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loner1115
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Segel: Younger Veterans Still Have Battles To Fight
Congressional support for our nation’s veterans and retired military personnel is becoming weaker with almost every election. Fewer and fewer members of Congress can boast records of military service. Where once a large segment of that body proudly ran for public office displaying military credentials, few who now campaign for office can identify themselves as having proudly worn the uniform of our country.
http://goo.gl/N0cQtLast edited on Tue Oct 18th, 2011 05:02 pm by loner1115
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loner1115
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Anyone hear anything about what they are going to try to do with military retirement?
Caught a little of it last night on tv. Said they are going to do away with the 20 year retirement system and instead, set up a 401(k) program.
Said it would give the 20 year people more money. And those that put in less than 20 years can cash it in.
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Herb
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"Albert Brown, the oldest American survivor of the Bataan Death March, in which as many as 11,000 soldiers died at the hands of the Japanese in the Philippines in 1942, and perhaps the oldest American veteran of World War II, died Sunday in Nashville, Ill. He was 105 and lived in Pinckneyville, Ill."
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/16/us/16brown.html?_r=1
Rest in Peace, Hero.
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Old Cuz
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Subject: Terrible Loss
Air Force Special Operations Command recently released the names and pictures of the three airmen who were killed along with 22 other special operators, seven Afghans, and a civilian interpreter Aug. 6, 2011, when a CH-47 Chinook was shot down in the Maiden Wardak province in eastern Afghanistan. They are: pararescueman TSgt. John W. Brown, pararescueman TSgt. Daniel L. Zerbe, and combat controller SSgt. Andrew W. Harvell. All three airmen were assigned to the 24th Special Tactics Squadron at Pope Field, N.C.
Sorry but the pictures won't come thru.
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Herb
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A cemetery employee also told VFW District 4 Honor Guard Chaplain Felix Sivcoski that he was not allowed to use the word "God" and Director Ocasio instructed Junior Vice Commander Nobleton Jones that he could not say the following or have any direct contact with families as he hands them shell casings from the rifle salute as he recited the words:
“On behalf of the United States of America, a grateful nation, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, I present you with these shell casings from the shots that were fired to honor our departed comrade. We thank him for his honorable service to our country. We thank you and your family for your support. We ask that God grant you and your family grace, mercy, and peace.”
Please go here and sign the petition against this practice.
Pass the word.
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(Ret)
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loner1115
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Disability system leaves troops in 'vast unknown'
By Kimberly Hefling August 18, 2011
WASHINGTON (AP) - Staff Sgt. Nicholas Lanier has entered what he calls the "vast unknown." A combat veteran and father to four daughters, he can't remain in the military because of a serious back injury earned in Iraq.
But he can't yet accept a civilian job because he doesn't know when the military will discharge him. He has no clue how much the government will pay him in disability compensation related to his injury, so he can't make a future budget. He just waits
http://goo.gl/84WKj
Last edited on Tue Oct 18th, 2011 05:04 pm by loner1115
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Mustng959
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Old Cuz wrote:
Subject: Terrible Loss
Air Force Special Operations Command recently released the names and pictures of the three airmen who were killed along with 22 other special operators, seven Afghans, and a civilian interpreter Aug. 6, 2011, when a CH-47 Chinook was shot down in the Maiden Wardak province in eastern Afghanistan. They are: pararescueman TSgt. John W. Brown, pararescueman TSgt. Daniel L. Zerbe, and combat controller SSgt. Andrew W. Harvell. All three airmen were assigned to the 24th Special Tactics Squadron at Pope Field, N.C.
Sorry but the pictures won't come thru.
There are only 3 career fields in the US Air Force that are authorized to wear berets: The Security Police/Forces - blue berets; Combat Controllers - scarlett berets; and PJ's (Pararescue) - maroon berets ........
These three men in the pictures ARE America's best!
Rest in Peace my brothers.
Note: I stand corrected though I have never seen a pewter gray beret, a black beret or a pewter green beret in the AF. Possibly this info is old (?)
The wearing of berets in the United States Air Force is somewhat less common, but several career fields are authorized to wear berets of differing colors, as specified in the following list:
Maroon — Pararescue
Scarlet — Combat Controllers
Pewter grey — Combat Weathermen
Royal blue — Security Forces
Pewter green — Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape specialists (SEREs)
Black — Air Liaison Officers (ALOs), Air Mobility Liaison Officers (AMLOs), Tactical Air Control Parties (TACPs)Last edited on Sat Aug 20th, 2011 03:03 pm by Mustng959
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Cherokee Bill
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Now here's a REAL Commander-In-Chief.......something our country hasn't had for over two and a half years now.
