Infantry Dad

AUGUST 7TH!!!

2009-08-07T20:27:00.003-05:00

August 7th?
Almost three months since I posted.
Summer, all four or five days, has all but come and gone.
I've played golf five times.
Had my boat on the water twice, but that's a whole different story.
And life is just flying bye.
Matt has been home since May 15th.
We left Tacoma on Tuesday, May 13th at 800 hrs, and drove into our driveway in New Hampshire on Saturday, May 17th at approximately 16:30 hrs. Not a lot of sight seeing.
I have found it hard to get motivated to post.
While Matt was in Iraq it was a great stress reliever, and made the time pass.
And it was great to hear from people who were in the same situation, or who just wanted to offer support.
To say that life has become once again normal would be a lie.
While there is a lot less stress, there are still the memories.
I have dreams of things blowing up, and being shot at, and isolated, and of people getting hurt and not being able to help them.
Much the same as the dreams I had while Matt was deployed.
I still have times when I suffer the same depression brought on by the worry of having a loved one in harms way.
I wish I could tell everyone with a loved one serving in Iraq or Afghanistan that when their son get's home it will all be great.
But I can't.
Don't get me wrong, it is a whole lot better.
There's a lot less worrying.
But it doesn't go away.
Or at least in my case, it hasn't yet.
I hope to find another cause to take up here in the blogosphere.
And when I do, I intend to continue to do all I can to support our heroes serving in harms way.
Until they all come home.

Thanks NUGHT for rattling my cage.
Now it'll probably be another couple of months before I post again.

THE WORD OF THE DAY

2009-05-11T18:59:00.002-05:00

CIVILIAN.
Sometime this afternoon Matt got his papers declaring him a civilian.
I'm headed to Seattle tomorrow to join him for the ride home.
So the journey that started with profound pride and sadness more than three years ago will end in profound pride and happiness, and a long ride home.
Hope to take a lot of pictures to share.
My heartfelt thanks to those who have taken the time to stop by here and offer words of encouragement.
I can never express how much it has meant.
It's difficult to show emotion through this media.
So all I can do is tell you that time and time again I have been moved to tears by the generous support of people I have never met.
I stand in never ending support and with the utmost respect for our men and women serving this great country.
God bless.

FINALY SOME GOOD NEWS

2009-04-28T19:22:00.002-05:00

Word on the grapevine is that the 4th Brigade received notification today that their deployment orders were changed.

This is second hand news, and unverified by yours truly, so I am cautiously optimistic.

What I'm not sure of is exactly what the change is, but Matt messaged his brother that it meant that the stop loss order will no longer affect him, and he will separate from active duty on 5/12/09.

We will keep our fingers crossed.

THREE WARS ANYBODY?

2009-04-24T19:58:00.002-05:00

I'm starting a pool.
Pick the date on the calendar closest to when we will have troops in Pakistan.
Any takers?
Just what we need.
A third war.

Our soldier and his brother and brother's girlfriend are in the right field roof top seats at Fenway as I write.
The dreaded Yanks are winning 2-1.
Hope they don't ruin Matt's homecoming and Sarah's birthday.

Transliteration???

2009-04-22T18:47:00.002-05:00

Who'd a thunk it.
Yesterday I couldn't even spell it, and there I was doing it?
Thanks Jason.

anyone sick of the Obama bashing yet?
I am.
I'm a moderate Republican, and I voted for him.
And while I must admit that I'm not totally impressed with some of the things that have happened since he's been in office I have to say that his willingness to be open with us is a refreshing change.
The very thought that, "we the people" can handle the truth of what is going on in our government is the very thing that has his opponents all in an up roar.
By his very actions he is dispelling the notion held by a majority of our elected officials that they are all so much more intelligent then us.
It was said that once he got to Washington the status quo would beat him into submission.
They would teach him that, "we the people" weren't capable of comprehending the issues that they the rulers deal with on a day to day basis.
I like knowing what's going on, and why they make the decisions they do.
and I could give a flying f&&# if he bows to an Arab or two.
Maybe if his predecessor had a modicum of diplomacy we wouldn't be in the mess we're in.

SPC Matt will be home for the weekend.
We're looking forward to seeing him.
Even if for only a day.

<फॉण्ट कोलोर=ब्लू>गायस तिएंग थे कनोत

2009-04-21T19:05:00.001-05:00

इफ इ गावे यू माय होंसटी ओप्पिनिओं, इ कोउल्ड नेवर बे मिस अमेरिका। एंड ठाट वौल्ड रुं माय ड्रीम.

SECRETARY GATES CALLs FOR END TO STOP-LOSS

2009-03-18T18:44:00.003-05:00

In searching for more information on this subject which was first pointed out by my friends at

One Percenters

I found that for every article about the end of stop loss, there were two about gays being thrown out of the Army.
Rather strange that they simultaneous keep individuals that want out, and discharge those who want to stay?

Following are links to a few article on the subject.

Army Strong

WASHINGTON MONTHLY

Machineryltd.

After downing Street.

On the cover this appears to be great news. but ever the skeptic when it comes to our politicians, I will remain cautiously optimistic.

Just in case it doesn't come true, why not get involved.
Stand up and be counted by signing my petition.

Online petition - End Stop Loss

And if you already have,

THANK YOU.

MORE TLC FOR OUR HEROES

2009-03-18T06:03:00.003-05:00

An individual commenting on a comment of mine at

Active Duty Patriot,

called me a whiner for my effort to change the stop-loss policy, and my comments about NCOs miss-treating soldiers.
Well here I go again.
When I opened my email and found the following article, I couldn't believe my eyes.
Read the following article, and tell me if maybe there shouldn't be a lot more whining from the public.

Wounded and Injured soldiers.

Couple this with current rumblings in the news that the VA is considering charging disabled vets for service, and I'm more than whining.
I am outraged.

Lets get involved folks.

These individuals served us, now it's time we served them.
Write to Congressmen/women, and ask them to insure that our soldiers are taken care of.

WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?

2009-03-15T09:57:00.003-05:00

We hear on the news every day that the the Iraqi Government feels that they no longer need our help, and that our units are going to be pulled out of communities, probably as early as next June. But they don't offer an explanation of just what our mission is to be going forward. There is a lot of vague talk about training and security missions.
While I understand that it is crucial to security that we don't make public the scope of the plan, I am worried.
I'm really worried that we might just botch this withdrawal similar to the way the exit from Vietnam was handled.
That wasn't a pretty sight. And ended up costing hundreds if not thousands of casualties amongst units that were left in the field without proper support.

My stand against stop-loss has nothing to do with the mission at hand.

I am in no way opposed to our mission in Iraq, or Afghanistan, and I am an ardent supporter of all of our servicemen who are doing their job in a valiant and honorable manner.

I just do not agree with the stop-loss policy.
I was cautiously skeptical of it when my son signed, and I like it even less now.
I have no doubt that he will continue to serve in an honorable manner, but fear that his morale has taken a serious blow. I know that he is not alone. While a lot of soldiers just take it for what it is, and say nothing, I can't imagine that there is one who would say if asked, it's nothing at all. I expected it, and I'm better off for it.

When I read about soldiers who have complained openly, and gone through all the proper channels to avoid stop-loss, being kept anyway, and assigned jobs that are basically less than what they've been trained for, ie infantrymen being assigned motor pool positions, and support for in FOB MP detachments watching over soldiers that become deemed unfit to serve outside the wire etc. I wonder what it's all about.
Has it become a military stance to say "hey, we're the Army, we're in charge, we don't have to listen to anybody, and we'll do things the way we want regardless of whether it makes sense or not".

Just wondering.

I honestly can't understand how anyone who researches this policy to even a minimal degree can be a supporter.

Read my next post to learn more about my feelings with regard to manpower issues, and keeping soldiers in who are due to separate from a deployed unit.
And please help give me the power to take this point up with the powers to be by signing the petition,

Online petition - End Stop Loss.

I appreciate the support, and welcome ideas, and comments.

LEADERS IGNORE SECRETARY GATES

2009-03-14T09:54:00.005-05:00

Here's a little something from, Global Security .org, that I found quite interesting.

Gates To Take Comprehensive Approach To End "Stop-Loss.

It was written on 02/29/2009.
I wonder why it wasn't better publicized?
Most everything that I've been able to find on this subject gives the appearance that Secretary Gates has requested that military leaders lower the "stop-loss" ratio, and that they, (Military Leaders), chose to ignore his requests. I won't call them orders because then they (the leaders) would be in defiance of direct orders, and we all know that isn't allowed in the military.
I have a better idea Mr. Secretary.
Let's just end stop-loss all together.
Let's direct our military leaders to start doing something about morale, and retention.
Get out from behind those desks and get out and find out what it would take to make the Army a better place to be.
Lets show Secretary Gates that he has the backing of a lot of military members, their families, and friends, by signing the petition.

Online petition - End Stop Loss.

We're nearing the 100 signature mark and counting.
Not quite the progress I had hoped for in a week, but never the less a good showing.

If you are a member of Facebook, you are invited to join our group.

END STOP-LOSS NOW.

God bless our soldiers and bring them home safe.

A SOLDIERS REQUEST GRANTED

2009-03-08T08:57:00.004-05:00

I recently received a request from a soldier to pass along his thoughts and feelings on stop loss.
I guess during the process of putting his thoughts in writing a few other issues came out also.
It's good to vent, and while I edited the content for length, the real meat of the message is here in all it's glory.
I should explain that this individual spent 15 months in Iraq and was involved in several missions, including the siege of Baqubah. (sp?)
Here are his words.

Tell these people that are saying stop loss is needed, that they need to do some more research.

The army is currently over-strength.
If we weren't in two wars, they'd be trying to pay people to get out.
One month after defense secretary Gates recommended to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to lower the percentage of soldiers being stop lossed, they instead raised the number by 43%.
Soldiers who are stop lossed, serve on average, an additional 6.6 months.
Ask them if they can imagine being 3,000 miles away from home, going out risking their lives for 180+ days when they are supposed to be home living their lives.
Tell anybody who wants to know, if I was only doing 6.6 months, I would have way less of an issue with it. But I'm a lucky one and I get an additional 19 months.
Tell the guy who is in the army and suggests that soldiers get paid more money that,
A. It was never about money for me. I could be making at least 15 grand more a year as a police officer.
B. Stop lossed soldiers are supposed to get extra pay, the bill has been passed, yet the same government who decided that we didn't deserve to be civilians, also decided we didn't deserve the money we were entitled to. And,
C. If he wants more money, just wait, when we're done in Afghanistan, they'll stick a nice check in his pocket and kick his ass out the door with maybe a thank you, but we don't need your service anymore.

Tell them that stop loss is only legal in a time of war. I guess since we're in the global war on terror, maybe I could run away to Canada.
Technically if the war is global, I'd be upholding my end of the deal.
This isn't a war, this is an attempt to destabilize the most populous Muslim region in the world, in order to keep one strong Muslim country or uprising that would finally fill in the power vacuum that was left when,
A. World Wars I and II sapped Europe of all there power (thanks to the fact that we ensured through our great treaties that countries like Germany would not regain any form of power for decades to come),and
B. The Cold War ended and Russia collapsed leaving all the areas they were trying to support economically to stand against us, and resulting in a lawless society of people who never had a government. (except for during the Russian rule).
Politicians knew that the Muslims would eventually rise against us if we didn't do something about it because the hardliners feel that America's "degradation" of women is causing the traditional family model to collapse globally.
Don't listen when these d-bag politicians try to say "Muslims hate us cause of our religion".
They hate us because in our society if women wanna raise a family, do it up.
You wanna be a professional and don't have time for a family, that's fine, we won't behead you, or throw acid on you, we'll encourage you.

It is truly, in their eyes, a fight of good vs. evil, or old school vs. new school, traditions vs. progress.
I'm not saying I'm not proud to have fought for my country, or that I don't agree with why we're fighting (both reasons, the real one I just stated and the whole religious ticket too).

Sorry, I could go on forever.
I don't know how this went from stop loss to what the war is or isn't about but...Any of these folks who agree with stop loss, or are just brain washed retards period, tell them to look me up and I'll educate their dumb asses.
Sorry again, more sarcasm than anger!

I'm attempting to force the government to pay attention to the stop loss issue, and make good on Secretary Gates' order to reduce the numbers of stop lossed soldiers.

If left to the leaders of the Army it will never happen, because it's easier to do nothing, than to fix the problem.

PLEASE HELP THE CAUSE BY SIGNING THE PETITION.

Online petition - End Stop Loss

You can also help by posting a link to the petition on you blog, and telling your friends an relatives about it.
Or simply link back to, www.infantrydad.blogspot.com.
And I'll do the rest.

May god bless and keep our soldiers safe so that they may all return to their loved ones soon.
Thank you.

GUEST POST

2009-03-07T16:38:00.006-05:00

A guest post from a friend in a far off place.

More then any time in recent history America's destiny is not of our own choosing.
We did not seek, nor did we provoke an assault on our freedoms and our way of life.
We did not expect, nor did we invite a confrontation with evil.
Yet the true measure of a people's strength is how they rise to master that moment when it does arrive.
Three soldiers in my unit where wounded a couple of days ago in an EFP attack in Baghdad.
All three have shrapnel wounds up and down their bodies, and the truck commander (TC) had to be flown north for surgery, after being wounded in several places on his left side, the driver, (a private), rushed head first into the chaos to aid his wounded squad leader. The passenger side door was mangled and wouldn't open, so pvt. C, pulled his squad leader out his door, stopped the bleeding in multiple places, and sent up the reports to higher with out hesitation, and with our instruction.
He rushed head first into the chaos while bleeding from many wounds himself.

The streets of heaven were too crowded with angels that night.
They are our sons and our daughters, and our husbands, and our wives, and our fathers, and our mothers.
The streets of heaven are too crowded with angels.
But every time we think we've measured our capacity to meet a challenge, we look up and we are reminded that that capacity may well be limitless.
This is a time for American heroes.
We will do what is hard.
We will achieve what is great.
This is a time for American heroes, and we will answer the call.
God bless the fallen.
God bless our fighting.
God bless the United States Army.

God bless you SGT. And keep you and your men safe for the remainder of your deployment.

THIS IS ME

2009-03-04T18:19:00.003-05:00

I received an email the other day.

I was just going to let it go.

But I can’t

It accused me of being ungrateful for all that our government does for us.

That didn’t bother me all that much.

For someone who happened to stumble on to my blog for the first time I may appear to be just a tad ungrateful.

The part that really got my dander up was when I was accused of being non supportive of our military.

At the very moment that I read that, I knew that this was someone who didn’t take the time to read previous posts.

Someone who has no idea what makes me tic.

Because I don’t agree with the Army’s recruitment tactics.

And I am opposed to the “Stop Loss” clause.

Doesn’t make me unpatriotic.

It doesn’t mean that I don’t support our military.

So the truth about me.

I love this country.

I am thankful that I was fortunate to be born in the greatest country on earth.

That doesn’t mean that I have to agree with everything that our government throws our way.

Our government has grown to the monster it is because of complacency.

It will not change over night.

Only when we the people start questioning what’s going on will things start to change.

We need to question the things we don’t agree with.

We need to search out others of a like mind, and band together in effort to change things that just aren’t right.

I was drafted into the military in 1971.

Before I had to report to, AFEEs, for my physical I elected to join the Army Reserve.

For the longest time I was embarrassed to admit that I was a reservist.

It wasn’t until lately the importance of the Reserve, and National Guard became apparent to me.

Vietnam was winding down, so it always seemed that we were training for training’s sake.

Now I know that we were preparing to be the replacements should another war break out.

I’m thankful that it didn’t.

And so I served seven years in virtual obscurity.

Never experiencing the horror of war.

And I’m thankful for that.

Now what I regret.

I’m sorry that I ever encouraged my son to join the Army.

I’m sorry that he had to experience a buddy dieing in his arms.

I’m sorry that he had to experience being so scared for his life that he practically pissed his pants.

I’m sorry that he had to spend fifteen months living in squalor and filth fighting for a people who couldn’t care less about us. (The Iraqi government).

I’m sorry that he had to endure leaders that were mental midgets.

(Not all of them, but enough that it left a bad taste in his mouth, and a vow that if he ever had a position of authority he, “knew who he wouldn’t be like”).

I’m sorry that he has to live with the thought that he may have sent lead down range not knowing if it ended up killing innocent civilians that were being used as cover by spineless bastards that won’t fight like real men, choosing to hide behind women, children, and seniors.

Cowards that choose to hide and ambush under the veil of darkness instead of fighting like real soldiers.

And yet, what I’m most sorry about is that the very Army that he and his comrades fought so honorably for, chooses to thank them by forcing them to serve beyond their separation date, and go back and do it all again.

All the arguments about needing trained, battle seasoned veterans in order to save the lives of green soldiers can’t convince me that “Stop Loss” is right.

It is double jeopardy in its purest form.

And so I’ve mounted a fight against the policy of “Stop Loss”.

I’ve written the letters.

I’ve posted a petition, and I intend to do all the promotion. (Anyone interested in taking an active role is more than welcome).

All I’m asking is that you sign the petition, and bring it to your friends and relatives attention.

(Again, if you want to get involved and do some promoting of the project, get in touch).

I’ll do the lion’s share of research, and communications.

All of it if need be.

But please help by at least signing.

I need at least 1000 signatures to go forward.

In the words of a petition signer who left a comment, “if we don’t fight to protect the rights of those who fight to protect ours, who will”?

I am a proud father of an American hero serving his country in the Army.

A man that stepped up, signed up, and went to war for his country.

One who continues to serve willingly for another couple of months after which he will be held against his will.

Please sign the petition.
Online petition - End Stop Loss
Feel free to contact me with suggestions, and to help.
John

JUST AN OPINION

2009-03-02T19:56:00.002-05:00

I received a great comment to my last post about ending stop loss from a man who knows what he is talking about.
You can go back and read the comment.
I didn't ask permission to re-post his comment, so I won't.
I will post my answer to him, because that's my right.
I only hope that this doesn't ruin the short communication relationship we have started.
I respect his opinions, and him for choosing to make the Army his career.
And I truly enjoy hearing from him.
I'm certain that we will have several great conversations during his present deployment.

Now my answer...

Sarge,
Call me John.
Mr Infantry Dad sounds kinda weird.
Ok. First, you are absolutely, positively welcome to your opinion, and to express it on my blog, in my comments, or anywhere else you would like. You fight for all of our right to do that. I respect you for it. And would never think anything less of you or anyone for disagreeing with me.
BUT, here's were I think your point is flawed.
If the Army is so grossly under manned with battle seasoned soldiers, then they need to make the hitch longer... When you sign up, you sign up for four years or five years. Don't have contracts with obscure clauses in them AND recruiters fluffing the clauses by telling individuals that there is little chance of it ever happening.
Next, give soldiers decent living quarters on base when home.
And teach all NCOS to stop soothing their egos by berating cherries. What sense does yelling and screaming at someone because they don't execute a perfect salute, or stand at a book perfect parade rest.
Now my qualifications to say this.
I completed basic training and AIT at Ft. Jackson in 1972. I also completed the Third Army Leadership Academy, and graduated the Third Army Drill Sargent Academy.
Never in all of that training was there a session on how to call recruits shit birds and piss ants.
Or to get in their face and scream, just because you can.
Nor was there instruction on what violations warranted push ups, or how many.
And yet, this has gone on since the the second world war.
I can understand the right of passage through basic training. But once a soldier becomes a member of a regular unit, that crap should stop. It serves no purpose. I understand that there are great NCOs, and it would seem that you are one. The great NCOs need to straighten out the ego maniacs, and teach them to lead by example. And create a better environment for all.
Now regarding extended tours of duty. (note, not Stop Loss).
During WWII there were soldiers that served for five years, some never getting leave at all. They lived in deplorable conditions. Sleeping outside in freezing weather, without shelter, for days and weeks on end.
During war time it should be understood that if you are in a battle unit, you are in until you are no longer needed.
Just make that known up front.
Don't let soldiers think that they are getting out, then pull the switch.
That's why I want to see stop loss ended.
I'm not angry about it just because my son got stop lossed, and no action I take now can stop it.
I understand that.
Hopefully I can make a difference for soldiers of the future.

