapped and dead?

I ask you, is compromise really what you seek, or are you actually responding to the 20 plus years of brain washing the likes of Marlo Thomas, Phil Donahue, Merv Griffin, and Dave Letterman have heaped upon you?

I look inward before looking out. I have no skeletons in my closet so I speak from my own truth. I have no fear my daughters will be successful and prosperous in their lives. Yet, I have a serious amount of trepidation for our collective future.

I am self-centered, defined the right way: I am centered in my beliefs. I am sure you are too. But, can you please hear me out for just a moment? Why am I the wrong one all the time? Why, Gary and Matthew, do I have to look inward when so many in politics spend too much time looking outward?

I say, maybe they are wrong.

**This was a production of The Coalition Against Illegal Immigration - CAII. If you would like to participate, please go to the above link to learn more. Afterwards, e-mail the coalition and let them know at what level you would like to participate.

Last Sunday afternoon, April 30th at 2:20p, God called my Mom to join Him. It is a very solemn moment, and one that happens to so many people every day. When it is you, it just takes time to adjust and understand.

My Mom’s biggest challenge was Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson’s is a disease for which there is no cure and treatments are only bandaids. There are many procedures and drugs, and some people fight for a few years and some fight for a decade or two. For my Mom, and my Dad, it has been about 8 years. And yes, it affects both people especially near the end.

My Dad fought hard for no one to notice. My Dad fought to ensure her time was enjoyable and that she had immediate access to care - and her children and grandchildren. My Dad fought to keep her going, and in the end he fought to keep her as comfortable as possible. My Mom wanted to be at home and so with 24×7 care and Hinds Hospice, she had her wish.

She quietly went to be with Him … we’ll quietly say a prayer and then celebrate her life this coming Monday, May 8th, with a funeral Mass held by Father Tom. The wake, well, it will be simple and something I know Mom would love.

Take care, everyone, and thank you all for your prayers and kind words. It means so much to have friends I have never shaken hands with, never seen person to person, and friends that understand and care.

Sorry to have not posted very much lately. Often times when I drop onto other blogs and notice the writer has been away for a while, they say they’re sorry when they return. It’s nice to know a little about what is going on - when someone is quiet. I figured I’d let you know now …

My Mom is in very poor health. It is truly only a matter of time. We are spending all effort to keep my Dad going.

I’ll be back. Pop in now and again. You’ll soon see posts … thanks for being patient and understanding.

TexasFred of Ace in the Hole has started a campaign to bring greater awareness to bloggers out there about the huge Minuteman Project going on right now. There are folks blogging from our borders as things happen, and as they experience them. These volunteers are trying to make a difference, and they are there during a time where no one in Washington DC has their six.

That, my friends, is criminal.

If we can do nothing else, we need to support The Miniteman Project. Get this graphic, post your own version, and link to the Minuteman Project:

Hop on over and see all the folks blogging to help spread the word. And, try to hammer on your representatives, anyone you can poke at in the media, and especially Fox News. More airtime getting this project out there is very important.

America Cannot Forget Our Southern Borders!

Alright, Laurie, I couldn’t find the ONE photo I thought I had from a day of snapping photos of big iron. I’ll find them this weekend (’cause I have to find all my plane photos too). But, just for a little teaser, here’s a shot of our oldest on the “high rail” at 23 months old.

I tell ya, she had fun that day when a 8 engine lash-up with about 80 cars groaned on by! She laughed so hard while holding on to my neck FOR DEAR LIFE!

This shot is at a very famous spot: The Tehachapi Loop. For those that do not know, this is one of two places in the world where more than 100 feet in altitude is ascended in such a short space. This is actually a helix where the rails pass over one another while climbing 100 feet. You can stand there and never see the beginning or the end of the train as she groans up the grade to get to Mojave or down the grade to Bakersfield.

My wife and I have met people (train freaks like us) from Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Florida, and as far away as Austria and Germany!

It really is a must see - and I have more shots to put up … soon.