"Funny," this apparently wasn't reported at all by the MSM, only Fox.
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=8TiGYDvc4lU&sns=fb
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loner1115
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Deaf Man Determined To Serve In Military Despite Disability
Keith Nolan spent a decade applying repeatedly to the Army‘s Reserve Officers Training Corps’ program before the deaf man’s tenacity paid off and a commander finally let him audit the classes.
The Southern California high school teacher became a top performer in the ROTC program’s Bravo Company at California State University at Northridge, and his instructors were so impressed they let him wear a uniform. He was distraught when he turned it back in and said goodbye to the other cadets in May. He could advance no further under the military’s current policy that requires cadets pass a hearing test to be commissioned by the Army.
http://goo.gl/NrhKR
Last edited on Tue Oct 18th, 2011 05:07 pm by loner1115
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Old Cuz
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Happy 64th Air Force brthbday to all fellow Zoomies.
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Old Cuz
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As Herb always says in his prefaces to such announcements as this: BOHICA;
Subject: Obama proposes TRICARE changes
Date: Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:10:52 -0500
From: usairforce@public.govdelivery.com
Release No. 09-10-11
Sept. 20, 2011
Obama proposes TRICARE changes
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON (AFRNS) -- Military retirees would pay an annual fee for TRICARE-for-Life health insurance and TRICARE pharmacy co-payments would be restructured under the deficit reduction plan President Barack Obama released Sept. 19.
"If we're going to meet our responsibilities, we have to do it together," Obama said during a Rose Garden speech to announce the President's Plan for Economic Growth and Deficit Reduction. The plan reduces $4.4 trillion from the $14.7 trillion federal deficit over 10 years through a combination of spending cuts and increased tax revenue.
For the military portion, Obama said the government will save $1.1 trillion from the drawdown of forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, which are to be complete at the end of this year and in 2014, respectively.
The plan includes savings of $6.7 billion over 10 years by establishing "modest annual fees" for members of TRICARE-for-Life, which becomes a second-payer insurance to military retirees who transition to the federal Medicare program upon turning age 65. The change would BEGIN with a $200 annual fee in fiscal 2013.
The plan also includes savings of $15.1 billion in mandatory funds and $5.5 billion in discretionary funds over 10 years by restructuring co-payments for TRICARE pharmacy benefits.
To bring the TRICARE plan more in line with private and other federal plans, the president's proposed plan would eliminate co-pays for generic mail-order drugs, while shifting retail co-pays from a dollar amount to a percentage co-pay. The change would apply to military families and retirees, but not active-duty service members.
These changes will ensure fiscal responsibility without compromising quality care for service members and their families, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said in a statement released Sept. 19.
Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta "has consistently emphasized the need to keep faith with our troops and their families," Little said.
"That includes maintaining the highest quality health care for them," he continued. "We will continue to maintain the highest possible health care, but during this period of fiscal belt tightening, we may see modest cost increases in TRICARE enrollment fees and co-pays to sustain the health system."
The changes are necessary to help reduce the deficit and ensure the long-term strengths of the programs, a White House news release issued after Obama's speech said. The changes also would help to level "a measurable disparity" between military retirees and private sector workers, it says.
The statement notes that the administration has expanded GI Bill benefits, job training and veterans' homeless prevention programs, and proposed tax credits for employers to hire veterans.
"Still, as the cost of health care rises and benefit programs across the public and private sectors are being restructured to remain solvent," the release says, "it's important that programs that serve military retirees and veterans are modernized to be able to meet the needs of the future."
The plan also would create a commission to "modernize" military benefits through a process based on that of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission, the White House release said. Under the proposal, the Defense Department would make a proposal to the commission, which can alter the proposal before sending it to the president. The president may not alter the proposals, but would decide whether or not to send it to Congress. The Congress would have to approve or disapprove without modifications.
"The administration believes that any major military retirement reforms should include grandfathering provisions that ensure that the country does not break faith with military personnel now serving," the statement said.
Obama said the proposal to save $4 trillion "finishes what we started last summer" when he and the Congress agreed to $1 trillion in cost savings. Under the plan, the deficit -- the difference between revenue and spending -- would level out in 2017 where spending is no longer adding to the nation's debt.
While "we are scouring budget for every dime of waste and inefficiency," Obama said, the proposed plan also closes corporate tax loopholes, raises taxes on millionaires and makes changes to Medicaid and Medicare in an effort to help small businesses and middle class Americans, and protects spending on education, science and infrastructure such as roads and bridges.
"We're asking everybody to do their part so no one has to shoulder too much burden," Obama said.
Related Sites:
The President's Plan for Economic Growth and Deficit Reduction http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/budget/fy2012/assets/jointcommitteereport.pdf
For more retiree news and information, please visit http://www.retirees.af.mil.