I will continue to work to promote the petition I started to get the military to come up with a better way of staffing than forcing soldiers that complete their hitch to stay past their ETS.
I do not oppose soldiers being re-called in the event that a war escalates and they are needed to ensure that all soldiers aren't put in a worse situation by being under manned.
The fact that a soldier is on in-active reserve for a certain number of years after their initial commitment is well know by all.
It is made clear, along with the criteria that could constitute a recall.

And now a little promotion of the cause.
The petition can be found here, Online petition - End Stop Loss
Please consider helping with this cause...

God bless our soldiers serving in harms way, and keep them safe.

PETITION TO STOP STOP LOSS

2009-03-01T15:56:00.010-05:00

If you agree, as I do, that the U.S. Army's policy of "Stop Loss" is an unfair way to treat personnel who have fulfilled their contractual obligation to the Army in an honorable manner, please take a moment to review my petition calling for the end of "Stop Loss", by clicking on this link, Online petition - End Stop Loss, and reviewing a petition I plan to present to the President and Secretary of Defense.

If the link above doesn't work, please cut and paste this link to your browser.

www.gopetition.com/online/25742.html.

If after reading the short petition you agree and would like to support my effort, please sign it.
You may remain anonymous, however should you elect to provide your name, and email, it will be kept confidential, and you will receive a personal note of thanks, and support from yours truly.

Please forward this email to all of your friends, and associates who either have loved ones serving, or know someone who is.

Feel free to cut and paste, or create a hop link to the petition.
If you don't know how to create a hop link, ask and I will show you.

Remember, this is in no way intended to show a lack of respect for our military, or soldiers who have decided to re-enlist, or who make the Army their career.
I admire them for their conviction.
This is a grass roots effort to indicate our displeasure that our soldiers are being, or may be forced to stay in the Army against their will after fulfilling their obligation.
As always I welcome all comments.
God bless our soldiers and keep them safe.

CONTRACTS & STOP LOSS

2009-03-01T07:49:00.006-05:00

It's another Sunday morning here in our little corner of the world.
It's a little cloudy, but we haven't received the three or four inches of snow as predicted.
Maybe we dodged the bullet this time.
As often happens on Sunday mornings I find myself thinking about events. Sometimes good, sometimes bad.
This morning it's mostly bad!!!
I am quite disheartened by the current turn of events.
As posted earlier, we found out that Matt's brigade had been stopped lossed, and so with just over three months to ETS and lots of planning going on everything came to a screeching halt.
Now we find that while the entire brigade is stop lossed, not everyone in the brigade will be kept.
It seems they are choosing the soldiers they want based on their merit, and how they performed on the last deployment, and letting those who didn't do as well, or pissed their leaders off, out!
What a reward!!!!
And that's just not fair.
And it just may not be legal.
But would the Army or our government do anything that wasn't fair, or legal?
As you can well imagine Matt is quite angry over all of this.
As am I.
Oh, and while I'm at it, the Army hasn't paid one red cent of the money they agreed to pay on his college loans when he signed the contract!!
I'm sure they can claim that Matt hasn't completed his part of the paperwork properly. The truth is that they make the process so obscure and difficult to figure out that it takes a lawyer to complete.
Before they deployed, we thought everything had been taken care of satisfactorily.
Only when we started receiving phone calls at all hours of the day and night from the loan companies looking for their money did we realize that something was wrong.
And try to get straight answers out of the Army when a problem like this develops.
Calls were made to FRG, and rear detachment, and while FRG was helpful there was nothing they could do.
Rear detachment was useless.
It was like we were nothing more than a pain in the ass to them.
So I guess the message being sent is that once you sign the contract, the Army has you, and they have no obligation to honor the contract that they wrote.
I wonder why more people don't run down to their local recruiter and sign up.

75 DAYS AND HOLDING

2009-02-24T17:46:00.004-05:00

I just gathered from a comment on Matt's Facebook page that the day we had been worrying about just came.
He got a stop loss notice..
I haven't heard from him yet. but I can imagine how disappointed he must be.
The last email we got from him he said he would be home the end of April to take a Police exam.
He wants to go into police work when he gets out.
Now, like so many others before him, life gets put on hold for who knows how long?
A fine way to reward individuals that fulfill there contractual obligation.
Who go off to war and put their life on the line and don't complain about it.
Those who put up with all the shit that the Army can give on a day to day basis, and believe me, they can put down some shit, and show up for more every day because it's their job.
Well, it seems that they just don't have enough soldiers to do the work that needs to be done.
So, they force the ones they have to do more, and then don't let them out when their time comes.
I wonder if it ever occurred to any of the people running the show that if they made it more rewarding to be a part of it, maybe, just maybe, more people would join and stay.
Of course they will point out that enlistment is up.
It is.
But it isn't as a result of how great the Army.
It's because of the economy.
I guess I'm a little disappointed.
I can't imagine how down Matt is at this point.

And so a new chapter starts.
Another year of life on hold.
I would imagine a deployment to Afghanistan is forth coming, and with it another year of worrying, and stress.

79 DAYS BUT WHO'S COUNTING

2009-02-19T09:36:00.004-05:00

So I'm home sick with the flu, (probably caught it from Airborne Dad), and I'm surfing the Ft. Lewis News trying to find out something about the death of a teenage girl in a barracks there, when I come across this highly intelligent comment.
"My god you have to be joking here...
The military has been assaulting and raping
there own people for years now... Four in
five female soldiers have been assaulted
and or raped by there fellow
servicemen world-wide.... The vast majority
of service - men (used loosely) are either
rapist them-self's, voyeurs or complacent
participants....
I never look at a Military person as a defender
of the American people.... I rather see them
as the are... Losers who feed on the American
Tax dollar..... Personally I'll call them what they
really are,,, mind-less rednecks pretending to
even care what America stands for ..or did at
onetime.... they join the ranks for cash, money
for college (right) or to avoid jail time....
The American people have aloud this
because it's only cheesy brain-dead already
rednecks that do the dyeing...
In short what happened here is they Killed
a young beautiful soul.... they almost killed another...
and tomorrow they will do it again.....
and please don't ever pretend you
give a rats ass for America.. or this would have never
happened.... GOD REST THIS POOR GIRLS SOUL
MY HEAT IS BROKEN FOR THIS FAMILY......"
I agree with the last sentence in bold.
The rest of it is some kind of ignorant blathering.
I can't imagine that any American would have this opinion of our soldiers.
The Army is a huge community, and like any of our cities there are individuals who are less than reputable citizens. But to paint all of our military personnel with a broad brush is ignorant at best.
Here's the comment I left in answer.
"What an idiot. "aloud"? Most third graders would catch that grammatical error. Better to keep your thoughts to yourself and be thought a fool then write a comment like this and remove all doubt.
Stop by www.militarydad.blogspot, and leave your thoughts so you can really fined out how smart you are."
While I doubt that this individual will stop bye, I certainly hope he does.
Then my 1%er friends can weigh in.
Or maybe I'm the one who's wrong?
Here's a link to this comment.
http://www.topix.com/forum/post/reply.
In the event that you would like to stop bye and say hi.

85 DAYS BUT WHO'S COUNTING

2009-02-14T10:43:00.003-05:00

It's been a while, so let's see if I can remember how to do this?

Matt went to his first ETS briefing last week, and is 85 days away from being a civilian.
A inactive reserve civilian that is.
Most people who have no connection to the Army don't realize that even after you fulfill your active duty commitment, you have several years of in active reserve during which you can be re-activated in a moments notice. I think the number is twelve years?
So we count down the days, and hold our breath and cross our fingers, and hope that the unit doesn't get assigned deployment before ETS.

It has been a brutal week in Iraq.
While I try to relax, and put the fifteen months of stress and fear out of mind, every time a soldier loses his life it all comes back.
I can't help but hope that the loved ones know how much we suffer for them.
We all share in this terrible and tragic thing called war.
We share and rejoice in the good news, and suffer for the bad.
May god bless each and every family as well as all of the brave young men and women serving our country so selflessly.

I'm done bitching about the weather..
It has been beautiful for the last few days here in New England.
Still cold, but sunny.
The kind of weather that reminds us of why we love living here.
Today I think I'll do a little ice fishing.
I'll take some pictures to share.

Happy Valentines Day

SNOW

2009-01-24T20:43:00.003-05:00

Airborne dad was complaining about snow.
Well dad, I've got some snow for ya.
We're giving it away. Bring a truck and shovel, and take all you want.
I was going to don my Tevas and get in the picture, but it was 10 degrees.
Pic was taken in front of my office last year, but it is representative of this year. The snow bank is just as high.

Happy to report that Spc. Rider is on assignment in Bangkok Thailand. Should be back in WA State by the end of the month, then about 90 days till separation.
Rumor has it there's going to be a party.

BLOGGER

2008-12-21T09:00:00.004-05:00

Blogger gets me again.

It's Sunday morning here in my little corner of the blogosphere and all through the house, not a creature is stirring, not even... Well maybe a mouse.

I haven't seen a lot of sign that they're around, but we usually have one or two this time of year.

I'm getting off subject, and that's starting to put me in a better frame of mind, and I don't want that happening until I pitch my bitch.

So, it's Sunday morning, everyone in the house is still sleeping and I grab a cup of coffee and sit down by the bay window to watch the beginning of yet another snow storm.

We may get 10 to 18 inches on top of the foot we got Friday night and yesterday.

And to finally post a few pictures of the ice storm that put 300,000 people out of power. When much to my delight GD Blogger won't let me upload the pictures.

So all of you who have been hounding me for pictures will just have to wait.

All one of you.

Who asked nicely, once, a few days ago.

That is.

Now I've got to go and warm the Jeep up and get ready to do some more plowing.

Those living in warmer climbs, like South Texas, and Florida, (Gods waiting room we up North call it), can kiss my grits. :0).

Maybe I'll post some plowing pictures later.

We picked Matt up at the airport last evening, and had a nice dinner on the way home.

It,s promising to be a lot merrier around here this Christmas.

I'll never forget the warm and fuzzy feeling I get seeing him walk through the gate when he arrives home.

Or the empty sadness that comes over me watching him walk back through on his way off to where ever the Army wants him to be.

It's sounding like they aren't going to let him just do his last five months and be done with it.

There's a Joe rumor that they're going to Afghanistan.

Hopefully just a rumor, because he was told to get his passport together while home and prepare to go to Thailand to train some of their forces.

We'll make a holiday wish that the latter is true.

Now out to fight the elements....

Is that a smug grin I see Dad??? And Mom?

I know Mic knows what I'm talking about.

I guess my bitching did a little good, cause Blogger relented and let me upload a couple of picks before going back to sleep.

Here's a little of what our world looked like before the Snow covered everything up.

We're back to no go on the uploads, so I'll try to get some more up later.
One last thing, we have some new heroes. The electric line crews that are here working around the clock to get the power back on.
They come from as far away as Florida, and Canada, and work up to eighteen hours a day.
Some won't get home for Christmas, and without them we would be in a lot worse situation.

MISCONCEPTION

2008-12-03T19:11:00.004-05:00

I guess I've been laboring under a misconception?
I was a fairly regular follower of the blog that I am going to point you to in a minute, but I have a few points to bring to light first.
I like to comment one others blogs when there is something posted that moves me to.
I always try to keep my comments in the spirit of which the blog appears.
For example on serious blogs I usualy leave serious well thought out comments.
On blogs that seem to be light hearted I try to comment in kind.
If I find something offensive, (hard to offend me. So rarely), I ignore and go away.
The freedom of speech thing dontcha know?
Well just recently it was pointed out in a not so subtle way that my comments were not welcome on one persons blog.
Unfortunate, because this is a blog that I always found fun, easy reading.
We had commented on each others posts, and always seemed to have an amicable relationship.
Well, yesterday there was a problem.
I jokingly pointed out that I was no longer included in the blog roll on this particular blog.
Not a big problem.
I don't do this to set records for popularity, and while I consider it an honor if others think enough of my blog to add me, I could realy care less about the number.
Maybe this is a status symbol to some.
Not me.
So, yesterday I receive an angry email from this individual.
I'm still debating weather or not to post it?
I was a little confused about what I had done to spur this great animosity.
I responded to the email explaining that I hadn't intended to create a problem, and apologizing for what was to me a simple misunderstanding.
I had a four hour drive today which gave me a lot of time to think about it.
So I get home and check my email expecting at least a go to hell email, apology not accepted, but nothing.
Then I went to the blog in question and, well read for yourself and decide.
THE CHIEF.

Unfortunately any comments that I left have been removed, so all there is is my word that I don't believe that I ever did anything to try and provoke this type of treatment.

So here's the email.

"Your "removal" was something that happened and I don't have any idea how. When I tried to put you back up there, my whole "link list" has now disappeared.

Just leave me the (censored) alone and quit bothering me with shit that is beyond my control. I don't control (censored) Blogger!

And now I've got a lot of work to do, just to satisfy you and your ego. I'm sorry I ever connected with you in the first place and if I never hear from you again, I don't really give a damn.

But, I do wish your son all the best and I pray he stays safe.

"You're removal", refers to my comment about noticing that I was no longer in his blog roll.
If the comment had been left in place, you could better judge the spirit with which it was made.

It has never been my intention to offend anyone, or for that matter try to change opinions about anything, let alone my political beliefs.

Anyway,while I enjoy the interaction with the few of you who stop by. And I found this a great stress relief while Matt was deployed, this episode has quelled my enthusiasm for blogging.

I'm seriously considering shutting it down, and finding something else to occupy my mind.

A TRUELY AMAZING SOLDIER

2008-11-30T20:22:00.004-05:00

You have to read this, www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/11/26/60minutes/main4635035.shtml.
Words can't describe what this soldier did.
And when asked about it, the answer was, "I was only doing my job".
That is something that I find amazing. These young soldiers are encountering hell in Iraq and Afghanistan.
They continually operate under the most stressful of conditions.
Being shot at, stuff blowing up all around them. Wounded comrades and friends screaming in pain and dieing. They perform heroic acts. They put their own well being on the back burner and selflessly head into the fray to help.
And when presented with awards, they are embarrassed.
Usually saying "I was only doing my job".
Thank you now Spc Monica Brown.
You are a role model.
If I had a daughter I would want her to be just like you.

Thanksgiving has come and gone.
And so has our soldier.
It is always great to have them come home, and sad to have to say goodbye.
That's the life of a soldiers parent.
We just accept it.
Knowing that he will be home again in three weeks makes it a little easier.
Knowing that we should have one more goodbye, then the next welcome home will hopefully be for good will make the next one easier.
But never the less sad.
Each one gets a little less emotional.
I hope I live long enough to see world peace.
But doubt that it will happen.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was never again the need to present an award for valour?
If there was never a reason for another soldier to say,
"I was just doing my job".

LIMBAUGH IS A COMMY.

2008-11-20T17:08:00.004-05:00

Is anybody else tired of hearing Rush Limbaugh run his mouth?
Barack Obama is the choice of the people Rush.
So stop bashing him on a daily basis.
Maybe it's just that Rush isn't smart enough to come up with something new to bitch about.
Every day he goes off about Obama being in bed with the terrorists. And Obama is going to ruin our country with his socialistic ways. And we need to watch Obama closely....
I've got news for mister Limbaugh. While he was waisted on Oxycontin for most of the past eight years, his Republican heroes ruined Americas stature in the world, and ruined the Republican party for generations to come.
In my opinion Rush Limbaugh is a Communist.
So shut your fat face Limbaugh.

HAPPY VETERANS DAY???

2008-11-11T08:45:00.004-05:00

It seems strange to me to say Happy Veterans Day?
Sort of like Happy 9-11 day.
Or Happy Memorial Day.
I suppose to those who served our country and are alive to talk about it, it could be a happy day?
Most who are alive and lived through the hell of combat don't want to talk about it!
Usually groups of veterans will talk about their specific branch of the service with other vets.
Rarely have I heard those who were in combat units talk about battles.
They shouldn't have to.
Who that never experienced it would understand anyway?
So this is a sombre day for me.
A day to reflect on all the hero's who served and are no longer with us to celebrate this day.
And a day to say thank you to those who did their part however small or large.
I will honor all today at two ceremonies as a member of the American Legion Post #4 Keene NH color guard rifle squad.
Then all area veterans will be treated to a luncheon at the post home.
I'm sure I'll tip a toast or two to my comrades, shake a hand or two, say thanks, then it's on with life, knowing that we are better off for the dedication and actions of the brave men and women who have answered the call to duty.
Those who for whatever reason have said "Ill go" and gave two or more years of their lives to insure that we are free to enjoy our way of life.
If not for them there would be no decision of weather to say thank you, or happy Veterans day, or both.
So thank you to all for your service and sacrifice, and Happy Veterans Day.

PS The image upload feature was'nt working this morning. (darn it).
Be sure to check out Google's tribute to vets.

Veterans Day Tribute

2008-11-10T21:39:00.005-05:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He feels every note of the National Anthem
vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away ' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking.

In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from
home, he defends their right to be disrespectful.

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

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

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

So as you go about your busy day off on Veterans day take a moment to reflect on why you have this day off. And remember those who are in harms way that won't.

To my fellow vets, thank you for your service, and sacrifice.

As long as I live, you will not be forgotten.

RANDOM THOUGHTS!!

2008-11-08T08:50:00.005-05:00

Another long time between posts!
I just don't seem to get the inspiration to write often.
Preferring to browse, and comment on the posts of friends made during my time here on blogger.

The turn of events in our government this week lit a fire under me.

The dismantling of the Republican party that started two years ago, was far reaching.
It amazes me the the party wasn't bright enough to do something to fix their issues and thus avoid this blood bath.
They had to see it coming?
Could it be that the rank and file are so conceited that they chose to ignore the warnings of their constituents, and continue business as usual?
Or do they honestly feel that business as usual was the way to get the country out of the mess that their leadership decisions, or lack there of, got us into.

Anyone who follows financial matters could see the train wreck coming in our economy.
Could it be that one or the other of our political parties accelerated the process in an effort to create a situation that made the other look bad at election time?
Or maybe one party or the other thought they could be the hero by bringing the dilemma to the front, and coming up with a miracle fix thus becoming the heroes, and gaining momentum in the election.

Nah, our government wouldn't stoop to such low measures.
Or would they?

Well, we all know how it worked out.

Eight years of George Bush ruined the Republican Party.
I don't think our reputation will be fixed any time soon.
We fell asleep at the wheel.
We should have been screeming for our elected officials to fix this mess early on.
While I'm worried about how a Democratic controlled congress will change the way we live.
I don't believe in our government taking from anyone of us to give to another, preferring that our non profit agencies take care of inspiring us to donate towards helping the less fortunate.

I believe that President elect Obama will head us in the right direction.

Lets all stay awake, and be certain that our voice is heard by contacting our congressmen and telling them how we feel.

What do you think?

Tuesday is Veterans day.
I'll be attending a memorial service as a member of my American Legion color gaurd rifle squad.
How will you honor our veterans?