And this Fox keeps stealing eggs from my basket and tossing them to other Foxes, on a ranch far away. It’s as if “Robin’s Hood” has been transplanted into today - yet it’s the wiley Fox that is getting the bounty. And our ranches, our hen houses, are California, Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. These hen houses haven’t had a guard dog or a door for decades, and they have been falling apart year after year. Some day there’ll be no more eggs - where will the Fox go then?

Watch your six people, there are 46 more states to go - lots of eggs left so get them while they’re free!

I’m a bit tired of being told this situation is “complicated” and requires a “world view”. I am sick of having guilt thrust upon me by others that have no concept or understanding of my situation, history, and plans for the future. I shall not be talked down to by those who believe they know the only solution. There are many solutions, and there are many steps to be taken to get some of them implemented. Can we at the very least stop arguing and start doing something?

Tell me again, am I so stupid? Do I not have enough information to come to my own decisions or conclusions? Can it be the case that it is you, the one with all this “compassion” that is without enough information?

Here’s a backdrop, and you fill in de colores.

My mother is 1st generation American of German and Irish descent. My father emigrated from the United Kingdom a short time after he served his first country in the RAF during WWII. He followed the process, he forfeited his British citizenship and passport for American ones, he worked hard, he retired after 2 heart attacks and 37 years to watch his company go bankrupt - twice. He has crap for a pension. The American way - yep, when times get tough the kids will step in. That is the way we were raised, no matter how proud my parents are, they shall not be destitute.

Should I make you pay for what happened to them? I say no. Is that wrong? Then why is everyone else so quick to make me pay for the lack of planning and problems of others? Perplexed? Uh-huh … me too.

My roots go back into Poland and Prussia, and south to the Black Forest and close to Garmisch and Austria. None of my forefathers were rich. They were tradesmen, soldiers, and cobblers - and maids, cooks, and house keepers. One grandfather made glass for the war effort and the other made machine parts for British Spitfires and bombers. Each generation fought to get one or two rungs higher - always looking to their children’s future. No one in my history was crass or uncaring to those less fortunate.

All anyone had to do was ask. We have very huge hearts and we step in to help. All the men in my family served - either here or abroad - in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy. We have given and sacrificed for our families and our friends and our neighbors.

But, to take from their children’s children?! We defend our honor, and their future. And for the gifts that come only from hard work, why should so many be given something so precious - just for a vote, 10 minutes of air time on the National News, or a hug from Alec Baldwin?

Is being an American that damn cheap?!

Are we just supposed to hand you citizenship? So many people worked hard to get here, and work very hard to stay here. And when the call goes out they raise Old Glory and fight for what this country is all about. And that is NOT a free ride, but the ability and opportunity to work hard and make your children’s children have a better life.

Oh, you noticed I said Old Glory and not some other banner? Uh-huh, that’s right, the American flag is our standard - the standard of those who are Americans. Big clue, if you want to be an American, our flag is red, white, and blue, and it does not run, it is not beneath any other flag, and it is to never touch the ground.

EVER!

Giving of oneself is what is at risk here. American’s are the most giving country. How many disasters last year happened in other countries, and the first people to jump to the ready and help were, who again? What country immediately shifted resources and manpower to save countless thousands from a fate that should befall no one? Have we all forgotten so fast how giving we are?

Have we all forgotten who came to our aid after September 11th, 2001? I remember five countries who truly came to help. Only three still truly stand by our side. (in my opinion those three are the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand - the rest just talk a good story)

When you steal, when you break the law (a law that is never enforced, which is a crime), when you are snatching bread from your neighbors mouth - is that right? Is that Christian? Are we all to just open our doors and let the burglars take what they want, whenever they want? (Kath of In Training has a great post about the UK making burglary OK - sheesh!)

I know that this subject is tough. I know that the people looking for refuge and a safe place to raise their children is all they want. I know that the country that is just a step away is enabling the poor, and also the criminal element, to hop right over to the Circle K known to them as the USA. I know that to be a Christian is to be forgiving and to open your heart, your arms, and your pocket book to help out in times of need.

But, when need is not really need, but the mismanagement of a government and the complacency and lack of fortitude of those in power at home to make things better, well, the rules change because it isn’t really need - it’s greed. Fox and the other Foxes are greedy, and they do not care that they are taking our eggs. In fact this is the most overt case of bowing to socialism I have ever seen, in our own country. And we all know the success of socialism and communism - this is greed of a different kind.