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loner1115
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U.S. House Committee Passes Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act
Friday, September 09, 2011
On September 9, the U.S. House Veterans Affairs Committee passed an amendment by U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R-Mont.) as a part of a larger piece of veterans' legislation. The Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act, which was added to H.R.2349 as an amendment, would provide individuals receiving veterans' benefits with added protection against loss of the right to possess firearms due to mental health decisions.
http://www.nraila.org/Legislation/Federal/Read.aspx?id=7071
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He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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loner1115
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GOLD STAR MOTHER
By Keo R. Gathman
As she stands beside his grave
On yet another Memorial Day,
She remembers the boy she sent away
And how he became the man resting here today.
His heroes didn't become famous playing ball.
In fact most of their names were never well known at all.
They went to work wearing camouflage green and desert brown,
Earning their reputation as the toughest warriors around.
When he first saw them in dress blues
The heart within her little boy knew,
That nothing short of becoming one of them would do.
Time all too quickly passed by
As childhood things were put aside,
And his heart's desire would not be denied.
"I love you, Mom" he said one day
"But the time has come for me to go away,"
And she knew his decision she couldn't sway.
Through tears she tried so hard to keep inside
She told her baby boy goodbye.
Writing him letters nearly every day
She often took the time to pray,
"Lord be with my boy today."
"Help him clearly see the man I know that he can be,
Grant him his most cherished dream,
Let him come home, a United States Marine."
When the time came for him to go to war
She feared as she had never feared before,
Prayed there would be no knock on her front door.
They came that day dressed in their blues
And though in her heart she already knew,
She cried out "No, it can't be true."
The man child she had sent away
Was at last coming home to stay.
He never doubted what they did was right,
And he never wavered in the fight.
Forever and always as in his childhood dreams,
Her boy remains a United States Marine.
Copyright 2006 Keo R. Gathman ( beakerless@hotmail.com ). Permission is granted to send this to others, with attribution, but not for commercial purposes.
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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loner1115
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Department of Military Correctness: Houston Cemetery
In July, we reported on the egregious policy of the Houston Cemetery's banning of religious speech at military funerals. Families wishing to use such speech had to submit a written request to cemetery director Arleen Ocasio. Even worse, this policy was supported by the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Now, however, it looks as if constitutional rights to free speech have triumphed over politically correct bureaucrats and big government -- at least in this case.
The mediating parties have come to an agreement that restores the rights of military families to choose the way they honor their fallen loved ones. The VA will no longer be able to interfere with prayer during funeral services or censor the words "God" or "Jesus" in condolence cards and gifts. The VA will also have a cross, Bible and Star of David easily accessible to families who wish to have them. While this is, of course, excellent news, it's still inconceivable that it had to come to this point. The real tragedy here is that those who fight to protect our right to worship have to fight -- even in death -- for their own. The agreement now awaits the signature of Texas Supreme Court Justice Tom Phillips. Unfortunately, that agreement does not include the removal of Arleen Ocasio.
http://patriotpost.us/edition/2011/09/30/digest/
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He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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swandive4
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Sounds like somebody found a little common sense!
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There is no such thing as common sense because if sense were common then everyone would have it - Liberals wouldn't exist and Obama wouldn't be president!
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STEVEN
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loner1115 wrote:
Department of Military Correctness: Houston Cemetery
In July, we reported on the egregious policy of the Houston Cemetery's banning of religious speech at military funerals. Families wishing to use such speech had to submit a written request to cemetery director Arleen Ocasio. Even worse, this policy was supported by the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Now, however, it looks as if constitutional rights to free speech have triumphed over politically correct bureaucrats and big government -- at least in this case.
The mediating parties have come to an agreement that restores the rights of military families to choose the way they honor their fallen loved ones. The VA will no longer be able to interfere with prayer during funeral services or censor the words "God" or "Jesus" in condolence cards and gifts. The VA will also have a cross, Bible and Star of David easily accessible to families who wish to have them. While this is, of course, excellent news, it's still inconceivable that it had to come to this point. The real tragedy here is that those who fight to protect our right to worship have to fight -- even in death -- for their own. The agreement now awaits the signature of Texas Supreme Court Justice Tom Phillips. Unfortunately, that agreement does not include the removal of Arleen Ocasio.
http://patriotpost.us/edition/2011/09/30/digest/
She needs to go and quickly. She'll will most likely come up with more insane policies that will only add to the grief of the families that have to deal with her.