AN ANSWER FOR MOM

2008-10-14T09:10:00.005-05:00

Things are just marvelous in my neck of the woods.
The economy is in the toilet, with my 401k in it's pocket.
I'm busier than a one legged man in a butt kicking contest.
The war in Iraq is low on every bodies list because of the economy.
The morons that got us into this mess are trying to figure out how to get us out of it.
(Keep a good hold on your wallet).
My opinion, for what it's worth, is that the government should stop throwing money at this problem, and let it play it's self out.
This down turn, while exacerbated by the arrogance of ill intentioned bankers, and there sub prime mortgage scheme, is a righting of the markets.
It is way overdue.
Granted, it will be a painful process.
I liken it to an individual getting over extended on credit cards.
The credit councillor cuts the cards up, and makes a payment plan.
The individual suffers for a couple of years, but ends up better off in the end.

How about the arrogance of the AIG execs?

This is exactly what's wrong with the system.

I'm way to angry to continue this subject.
Just wait and see, this bail out is way from over.
Oh, and one question?
If the US is trillions of dollars in debt now, where is the money for the bail out going to come from?

One more question, then I'm done.
What is the next number after 999,999,999,999,999 trillion?
I know it's 1,000,000,000,000,000.
But I don't know what that is?
I've got a feeling we're going to find out soon.

So, MOM, I'm just marvelous.
And you?

Please, click on MOM, and check out My Wonderful Life.

She's the greatest.

Now, if blogger will allow me, I will try to upload some pictures from the previous post in a format which can be enlarged.

Matt and his squad watching their replacements.

The different look on each of their faces tells a story.

Matt is third from left.
Note the head gear. I guess he does listen some of the time.
Must get that from his mother?

Matt on the side of route Barley.

He said he "hates route Barley". I guess they had a lot of trouble out there.

A little nap on the job.

Probably gets that from me.

Please remember to keep our soldiers in your thoughts daily. And if your so inclined, say a little prayer for their safety.
While they are someones sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives,they are all of our soldiers.

That,we have in common.
May god bless.

THE BIG 150,

2008-10-05T06:47:00.009-05:00

I thought I might start a new blog for the 150th.
One where I would search other blogs for interesting subjects, and then interview the writers for my material.
I'm still working out the logistics of that. It might still be on the horizon.
Then I thought of making it a tribute to Matt, and other soldiers who were, are, or will be deployed.
I will probably still do that at some point. But not now.
After all of the time off, and with all of the work I have awaiting me getting three houses ready for a New England winter, Mom's, which is on the market, mom's next door, and ours, it becomes easy to loose my train of thought.
So I guess I'll post a few of my favorite pics for all to peruse, and then get on with the day.
My favorite is of Matt, and three of his comrades as they watch their replacements at work.

Then there's Spc Keith Lee who is a buddie of Matt's, but wasn't in his platoon. I got to comunicate with Keith from time to time, and enjoyed his insight. Keith lost his dad while he was deployed. A sad time for all.

Spc Lee and his beautiful wife Jodi.

Keith in a fire fight. Pictures don't do this particular situation justice I'm sure.

Trouble on route Barley.

Matt's ride arter being tricked out by a IED.
Matt's bed. "Only for a couple of weeks" he said.
I don't think I'll complain about my mattress for a while.

We can all sleep better with Spc Rider on watch!!! I guess he didn't get a very good nights sleep on that floor?

Thank to those of you have checked back often enough to find this latest blathering.
Don't forget to say a prayer for all those still serving in harms way.
And, thank a veteran for his service to our country.

THE TRUTH! NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH.

2008-07-20T08:28:00.002-05:00

July 20 2008.
From the Keene Sentinel.

Petraeus: al-Qaida may be easing up in Iraq.

Read for yourself.

I wondered as I read this headline, what is he up to?

BAGHDAD — After intense U.S. assaults, al-Qaida may be considering shifting focus to its original home base in Afghanistan, where American casualties are running higher than in Iraq, the top U.S. commander in Iraq said Saturday.

Oh I see, building a case.

I don't think he needs to build a case!
It's been fairly evident from the beginning that we should have concentrated on Afghanistan.

I found something very fishy about his interview.

“We do know the foreign fighter flow into Iraq has been reduced very substantially,” he said. From a peak of 80 to 100 foreign fighters entering Iraq each month, the total has dropped as low as 20 per month, he said.

My question?
How do we know how many foreign fighters are crossing the border?
Do they check in?
Is someone counting them?
If so, then why aren't they being detained?

I think it's all another smoke and mirrors show.
Cut the crap General. Tell it like it is. We screwed up, and now we need to go and take care of business where we should have been all along.
But no.
We had to go rid Iraq of "WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION".
It's time we start getting the truth.
The Army wants three more brigades in Afghanistan to help those that are there and overworked.
Plain and simple.
Stop building cases with non definable numbers and purported intelligence that turns out to be mistaken.
Start taking care of business.
Start telling the truth.

Matt's block leave is half over, and it seems he's having a good time.
There seems to be a lot less withdrawing into himself, and a lot of the old humor that he was known for.His brothers, girlfriend, and mom and I are enjoying our time together.
Time that we wondered if we would ever have.
To the families of those brave men still deployed all I can say is hang in there.
Keep the faith.
There are a lot of us praying and pulling for you. Before you know it your soldier will be home.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH.

2008-06-28T07:02:00.004-05:00

In reference to Airborne dads latest post on the demise of war reporting, and in particular Lara Logan.
READ ALL ABOUT IT.

I hear it a lot lately.

"Things must be quieting down over there, there isn't much on the news".
The serge must have worked".

And now the news.
Things must be quieting down.

Could it be a conspiracy?
A little help for John McCain's campaign?

Nah, those most honorable Republicans wouldn't have any part of that.

While I have no doubt that the serge did wonders for our over worked and under manned troops in Iraq, I seriously doubt that it did much good.
The war in Iraq is a civil war between tribes that is going to play out one way or the other.
If we, (the US), aid the weaker of the tribes in winning, when we leave the strongest will retake the government.
Our involvement is causing a considerable amount of confusion by bringing Al Quaida, and every other radical Islamic group with an axe to grind with the good ole US into the fray.
I feel a strong sense of responsibility to stay in Iraq and clean up our mess. Yet I feel that if we cease combat operations, and move on to other matters at hand, (Afghanistan), the extremists will follow us, leaving the Iraqi tribes to settle the issue in their own way.
While it probably won't be a democratic process. It will be for the best of the country as a whole.

Just my two cents worth.

I want to welcome kbug to our small but growing group of "One Percenters".
Stop bye and say hi.
KBUG.

Other members:
Airbornedad.
Abnpoppa.
Standing by.

If you have a loved one serving in the military, you are a part of the group.
If you want to be added to the blogrolls, get involved.
Tells us what you think.

On the home front, five days until we pick Matt up at the airport.
I won't forget to charge the battery for the camera this time.

Remember our heroes in harms way daily in your own personal way. The power of thought and prayer is mightier than you think.

Have a great weekend.

WHERE DOES THE TIME GO?

2008-06-24T17:25:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that almost three weeks have passed since we were in Washington State to welcome home the 4th brigade.
Where does the time go.

We were home for a couple of days when we heard from Matt.
He's having a bit of a tough time reintegrating.
It seems strange that the Army would bring these men home from working seven days a week, sometimes going 36 or more hours without sleep, and put them on half days..
How does one slow down like that?
They have one more week, then they go on block leave.
Matt will be home for the month of July.
I understand that they don't want to put combat infantryman out on the street without having a chance to evaluate their state of mind.
But I think they could find things for them to do to keep busy up until they get to go on leave.

As far as the parent side of the equation.
The first emotion when they arrived at Ft. Lewis was jubilation.
Not really relief, because you can't be sure that the son who is coming home is the same person that left.
There is no telling what horrors he's been subjected to, and what effect that might have on him.
And don't expect him to tell you everything that happened, or that he saw.
Most won't talk about it.
Probably feeling first that you shouldn't know, and second that you won't understand.
I guess all we can do is to be there to listen when they want to talk, and not pry.
I have told Matt that he did what he was sent to do, and survived to come home.
Don't take the weight of it on his shoulders.
It isn't his fault.
He didn't start the war.
People die in wars.
That's just what happens.
Be glad you survived, and get on with your life.

Parents need to understand that once the jubilation of having your loved one home wears off, the stress and anxiety doesn't magically go away.

Only time will heal the mental wounds that we suffer from the constant worry while they are deployed.

Let's not forget that there are still young men and women in harms way.
Keep them in you thoughts and prayers.

JUST LET IT GO.

2008-06-11T18:50:00.002-05:00

We got home from Washington on Monday morning at 2:00 AM.
A little shy of three days.
Monday at work was a blurrrrr.
I hope I didn't make any important decisions.
Tuesday was typical.
Employee issues.
I often refer to my job as adult day care.
I sat and listened to a good employee explain how stressful his job had been lately, and thought, "what a whiner". I wondered if he had even the slightest inkling of an idea about what real stress is.
I so much wanted to tell him that all he realy needed to do on a weekly basis is show up, do his job, and collect his check.
He had no idea that I was suffering from serious jet lag, and I wanted nothing more than to tell him to stop bitching and get out of my face before I came around the desk and grabbed him by his throat and chocked the stress out of him.
But suddenly a vision of the HR manager popped into my head, and I sat there and stared at him, not hearing a word he was saying.
I did what any manager would do, and told him how much I appreciated his efforts, and that things would be better.

I've received many heart warming emails from friends and acquaintances since we got home from WA.

I've spent every evening reading, and responding.
I've spent a lot of time letting out the pent up anxiety. sometimes ranting, sometimes quiety and sometimes openly weeping.
I grew up with a step father who showed his emotions only on the night that his mother passed away.
And so I never knew how to show my emotions.
Or even that it was alright.
It's all new to my wife, and quite upsetting for her I'm sure.
She is a sweet heart, and the love of my life.
Tonight she made the observation that since we've been home I've been, "tourchering myself," by reading blogs, and emails.
I think of it more as therapy.
I've kept all of this pent up inside for fourteen months wanting to be the strong one. The pillar of strength for her and Matt's two older brothers.
I never wanted them to see my fear that he was in danger, and might not come home.
He's home.
And once I've released the deamons I'll be able to relax.

BOOTS ON THE GROUND

2008-06-07T11:20:00.004-05:00

The sign says it all.

The next two pictures are rather grainy because they were taken from a live feed from McCord AFB.
This is the plane waiting for the stairs to be put in place.

And finally, our soldier,left profile, on the ground.
This is still from the live video, and of Matt during processing.
I got a couple of him walking across the tarmac after getting off the plane, but they didn't come out very good.

I'm sorry I didn't get to post these last night, or this morning that is, but we were busy talking until after 0400.
We fly home tomorrow where I'll have had time to digest all of this, and post more.
God bless all who have supported us for these last 14 months.
You'll never know how much it has meant.

QUICK UPDATE

2008-06-05T19:15:00.002-05:00

The plane is in the air.
Left Kuwait at 1:20 AM Seattle time in route to who knows where.
FRG can't say.
Most likely scenario is Shannon Ireland, Bangor Maine, and then on to McCord AFB Washington.
Estimated time of arrival is 12:30 AM with the welcome home ceremony at 2:40 Am.
Just like the military to throw a party at a real convenient time.
But a party it will be.

SEATTLE

2008-06-02T09:32:00.002-05:00

Just a short post to let everyone know we made to Seattle safe and sound.
I wish I could say that I took the picture.
Truth is I didn't, I found it on
Google.
We got above a cloud bank somewhere east of the Rockies, and didn't see a lot. Only glimpses of the Cascades, still snow covered.
We could see the top portion of Mt Rainier on approach to Sea-Tac airport, but then we dropped into the clouds and didn't come out until about 1000 ft.

No new news on Matt's arrival.
He called from Ballad on Friday and said everything seems to be on schedule.
I hope to get some pictures today, but it's rather cloudy and cool, 55 degrees, so we'll have to wait and see.
Hard to imagine cloudy in Seattle isn't it?

Cooked Lobster

2008-05-31T07:42:00.003-05:00

There was a fire of suspicious origin in Boston this week.
You can read about it here. http://wbz.com/Fire-guts-Boston-lobster-landmark/2278956

Those of you who follow this blog know that Airborne dad and I had a lobster dinner bet on the Patriots and Jaguars playoff game last fall.

You didn't put your brother up to this now did you, Dad?

Gotta go.
Lots to get done before flying out to Washington tomorrow.
I'll post more on that while I try to settle down this evening.
I hope.

Before I go though I want to wish two great blogging friends a very happy anniversary.
I hope you enjoy your special day, and many more to come.
All the best.

SHORT TIME

2008-05-24T07:54:00.003-05:00

Fourteen days and counting.
Seems a shame to count down the days of one's life?
This has been fifteen months of my life that couldn't go by fast enough.
Days that I just as soon I hadn't had to go through.
But we did, the whole family that is, and now we are anxious for fourteen more days to go by quickly.

Am I happy?
Well maybe.
But not without a certain amount of apprehension!
I have to keep reminding myself that while we are oh so close, we aren't there yet.
How happy will I be on the day that Matt and I come face to face for the first time in what seems like an eternity?
Well, I guess a picture is worth a million words.

Happier Days Are Coming

2008-05-19T17:02:00.007-05:00

Somebody asked that I post a picture of Matt smiling.
In a couple of weeks, I hope to have several.
For now, I hope a smirk will do.

I have a lot of pictures of Matt smiling on my other computer, but I can't transfer them to this one without a special cable.
One of the few draw backs to Vista that I've found.That's Matt on the left, Yiyo in the middle, and Keith on the right.
I don't think they were feeling any pain!
They were having their own pre deployment party.

June 2nd, we fly out to Seattle, in hopes that Matt will be back on the 3rd, or the 4th.
Until then we continue to hold our breath.
The night after their plane lands at McCord will be the first night that I will be able to relax.
Like in totaly relax.
I've been going through the motions of life for a little more than a year now.
Sometimes worrying a lot, sometimes a little less, but never being able to totaly let go of that nagging feeling in the pit of my stomach that bad things could happen at any time.
I don't know how long it will take to get back to normal, but I'll sure be glad for the chance to unwind.
If only for a while.

THIS IS AN OUTRAGE.

2008-05-11T08:21:00.003-05:00

This is going to be short and bitter sweet.
Anyone with access to the San Fransisco Chronicle, and an interest in the Army, has probably already seen what I am forwarding.
To those who haven't, I hope you take a minute to read it, and then take action.
RETURN TO SENDER.

I first read Colby Buzzell's book, "My War, Killing Time in Iraq", back when we learned that our son was in a unit being deployed to the sand box.
I found it a real page turner. It is more than an eyewitness account of the war.
Colby gives a day to day look at a soldiers life while deployed in a war zone.
He spent a year with the 3/2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team in country 2003/04.
While he gives some hair raising accounts of battles, he also enlightens readers with a mostly diary style of writing, most if not all of which came from posts to his blog, which of course got him in trouble with his superiors.
It is a must read.
You can find it here, MY WAR

After reading his post, I hope you will take action by contacting your elected congressmen, and demanding that they take action by writing, or backing, the needed legislation to reinstate the draft.
This is the only way we can stop the military from overburdening those courageous young people who stood up and volunteered to serve their country in time of need.
How can we stand bye and watch them get ordered back to duty because there just aren't enough people to fill the necessary slots to keep the machine running.

I could go on, but I said it was going to be short.

In closing, and on a much happier note, I hope that we will all take time to remember our moms. Be they still with you, or gone from here, without them we wouldn't be here. It's a beautiful day here in New England. The kind of day that makes one glad to be alive. I feel blessed by many things, a wonderful wife, three great sons, a comfortable life with the ability to do and have most of the things that I've always wanted.

The great friends I've made in person and here through blogging.

Matt's impending return to society.

And my mom is still with us.

I get to see her almost every day, and tell her I love her, but today I'm going to take her to dinner, and tell her how much she means to me.

I love you mom.
God bless.

GOOD TIMES & GOOD NEWS!!!

2008-05-04T08:09:00.007-05:00

Just me and a buddy hanging out in down town Puerto Vallarta.
Frogs are wonderful people too.

I think he was hitting on my lady???
You be the judge.
But who could hate a frog with a face like that?

Funny what a few Buffalo Wings, chicken quesadias, and Dos Equis will do for your mood.

Well maybe a little more than a few Dos Equis.
No worries mahn, a great time was had by all.

Another day ends in paradise
A view we got to witness every day in Mexico.

And one we saw only once.
This is the moon setting, while the sun was coming up in the east, making for a surreal purplish, pink hue to the ski.

Well there's the good times, now the
GREAT NEWS!!!!

We received the stop mail date for HHC 2-23rd INF 4th BDE.
While I can't share the exact date, (FRG cautions against stating dates on blogs and web sites, because bad guys are watching), I will say that it is sooner than later.
Karen and I are busy putting together our itinerary to head out to Washington State to be there when the buses roll onto base.
There is a certain amount of anxiety about all of this.
The official home coming ceremony won't be until a month after they arrive.
At this time we feel it more important to be there in the crowd for Matt, and other returning soldiers who for whatever reason won't have anyone to greet them.
Hopefully someone else will take our place at the official ceremony.

We got a message from Matt this morning. He will be on the last plane coming home.
It seems he was one of six soldiers selected to accompany the Battalion Commander, XO, Command Sargent Major, and Top, (First Sargent), and the Battalion Colors, and American Flag, and present them as they march into the welcome home ceremony.

While he claims he would rather be on the first plane, as in his words, "I can't wait to be out of Iraq, and the middle east, and don't want to spend one day more than I have to here no matter the honor," he understands the magnitude of the duty that has been bestowed upon him, and will do the service proud.
Words can't begin to do justice to the feeling of pride I have in him, and all of our soldiers.
It's moments like this that force me to reflect on those brave soldiers who won't be marching into the hall on that day.
It sure makes for a mix of emotions.

This is something that will affect the soldiers and their families for the remainder of our lives.

When you see a tear trickle down the cheek of a person during the playing of the National Anthem.
Or at a Memorial Day service.
You are probably looking at someone who has shared in the sacrifice that many have experienced.
For those who haven't, it's ok.
If you feel the need to honor those who have, you can do so in many ways.
Walk up to the next soldier you see, and simply say thank you.
I find that difficult, because emotion over takes me, so,you don't have to say a thing if you can't.
A simple thumbs up says volumes.

Or you can say thank you in my comments section on this blog. There are a few soldiers who read this from time to time.

Or attend a Memorial Day Service and share in the moment.
Your presence signifies the honor, respect, and gratitude that is most appreciated.
If you care to experience the camaraderie, join your local American Legion.
If you have never served, you can join the Sons Of The American Legion, (SAL). Your dues will go to help veterans, and there are a multitude of fun functions, committees, and projects that you can help with.
All you have to do is stop by the post, sign up, and your in.

May God bless and protect the 4th Brigade in their final weeks of service in harms way, and all military personnel serving where ever they may be.

Thank you for visiting, and don't forget to share your thoughts on the way out.

2008-04-27T08:15:00.003-05:00

As promised, I managed to get a few pictures of Puerto Vallarta up, before Blogger slowed to a crawl.
I just don't have the patience to sit and wait for pics to load.
While I prefer Bermuda, we found PV to be a beautiful place.
Dining was a lot less expensive, and there were many more entertainment options than in Bermuda, but relaxation, you can't beat the little island.

The view from our patio.

A picture from the pool patio.
Sure would like to have this view in my back yard.

And here is fat boy himself on the beach in front of the hotel.

Can you tell it's the first day?

The beach vendors sure could.. They see the white legs, and swarm.

We actualy bought some real nice silver jewelry from them. If your ever there, be sure to check them out, and don't forget to barter. Their starting price is generaly 3 to 4 times what they will take.

A lunchtime party at Senior Frogs.
Yes, there was Tequila involved...

THOUGHTS & ANSWERS!

2008-04-26T08:29:00.002-05:00

Airbornedad Go visit him.

We had a great time in Mexico.