Greed does not care. Greed is boastful. Greed is deriding. Greed is arrogant.

Greed is a sin.

I believe that the American Cardinals, Bishops, and Priests best get off their assesdonkeys burros and teach our southern brethren a thing or two about being Christians. They need to stop telling me - I have a huge family history dedicated to being a Christian, a Patriot, and a Soldier, Sailor, Airman, and Marine. Our politicians need to stop enabling this situation and start making every life and the American way something to really be proud of - not a cheap chat with Matt Lauer or Vanity Fair.

Remember, greed is a sin.
Remember, socialism and communism fails.
Remember, tin horn dictators don’t care about you.
Remember, America is not the free mini-bar for the rest of the world.

The C-5A that crashed in Dover, Delware on 3 April, 2006, just tears at me. To see a scene like this:

Just cries out to someone like me that loves all things US Air Force. I am so very glad that everyone was able to leave the aircraft alive, even if reports are true that three airmen are in serious or critical condition. To understand the gravity of this class of a crash, look at the size of the fireman near the wing, and the top of the C-5!

This aircraft is NOT on landing gear making the total hieght even higher.

My hat goes off to the crew for making this less tragic than it could have been. For those of you that have either piloted, or watched the C-5 in T-A-Gs, this bird is one tough customer! Even though her landing gear can match “crab” on approach, she still is bound by physics. She can be torn off course with ease, and with engine trouble - the reported cause of the return to Dover AFB - this is no simple feat to bring her home safe. Those who know also know that reverse thrust is a tricky situation. Top that with a healthy dose of weather and engine trouble … I shudder to think how this transpired and the feelings of the crew and passengers.

It is very sobering to realize that this is only the second C-5 to crash in 16 years! For all the flights/air miles she clocks, I am amazed. Next to the C-130 and the C-17, she moves more payload in the air than any bird around. Here is the snippet from AF.mil about the last crash:

“The last C-5 crash was on Aug. 28, 1990, during Operation Desert Shield. A C-5 crashed after takeoff from Ramstein Air Base, Germany, killing 13 of the 17 people on board.”

And, my deepest thanks go out to the ground crew and firemen that have to answer the call.

For those who have had to train on aircraft fire suppression techniques (most flightline personnel do), I respect this job! OK, we just have to put a pan of flaming JP-4 out with a standard fire bottle (the ones you see in flightline photos from AF.mil). When an aircraft goes down, it is mayhem of the highest degree, and flames so hot I cannot even begin to explain.

Thank God they are all safe. Please pray for all the airmen to be released safe, and say a prayer for their families too. And, say a special prayer for the men and women who fight those fires and rescue our flight crews. Firefighters should never go unthanked, and always deserve a special prayer.

For those that just don’t get it, this picture is a poignant look into what the Global War on Terror is all about:

Shall we remain complacent and suffer from a fear that will inevitably ensnare a nation?

It is true, it is hard to be apart from your family and living day to day committed in and for the mission. Your day begins knowing that everyone at home misses you. You miss everyone and make the best of it with those around you. The meals are OK, but you’d just love that [enter greatest meal ever here!]. You don’t tell everyone that your heart aches to be home. You definitely know there is more to this than meets the eye. Your country being safe means that your family, and everyone else’s family, is safe too - it’s worth it.

Optimism? You bet and nothing less will fall short of what the United States Military is all about!

Yes, it is terrible to be at home experiencing so many different things at once. You’re living day to day with those feelings of frustration and hurt that makes you question your resolve. Those chairs at the dinner table are always pushed in when they should be filled right now. Going on an errand the driver’s or passenger’s seat in the car just doesn’t seem the same today. The sounds of laughter when the dog falls of the coach go hallow. Those contagious giggles from the little one are left hanging in the moment. The hurt and frustration has to remain hidden because you know it really isn’t going to help - just so far away.

Is a positive commitment to something larger than all of us, bad? It’s what defines us and makes all families at home what the United States of America is all about!

Whenever you see the hugs, tears of joy, and huge smiles on such tiny faces, remember: it is what we are all about.