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loner1115
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Iraq, Afghanistan wars not worth fighting, many vets say
Pew report examines attitudes on conflicts, terrorism and burdens and rewards of military
As the United States marks 10 years of war, only a third of the veterans of the post-9/11 era say that the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq have both been worth fighting, according to a new Pew Research Center report.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44777299/ns/us_news-life/
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loner1115
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Lawmakers open to changes in military benefits
GOP, Democrats signal a willingness to make military retirees pay more for coverage
WASHINGTON — The government's promise of lifetime health care for the military's men and women is suddenly a little less sacrosanct as Congress looks to slash trillion-dollar-plus deficits.
Republicans and Democrats alike are signaling a willingness — unheard of at the height of two post-Sept. 11 wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — to make military retirees pay more for coverage. It's a reflection of Washington's newfound embrace of fiscal austerity and the Pentagon's push to cut health care costs that have skyrocketed from $19 billion in 2001 to $53 billion.
http://goo.gl/bfL42
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He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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RetiredE8
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McCain eyes barring retirees from Tricare PrimeIn the mix is a radical proposal from Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., that would have potentially far-reaching effects on the health care of retirees and active-duty family members. McCain, ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, has proposed barring military retirees from signing up for Tricare Prime, the least expensive Tricare option available to them... “As someone who has committed his life to serving our nation and the men and women who protect it, this was not an easy decision,” he said. “I believe we must all share in the burden to ensure that our nation’s debt does not imperil our economic and security future.
It seems whey you have your congressional health care for the rest of your life, you no longer care about those whose uniform you once wore.
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loner1115
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Mustng959 wrote: RetiredE8 wrote:
McCain eyes barring retirees from Tricare PrimeIn the mix is a radical proposal from Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., that would have potentially far-reaching effects on the health care of retirees and active-duty family members. McCain, ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, has proposed barring military retirees from signing up for Tricare Prime, the least expensive Tricare option available to them... “As someone who has committed his life to serving our nation and the men and women who protect it, this was not an easy decision,” he said. “I believe we must all share in the burden to ensure that our nation’s debt does not imperil our economic and security future.
It seems whey you have your congressional health care for the rest of your life, you no longer care about those whose uniform you once wore.
What is it about Washington DC and its corruption of once good men?
Nothing like shafting the people who did the most to keep America free so the polititians could keep doing the lousy job they've been doing.
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He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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Old Cuz
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As Memorial Day is fast approaching, I would like to submit this for your perusal, from the “Forgotten War” and the next time I have to read about what heroes the Occupy Wall Street” protesters are, I wish someone would show those worthless louts what a terrible price has been paid so they can put this Nation down and bad mouth it. I just got it from a friend who is an honorary member of “The Chosen Few, Army chapter” and it is from their recent Newsletter:
No knife ? No need. Problem snipped.
A TIME magzine article reprinted earlier this year
told of a harrowing incident in a North Korean
POW camp. The story was headlined "Penknife
Surgery."
A young American GI, while guarding the
convoy of wounded men in a breakout attempt
from the Chosin Reservoir, was shot in both legs
and captured by the Chinese. He was sent to
a POW camp where his frostbitten feet became
black and useless. So, without anesthesia or
medicine, fellow pows amputated both feet with a
"penknife," according to the 1953 article.
But TIME didn't have it quite right. After the story
s published in the Army Chapter newsletter, a letter
came to the editor with additional and firsthand in
formation. Three men, not two, were involved in the
amputation, the letter said. The "surgical instrument"
was a pair of rusty scissors, not a penknife. And the
patient suffered no pain; his feet were already dead.
As best they could, the POW "medical team"
dressed the stubs with bandages torn from a light-
weight GI parka. The prognosis was grim at best.
But the patient was determined: he would not die
in a prison camp. His spirit went far in helping him
survive more than 30 months imprisonment - on his
hands and knees.
PFC Grant McMillin HQ/57FN7, who wrote
the letter, was the third man in that crude and filthy
"operat- ing room." He'd given up his parka for the ban-
dages.
Continued from page one
And, McMillin adds, "I know the penknife did not exist.
The scissors finally did the job, as slow as it was."
So, with a huge helping of guts and ingenuity, the
17 -year-old soldier reached his goal.
Today he is a proud 77-year-old who retired in1980 after
30 years in the electronics field. He's still full of life despite the
constant pain of spinal stenosis, even after two surgeries.
He also enjoys having periodic visits in his Alabama home
with McMillin who lives in Wisconsin. There is a bond between
the two since they were POWs for the same length of time.
Both were released in August 1953. The amputee received
prosthetics soon afterward. He's worn them without problems
throughout his life.
(A/though he is not a member of the Army Chapter, in the
interest of persona/ privacy the "patient" asked that he not be
identified .. - Editor)
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loner1115
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Think this would be kind of appropriate on this thread.