I have a picture of me and the frog. Senior Frog that is, shortly before he lead me down the road to ruin. The next thing I knew I was in a conga line, then dancing on the stage with a balloon hat that looked like Playboy bunny ears on.
Karen was impressed, and actually took a couple of pictures, but I wasn't visible in them... PHEW.
Of course blogger's image upload feature is screwed up this morning, and i can't upload pictures.

Matt is doing well.
He's getting anxious to be back in Washington, and we're even more anxious to have him there.
Hope all is well with you, SPC Mark, and the rest of the family.

Mom, MIGHTY MOM, Go visit her also, you won't be sorry. I promise...
I certainly thought of you as we flew over the barren lands of north central Texas, but I never saw a city, or community, when there was a break in the clouds, so I waved in thought.

Puerto Vallarta was very nice, and a welcome respite from work and stress of our every day life.
I have many pictures that I will try to share, soon, but I've got a lot of spring cleaning to do around hog hollow, and don't have time to mess around waiting for blogger to get it's act together.

It seems hard to believe, but (god willing) we will have Matt out of Iraq in five weeks.
14 months ago it was hard to envision this point in our journey, and while I'm no less nervous about the remaining weeks, we at least have something to get a little excited about.

I don't want to forget all of you who have shared kind words, thoughts, prayers and encouragement along the way.
You are all true friends, and will never be forgotten.

BLOGER IS SCREWED UP TODAY

2008-04-06T11:41:00.003-05:00

I had edited the last post, and added a few pictures, and colors, and links to some soldiers Myspace pages, but Blogger screwed it up royaly, and lost a lot of my post.
I pulled a lot of the remaining hair out of my head, and being as i have a lot of things to get accomplished today, decided not to spend another two hours reposting...

I see Blogger has a new draft running for us to try.
Maybe they want to fix this version first?

Just a thought.

TIME GOES BYE

2008-04-06T09:52:00.003-05:00

Actualy, time sometimes goes bye, and other times seems to stand still.

When I think of a year ago at this time, Matt had been in Kuait for a short time, it seems that time has flown.
I assure you that living through this year + has seemed to drag on for ever.
Like the movie "Ground Hog Day" it seems we go through a lot of the same things, in our minds, day after day.
I prefer to wake up to the television, set to local news, so our alarm is the tv comming on at 5:15 am daily. (I turn it off on weekends). ;0).
From there it's get up shower, a bite to eat, and out the door. All the while thinking, lets see, what time is it in Iraq, wonder what Matt's doing now? Hope their all safe. And so on.
These thoughts haunt every quite moment of every day.
Now we're down to a couple of months, and again time is standing still.
Haven't heard from Matt in a week or two.
I guess, by the news we get, they've been busy.
Thanks to the spoiled fat brat Mugtadha el-Sadr, who all of a sudden felt the urge to get his crazy lookin puss back in the news.
As in the past, his Mahdi Army picks an opportune time to start blowing things up, and attacking Sunnis, in what appears to be an effort to draw attention to themselves, so Muggy can offer a truce. For the right price, usualy more say in the government, or protection for himself and his followers.
Back in the early days of the war, 2003 or 04, a company of Marines had him and his band of hoodlums surrounded in a mosque in Sadr City, and could have either decimated them, or atleast rounded them up and put them away for a while. They were orderred to stand down.
This went on for three days during which time several of them escaped.
Mugtahda mean while negotiated freedom for those who remained, by trading their weapons.
The basicaly laid down their arms, and walked out the front door and down the street.
POLITICS.

Anyway, we're anxiously awaiting a definate date for the 4th brigade home comming.
The word is the first week of June.
We'll believe it when we see the plane land..

Meanwhile we've been busy planning our trip to Mexico, so we've had something short tem to look forward to.
As it is a coporate charter, we didn't have to make a lot of travel plans.
We've been busy buying warm weather wrdrobes, and wrapping up loose ends at the business.
Then in a twist of fate, came the word that ATA airelines had ceased operations.
ATA is the carrier that held our charter.
Not to worry I thought. There are a lot of other airlines.
The agency will have a contingency plan.
Wrong.
The whole trip was almost scrapped on Friday.
The team of hosts was given a list of attendees to call and break the news too, but told to wait until they were given the greenlight.
The travel agency has since found transportation for all but 45 of us scheduled to go.
While we're not sure who the 45 are, we hope that by the deadline of Tuesday, they will have arrangments for all.

I had pictures to put up, to make this a little more interresting, bu there seems to be an issue with blogger this morning.
Sorry.
And, sorry for not writing for so long.
Soon, I hope to be able to end this diary.
When the fourth brigade is in country, safe and sound.
It aint over till Mighty Mom dances though.
I thank all of you for your prayers, thoughts, and well wishes, during this trying time in our lives.
While I may stop blogging, I will continue to read, and support your offerings.
In the words of one of my favorite songs.
"YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND".

HERE'S WHAT I THINK

2008-03-19T20:42:00.003-05:00

For what it's worth.

After reading THIS
I was compelled to respond.
while doing just that it occurred to me that I was using up a lot of AirbornDad's space for my blathering, so I decided to turn my comment into a post.
Dad if you take exception at my directing readers away from your blog, please accept my apologies.

A couple of things.

1) A lot of the soldiers read blogs. So they know that they have the support of those of us who write blogs, and those of you who comment.
By showing your support of us, and sending your well wishes for our soldiers, you support them.
My son, Spc Matthew Rider, 2-23rd inf 4th bde strykers, currently in Baghuba, reads this blog, and truly appreciates your support.
He emails me frequently, but is always wary of commenting in a public manner.
Big brother is watching, and they do reprimand soldiers for commenting publicly about their feelings regarding the war...
Unless, of course their opinion is in line with the leaders, and they give a glowing review of how things are going, and tell of how happy they are to be, "living the dream".

2)The support of those who have no one serving is low because no-one but those of us with loved ones fighting are being asked to sacrifice anything.

3) My opinion, (hate me if you want) Our soldiers aren't dieing in Iraq for our freedom. They're dieing while trying to free the Iraqi people.
If we were fighting for our freedom and security, we wouldn't have directed our attention away from Afghanistan and hunting down Ossama to settle George Bush's personal vendetta with Saddam.
Let's not forget that we still have soldiers fighting that battle who are under staffed, and under funded.
Who's supporting them?
Those of us with soldiers who aren't do to get out anytime soon will probably see them there before long.
4) If we were fighting for our freedom and security, we'd be in Pakistan rooting out al-Quaida.
al-Quaida came to Iraq to attack us.
They see the civil war in Iraq as an opportunity to kill Americans.
And they don't care how many innocent Iraqis become collateral damage.
If you really want to support the troops, send letters, or call your congressmen and let them know how you feel about the situation.
Oh, and continue commenting here, and on family of soldiers blogs.
Read some of the blogs on the sidebars of this blog, and "Onepercenters", and comment there also.
The soldiers in infantry units serving outside the wire don't have a lot of free time.
they work long hours with little personal time, but I can tell you that they do spend time on line, when they can, and they do appreciate your kind words, well wishes, and prayers.
As do we, the families.
You too are hero's.
God bless you.

Please not:
I didn't mention our president's glowing review of the war on national television today...

JUST ANOTHER DAY IN PARADISE

2008-03-11T18:16:00.002-05:00

It's been a long time since we heard much about Baghdad.
Not really all that important.
We've got primaries and caucuses to deal with.
Gotta make a decision between Republican and Democrat.
One the party with bad ideas and the other with none.
I use to hate elections, because they always seemed to boil down to a choice between the lesser of two evils.
I was really excited about the election of 08.
There seemed to be some real good choices out there.
I bought into Barrack Obama's hope and change mantra early.
I liked Ron Paul, remember him?
Now that Hil and Bill are getting down and dirty, Barrack seems to be buckling, and turning toward fighting them on their turf. Rather than stick to his clean and wholesome campaign strategy.
Maybe when all the smoke and mirrors are taken away we'll end up with the same old choice between the lesser of two evils.

That wasn't where I was going with this post.
I opened my brain and it just slipped out.

Back to my point.
There has been little news about Iraq on the tube, and in the press.
Two post ago I paid tribute to two soldiers lost from the 4th brigade in Diayala province.
The fourth is Matt's brigade, and while they weren't from his company, it was close to home.
I don't recall hearing much about it, other than in the circles I travel here in the blogosphere.
Well some of the events of yesterday, hit the news.
A car bomb in Mugdadiya, and a suicide bomber that walked up to troops walking the streets of Baghdad and ignited himself. Killing five soldiers. They haven't released names or units yet. I watch Rueters though, and I can tell you that there is a lot more happening than makes the news.
READ ALL ABOUT IT.
While the surge has had an impact, you be the judge about how effective its been.

AMAZING GRACE

2008-03-09T10:39:00.003-05:00

Wow!
I check my blog almost daily, and the blogs of friends on my side bar.
I don't comment as much as I used to.
Sometimes I'm just to tired.
Sometimes I'm just not motivated to.
I've become more comfortable with blogging.
For a while I was obsessed.
Checking three or four times a day to see if anyone had commented, or replied to my comments on their blogs.
Now I'm comfortable knowing that those friends that I've made here in the blogosphere are there for the long run, and if I should be so moved as to post something particularly moving to them they'll comment.
And if not, so be it.
I don't do this for profit.
Although I'm entertaining the thought of trying just that.
Maybe in my retirement.
Or,
Maybe after all of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan are home, and the deplorable situation in that part of the world is resolved.
And that brings me to the subject of my thoughts for this cold and windy day here in New Hampshire.

Mighty Mom, MY WONDERFUL LIFE.emailed a copy of,"A Soldiers Last Words".
It was what I assume was a journal entry of a Sargent serving in Iraq, who was killed in action shortly after writing it.
While he made many valid points, and voiced many opinions that I share with him, there was one subject that I find most troubling.
While I'm certain I'll stir the rath of some, I must get this off my chest.
Some, I have no way of knowing how many, of us who support the troops are of the opinion that a person can't support the troops while simultaneously speaking out against the president.
I beg to differ.

I do not support George Bush, Dick Chaney, et al.

I am in total agreement with those who would have them tried for war crimes.

I support hole heartedly those who would move to have them impeached.

And yet I support our troops 100%.
Let anyone who doesn't buy that, call me on it..

I am not in favor of the immediate removal of all troops from Iraq.
I will not protest our involvement.
I am in favor of taking any action deemed necessary by the military leaders in country to strength the government of Iraq and support the innocent citizens in their effort to live a free and peaceful life.

I do not support George Bush, Dick Cheney, and their advisers.

They all lied and fabricated issues to support their lies to get us into the war, and not a one of them is man enough to admit their mistake.
That being said, I don't support those politicians that would cut funding for the troops as a method of bringing the war to an end.

George Bush now claims that we are in Iraq because there are terrorists there, and we are fighting the war on terror.
Well I've got news for GW. The terrorists followed us there.
They are there to attack us, and they will take extreme measures to get at us.
Even using civilians, women, children and mentally handicapped people to blow up markets and public gathering places.
They play on our humanitarian ideology by posing as innocent people in need of help, and when our soldiers try to assist, they ambush them.

I challenge anyone to accuse me of not supporting our troops because I speak out against our government.

Go ahead.
Take your best shot.

The true non-patriots in this situation are those who would follow the words of a red neck cowboy that thinks the only way to bring democracy to the world is by beating it into others, one country at a time.

On a personal note.

Last week I wrote that we had a tentative date for the 4th brigade to be home.
Now we have a range of dates.
Unfortunately, the range starts at the date we had, and goes forward.
As my friend Airbournedad says, "it's the Army, you can't believe anything you hear until it actually happens".
For some interesting insight, and great writing by his son, a paratrooper with the 82nd, just back from the litter box, visit, One Percenters

I know, I've been a little long winded, but I have one more thing to add.
To all who have stood up and volunteered to serve our great country present and past, a great big thank you.
These are tough times for our military, and the few that are serving are paying a big debt for all of us.
Because we as a nation haven't been asked to sacrifice a thing, as in other wars,the magnitude of what we are doing isn't as readily apparent.
I urge everyone reading this to think about what they have done for their country.
How have you repaid your debt for the freedom and comfort of living in a country where you are truly free to make decisions about what you do, and how you live your life.
Few serve so many can be free is a fraise that comes to mind.
Think about it.
If your young enough,and physicaly able, consider a tour in the military, if not, there are many other ways to serve.
Volunteer in you community.
Do something to make life easier and more pleasuable for those less fortunate.
If you are healthy, and well off, feel the obligation to repay some of your good fortune.
For ideas drop me a line.
To all who serve in any capacity, thank you.

PLAIN OLD BLOG

2008-02-27T18:50:00.002-05:00

I know, three posts in a week.
No I'm not on steroids.
No HGH for me.
Just massive doses of B-12 an B-6.

This one is going to be plain and simple.
Black and white.
No pictures, no guilt trips, just a bearing of the soul.

I had a message in my email that someone had pinned my "Bravenet" guest map.
You've seen it.
Over there on the right, in the sidebar.
Those of you who haven't taken the time to stick a pin in it, would it kill ya?

But this isn't about that.
It's about the pin, and the person who placed it.
An Army mom.
I won't place her name here.
I would never do that to someone who contacts me on a personal basis.
Her name is irrelevant.
Her message touched me on many levels.
It hit me between the eyes.
I felt like I was going to pass out as I read it.
It was a simple, short message, no fancy words, no frills.
Straight to the point.

"My son was with the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment and was working under the 4th Brigade, 2nd ID in Diyala Province when he was killed on 1-9-08. My heart goes out to the familes of the two soldiers who were killed on 2-17-08".

What does one say?

I thought about this all day.
It consumed me.

I thought, how unselfish.
How gracious.
How caring.

And I thought if I was in the same situation, could I be as thoughtful.

I spent a lot of time meditating on this subject.

If my son were to be killed in action, could I be so caring as to be concerned for the families of others?

I thought, what a shame it is that so many people become so engrossed in their grief, and sometimes self pity,that they almost cease to be, and in effect, end two lives.

While I hate to even think about the unthinkable, were it to happen, I would hope that I could grieve, then go on with my life and make a difference in the lives of others experiencing the same horror,

I learned a lot last night.

One simple to the point kind message forced me to think about the unthinkable, and search my soul for answers.

I hope I learned something from her.

I pray I never have to find out.

I like to think that I would be just like her.

IN MEMORY OF, RIP.

2008-02-24T11:08:00.009-05:00

The 2nd/ 23rd INF, 4th BDE Tomahawks, lost a couple of sons during operations in Iraq.

Following is the Department of Defense listing, and pictures.

I borrowed the pictures from a page that I will promote later in this post, in hopes that all who read this will visit, and support with well wishes and kind words..

Words can't express my sorrow for the individuals listed below.

Or how proud I am of them, and the rest of the 4th brigade.

Please join me in expressing our gratitude to their families.

I'm sure they are in a special place, with no pain, sorrow, or stress.

God bless and keep their souls.

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Feb. 17 in Diyala Province, Iraq, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their dismounted patrol using small arms fire. They were assigned to 2nd Battalion 23rd Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.
Killed were:

Spc. Luke S. Runyan, 21, of Spring Grove, Pa.

Spc. Chad D. Groepper, 21, of Kingsley, Iowa.

For more information media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152, (253) 967-0147.

And now for something a lot more fun.

I found a "Myspace" page developed by the wife of a soldier assigned to the 2/23 inf 4th bde. and dedicated to the soldiers and their wives.
Tarina has opened their page to me, as a parent, and I'm sure will welcome all who support our cause.
Please join me in supporting them and us by visiting,
4th BRIGADE.

Soon I will add a link in the one per centers section of my side bar.

Thank you Tarina, and all the ladies,(wives, mothers,) who make this a wonderful page.

While I'm at it, a close friend of Matt's, since his arrival at Ft. Lewis, SPC Keith Lee,
KEITH
lost his father last week to a sudden illness.
I have communicated with Keith on a few occasions. He is a bright and dedicated individual and a delight to chat with.
Please join me in offering condolences, and on a happier note, wishing him a HAPPY BIRTHDAY, tomorrow.
Click on Keith to message him a happy B-Day.
All my best Keith, one step, one day at a time, you'll be home soon.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

SUNDAY BLOG

2008-02-24T10:11:00.006-05:00

I'm considerring changing the name of this to,"
Sunday Blog".
It seems that Sunday is the only day that I ever have the motivation to write.

As Sundays go here in the frozen tundra we call New England, this one is marvelous.
There's a beautiful deep blue sky, the temp. is a balmy 17 degrees, and the sun shining through the snow covered pines makes a sparkle. If it was January this would all be fantastic.
However, it is February.
Where's the 50 degrees, and melting snow?
I'm ready to bitch about some mud...
Here's a couple of pictures, because we all know, "a picture is worth a thousand words".

I was amazed at how the snow looked like a blanket draped over the car.

Our driveway is usually a mud rut by now.
Spring will come.
Soon.
I hope.

Heard from Matt, Friday.
It' was a tough week in Diyala Province.
The 4th BDE lost a couple of men on the 17th.

(I'll be putting together a second post with info today).

And his platoon was on patrol in a neighborhood when a suicide bomber took out a crowd of people.
He and his fellow soldiers got to help with the clean up.
All in all he wasn't very upbeat.
A friend asked, "what do you say when he shares this kind of information".
I guess there's no clear answer to that question.
I try to be supportive.
Tell him that, "it's all part of the job." "Hang in there, it'll get better." All the while wishing that he wasn't there, and didn't have to see and be a part of these things that no human being should have to endure.
We can only hope that he'll be one of the lucky ones.
Those who can put it all behind them, pick up the pieces, and live a happy successful life.
If he survives it.
Matt has a degree in criminology. He, at one time, aspired a career in police work. The last time he was home he talked of maybe going into fire fighting and EMT work. What he's dealing with in Irag should be good training for what he will have to deal with in either line of work.
Or change his mind about what he wants to do.
They've received word that they should be home, May 1st or 15th. Or June 1st or 15th.
He complains about never getting a definite answer about the timing of anything.
Yet knows there's a reason for that.
You never know who's watching, and reporting to the enemy.
Especially with Iraqis working for subcontractors on all of the FOBs.
But that's a story for another post.
They're suppose to be regrouping, the brigade was divided up and sent to many different areas, and heading to Kuwait, in the next month or so.
Once there they clean and pack everything up to go on a boat and ship back to the port of Washington.
I'm like a kid waiting for Christmas.
The day that I see them march onto that parade field, to be dismissed, at FT. Lewis will be one of the happiest days of my life.

BORROWED EMOTIONS

2008-02-17T09:08:00.007-05:00

My son found this and posted it on his Myspace page.
I found it moving, and decided to share it.
Sort of like the frozen dinner version of posting.
It moved me deeply.
Let me know what you think.

We love you Matt! Happy Valentines Day! Come home safe!

You stay up for 16 hours.
He stays up for days on end.

You take a warm shower to help you wake up.
He goes days or weeks without running water.

You complain of a "headache", and call in sick.
He gets shot at as others are hit, and keeps moving forward.

You put on your anti-war/don't support the troops shirt, and go meet up with your friends.
He still fights for your right to wear that shirt.

EIGHT PEOPLE GOT RUN OVER AND KILLED YESTERDAY WHEN A DRAG RACING CAR WENT OUT OF CONTROL ON A STRETCH OF ROAD IN RURAL MARYLAND.....WHERE'S AN OUT OF CONTROL CAR WHEN YOU NEED ONE?

If I was god, (now there's a stretch), I'd take a little time from my busy day to strike these idiots down with a bolt of lightning, and dispatch a garbage truck to scoop em up.

Want to know what I realy think?

You talk trash about your "buddies" that aren't with you.
He knows he may not see some of his buddies again.

You walk down the beach, staring at all the pretty girls.
He patrols the streets, searching for insurgents and terrorists.

You complain about how hot it is.
He wears his heavy gear, not daring to take off his helmet to wipe his brow.

You go out to lunch, and complain because the restaurant got your order wrong.
He doesn't get to eat today.

Your maid makes your bed and washes your clothes.
He wears the same things for weeks, but makes sure his weapons are clean.

You go to the mall and get your hair redone.
He doesn't have time to brush his teeth today.

You're angry because your class ran 5 minutes over.
He's told he will be held over an extra 2 months.

You call your girlfriend and set a date for tonight.
He waits for the mail to see if there is a letter from home.

You hug and kiss your girlfriend, like you do everyday.
He holds his letter close and smells his loves perfume.

You roll your eyes as a baby cries.
He gets a letter with pictures of his new child, and wonders if they'll ever meet.

You criticize your government, and say that war never solves anything.
He sees the innocent tortured and killed by their own people and remembers why he is fighting.

You hear the jokes about the war, and make fun of men like him.
He hears the gunfire, bombs and screams of the wounded.

You see only what the media wants you to see.
He sees the broken bodies lying around him.

You are asked to go to the store by your parents. You don't.
He does exactly what he is told even if it puts his life in danger.

You stay at home and watch TV.
He takes whatever time he is given to call, write home, sleep and eat.

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Take a minute or two to think about it.

Have a nice day.

FIFTY EIGHT

2008-02-12T19:14:00.000-05:00

Fifty eight..
Just a number.
No big deal.
It's realy a harmless number.
Probably not one that a sports team member would pick.
I can't remember if there is a NASCAR team with the number 58?
As a matter of fact I've never given the number much thought.
14 is my favorite. Then probably 12.
But 58? Nah.
Well today, I did a lot of thinking about 58.
By my reckoning, it's two less than 60.
And 28 more than thirty.
I turned 58 today, and while it's not a number that bothers me, it is only two shy of 60.
I hope the two go bye slower than the 28 it took to get here from thirty did, because I sure liked being half of 60 better than I'm going to like being 60.

For my birthday, and don't get me wrong, I'm not about presents what so ever, I got a nice home cooked lasagna, and a real fancy Budweiser bar mirror with nick nak shelf for a man town room I'm renovating, from #2 son on Saturday.
A wonderful card with a fifty dollar check from mom yesterday.
A twelve pack of Long Trail Blackberry Wheat ale and a nice card from #1 son.
Amazingly, I realy like the new fruity micro brew ales, and Long Trail is made in Vermont, about twenty minutes up the road.
In my younger days I would have had some choice words for the kinda guys that would drink fruity ale.
Funny how time changes perception.
My wonderful wife took me out to dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, and gave me a nice card.
I got a card from my mother in law.
But the thing I cherished the most?
When I got home there was a message from Matt on the machine, wishing me a happy birthday.
It brought me to tears.
How I wish I had been here to answer it.
While all of the cards and gifts are special, I think everyone will understand why the phone call was my favorite, this year.

That's Matt on the left.

I sure do miss him.

We all do.

Bunny, if you read this, thanks for stopping bye, and asking about Matt.
Sorry I didn't respond.
Been in kind of a funk lately.

I hope everyone will write or call their congressmen, and tell them not to vote in favor of slowing down the reduction of troops in Iraq.

I'll post more about that later.

MAYBE.

EXCUSES ARE LIKE

2008-01-22T20:03:00.000-05:00

So I was sitting around thinking about how I had written nothing in this sorry excuse for a journal for the last eight of nine days, and feeling guilty about it.
Oh I've been around, lurking in my favorite places, commenting, and basically doing my best to support others efforts, but nothing of my own.
All day today I thought about how I really needed to write something, but while I'm riding in the car, I come up with all of these brilliant and Witty things to say. And yet when I get home my mind is void. Nothing!
I wonder how people who write books get motivated?
Nora Roberts sometimes knocks out two novels a year. WTF?
Then I went over to the "Unlikely Soldier" blog and BAM, there it was.
Why should I give a crap about whether I write every day or every week, or once a month?
Why?
This more a therapeutic exercise for me.
It's not to make anyone else feel good.
It's to let me get my emotions out.
While I honestly want to help others in the same situation as me, I am not going to pressure myself into it.
So there it is.
While I appreciate the friends I've made here, I'm not going to pressure myself to write something interesting on a regular basis.
If the inspiration comes I'll write, if not, I won't.
If anyone wants to reach me, my email is in my profile for all to see.
I PROMISE I'll ANSWER. (GD caps lock) I'm not going to erase and do over....
Wow that feels great.
I'm no longer a hostage to that little compulsion!!
Anyway, that's the way it is.
Oh ya, Excuses.
They're like assholes.
Everyone has one.

CHECK OUT THESE RIDES!

Heard from Matt today,
first time in ten days.
The FOB has become over crowded. Long waiting lines to get on the computer, and a half hour time slot once they do.
They've been busy, and out for two to three days at a time.
There moving soon.
Things should be less crowded, so he should be able to get in touch more frequently.
He probably won't.
But that's our Matt.
We wouldn't have him any other way..

I DID IT

2008-01-13T15:08:00.000-05:00

I finally did it.
After months of comparing, and visiting stores, and comparing more, I bought the lap top.
I was truly stuck in the paralysis of analysis.
I'm not one to just spend close to a thousand dollars without feeling that I've done my homework.
In the end I settled on the HP dv6775us.
3 gigs of DDR2, 256MB dedicated memory, NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS processor, 250 Gig hard drive. I'll never fill it up. I have yet to experience the problems with Vista that others have complained of, but I do think I liked XP better, so far.
To put it plainly, I should have done this months ago.
I looked in the office door at the old machine last night, sitting there all lonely, and thought, "rest my old friend, you've earned it".
And to think that less than a week ago I was cursing it.....

I heard from Matt this morning.
He's doing well.
They were on a four day mission, and in the field while all the heavy crap was going down the beginning of last week.
He couldn't get in touch to let us know that he was ok.
What a relief to finally hear from him.
No matter how I try I can't put this war in the back of my mind for more than a few minutes at a time.
I'll sure be glad when they all come home.
If I live long enough to see it.

The Patriots won last night, which means that Mark, (The One Percenters blog) and I will be getting together for a Lobster dinner, at his expense.
Truth be known, I'll be happy just to meet him, shake his hand, and talk in person for a while.

NEW HAMPSHIRE PRIMARY and other random thoughts

2008-01-06T14:45:00.001-05:00

Today I sit here typing a post on my sons brand new HP Pavilion dv9000, state of the art laptop.
What a beauty.
While it has more bells and whistles than I need, it sure is a beauty.
What a joy it is to have a computer that actually responds when you click on something.
Why is it that the kids always seem to have the things that we want, before we get around to getting them?
I spent a good portion of yesterday and this morning researching laptops, and have just about made my choice.

The same goes for voting in the upcoming New Hampshire primary.
I watched the debates from St. Anselms College last night and came away with a couple of impressions.
I reaffirmed my new found disdain for the Republican party.
And the Democrats earned a little more of my respect.
It isn't easy for me to side with the Dems.
New Hampshire is historically a GOP enclave. And being a business man, Rotarian, and soon to be member of the Board of Directors of our Chamber of Commerce, I have a lot of friends and associates who are steadfast supporters of the
Republican Party.

The Republicans embarrassed themselves yet again in front of a national television audience.
As has been the rule lately, they spent a majority of their on air time trying to explain why Barrack Obama wouldn't be a good President, and arguing amongst each other.
Polls had John McCain leading in the Republican primary, then Mitt Romney, and Mike Huckabee.
It's my opinion that Huckabee came away from the debate looking like the best choice from that party.
McCain and Giuliani spent most of their time sending barbs Romney's way, and he took to much of it to heart and became visibly shaken by it.
Fred Thomson was the joke that he is, and Ron Paul was left out in the cold, never getting to say much of anything.
When Huckabee spoke he was on point, articulate, and highly presentable, choosing to discus the issues at hand, and his ideas on how to deal with them.

The Democrats chose to be, for the most part, focused on the issues, and what they as President would do to correct things and lead us back to a position of respectability globally.
Hilary did her best to start trouble with Obama, but found out quickly that doing so pitted her against the team of Obama and Edwards.
Could they be aligning themselves to partner in a bid for President Vice President?
I think that Edwards won the debate followed by Obama, Richardson, and then Hilary.
more important, I think the Democrats won the overall debate because of their candor, message of standing for change, and willingness to stay on subject.
We can't afford another four years of smash mouth politics.
We need a President that understands diplomacy and cooperation, and yet has the backbone to make serious decisions regarding world issues.

Because of my life position I've been accused of being one dimensional.
Of being in favor only of the candidate that calls for an end to the war in Iraq.
That simply isn't true.
While I know that there is no military answer to the problems in Iraq, I understand the logistical problem of pulling out without a well vetted plan.
However, it becomes more apparent daily that the Iraqis just aren't appreciative of our support. (A subject for a future post).

We need a president that will deal with the problem of illegal immigrants living in our country.

We need affordable health care insurance for all Americans.

We must lower our dependence on foreign oil.

We need to take steps to lessen global warming.

We need our constitutional rites back.

We need a government "of the people, for the people, by the people".

We need all of these things sooner than later.

So regardless of what happens in the primaries, and caucuses, it will be important in this election to vote for the candidate most able to make the correct choices to lead us away from the the terrible state of affairs that eight years of George Bush has delivered us to.

If we want our children and grand children to realize the comforts and rewards of an America that is viewed by the world to be a model for democracy and return us to our stature in the world, we need to take action now.

Last we heard Matt is doing ok.
In his words, things aren't as calm as our media would have us believe.
They continue to get hit by ieds frequently, and there has been an escalation of sectarian violence in the neighborhoods of Mugdadiyah.

At my age it seems foolish to wish time away. However, July can't come fast enough.

It's Time

2007-12-30T15:27:00.000-05:00

I've Had it.
I'm done with this three year old state of the art latest technology piece of crap computer.
I can't stand it anymore.
The only thing keeping me from ripping the wires out of it, setting against a tree out back and putting a couple of rounds of 30/06 thru it is that it'll take me a week to get the new lap top I'm buying.
I was out comparing yesterday, but didn't want to rush into anything.
My mistake.
Did I mention that this unit is a piece of crap!!
Yes I did.
It bears mentioning again.
In three years I've replaced the mother board a hard drive, the monitor, and performed several other procedures to keep it running.
While I can do this myself, it is a major pain.
Not to mention the aggravation of continually tinkering with it to make it run at minimal performance.
It's is sick again.
I have to shut it down and restart just to connect top the Internet, half the time.
It loads windows in quarters, and today I can't open the window in Blogger to return comments.
I've had it.
If you don't hear from me for a couple of day's it will be because I've committed the unthinkable and murdered this piece of crap.
Hope all is well in the blogosphere.

PRIMARY,CAUCUS,CALL IT WHAT YOU WILL!

2007-12-27T22:22:00.000-05:00

Well, one more holiday, New Years day, and the holiday season is over.
Then I can stop being so jovial, and get back to the business of bitching in earnest.
Ah what the hell.
I think it fitting to pitch a bit of bitch tonight. What with the Iowa caucuses coming up on the 3rd, followed by the “first in the nation”, New Hampshire primaries.
It’s getting down to crunch time. What I like to call mud season inside the belt way.
Here in the Northeast, mud season is the fifth season. We have spring, usually from the middle of April to the end of May. Then summer from June thru September. Fall starts around the beginning of October, and ends as early as mid November, even though the calendar says that winter doesn’t begin until December 22nd. Winter is the fourth season and lasts usually until the middle of February, when the fifth season begins. MUD season. To those of you from away, (anyone who wasn’t born in New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine), this will mean little to you. You’ve never lost a boot in a mud hole, or a car in rut on a dirt road.
Mud season in Washington is when the candidates start sling accusations at whom ever they feel might be beating them in the polls.
Take for instance Hillary claiming that Barrack Obama hasn’t the experience in the ways of Washington to be able to get anything done.
And I wonder just what the sophomore senator from New York State has on her resume that gives her the experience she talks of.
She had four years as the first lady to make a difference, and while she made an attempt at fixing the healthcare issue, she failed miserably.
Funny how the minute Obama went ahead of her in the Iowa and New Hampshire polls, she started pointing out his faults?
Slinging the mud.
On the Republican side of the isle I was beginning to worry that Mitt Romney’s charm and charisma were going to win over the people.
A friend told me he was seriously considering voting for Mitt, to which a replied “are you sure he’s still running?”
When asked what I meant, I pointed out how he has flip flopped on the issue so often, I was wondering if maybe he hadn’t changed his mind and dropped out.
Then he drops the bomb shell about having seen his father march with Dr King…
When confronted with the statement, he said he was using seen as a figure of speech, like “My eyes have seen the coming of the lord.”
Brings to mind the words, “define sexual relations?”

Then there’s John McCain.
He’s leading in New Hampshire.
When he ran in 2000, I was a supporter. He had some great ideas.
His unwillingness to form a plan to exit Iraq bothers me.
He backed George Bush’s serge strategy, and is now claiming that it is working marvelously.
Has anyone noticed how there has been very little news coming out of Iraq the last few weeks?
Could it be by Republican design?
Could Benazir Bhutto’s assassination be another smoke screen to take the worlds attention off of Iraq?

What color level of terrorist threat are we on today?

Two things that really bothered me today.
During a conversation over lunch one of my employees claimed to have heard that George Bush was proclaimed the most interesting man in America by some poll?
She couldn’t remember where she heard it?
With the lowest approval rating of any President, (somewhere around 30%) (of course that was before his tuff talk about the people responsible for Bhuttos assination needing to be brought to justice), since they started polling, I guess I can’t quite figure this out.
If it’s true?
Maybe it was a survey of the Bush family?
Even then they surely couldn't have surveyed the entire family.
I have a feeling that Jeb might not have a lot of good to say about big brother! Since his political future is in the toilet thanks in no small part to the way George has conducted business.
I’ve got a feeling that George H W probably calls him an idiot from time to time.
My question?
“Why”, even with several calls for it, “has he not been impeached”?
I’ll make a bold statement here.
That just might come back to bight us on the ass before he leaves office…

While I’m on the subject of polls, in an article by Kenneth T. Walsh in this weeks U.S. News & World Report I read that the country's priority issues seem to be changing.
It seems the most important issue to voters is Jobs and the economy.
So says 44% of the voters.
Is that 44% of 100% of the people that will vote in the coming primaries?
Or 44% of people who think they might vote?
Or 44% of the ten people that work in the office of the company taking the survey?
Polls are tricky business, and just another way of attempting to swing the vote.
A paragraph later, sort of as an after thought, is the claim that in the same period of time the importance of the war in Iraq has dropped from 45% to 37%.
We’re getting bombarded on a daily basis with dismal forecasts for the economy, and a weakening dollar.
The price of gasoline and oil is through the roof.
Only one percent of the population of the country has a family member serving in Iraq.
How easy would it be to skew that poll?

I’m not a wise man.
I can’t tell you who the best candidate for presidency would be.
I will suggest that you should vote, and that you should do a little research. And that regardless of which is most important, the four things that any viable candidate should have a plan for are, Healthcare, jobs, the cost of education, the end of our combat related involvement in Iraq.
The few that I have heard claim to have a plan in all of these areas are, Bill Richardson, Hillary Clinton, Barrack Obama, and Dr. Ron Paul.
Others have claimed to have a plan.
These are the only candidates that I've heard lay their plan out.

One more issue of concern is the illegal imigrant situation.
I don't even want to start... But I will.
They're illegal.
They need to leave, and come back legaly.
Now.
Not in three years or ten years, NOW.
They aren't citizens.
Why are the protected by our contstitution?
Go home.
Apply and come back legaly!
End of conversation.

I’ve struggled with this long and hard, and I’ve decided to back Obama.
My reason?
I like what he has to say.
I think he’s a man of integrity.
I don’t think he has been corrupted by the good ole boys in Washington.
It’s time for a change.

A SPECIAL CHRISTMAS WISH!

2007-12-23T14:32:00.000-05:00

Another Christmas is bearing down on us like a speeding freight train.
Before we know it, it will be over.
I'm not sure I will have the time to post again before Tuesday.
I'm not really certain that I have the time now.
But I'm going to, because I feel it necessary to wish all of my online friends a Merry Christmas.
I wish I could invite all of you over for a glass of cheer, and some of Karin's home made raisin stuffed cookies.. (From her grandmother’s recipe). God how I enjoy some traditions!!!
It would be a logistical nightmare to get everyone here, and you wouldn't all fit into our humble abode.

As I mentioned a few posts ago, I'm flying a flag for our troops.
Regardless of etiquette, it is not coming down until our combat troops are out of Iraq.
It serves several purposes, a few of which are, to call attention to the troops. In protest of the mandate restricting them from flying our flag in Iraq. And in support of all they do.

Here it is.

This flag was given to my wife by an elderly woman that she use to clean and do errands for. It was presented to her at her husbands funeral. He was a veteran of WWII, and she had no next of kin to pass it on to.
I hope he would be honored o know the purpose it now serves.

I can't wait until the day I can take it down and bring it to my Legion Post for proper disposal.

For those who may not be aware, most American Legion and VFW posts hold ceremonies a couple of times a year to properly dispose of worn and unseviceable flags. They are more than happy to take your flags for this purpose. In most cases they will send someone to pick your flag up, if you are unable to get to the post.

I have an acquaintance that retired form the Navy a few years back. He and I are members of our local American Legion, and his wife works for
Webber Energy, in the office that I manage. I hate to say that people work for me!! We all work for the company. I just manage the operation. I am blessed with a great group of dedicated individuals to work with..
Anyway, this retired Navy Vet. writes a weekly column for the local newspaper. The Sentinel "Calling All Veterans".

He does a great job of providing information about benefits for local veterans, and passes along stories from vets, and from his own experience in the service.
Well this week he posted a poem that he found a few years back.
He writes that it is much circulated via email on Christmas eve, but I have never seen it.
I was so moved by it that I thought I would share it with you here.
Maybe everyone has already seen it.
I hope someone finds it as touching as I did.
Especially the last paragraph.
It was written in December 2000 by a Michael Marks.
I pass it on, as did my friend, in honor of my son, and all the sons and daughters deployed not only to Iraq, but everywhere on earth,who won't be home for Christmas.

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed around the room and I cherished the sight.
My was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out hear!
"Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
"You should be at home on a cold Christmas eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts
To the window that danced with a warm fires light
Then he sighed and he said "it's really alright."

"I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night.
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
"That separates you from the darkest of times.
"No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
"I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My gramps died at Pearl on a day in December,”
Then he sighed, “That’s a Christmas Gram always remembers,
“My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ‘Nam’,
“And now it’s my turn and so, here I am.
“I’ve not seen my own son in more than a while,
“But my wife sends me pictures, he’s sure got her smile.”

Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue… an American flag.
“I can live through the cold and the being alone,
“Away from my family, my house and my home.
“I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
“I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
“I can carry the weight of killing another,
“Or lay down my life with my sister and brother
“Who stand at the front against any and all,
“To ensure for all time that this flag sill not fall.
“So go back inside,” he said, “harbor no fright,
“Your family is waiting and I’ll be all right.”

“But isn’t there something I can do, at the least,
“Give you money,” I asked, “or prepare you a feast?
“It seems all to little for all that you’ve done,
“For being away from your wife and your son.”

Then his eye weld a tear that held no regret,
“Just tell us you love us, and never forget
“To fight for our rights back home while we’re gone,
“To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
“For when we come home, either standing or dead,
“To know you remember we fought and we bled
“Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
“That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.”

The final verse is what really hits home, and what I’m trying to say by flying the flag 24/7.