11/11/11 protesters: 'Time for talking has passed'
Veterans challenging Obama on legitimacy, constitutionality
Declaring that the "time for talking has passed," organizers of a peaceful rally scheduled for Veteran's Day in Washington are demanding the resignation of Barack Obama along with other members of his administration.
The rally is being assembled around the issues contained in a Declaration to Restore the Constitutional Republic, which sets out the goals of the organizing groups, which include the Veteran Defenders of America and its parent organization, The United States Patriots Union.
http://www.wnd.com/?pageId=363221#ixzz1ce1d6IgG
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He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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GaCDBFan
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The Boy Scout Troop and Cub Scout Pack my boys are members of are going to plant American flags at the graves of veterans in the city cemetery this weekend in preparation for Veteran's Day coming up.
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Click this link to go to the Table of Contents of the Computer Help thread:
http://goo.gl/5mfAf
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loner1115
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Veterans Day Discounts and Freebies for active military / veterans
To all who served – a simple thank you is never enough. We would not be able to post these deals if it were not for your service.
Two notes before jumping in:
Proof of Military Service. First, most companies require some form of military ID – including a U.S. Uniform Services ID Card (active/reserve/retired), Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Photograph in uniform, be wearing uniform (if your service permits), Veterans Organization Card (e.g., American Legion and VFW), DD214, discharge paperwork, or other form of identification. Other restaurants and companies may only require a photo of you in uniform, or go by the honor system.
Participation. Second, always call ahead to verify locations, times, and participation. Many of the listed companies are franchises and may have different policies. We will do our best to keep this page updated as we find new info.
This year, Veterans Day falls on Friday, November 11, 2011 so expect a long weekend of deals and bargains lasting through Monday the 14th at outlet malls, department stores and local retailers nationwide.
http://slickdeals.net/forums/showthread.php?t=3478436
Another source of info. This site appears to be the best source.
http://themilitarywallet.com/veterans-day-free-meals-and-discounts/
Last edited on Sat Nov 5th, 2011 10:02 am by loner1115
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He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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Old Cuz
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Breaking the Sound Barrier... without an airplane,
This story gives the term Test Pilot a whole new meaning.
Joe Kittinger is not a household aviation name like Neil Armstrong or Chuck Yeager. But what he did for the U. S. space program is comparable. On Aug. 16, 1960, as research for the then-fledgling U. S. space program, Air Force Captain Joseph Kittinger rode a helium balloon to the edge of space, 102,800 feet above the earth, a feat in itself.
Then, wearing just a thin pressure suit and breathing supplemental oxygen, he leaned over the cramped confines of his gondola and jumped--into the 110-degree-below-zero, near-vacuum of space. Within seconds his body accelerated to 714mph in the thin air, breaking the sound barrier.
After free-falling for more than four and a half minutes, slowed finally by friction from the heavier air below, he felt his parachute open at 14,000 feet, and he coasted gently down to the New Mexico desert floor. Kittinger's feat showed scientists that astronauts could survive the harshness of space with just a pressure suit and that man could eject from aircraft at extreme altitudes and survive.
Upon Kittinger's return to base, a congratulatory telegram was waiting from the Mercury seven astronauts--including Alan Shepard and John Glenn. More than four decades later Kittinger's two world records--the highest parachute jump, and the only man to break the sound barrier without an aircraft and live--still stand. We decided to visit the retired colonel and Aviation Hall of Famer, now 75, at his home in Altamonte Springs , Florida , to recall his historic jump.
FORBES GLOBAL: Take us back to New Mexico and Aug. 16, 1960.
Joe Kittinger: We got up at 2 a. m. to start filling the helium balloon. At sea level, it was 35 to 40 feet wide and 200 feet high; at altitude, due to the low air pressure, it expanded to 25 stories in width, and still was 20 stories high!
At 4 a. m. I began breathing pure oxygen for two hours. That's how long it takes to remove all the nitrogen from your blood so you don't get the bends going so high so fast. Then it was a lengthy dress procedure layering warm clothing under my pressure suit. They kept me in air-conditioning until it was time to launch because we were in the desert and I wasn't supposed to sweat. If I did, my clothes would freeze on the way up.
How was your ascent?
It took an hour and a half to get to altitude. It was cold. At 40,000 feet, the glove on my right hand hadn't inflated. I knew that if I radioed my doctor, he would abort the flight. If that happened, I knew I might never get another chance because there were lots of people who didnšt want this test to happen.
I took a calculated risk, that I might lose use of my right hand. It quickly swelled up, and I did lose use for the duration of the flight. But the rest of the pressure suit worked. When I reached 102,800 feet, maximum altitude, I wasn't quite over the target.