Amazingly enough Matt called while I was writing, just as I finished the last verse.
He is fine.
Things have been considerably quieter for the last few days.
Let’s hope it stays that way.

My deepest and most sincere wishes for a calm, quiet Christmas day for all of our troops where ever they may be.
And to all of my friends on line, may you be blessed with all the good that this season brings, and the warmth and comfort of dear friends and family.

God Bless you all.

NO STRINGS ATTACHED!

2007-12-19T19:05:00.000-05:00

Congress approved another $70,000,000,000 today to fund the wars in Iraq, and Afgahnistan.
No strings attached.
Tied to the agreement was tons of pork.
Funding for research on growing coffee beans in Maryland.
For fighting rats in Alaska, and weeds in Massachussettes.

I've always been in favor of funding the wars to insure that our troops have the equipment to keep them as safe as possible, however,
there should be strings attached.
First and foremost a plan for ending the war.

As a business man, if I spent my company's money the way our government is spending ours.
I wouldn't have a job.
It is our money.
It's time we stand up and demand that it be spent responsibly.

Democrats slaughtered Republicans at the polls last election.
They won because it was time for a change.
Now they're making us all look like fools...

Business as usual.

Oh, and here's the thanks we get. Gotta love it.

I WAS THINKING,AGAIN!!

2007-12-17T20:04:00.000-05:00

I had to shovel off my roof yesterday.
18"s of snow in the last three weeks, and the threat of rain scared me into action.
Shovelling give a person time to think.
When Matt was home a couple of weeks ago we had a discussion about the proper treatment of the flag.
He had been to the police station in a neighboring town, and noticed how their flag was worn and tattered.
He mentioned that it was a disgrace, and they should know better.
Then he got after me.
We have a flag flying outside of our home.
He said it was worn, and he noticed we didn't bring it in at night.
The flag is not supposed to be flown at night, without being illuminated.
I explained.
I put the flag up shortly after he was deployed to Iraq, and vowed to not take it down until he was home for good.
Then shortly after making this pledge I read that there is a mandate in Iraq, by our leaders, that we are not to fly the flag anywhere in the country.
Seems we don't want to give the impression that we are a conquering country.
I'd like to know who the dumb m-fer is that came up with that idea.
If we don't want to be considered a conquering country, why the hell don't we get out.
after all we did invade their country, didn't we?
George Bush himself has said " we will not leave until the war is won".
If we don't want to be a conquering country, why are we fighting a war?
The flag will stay up until our combat troops come home, and I don't give a big rats ass who likes it and who doesn't!!
If the men can't show their patriotism over there, I will damn sure show it for them here.

As I mentioned in my last post, there are a lot of people who are of the mind that one can not support the troops and not support the war.
What a stupid notion.
I damn sure support the troops, and I am as against the war as a person can be.
If you clarify the statement by saying that you can't support the troops, and not support the funding for the war.
You may have a point.
While I am against the war, I am in favor of doing whatever is necessary to keep our men and women safe, while it goes on.
I am against the public protests, and acts of civil disobedience in the name of protesting.
Most of the folks involved in the latter are misguided individuals looking for a cause. Some place to belong.
I will show my support for the soldiers, and my lack of support for the war, by voting for the candidate for presidency that has a clear and concise plan for ending the war.
George Bush says we must win the war, or send a message to terrorists all over the world that America is weak, and can be brought down.
I think we've proven that false.
Our problem in Iraq is that the soldiers aren't allowed to take the necessary actions to end the war.
There is no clear picture of what winning the war is.
See previous post.
What is the war?As I see it we accomplished the tasks set forth when we first invaded Iraq more than a year ago.
They were, 1) Eradicate Weapons of Mass Destruction. There were none.
2) Remove Saddam Hussein from power. Check, Done.
3) Allow the Iraqis to hold an election and form their own government. They have. Mission accomplished, our job is done, the war is won.
Now it's time to remove our combat troops, and let their government succeed or fail.

Here's a picture of Matt expressing my feelings for George Bush's war.

Need I say more?

AN ANSWER TO BUNNY, and othr drivel.

2007-12-15T20:36:00.000-05:00

Bunny,
I guess you didn’t look at my archives.
I have a rather dark or off color sense of humor also.
I’ve toned it down a lot lately, due in part to a bout of depression I’m working through.
And to the fact that I take being a one percenter quite seriously.
If you are one, you know what I mean. If not you probably never will.
Follow my blog for awhile, and visit the links in my side bar.
You’ll get a feeling for who we are.
FYI I am one who believes whole heartedly that you CAN support the troops, and oppose the war.
Just don’t go protesting in the streets, and at military rally’s, and don’t support cutting funding as a means to ending the war.
Our troops are in a precarious situation.
Never before have infantrymen gone to war with rules of engagement that won’t allow them to take precautionary or preemptive action.
They can only engage the enemy when fired upon, or eminent danger is present.
How ludicrous when fighting an enemy that will go to great lengths to be deceptive.
We need a clear and concise plan of departure from Iraq.
The only direction they have is that they are to win the war.
Nobody is telling them what winning looks like.
Is it when there are no more suicide attacks?
Is it when Kurds, Shiite, and Sunni are living together in peace and harmony?
Is it when the Iraqi Army can defend themselves?
Who is the enemy?

The truth is there are several enemies in Iraq.
Mahdi Militia. (Al-Mahdi Army).
Alkaida.
Mujahdin.
Radical Muslim Extremists.
All of the above, and more thrown in for good measure.
If you ask me Iraq was better off with Saddam and his Bathist party running the show.
Now I’ve got my dander up!!!

We need to wake up and realize that there is no military resolution to this war.
It is a political and religious civil war that we would be best removing ourselves from sooner than later.

So Bunny, I thank you for stopping by, and commenting.
I will take a look at your blog, and if I think it appropriate, I’ll give you permission to use Matt’s picture.
I hope that you aren’t exploiting families, and their soldiers as means to gain profit.
That is unless a LARGE portion of that profit is going to help families in need.
If you are, you won’t receive a very warm welcome from us one percenters.
One other thing.
It isn’t nice to post urls to your pages on others blogs, without asking first.
Sort of like putting a sign on someones lawn without asking. ;?)
If you use your blogger account to comment, you get a link back anyway.

Christmas Pressure

2007-12-10T19:59:00.000-05:00

I was thinking,I know, your all thinking, "what a novel thing to do".
But honestly I was.
I was thinking about the holidays, and how depressing it can be.

Mom laid up with the broken hip is worried about not being able to do the things she usually does. Which is spend obscene amounts of money on all of us choosing to disregard our pleas for her to just take it easy.

Matt in Iraq.

We're having a normal winter here in the Northeast, so business is bustling.

Then as I sat at our Monday Rotary meeting enjoying a perfectly prepared prime rib dinner and listening the the local high school a-capella choir sing wonderful Christmas songs it came to me.

Christmas isn't about what we have and don't have.

It's not about whether or not we can all be together.

It is a time to celebrate the birth of Christ.
So why do we worry so much about finding that perfect present for everyone?
Why do we worry about being careful to spend equal amounts of money on each of our relatives?
We work so hard at this that we go into a frenzy.
For what?

When all is said and done it's the simple things that mean the most.
A thoughtfully written card.
A special hand made gift.
A kind word.
To be told by those most special to us how much we mean to them.
The simple present that was obviously thought about and given with love.
A present selected merely for value will soon be just another belonging and we will forget who gave it to us.
So I've decided to do what I can, with a lot of thought, for those who are important to me.
And while I will certainly have many thoughts about Matt, and probably shed a tear or two of sorrow for his not being with us.
I will give thanks for the two sons, wife, mother and many friends that I am blessed with.
I will take the time to pause and reflect on the many blessings I have, and if for just a minute, relax and enjoy.
I hope y-all, (Southern New Hampsha), will do the same.

THE PARTY'S OVER

2007-12-03T18:41:00.000-05:00

Matt and I just prior to leaving for the airport.

Matt and mom.

The three of us at the airport.

Matt headed back to the litter box yesterday.
After arriving in Atlanta, he found that they didn't have a connecting flight to anywhere for him, so they put him up in a hotel, fed him, and had him report this morning.
As I write, he is probably somewhere over the Atlantic, in route to Kuwait.

There have been happier times in the Rider household.
There will be happier times in the future.

With the way my blogging habits have been lately, I best wish you all a happy holidays.
I may not write again before.

Happy Holidays to all.

HAPPY T-DAY WISH

2007-11-21T20:45:00.000-05:00

Just a short note to wish all a happy Thanksgiving.
And to remind all to take a little time to reflect on all the things we should be thankful for.

Also a few minutes to reflect on those who are less fortunate than us.

Remember, they aren't homless because they want to be.
If you can spare a dollar, or a little time to volunteer at a food kitchen. Give it a try and see how good you feel.

And say a little prayer for those who are in harms way, who won't have a holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving, may god bless you all.

VETERANS DAY THOUGHTS

2007-11-11T10:16:00.000-05:00

So here I sit feeling guilty for not taking the time to write.
Life has been so busy lately!
Yet I figured there is no excuse good enough to not write a short thank you note in honor of my fellow veterans, and those still serving.
While I was fortunate to have never been deployed to war. I am never the less well aware of what those who were and are went through.
I can’t thank you enough for your commitment.

And so today while I will be busy working on siding on the house, my thoughts will be more centered on those brave souls in Iraq, and Afghanistan, and praying that they are safe.
My thoughts will also be about Matt, who called yesterday from Kuwait to tell us that he is awaiting a flight to Germany, then Atlanta, then home to Boston or Manchester, for his 18 day mid deployment leave.
So I have reason to be thankful on many levels.

A special thank you for your service to my friends:

The Chief .

Subvet.

Mark Middlebrook, and Specialist Mark Middlebrook.

Ed of Eighty Deuce on the loose serving proudly with the 82nd in Iraq.

Jan standing by while husband Mark serves.

Anthony and Terri.

You can visit all of these individuals by following the links in my sidebar.

God bless you all.

Your all heroes in my book.

SORRY

2007-10-30T21:27:00.000-05:00

Sorry.
What a simple word.
Yet it can mean so much.
In the Japanese language one word can mean many things determined by who speaks it,
the voice inflection used.
And who the word is being spoken to.
I'm not one who says sorry easily.
It's not a word I take lightly.
When I am sorry, it’s usually for someone who is less fortunate than I.
Or someone who’s feeling pain for one reason or another.
Maybe they’re ill or have been injured, or simply out of sorts for one reason or another.
But when I'm most sorry is when I've either wronged someone through something I've said, or done, or forgotten to do.
While running the risk of insinuating that what I write in my blog is of any great interest to anyone.
Or assuming that because I don't post for several days, that anyone really cares.
I have to say that I'm sorry to those who check in on a regular basis to see if I've updated my blatherings.
I've just been exhausted lately.
I check my tracking reports and see that often times more people stop by when I don't post.
You have to understand that while I am flattered when people stop bye, and especially when those who do, find something that I have to say worth commenting on.
Traffic isn't what I’m all about.
This is more often then not just the mind dumping of a dad who's nerves are in pieces because one of the five most important people remaining in his life is far away, in a strange place, living amongst people who's greatest ambition in life is to kill him.

Rather than post, I've found I get a lot of comfort from reading the blogs of others who are in the same situation, and trying to offer my support and point of view thru commenting on their writing.
I've found several that inspire me.
The ones that truly move me are listed in my side bar in two categories.
The 1% Club, and,
Friends of the Family.
Neither is more or less important than the other.
They’re just different.
Both groups are equal to me.
The only difference is that I share a common bond with the 1%ers.
A bond that no-one need be envious of.
Several soldiers check this blog frequently.
Feel free to leave a comment of support for them.
Until they’re all home safe,
may god bless them and keep them from harm.

SO YOU SUPPORT THE TROOPS?

2007-10-22T19:37:00.000-05:00

I read with great interest Will Bardenwerper’s article from the New York Times, as linked to by my friend Mark in his new blog.
Check it out here,
One Percenters.
When commenting on the high percent of re-enlistments, Mr Bardenwerper said,
“Supposedly impressive re-enlistment rates are cited as evidence that soldiers enthusiastically support the war effort. In reality, these retention numbers are more the result of the “stop-loss” policy, where soldiers are required to remain in the Army after their contracts have expired if their units are deployed or ordered to deploy soon. My platoon’s infantrymen expected to be “stop-lossed” and some felt they might as well cash in on the re-enlistment bonuses if they were going to be forced to stay in the Army anyway.”

Soldiers only one year into their contract are being asked to re-enlist.
And when they respectfully decline, they find themselves being scheduled for extra duty, and being passed over for promotion.
The new Army has changed little, operationally, from the old Army.
The biggest difference is that it is staffed by individuals with more education.
All that means is that the slackers can no longer be called dumb and lazy.
They still have a way of being in the right place at the right time to shine while the superiors are watching.
Mainly because the true workers, the backbone of companies, are exhausted, and they, the slackers, are well rested and ready to bust butt when the opportune moment arises.
Slackers don’t like the workers.
And if you happen to be unlucky enough to end up with a slacker for a top, (1st Sergeant), you are truly in a bad spot.

I got an email from Matt on that very subject just the other day.
Seems he has a couple of slackers in his platoon, one of which is the platoon sergeant.
I’ll share with you some of his comments, but know that some of it is not in Sunday go to meeting lingo, so I’ll correct a little of it.

"I have a platoon sergeant who I trust when we're getting shot at and getting blown up, but as a person he's a complete prick with no skills outside of tactical decision making.
He lets his mood swings dictate our lives.
Every time he is asked to do anything, he gets pissed off at us.
He wants to promote this kid ******. ***** is the biggest slacker I've met in the army.
He's a disrespectful prick, he can't make any hard time on time, me and ##### do his job for him (get the truck fixed and shit, which is not our job at all) and he falls asleep in the middle of missions behind the gun (he's the gunner on my vehicle). Webster should be the one getting promoted not him.
We have to wake him up, remind him to shave, tell him what needs to be fixed on the truck and who to talk to to get it done quick and right. For some reason, the more this kid screws up the more they want to promote him. Then there’s us who are always on time even when the NCO's are late, always working to get things fixed and working right no matter how long we've been out or how soon we're going back out, and we’re told we won’t make E-5 because we have no team leader experience. Well SEND US SOMEWHERE WHERE WE CAN GET THE EXPERIENCE THAN.
Its not bad enough that we're over here getting blown up and shot at we have to deal with ignorance and retarded people who think their job is about making us miserable at every possible chance.
My job is infantry not communications not medic, not mechanic. Yet when ever anything goes wrong with the radios I get, “ what's wrong with the radios”?, to which I reply,
"why don't you ask sgt McClung he's the commo specialist, he knows how to fix that shit". And I’m told, “I don’t' care, just make it work”. I want this, I want that, I want a monkey in a pink dress playing the symbols, make it happen.
Then they had the gall to ask me if I'm going to re-enlist! Without hesitation I say "#@$# NO" which gets them all riled up, so they ask angrily “why not” to which I reply, "I would rather be gay", (thank you for the honesty gene whichever one of you gave it to me).
So that got me every other guard shift on the roof of this building we took over until they got their panties all unbunched.

Other than that, I'm happy as a pig in shit cause I'm coming home in a few weeks and I don't have to deal with any of this shit for nearly a month".

So there's a little insight from the horses mouth.
I'm not sure if he's heard of the stop loss issue yet?

I replied to his message that he should keep up the good work, and that sooner or later it will pay off.
Whether in the military, or civilian life, good work is rewarded sooner or later.
Even if that reward is only the feeling of self pride he'll get as he looks back on these days and knows that he gave it his all.

Deborah Gianoulis Heald's contribution to the 1%ers blog today struck a chord with me.
Her son is a Marine who is home after his first deployment, and who upon seeing, "We Support Our Troops" bumper stickers wanted to ask the people in the car, "“What are you willing to do to support us? What are you willing to sacrifice?”
How often I have thought the very same thing.
Now I understand that some of these folks have a family member serving, and that's why they display the sticker. Yet I wonder how many aren't?
Some would argue that by purchasing and displaying the stickers they are at least acknowledging our sons and daughters who serve, and I guess I agree.
Yet I wonder about how many people pay lip service to supporting the troops, but can't find the time to volunteer even an hour to pack care packages to send to the troops. Or half an hour to find a soldier on Myspace and drop him an email telling him that your proud of him and thankful for his service to our country. Or a minute to walk up to a soldier in uniform and shake his hand and simply say than you.
I have had friends and acquaintances upon finding out that my son is in Iraq, say thank you to me.
I always thank them for their kindness, and respectfully request that if nothing more, they donate a minute or two of every day to think about the war, and the individuals fighting it. Think about the hardships they and their families endure,

and if so moved say a simple prayer that they will all return home safe.

If you spend just two or three minutes a day doing that, you will begin to understand what it is to live the daily life of a one percenter.

In closing, I ask that all who read this please get involved by paying close attention to the politicians both in office and running for election. Make notes about their stand on the war. And when it is time to vote, support those individuals that will work for a strategy beneficial to us and the citizens of Iraq, to end our involvement in their world.

A SHORT ONE

2007-10-10T18:18:00.000-05:00

WOW did I take some heat about the Tim McGraw thing..
I guess all those fans that ponied up their twenty five samolians for the privilege of being his fan wanted to get their money's worth out of my hide.
I'm temped to cut and paste a few of the emails as an example of their intelligence.
But I won't.
One woman who I'm assuming is no Rhodes Scholar called me, "An inconsiderite ass that dont really now Tim", and that "I should do sum reserch befor I go around slandaring folk". (That's zactly the way she spelled all of it). Anyone want her email address???
That was just one of the nice ones.
One person agreed that artists shouldn't "write songs that prey on the emotions of those of us who have soldiers fighting the war". And pointed out that there are some "very nice tributes to the soldiers".
One called "An American Soldier", which may or may not be written by Toby Keith.
I'm not going to get myself in that mess again..

Got a message from Matt yesterday.It was his answer to to an email his mom sent questioning if he was alright.
Here is an excerpt from what he had to say.
I won't give it out verbatim, because it is personal.
These bits and pieces should give you an idea as to what the guys go through.

I'm fine! No need to worry right now. We had another convoy get hit in the same spot the night after (not us) but they got hit just before dark and saw the people who did it. So they're dead and won't be planting anymore bombs. Dumb asses. Plus we took out some houses out there so if they weren't involved, next time they see somebody doing it, they'll probably kill them before we get the chance. Whatever.
We went by there two days after we got hit. It was weird to see all the destruction. The hole from the one we hit, with the pieces of our stryker laying around it. The hole from the other one. The houses destroyed. I don't understand why these people can't get it through their heads that we will leave them alone if they don't screw with us.
When they screw with us they die.
Simple equation.
You'd think they'd have figured it out by now.

I'm supposed to be coming home next month but I won't know for sure until OCT 10th. That's when they're supposed to get my dates.
So we'll see.
It should be either next month or December either way.
So that gives me something to look forward too.
Plus when I get back here I'll only have like five months left in this dump.
That'll be nice too.

Love you Ma
See you soon!!

I'm so lazy tonight.
I'm going to share the "Free Port Flag Ladies Tuesday message with you, then just surf a few blogs and hit the sheets.

True Hero's

Our fighting soldiers plod all day with heavy feet, burning hands and the sting of sweat in their eyes as they feel the rhythms of their own deep breathing. They need to know that they are not just men and women who serve their country but that they are a part of a great pattern for FREEDOM and DEMOCRACY.

Elaine Greene ©

God Bless our Troops
God Bless America

The Freeport Flag Ladies
17 School Street,
Freeport, ME 04032
207 865-3414

ForeverFree@FreeportFlagLadies.com
http://www.freeportflagladies.com/

And a little something to lighten it up some.

When ever second son and his girl friend go away for an extended stay, they leave their cat, Banks,with us.
Here's Banks at dinner.
He barely touched his Chardonnay.
Anyway, we had been talking about getting a cat, but Ted did a little figuring, and here's what she came up with.

If you stop commenting, I'll stop doing this.
Promise.

IF YOU'RE READING THIS.

2007-10-07T09:45:00.000-05:00

If you're reading this than you already know that I made a huge mistake.In my last post I falsely accused Toby Keith,

,
of performing the song, "If You're Reading This". Well of course it was Tim McGraw,

not Toby that performed it.
I even went so far as to email Toby, yes , Micky ,I was drinking again, and told him just what I thought of his shameless exploitation of the families of soldiers.
My wife tells me he, Tim McGraw, performed the song at a country music awards show, and had pictures of families of some of the fallen heroes in the background.
I wonder if any of the proceeds from this song are going to help the families?

I'm working out a thought about a non profit that might be able to help some of the families.
I've bounced the concept off of a business man who I met through a common interest, and I'm waiting to hear his thoughts.
So stay tuned.I/we may need some help...Back to the matter at hand.

Toby, MR. Keith, I am profoundly sorry for my error, and for questioning your character.(I'm not as good as I once was).
I will be buying a couple of your CDs soon, not only as a token of my sincere apology(but because I enjoy your music.

I will be sending Tim McGraw a message inquiring about the proceeds from his song, and explaining how it effects this father of a soldier.
I intend to call, write, and or visit my local radio stations and explain my feelings to them also.
I turn the radio off every time the song comes on.
I know the first chord of the music, that's how much it affected me.
The first time I heard it on the radio I was driving on the Maine Turnpike. I had to pull over and stop I was so overcome with grief.
Am I over reacting?

If I find that even a portion of the proceeds are going to the families, I will do an immediate about face, and salute Mr. McGraw.
I don't think I'll ever be able to listen to the song though...

Please join me in supporting a true patriot,

who has visited the troops on many occasions, always taking time for pictures with his fans,

a hero in my book.

A TOUGH COUPLE OF DAYS

2007-10-04T19:39:00.000-05:00

It's been a difficult couple of days for our family.

It all started with a phone call from Matt that went as follows.

I was about to sit down to dinner Tuesday evening when the phone rang.
I answered it and got the all to typical silence, with a soft click in the background.
Tele-marketers use these auto dialers to dial several numbers at a time, and they answer the ones that pick up first. The dialer hangs up on those who answer when the operator is on the phone with someone else.
The first thought that popped in to my head was, f---ing telemarketers, and I was about to hang up when I heard a muffled voice say hello. I responded in kind, and got, I can’t hear you very well can you hear me. It was Matt, and I could hear him quite plainly. Weird, as usually I have a terrible time hearing him, and the delay is terrible also.
We did the hello, I can’t hear you very well, I spoke up, and how about now, nope no better, then he said I’m ok. Your going to get a call from someone at battalion, I can’t hear you. I’ll call back, then click.
Does anyone know how long two to three minutes is?
It’s one long assed time, I can tell you that.
I waited with trembling hands, and tears welling in my eyes.
Real men don’t cry…..
I fought it back.
I didn’t want to scare my wife and other son.
After what felt like an eternity the phone rang again. And we started all over.
“Hello”, (me) “Hello”, (Matt) can you hear me”. “I can hear you fine, can you hear me”, “not very well”. I spoke up, “how about now”? “Nope”. “Are you alright”? A long silence, “yeah I’m alright”. He wasn’t very convincing.
“I wanted to get in-touch with you before brigade calls and over exaggerates what happened”.
“Ok. What happened”.
“We got blown up earlier tonight”. (Probably wasn’t a bad connection after all) “But we’re ok”.
I asked, “where are you”? “I don’t know”? “We’re north of where I told you we were last time”. “But I’m not sure of where exactly”.
And that’s the way it went.
He kept repeating that he was ok, but I could tell something was wrong.
The phone call from battalion never came.
I got an email from Matt this morning.
He and Webster, Nguyen, and Capt. Beatty were on patrol, it was Matt’s turn to drive. He and Webster are taking turns for the regular driver who is on leave. He remembers seeing a hole in the road and swerving to miss it. Then there was an explosion. He doesn’t know if it was in the hole, or on the side of the road, but it blew out two of the tires, and blew the exhaust cover off the top of the Stryker. They got thrown around some. He banged his head, and hurt his back, and where as they made him go to the aid station, this time, he thought it was protocol that we would be notified and he didn’t want us to worry. He said, “It happens more often than you know”. “But it’s not that big of a deal”. “I just didn’t want them calling, and exaggerating”.
I didn’t tell him, but we worry every day. We’re parents.
What else would we do.
I don’t worry much about him being killed in action.
I know that there's a chance that it might happen, but there’s nothing I can do about it.
If it does happen, I’ll deal with it then.
I worry more about what type of person he’ll be when he comes home.
Will he be one who can put it all in perspective and get on with his life?
Only time will tell.
Whatever happens we’ll go on loving and supporting him.
We’re parents.
What else can we do?

When I realy start feeling bad for myself, I think about these guys.

Then I remind myself that I don't have it all that bad.?

When I feel like I can't deal with one more problem.

I remember how much worse it could be.

The next time you see a man or woman in uniform just walk up and say thank you.
It's not easy. I get emotional every time.
But think how difficult it is for them to do what they do.

They will appreciate it.

Before I close, I have a bitch.
Have you heard Toby Keith’s song, I’m Already There? I think that’s the name, or Lay Me Down.
Anyway, I’d like to see everyone boycott this ballad.
What right does Toby Keith have writing a song about a soldier dieing in Iraq.
I seriously doubt that he ever served in the military.
This song has a lovely melody to it, but a terrible message.
It’s a shameless, selfish commercial ploy to play on the heartstrings of country music listeners all for the mighty buck.
There is no glory, or appreciation for what soldiers do, or how they die involved.
Only a story of a soldier who dies in Iraq talking to his mother, father, and pregnant wife.
How does Toby Keith know what a soldier in Iraq feels.
I turn the radio off every time the song comes on.
I am in the process of writing a letter to Mr. Keith explaining how this song makes one father feel.
I can only imagine that there are many other moms and dads that feel the same.
Am I being too sensitive?
Drop me a line and let me know what you think.

A.L. EAST CHAMPS.

2007-09-29T09:43:00.001-05:00

That is something I've been waiting twelve years to say, and it sounds great.

Sure they've won a world series since then, but not a division championship.
They usualy play second fiddle to the dreaded Yankees.
But not this year.
CHECK THEM OUT!!

Got a email from Matt this week. Sounds like he's doing well. They've moved to a location near the Iranian border.
Hmm Wonder why?

He said they haven't been mortarred since arriving. A common occurance at FOB Falcon.

He also said they are moving again soon.
Hope it's not across the border?

An email from Matt.
The Red Sox win the A.L. East.
It's a beautiful day here in the North East. Clear blue sky, bright sunshine, and 63 degrees.
The foliage is starting to take on brilliant colors.

I'm off to play in my high school annual alumni golf tournament.
Mom's hip is healing quite nicely.
I'm in a great mood.

HAD A THOUGHT TODAY.

2007-09-24T19:23:00.001-05:00

Here is an article that was forwarded to me by a mother who has a son in Matt's unit.

Washington Post
September 20, 2007
Pg. 1

Longer Leaves For Troops Blocked

Senate Bill Short of 60 Votes Needed

By Shailagh Murray and Jonathan Weisman, Washington Post Staff Writers

Senate Republicans yesterday rejected a bipartisan proposal to lengthen the home leaves of U.S. troops fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, derailing a measure that war opponents viewed as one of the best chances to force President Bush to accelerate a redeployment of forces.

The proposal, sponsored by Sens. James Webb (D-Va.) and Chuck Hagel (R-Neb.), failed on a 56 to 44 vote, with 60 votes needed for passage -- a tally that was virtually identical to a previous vote in July. A last-minute campaign by the Defense Department and the White House to kill the measure won over Sen. John W. Warner (R-Va.), an influential voice on defense policy who had voted with Webb and Hagel in July.

Warner's defection deflated any momentum that had been building and effectively ensured the legislation's demise. Just six Republicans supported the proposal, one fewer than the previous count.

The vote offered the most vivid evidence yet that the Bush administration still controls Iraq war policy, despite months of congressional debate, the wars persistent unpopularity and a summer-long effort by activists to pressure Republicans. Unless other options with broad appeal emerge soon -- a prospect both parties now say is unlikely -- Bush's plan to keep most troops in Iraq through next summer will remain intact.

"Our Republican colleagues are more interested in protecting our president than our troops," Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.) said moments before the vote, when defeat appeared certain. "This is Bush's war. Don't make it also the Republican senators' war."

Of all the Iraq measures now pending before the Senate, as part of an annual defense policy debate, Democrats had viewed the Webb proposal as one of the few that could gain broad enough support to become law. The measure would have required that troops be granted home leaves at least as long as their most recent combat deployments before being sent back to war. Its focus on troops and their families, rather than on military strategy, had attracted more GOP backing than Democratic bills that had set withdrawal timetables or had targeted war funding.

After the measure's defeat, senators predicted that other Iraq amendments in the queue, including several with bipartisan sponsorship, would meet a similar fate. "I don't think there's going to be any meaningful change of votes or switching until we get into next year," Hagel said.

A former Navy secretary and decorated Marine combat veteran, Webb quietly courted Republicans, tweaking the bill's language and adding clauses to allay their concerns. Exemptions were added for service members who volunteer to return to battle early. Testimony last week from Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, that 130,000 troops will remain in place through next summer, seemed to bolster Webb's case that deployment boundaries must be set.

Military families have bemoaned the stress of repeated deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Some military personnel have spent more than half of the past five years deployed in war zones.

"As this debate is going on, I think it's very important that we just put a safety net under our troops, to tell them, to reassure them that however long they're being deployed, they should be able to have that much time, at least, at home, in order to refurbish, retrain, have time with their families and mentally get prepared to go," Webb said.

Reading between the lines, Republicans detected another aim. By limiting the pool of people who would be eligible for deployment, they believed that Democrats were attempting to force the troop reductions that they had failed to bring about legislatively.

The first time Webb offered his amendment, on July 11, it attracted more support than either side anticipated. Reid decided to revive the proposal when Congress resumed the Iraq debate this month. The Democrats' list of GOP targets included Sens. Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), George V. Voinovich (Ohio) and Elizabeth Dole (N.C.).

But as Republican interest grew in recent days, party leaders and Pentagon brass fanned out across the Capitol in a campaign to defeat the plan. They called it unconstitutional, difficult to enforce and certain to be vetoed.

On Tuesday, four senators, including Jack Reed (D-R.I.) and Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), met with representatives of the Special Operations Command, who warned that the amendment would wreak havoc on their troops who do not follow regular rotation patterns. Webb responded by adding an exemption for such troops.

Yesterday morning, the Defense Department dispatched Army Lt. Gen. Carter F. Ham, a senior official with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Lt. Gen. James J. Lovelace, a deputy Army chief of staff, to detail all the problems the amendment would cause, Corker said.

Two weeks ago, Corker said, he approached Webb to tell him that he was seriously considering a vote for his measure. Yesterday, Corker said, the Pentagon had made its case. "I like Jim Webb. I know he has a lot of firsthand experience," Corker said. "But I don't think you can do this in the middle of a conflict."

The White House's big breakthrough came yesterday morning, when Warner announced that he had reconsidered. "It's a change of vote for me," said Warner, also a former Navy secretary, who will retire next year after completing five terms. "I recognize that."

Addressing Webb on the Senate floor, Warner explained: "I agree with the principles that you've laid down in your amendment, but I regret to say that I've been convinced by those in the professional uniform that they cannot do it."

Supporters of the Webb plan were visibly deflated. None of the anticipated GOP converts ended up switching their votes. "Senator Warner has enormous credibility and integrity on these questions. He certainly will be influential on anybody that was ambivalent about it," said Sen. Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine), a co-sponsor of Webb's proposal.

MY THOUGHT?

WHO THE HELL DO THESE POMPOUS ASSES THINK THEY ARE?

They're playing a political game of chess with our sons and daughters as the pawns.
Along with my thought I had an idea.
How about these asses staying on the job with only an equal amount of time off as our military personnel get in leave every year?
I wonder how they'd vote then?
Then I had another thought.
Why don't we all keep track of these elected officials vote on matters that concern the welfare of our dedicated military personnel, and when it comes time for us to vote we send each and every Senator and Representative that voted in favor of political interest rather than the well being of our troops, on a permanent vacation.

I'd like to think that Senators Webb and Hagel had the interrest of the troops in mind when they proposed the bill, and as such I applaud their effort as well as that of the other Senators who supported it.

JUST A THOUGHT.

DEPRESSION

2007-09-15T10:25:00.000-05:00

I have been struggling with a bit of depression and anxiety over my situation resulting in my lack of posting lately.
I apologize.
It is'nt that I don’t want to communicate.
I appreciate all the comments, and the emails from my many readers (all eleven of you if Technorati isn't wrong?) CHECK IT OUT., inquiring as to my well being.
I suspect that due to multiple personality issue one of you is three or maybe four?
But that's fine with me.
If you see Sybil, give her my regards.

I seem to immerse myself in my work as it keeps my mind busy on things that I like to think about, rather than those that I would rather not.

I can’t recall ever being scared by anything.
I am sure scared now.
Those of you who have children know that when your children are hurt or bothered by something you want to fix it.
You check the closet and under the bed to assure them that the boogieman is not there.
You want to find a way to comfort them, and make their troubles go away?
I can’t fix this.
I can't chase this boogieman off.
I can't hug my son and tell him everything will be ok.
And that scares the bejeepers out of me.
I feel like I’m letting Matt down because I can’t be there to help him.
I worry about him being hurt, or scared, and alone. Without his mother, brothers and I there to support him.
I feel that I’m letting the whole family down because I can’t bring Matt home safe and sound.
It’s a helpless feeling.

No, I'm not suicidal. I have never run from a battle, I have rarely quit anything that I started. And I am not about to quit life.
Besides, I live in a ranch house.
No attic.
I don't have a garage.
While I collect pocket knives, and we certainly have a great assortment of cutlery in the kitchen.
I have no desire to cut myself.
Preferring to slice a nice juicy roast or steak, and the occasional turkey at certain times of the year.
My apologies to the vegans amongst my readers.

At any rate, that's what I've been dealing with.
Up until yesterday that is.
One last bit of news, while I’m on the bad stuff.
My 77 year old mom fell and broke her hip yesterday.
She was getting some laundry in, and slipped and fell.
The bone was broken in four places.
Luckily the paper man came along, she lives on a country road with only two neighbors, and she got his attention and he called for help.
I have been leaving her to take care of herself independently so as to insure that she did'nt become dependant on others in order to keep her sharp. I have seen so many older people just give up and let others do everything for them.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m always more than willing to help, when she needs it, but she’s been in such remarkable health, and so adamant about taking care of herself, that I haven’t had much to do.
That all changed yesterday.
The doctor put a plate and screws in to reattach the bones to her hip socket, and expect her to make a good recovery.
But I don’t think she’ll be able to live in her house.
Too many stairs.
We have been discussing selling her house, so she could buy one with everything on one floor.
She has'nt been vary receptive to that plan.
The doctor broke the news to her that she would probably have to spend some time in assisted care living for proper rehabilitation and she seemed to take it in stride.
We’ll see.
She has always been sincere about not being a burden on us.
I think she will have to change that attitude a bit.

I'm certain that brighter days are coming.

I'll close with the little prayer I use to help get me by,
God Bless our young men and women in harms-way.
Keep them safe.
Instill in them the knowledge that those who love them are there
beside them in spirit, suffering their losses and celebrating their
success.
Give them the courage to complete the task before them and bring them
all home to their loved ones soon.
Amen.

SPLASH

2007-08-27T19:47:00.000-05:00

Remember how a few posts ago, when the country was in a state of political turmoil,and Tony Snow resigned, how I mentioned that "when you see rats jumping overboard from your cruise ship, it's time to man the life boats"?
Then Karl Rove went kersplash.

Well that big splash you heard today was one of the biggest rats hitting the water.
Alberto resigns.

READ ALL ABOUT IT

Later in the day GW got in front of the cameras and in his best redneck cowboy pose.

Blamed it all on the Democrats.
Said they dragged this noble and honorable man's name through the mud.

Said it was all politicking.

Couldn't be that he was as corrupt a human being as has ever been appointed to a high cabinet post?

Could it?

Well maybe not the most the crooked. But look who he was competing for the title with.

Couldn't be that his resignation was all part of George's plan to take the spotlight off of him and Iraq while his speech writers pen the report on the surge.

Could it?
What you say?
The White House report on progress in Iraq?

There's another little ditty that deserves some close watching.

A month ago we were all waiting to see what General David Patreus was going to have to report on the progress in Iraq.
Remember General Patreaus?

Can he save Iraq? Maybe if he forms a military coo, and overthrows the Bush regime.
Over the last few weeks it has changed to what the White House was going to report on the progress in Iraq.

What happened to General Patreus?

Has anyone heard anything of him in the last couple of weeks?

How many of you think the White House report is going to say that the plan is failing?

A showing of hands please?

Now how many think that General Patreus will be the next overboard?

The bottom line is that George W. Bush is a lying, bull headed, egomaniac of a failure.
He thinks he is incapable of making mistakes.

The question was asked today, "should Alberto Gonzalez go to jail for his actions while in office"?

How many say yes?

Who thinks he should be cell mates with George Bush, Dick Cheney, Karl Rove, and the rest of gang?

Is George Bush a coward?

Interesting Read

One thing I'm sure of is that we have two more years of this crap to put up with, until we have a whole new cast of crooks running the show.

Obama has a good idea.

Get rid of all the special interest groups and lobbyists, and start legislating for the good of the country and all of it's citizens.

Return government to what it should be, of the people, by the people, for the people.

Sounds good.

How many think we'll see it in our life time?

That's what I thought.

I couldn't leave without lightening things up a bit.
So here's a little ditty courtesy of "Buckfush.com".
CHECK EM OUT.

Looks like Chelsea Clinton. But why is she calling George H W Bush grandpa?
And is that Bill hideing beneath that ball cap?
And could he have just picked the old guys pocket?

A PLEA TO THE NEWS

2007-08-23T20:20:00.000-05:00

Here is a copy of my email to Fox 25 News Boston.

As a father of a soldier serving in Iraq I’m asking you to stop reporting about soldiers being killed until the families are notified.
I have my television set to come on at 5:30 on Fox 25 news.
I truly enjoy your morning show. Kim and Gene, VB,Q, Doug and Cindy are always an upbeat start to the day.
Imagine how you would feel to wake up, as I did Monday morning, to a report of 14 soldiers dieing in the crash of a Blackhawk helicopter north of Iraq.
Our sons are'nt allowed to tell us exactly where they are, for security reasons. We know that our son is in a combat unit somewhere north of Baghdad. So we see your broadcast, and dread the phone ringing until the next time we talk to him.
I know it's all about the ratings.
I speak for all families with sons and daughters, brothers and sisters serving when I say we would prefer that no reporting be done when soldiers lose their lives until the names have been released.
When soldiers die, either in combat or tragic accidents, the troops are put on communications black out. They can't communicate. This means when we, the families, hear the breaking news we have to wait for a day or two before the names are released. If you have a son or daughter serving, you know what I am talking about. If not, it probably means little to you.
I am reaching out through my blog to ask that families of soldiers in Iraq contact their regional news broadcasters asking that they please refrain from breaking stories about deaths in Iraq until the families are notified.
And to stop watching those stations that refuse.
I look forward to many years of enjoying your morning broadcasts.