So I drifted for 11 minutes. The winds were out of the east. What's it look like from so high up? You can see about 400 miles in every direction. The formula is 1.25 x the sq. root of the altitude in thousands of feet. (The square root of 102,000 ft is 319 X 1.25 = 399 miles)
The most fascinating thing is that it's just black overhead--the transition from normal blue to black is very stark. You can't see stars because there's a lot of glare from the sun, so your pupils are too small. I was struck with the beauty of it. But I was also struck by how hostile it is: more than 100 degrees below zero, no air. If my protection suit failed, I would be dead in a few seconds. Blood actually boils above 62, 000 feet.
I went through my 46-step checklist, disconnected from the balloonšs power supply and lost all communication with the ground. I was totally under power from the kit on my back. When everything was done, I stood up, turned around to the door, took one final look out and said a silent prayer: "Lord, take care of me now." Then I just jumped over the side.
What were you thinking as you took that step?
It's the beginning of a test. I had gone through simulations many times--more than 100. I rolled over and looked up, and there was the balloon just roaring into space. I realized that the balloon wasn't roaring into space; I was going down at a fantastic rate! At about 90,000 feet, I reached 714mph.
The altimeter on my wrist was unwinding very rapidly. But there was no sense of speed. Where you determine speed is visual--if you see something go flashing by. But nothing flashes by 20 miles up--there are no signposts there, and you are way above any clouds. When the chute opened, the rest of the jump was anticlimactic because everything had worked perfectly. I landed 12 or 13 minutes later, and there was my crew waiting. We were elated.
How about your right hand?
It hurt--there was quite a bit of swelling and the blood pressure in my arm was high. But that went away in a few days, and I regained full use of my hand. What about attempts to break your record? We did it for air crews and astronauts--for the learning, not to set a record.
They will be going up as skydivers. Somebody will beat it someday. Records are made to be broken. And I'll be elated. But I'll also be concerned that theyšre properly trained. If they're not, they're taking a heck of a risk.
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Old Cuz
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Sorry about the duplicate post. Last edited on Mon Nov 7th, 2011 02:09 pm by Old Cuz
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GaCDBFan
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Cool story! I've never heard that before. Thanks!
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Aldebaran
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Today is the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Tippecanoe which is considered the first battle of the War of 1812. I went to the memorial ceremony over the weekend to honor those who gave their lives for America. It was an outstanding commemeration with re-enacters dressed in the outfits of the various companies. I had an ancestor there 200 years ago and I met the great-great-great grandson of his commanding officer. The ceremony honoring the American patriots was outstanding.
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To my ancestors who fought in the American Revolution: Thomas Day, Hans Gerlach, Nathaniel West, and especially John Wetherholt who took a British ball in the head at Saratoga, spent a year in the hospital at Albany, and re-enlisted in the Jersey Blues.
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Herb
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Brotherhood
Brother, life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forgive the ones who don't, just because you can.
Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands, those of you who served in Viet Nam know this. If it changes your life, let it. Take a few minutes to think before you act when you're mad. Forgive quickly. God never said life would be easy, He just promised it would be worth it.
Today is Band of Brothers' Day; send this to all your brothers, fathers, sons and fellow veterans you know.
Happy Brothers' Day!
I LOVE YA BROTHER!!!
To the cool men that have touched my life. Here's to you!! I was never a hero, but I am thankful I served among them.
A real Brother walks with you when the rest of the world walks on you.
Send to all your Band of Brothers, because the fake ones won't.
____________________
MGySgt USMC
(Ret)
Note: No trees were killed in the sending of this message, but a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.
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Old Cuz
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Subject: C-130 "Angel Flight"
This video is about a song called "Angel Flight"... It is terrific. The song is being performed with "effects." Listen to the words of the pilot and the tower, and make sure you sit quietly and listen at the very end. You will understand why one of the singers said he would be glad to help with the song.....if he could stop crying. This is beautiful. God bless Vets!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70Ikj1hZDnw&feature=related
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Herb
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Tomorrow is Veteran's Day. A day set aside to honor those that gave up their freedom, health and even lives, so that we can enjoy the freedoms that are ours.
Freedoms that are now being chipped away by a bunch of takers that hate our freedom.
Alexander's Essay – November 10, 2011
"Across our nation, there is a sharp division between two groups of Americans marching to very different drummers."
"...the division I note is made plain by the vivid contrast in character between two groups -- those on the frontlines in defense of Liberty versus those who seek to subvert it."
"...a peace invulnerable to the schemings of unworthy men. And a peace that will let all of men live in freedom, reaping the just rewards of their honest toil. Thy will be done, Almighty God. Amen."
____________________
MGySgt USMC
(Ret)
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loner1115
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____________________
Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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GaCDBFan
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I thought I would post this with today being the USMC birthday. Good stuff...