All who read this who agree, please email your local broadcasters and ask that they stop this practice.
Those of us with loved ones in Iraq will rest a little easier.

The email address for Fox 25 Boston is, http://www.myfoxboston.com/myfox/pages/ContactUs;jsessionid=D566FC2B7FE48CE11A7E1D7C2704CC98.

God Bless.

ANOTHER LONG WAIT

2007-08-22T16:14:00.000-05:00

Black Hawk Helicopter Crash Kills 14 U.S. Soldiers in Iraq

I probably didn't mention that I set the television in our bedroom to come on at 5:30 every morning. I have it set to Fox News channel 25.
This morning the first thing I heard was the caption above.
They lead out with, "the names have been withheld pending notification of next of kin".
So I sent them an email telling them what a loyal viewer I was, and how I really enjoyed their news. I also told them how it felt to be a parent of a soldier serving in Iraq to hear that news, and have to wait to find out who the unfortunate soldiers were. I closed by telling them my belief that no news station should report anything about soldiers deaths until the next of kin could be contacted and how I understood the urgency of being the first news cast to break a sensational story.
I asked that they consider the families in the future and please not report the story until they had the names to go with it.
Then I closed by saying that the next time they broke a story before the names had been released that I would no longer watch their news.
I'm certain that I have them shaking in their boots. One viewer is not a big threat to the ratings.
I hope they don't under estimate the power of one.
I will take it upon myself to do my best to get all military families in their viewing area to switch to another broadcast until we find one that will honor my wish.
I get the feeling that it won't be long before I'm watching a lot less news.

Here's a picture of Matt and a buddy.
Looks like he's been pumping some iron in his spare time.
He called on Sunday, and sounded good.
They were packing up for a move.
All he could say was they were headed north.

It's Tuesday.
I so look forward to Tuesday and the weekly message from THE FLAG LADIES,
And Elaine's words for the week.
"When we talk of origins we don’t know exactly where we came from and when we are discussing destiny we don’t know exactly where we are going. The mystery of the origin of things is insoluble; the mystery of the hereafter is equally impenetrable but there is a higher and a lower order of life and we have a choice to make between them".

"Catch the light upon your sails and while you live, live in the light. When you reach the place where knowledge fails, trustfully steer your ship forward and face life with requisite moral heroism. You don’t need to see your destination if you are on the right road".

Elaine Greene ©

If you haven't already, I ask that you drop by their web page and leave a message of support.

Now for a shameless plug for the four folks that take the time to read my blathering, and comment.
I'll warn you up front that while they all play well with others, some can be on the R rated side of humor, and while I love every minute of it, some of you might find it offensive.
Oh Well. You've been duly warned.
Another appropriate warning is that a couple of these blogs might be hazardous to your health.
I've blown beer out my nose, and damn near choked to death laughing on several occasions.
First there's THE CHIEF He wrote the last blog he was ever going to write two months ago. And one damn near every day ever since!>
Second there's NIGEL. I can't really explain Nigel. He's like a black hole in space. He's there, you can see him, but you can't really explain it. He is second on my list though.
Be patient Mickey. Since you went corporate you've dropped down a couple of rungs.
Third theirs, MOM. I don't know what a siren is, but I bet, SUZY, Can splain it to me. I can't seem to get onto her list of people she don't hate. She gave me some lame excuse about me not being a comedian or something, it went in one ear and out the other. I KNOW MICKEY, CALM DOWN, I'M GETTING TO YOU. I still blogrolled her, and every once in a while she posts something interesting.
Ok, then there's Mickey There know are you happy? Take a bow, and say something to impress my guests. Be the life of the party.
The rest of crew is in no special order, BEN.
And, LUIN who I'm about to disown, because she never comes around any more. Must be the new layout. She's getting all uppity.

I leave you with the following to ponder.

If a male goat is ram, and a male goose is a gander, and a donkey is an ass, how does a ram in the ass become a goose?
Get back to me on this will ya? I really want to know.

INSPIRATION

2007-08-14T16:32:00.000-05:00

A short one to share a little something that I feel is worth sharing.

I've featured the ladies in previous blogs, and explained how I find them to be heroes.

I look forward to Tuesdays, and receiving their email and Elaine's message.

Elaine's messages are copyrighted, so I lay no claim to them.

I am passing them along in hopes that all who read this will drop them a note, foreverfree@feeportflagladies.com to thank them and get on their mailing list.

I had hoped to visit them on my last trip to Maine, but I was a bit under the weather on Tuesday and didn't make it.

That's a sorry excuse, but it is all I have.

Today's message:

As the weeks and months and years pass each Tuesday morning we head to the hill to hold our flags in honor of our troops and Elaine’s Tuesday messages continue without a break.

I have food on my table
But I will remember the hungry
I have a job right now
But I will remember the jobless
I have my own home
But I will remember the homeless
I have my own pain
But I will remember those who suffer

I can and will help by my words and deeds
By listening to a friend or helping someone in need
Compliment the weary and comfort those who cry
You can do more than you know if only you will try.

Elaine Greene ©

God Bless our Troops
God Bless America

The Freeport Flag Ladies
17 School Street,
Freeport, ME 04032
207 865-3414

ForeverFree@FreeportFlagLadies.com
http://www.freeportflagladies.com/

As I've mentioned, to those of us with sons and daughters serving in Iraq, it is highly possible that these ladies were the last people they saw when leaving the country.
They try to go to Bangor, approximately a two and a half hour trip one way for them, to send off all the departing units.
They take pictures, which they post, give hugs and let all know that they are loved and that their service is appreciated.

They also try to be there when they come home, to greet them and thank them once again.
The very least we can do is thank them, and support them as we are able and see fit.
God Bless

TRUELY BLESSED

2007-08-12T19:54:00.000-05:00

Over the last few months this blog has brought a few new people into my life.
Some through a common bond of having a loved one serving in the military, in a combat unit, in Iraq, and others who just want to wish us well.
The out pouring of well wishes, offers of prayers, and positive comments are appreciated more than any of you will ever know.
I usually answer comments by commenting on them in the comments section.
This time I decided to return the favor in a post.
First there is Suzy.
Suzy Soro.

Suzy started reading my blog because I use to bash George Bush, and she shared my disdain for his politics. Actually, she hates him.
I don't do that anymore.
This one's for you Suzy.

Suzy helps me by correcting my grammar and punctuation from time to time.
Seems she doesn't want the readers to think that I'm an idiot.
Yeah. Well good luck with that.
Then there's,
MightyMom.

I call her M&M, because I like M&Ms, and her, and her family.
You've got to check out her blog. It's a great perspective on living in Texas, and bringing up three children, and a retired sink boater.
Thank you Sarah for reading my blog, and your well wishes. You will never know how much it means to read your wonderful comments.
Then there's Mark.
Mark doesn't have a blog, but has a son in Iraq also.
We have communicated about our sons on numerous occasions and share many of the same concerns. Hopefully he will share some pictures of Mark from Iraq one of these days.

His son will be home in October, or early November.
I pray daily that he makes it out of there safely, and never goes back.

This message came from a new reader, who follows Suzy's blog.
"Hey Infantry Dad, My husband and I are also infantry parents. Our feelings mirror yours. Everything you said about waiting to hear from them, have they moved, has he been on his MySpace account is so true.
Also, the part about friends not asking how he is or if we have heard anything. I often wished people would ask. Now that he is preparing for his second deployment, I don't want people to ask anymore. I don't want to talk about it. I am in denial mode I think. If I don't think about it, it isn't happening, AGAIN. He will be deployed 15 months this time, a very very long time IMO. My son's name is Cpl. Calvin Anderson". I hope you don't mind my quoting you Lori? I think it's important that people know that they can ask, and that it is appreciated. And that there are many of us in this together.
I'm sorry that Calvin is being re-deployed, and certainly hope that all goes well. He will be in my thoughts and prayers.
It is important that we all talk to our elected officials and let them know that they need to insure that the home time between deployments is extended to a minimum of a year.

Martha Jane, thank you for your thoughts. I've read your posts to Suzy's blogs and always find them witty and interesting. I have tried a couple of the drinks.

I almost forgot;
The Chief
.
His latest comment,

"Seems like our news media concentrates more on reporting how many dead in Minnesota's bridge collapse, or how many possibly dead in Utah mine disaster, but they hardly report on Iraq casualties... I wonder what makes some deaths more important than others?

Hope your boy stays safe".

Thank you Chief. I am confident that Matt will return home safely as you did from Vietnam.
(Thank you for your service to our country.)
As far as one death being more important than another, I think it's more a matter of what the hot new topic du jour is.
That and the government putting pressure on the press to down-play the violence in Iraq, so the administration can report that the surge is working.
The truth is that our troops are still grossly under staffed, and over worked.
Matt's unit is going out on thirty six to forty eight hour missions, coming in for six to eight hour rests, and going back out again.
It's no wonder so many mistakes are being made. Sleep deprivation is a terrible thing.

I hope that I live long enough to see the end of our involvement in this terrible situation.

Thank you to all who stop by and take the time to pass along well wishes.

The last message I received from Matt was that he was in Qatar for five days R & R, but that he wasn't enjoying much. He was having anxiety attacks about the guy's in his unit still in country, and couldn't sleep because it was too quite.
I think it will be a long time be for that changes.

On a more joyful note Karen and I took the weekend and traveled to upstate Vermont then across into the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
Here's a young fella we caught a look at around dusk last evening.

We interrupted his dinner.

This is a shot of Mt Killkenny. (not one of the more famous peaks). From the front deck of our motel room in Lancaster.

And one of yours truly headed to the office to take care of a little business.

For those of you who are familiar with New Hampshire, you know that our symbol is an image of the Old Man Of The Mountain.

The ledge to the upper left of the picture is where the Old Man use to reside. Looking from the to the south.
The picture of the Old man is looking to the north, from the other side.
That was the more desirable view.
A couple of years ago the old guy gave up and slid down the side of the mountain.
A couple of hikers camping in the area heard the rumble, but weren't aware of what had happened until they went to view him the next morning and he was gone.

For those who have never been to New Hampshire, I recommend a visit. It is a beautiful state, with lots to see and do.
So much for the bureau of tourism.

All's Well!!!

2007-08-06T20:09:00.000-05:00

I finally got an email from Matt.

He's doing well. Seems a good friend of his over there decided to re-up for another year, and got a five day vacation to Qatar on which he could take a buddy. Matt's getting to go. I hope it doesn't entice him to re-up. But if that's the route he chooses, we will support him.

Here's Matt and a friend in the square where the statue of Saddam was toppled. (I think)?

That's him on the right. Pointing.

I think he's pretending to be able to read Arabic?

Or maybe he can...

This one says it all.

Guess he got my sense of humor!!

It was great to hear from him.
I was thinking, as I sometimes do, yesterday morning on my way to get a coffee, how people don't often ask how he is!
Oh, I don't mean you guys here on line.
I mean friends of ours, and co-workers, or the people who work with me. They seem to be uncomfortable. Sort of like when you come across an old friend who has lost a loved one, and you don't quite know how to approach them.
What to say?
The ones who do ask, are almost apologetic for bringing it up!
I can say, from my experience, that I don't mind at all! I like talking about Matt, and how he's doing. But I guess I can understand why someone would be hesitant about bringing it up.
Someone asked me, a while back, how I felt about his being over there? At the time I answered that I really didn't know how I felt. I tried not to think about it as much as possible, unless I was talking with somebody about it. Dwelling on it in my "me time" was something that I tried to avoid. It was just to depressing!!
As time has gone by I've come to feel that it is probably similar to having a child who has been seriously injured in an accident. You have the prognosis that he should come out of it and be ok, but there is that chance that he might not. Every day that goes bye with no bad news is one day closer to his being out of the woods. Every time he calls, or you get an email is a great day, and a giant step toward that day when he'll be home.
Then the news comes.

*"Truck bomb in northern Iraq kills 25".
"A truck bomb in the northern Iraqi town of Tal Afar killed 25 people and destroyed about 10 homes on Monday, police said". What a shame! But thank god he isn't in Tal Afar!! Or, is he? Yesterday he was in Baghdad. Did they move?

**"Four U.S. soldiers died on Monday in an explosion while on combat duty in Diyala province in Iraq, the U.S. military said".

He was South East of Baghdad Sunday. But there's no telling where the missions take him. So you wait. Look at his MySpace page to see if he signed in, and worry, until a couple of day's go by and no word,(no news is good news), or you get an email or phone call from him.
This is the cycle of daily life for a deployed soldiers family.

Any tough guy that tells you he doesn't worry a bit is lying to you!!

Or maybe he's just getting through it the only way he knows how!!

As for me?
I like talking about my feelings and Matt, with anyone who cares to ask!

I appreciate everyone who says they'll pray for him and us!!

I'm just a dad doing my best to cope, and reassure the rest of the family that everything is going to be ok!

Thanks to all of you who drop me a line, or leave your well wishes in comments here!
It makes my day.

God bless you all!!!!

*Associated Press writer Sinan Salaheddin in Baghdad contributed to this report. - Sapa-AP.

**From Rueters.

WHERE DOES THE TIME GO?

2007-07-15T07:15:00.000-05:00

Thanks to my friend, MICKEY, I'm reminded that I haven't posted for 14 days.
I'VE BEEN BUSY!!
Well not that busy, but you know how it goes.
I might not have mentioned it before, but I manage a fairly good sized fuel oil and propane company.
This is the time of year when customers get antsy about locking in their price for the coming winter. So I have to study the market and calculate usage, and bicker about why the company across town is four cents lower then us.
And usually the person worrying about the four cents uses seven to eight hundred gallons a year. So four cents a gallon on 800 gallons = $32.00.
Now if these were the customers who are unemployed, or working in McDonalds, I could handle it a lot better.
There not!!
They are the ones driving the SUV with the boat with the 225 horse Honda, the Harley, and snowmobiles, living in the 300,000 dollar and up houses, and making double and triple my salary.
They will spend an hour on the phone telling what a crook I am and how I don't appreciate their business, and how they're going to the competitor because they care more about their customers.
FOR $32.00!!
So what do I do???
I give them another two cents off,(if they haven't gotten personal and offended me),because I know most of them will either call or write the home office to tell them what a loser they have managing their Keene subsidiary and thus causing me a heap of explaining to my boss, when he and I and his boss all know I was justified, but there are board members, and owners and share holders and on and on that are aghast that we lost a customer.
All for $32.00.

Phew!! I sure feel better!!
If it wasn't 8:44 AM on this side of the world, I'd probably pop the top on a PBR, or Ballantine xXx ale, and take the edge off.
But it is 8:44 AM, and there are lawns to mow and weeds to whack, and sideing to be put on and a deck to build, and a window or two to be replaced, and, maybe I'll go fishing..

I'd like to get MICKEY and NIGEL, and THE CHIEF On the SS Minnow for a three hour fishing tour.
What a treat that would be.

My circle of blogging friends continues to grow.
I try to spend a little time each time I'm on line to search through others blogs, and when I find one that I like, or that moves me in one direction or another, I comment.. I always welcome the comments of others who read my blog, regardless of whether they agree with, or are contradictory to my opinions.
Even those that simply say "hi, how ya doin.
And those who correct my grammar, and spelling, or scold me for my prodding or berating of others, SUZY, and LUIN.

Last week I was privileged to have, MIGHTY MOM, stop by.
She's got her hands full with three little ones, and a husband who is a Navy vet, having served on submarines. I imagine he operates well in confined and well defined spaces, but how does he do out in the wide open spaces? Mom?? (Thank Subvet for his service to our grand country for me!!!)
I will certainly keep your cousin, SPC Baker, (first name?)in my thoughts, and prayers.
If you know, could you pass along which unit he's in?

I'd also like names and addresses of relatives of all my friends here who are serving in Iraq, or Afghanistan..
I have an associate that organizes a mass mailing of care packages too the troops around Thanksgiving, and she would be happy to add names to the list.

On another note, the list doesn't look to be getting any shorter any time soon.
In spite of the fact that our congress has gone through the charade of passing legislature that would initiate a well defined strategy for our safe withdrawal from Iraq, our wonderful, President has no intention of doing any such thing..
The bill doesn't call for an immediate wholesale withdrawal. Just a well defined exit strategy. A viable plan. Not vague lines in the sand, ( I think they call them benchmarks), that are easily changed when not met..
Even in the face of mounting pressure from his own party, GW stands fast and says, "when I'm old and living down there in Crawford, I will be able to say I looked in the mirror and made the correct decisions based on the facts."
I think he meant to say that he'll be able to look in the mirror and say he made the correct decisions, or does he have a magic mirror telling him what decisions to make?
I only hope that everyone is paying attention to what our government is doing, and when it comes time to vote in November of 08, that we send a clear and concise message to our leaders that we want our country run as a democracy where we the people have rights, and that the special interest groups no longer control the decision making. Disregard the amount of money a candidate earns to run his/her campaign, yet pay close attention to where that money came from.
Do your homework on each candidate, and decide which you feel will do the job with our best interests in mind, and then VOTE..
There, (he said, stepping down off the soap box), I feel better!!!

Mark? I trust that Mark made it back in country safely.
There isn't a day goes by that I don't think about him, and you, and hope and pray that he finishes his tour, and gets back to a normal life..

I pray that God will give them the strength, courage, and wisdom to complete their mission, and when completed that they will understand that they did what their leaders asked to the best of their ability, and that they should never look back in shame, but live in honor and with pride of their answer to the call to duty and service to their country.

I hope that all who read this blathering will take a minute to visit the Freeport Flag Ladies.

HEROES .
Take a minute to drop them a note and have them add you to their mailing list.
Elaine writes a few words of wisdom every Tuesday. I look forward to reading them.

Well, now I've written a blog of "Mohawk Chieftain" proportions.

I hope you're all happy!!

It will probably be another fifteen days or so before I get the chance to write again.
Here's a picture of what I imagine I would look like at the Chiefs bonfire.

Heh Heh.
RABSINEPO.

VACATIONS OVER and other crap

2007-07-01T18:39:00.000-05:00

Fresh back from seven great days and nights in Maine, and the toilet is open!!

In case you forgot how, here's a little reminder.

And something to ponder.

All joking aside we had probably the best stretch of weather that we have ever enjoyed at Hermit Island.
The days were crystal clear,

The sunsets were outstanding.

Couldn't have asked for better company.

And our adopted pet Mike liked it.

We called him Mike, because he liked everything we gave him to eat.
Here's a pic of Mike watching the cook preparing our breakfast.

Thanks to all who stopped bye and left messages while we were away.

Mic

Nigel

Ben

And Mark, who doesn't have a blog, or at least that he's admitting to yet, but shares a common bond of having a son in Iraq.
Who, by the way is home on leave.
I sure hope he enjoys every minute of it. He certainly deserves it.

Mark, if you read this, say thanks to Mark for his service to our country, and tell him that he's in my prayers daily.

I wish him the best of luck, and a safe completion to his deployment.

For a whole week, I got little to no news about Iraq. I'm thankful of that, because the only news I would have gotten would have been bad.
We had a email from Matt when we got home. It alluded to the fact that he is now a gunner on a Stryker. The news was that it was 130 degrees the other day, but where as the Stryker is air conditioned, half of him was cool. The other half was sticking out of the hatch, all sweaty and smelling of exhaust.
I don't think he was standing on his head!!

To be honest, I'd rather he was in the Stryker than a Humvee.

WISH YOU WERE HERE!!!!!!

2007-06-23T08:34:00.000-05:00

A view of our campsite from the beach, during a visit last fall.
Nobody camping.

A nice look at a shooner from our campsite a couple of years ago.
Hoping for this kind of weather.

Going to eat a few of these guys!!!
The locals call em bugs???
I guess they look a little like a bug.
Eight legs and all?

Another view from the campsite.

Many more pictures to come when we get back!!!
SEE YA.