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Jesse Duke fan
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LOL I don't care who you are, that's funny right there!
Happy Veteran's Day! 11-11-11
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Old Cuz
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Indeed a wonderful birthday wish for all the Leathernecks Semper Fi. Of course a wish and thanks to all vets tormorrow, God bless all.
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loner1115
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WITH PRAISE FOR AGING VETERANS
By Rev. Greg Asimakoupoulos
A veteran's not a rookie.
A vet has paid his dues.
A veteran knows the hell of war
just nuanced in the news.
A veteran loves his country.
With pride he greets its flag.
He stands up straight (still soldier-like)
although his shoulders sag.
A veteran knows life's precious.
Old memories make him cry.
He wonders why God let him live
when he watched others die.
A veteran models friendship.
His buddies know he cares.
Although they live twelve states away,
he'll find a way to share.
In Saving Private Ryan,
civilians got to see
the bond this band of brothers feel
when one's in jeopardy.
I've seen what I'm describing.
You see, my dad's a vet.
His brave example makes me proud
of who he is. And yet
my dad's just one of millions
who fought so we'd be free.
Without regard for life or limb
they served us selflessly.
So how can we repay them?
It seems there's just no way,
except perhaps to honor them
with thanks on Veterans' Day.
------------
Copyright 2003 Rev. Greg Asimakoupoulos. Permission is granted to send this to others, with attribution, but not for commercial purposes.
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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loner1115
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Military BibleStick Outreach
Across the USA, churches, radio stations, tv stations, and people like you are standing strong with our military, showing support and spreading God's Word to those in harm's way.
Through Faith Comes By Hearing's Military BibleStick project, our nation's troops are hearing the Word of God while on (or preparing for) deployment.
The Military BibleStick is a digital audio player that is pre-loaded with a dramatized recording of the entire New Testament.
http://www.faithcomesbyhearing.com/military/military-outreach
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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KeepTheChange
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http://thebrigade.thechive.com/
Articles and stories of military interests on weapons, branches of the service, wars, with videos and pictures of heroes, some inspirational stories & some funny. Have a look and report back. Thank you sir!
Cherokee Bill - Post #411 - Great video! Thank you for posting it!Last edited on Mon Nov 21st, 2011 02:47 am by KeepTheChange
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"Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters." - Ben Franklin
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loner1115
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House approves new TSA rules for U.S. military
Members of the U.S. military flying on official orders while in uniform may soon see faster security screening while traveling through the nation's airports.
The U.S. House of Representatives today voted 404 to 0 to approve H.R. 1801, also known as the ‘‘Risk-Based Security Screening for Members of The Armed Forces Act," which will now be sent to the Senate. If passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Barack Obama, the Transportation Security Administration within six months will be required to implement expedited security screening for members of the U.S. military and any family members traveling with them.
http://overheadbin.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/29/9092808-house-approves-new-tsa-rules-for-us-military
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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GaCDBFan
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It's about time! I remember a story where soldiers boarding a chartered plane (the whole plane was soldiers) had their multi-tools and nail clippers confiscated by TSA as they boarded the planes carrying M16's and some carrying pistols and even machine guns. TSA = idiocy defined.
http://boingboing.net/2010/11/19/tsa-confiscates-heav.html
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Herb
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loner1115 wrote: House approves new TSA rules for U.S. military
Members of the U.S. military flying on official orders while in uniform may soon see faster security screening while traveling through the nation's airports.
The U.S. House of Representatives today voted 404 to 0 to approve H.R. 1801, also known as the ‘‘Risk-Based Security Screening for Members of The Armed Forces Act," which will now be sent to the Senate. If passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Barack Obama, the Transportation Security Administration within six months will be required to implement expedited security screening for members of the U.S. military and any family members traveling with them.
http://overheadbin.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/29/9092808-house-approves-new-tsa-rules-for-us-military
I have a better idea. Do away with the TSA.
____________________
MGySgt USMC
(Ret)
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Cherokee Bill
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DFAS end-of-year mailing holds tax documents, more....
CLEVELAND (AFRNS) – Retirees will be receiving some extra documents in their end of year mailing from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service. DFAS officials state that every piece of paper in the mailing is important and will help retirees manage their pay matters through the tax season and beyond.
Included in the mailing will be:
-- A Retiree Account Statement dated Dec. 2 show the new payment amount as of Dec. 30. This includes the cost-of-living allowance adjustment for 2012.
-- A Retiree Account Statement dated Dec. 12 show the new payment amount as of Feb. 1. This includes any federal income tax adjustments caused by changes to the 2012 tax tables.
-- Internal Revenue Service Form 1099-R reflecting all payments retirees received in 2011. DFAS officials remind retirees that because of the pay date change approved by Congress earlier this year, the 1099-R will reflect 13 payments rather than 12.
-- The DFAS retiree newsletter including important updates from retired and annuitant pay officials, as well as information about tools people can use to manage their retired pay account year round.
For people with online myPay accounts, the statements will be posted Dec. 4, and the 1099-Rs will be posted Dec. 15. For people who get these documents via the U.S. Postal Service, DFAS official will mail these documents to retirees Dec. 19 through Jan. 10.
The Annuitant Account Statements and 1099-Rs will be available Dec. 14 on myPay. Annuitants who get these documents via mail can expect to receive them Dec. 19 through 31.
Retirees and annuitants must keep their contact information current, according to DFAS officials who say the top reason a retiree or annuitant doesn’t receive their 1099-R is because it is sent to an old address.
If a retiree or annuitant does not have their correct address on file with DFAS by Dec. 5, they will experience a significant delay in receiving their end of year documents, said official. People who do not have an active myPay account must call, mail or fax a written request to DFAS-Cleveland; processing a change of address and reissuing a new 1099-R takes at least 30 days, said officials.
Retirees and annuitants with an active myPay account can decrease their wait time for an address change and new 1099-R by logging in and updating their own account. Changes take effect in three to five business days, and a copy of their 1099R can be printed directly from myPay.
For more information about account maintenance, 1099-R requests, and logging in to myPay visit the DFAS website at http://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary.html. People without an online account can contact DFAS at 800-321-1080.
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If you are ashamed to stand by your colors, you had better seek another flag.
~Author Unknown
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Old Cuz
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Petraeus..retired and slighted
Betrayal by the White House--------------------
EDITORIAL: An old soldier who won't fade away
Obama is outclassed and outsmarted by retiring Gen. Petraeus:
Gen. David H. Petraeus closed his phenomenal 37-year Army career this week with a joint review at Fort Myer in Arlington. Service members from every branch were present, and flags of all 50 states fluttered in the breeze. A substantial crowd had come to hear the general's farewell address. Many were classmates from the West Point Class of 1974, smartly attired but enthusiastic and occasionally whooping like they were cadets. Others were people with whom he had served over his storied career, whom he recognized from the dais during his speech. The morning was sunny and clear, and the general was his usual affable, ebullient self.
In his remarks, Gen. Petraeus recalled the days when he entered the military, when the Vietnam War was winding down and the armed services were being pared down to the "hollow forces" of the 1970s. "The Army I joined as
a second lieutenant had suffered enormously," he said. "In the wake of our involvement in Vietnam, our Army and much of our military were grappling with a host of very serious challenges." The senior leaders who first wore the uniform in those dark days were not discouraged. They began their careers with a sense of mission. "I know I speak for many when I say that we came away from that period vowing to never let our forces get to such a point ever again." Through his efforts, and those of countless other visionaries in and out of uniform, the hollow forces were transformed once again into the finest fighting force in the world.
Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, presided over the ceremony with William J. Lynn, deputy secretary of defense. Notably absent were Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta, whose former position as CIA director is Gen. Petraeus' next assignment, and President Obama. Their non-appearance did not sit well with some. "Obama should have been here," a warrior who served under Gen. Petraeus told The Washington Times. "And he should have invited [former President George W.] Bush. The general saved their bacon. Twice.
"Everyone has forgotten that in 2007 we as a nation had said, 'OK, we are going to lose Iraq .' And President Bush said, 'Well what if we win?' Petraeus rode into town and assembled an extraordinary team. His personal drive, his charisma, his optimism, his can-do spirit, all of that is what gave us hope that we could in fact turn Iraq around," our source explained. "And by September of '07, the progress had been dramatic enough that it became common knowledge to the American people that things were turning around in Iraq . Eight months earlier, a lot of people, including Obama, wanted to tuck tail and have another Vietnam ."
That's not all. "Here is the guy who saved our reputation as a nation. Seriously, who's missing this? And then he went to [Central Command] and was doing great things. And Obama asked him to take a functional demotion and go back to Afghanistan and save our bacon again," we were told. "To leave his family, to step down from a regional command, to take on that burden. And he said yes, and he did it. Petraeus was the right guy at the right time, he answered the call, and now he's being yanked out before we're ready, just like the troops are being yanked out before Afghanistan is ready."
So what's the reason for the White House about-face? "They are sending him to the CIA to keep him quiet during the 2012 election. It shows how small and scared they are. He is an honorable man, he has never expressed political ambition. But they saw him as a threat. He is an independent thinker, the finest military mind of his generation," our source posits.
"What he suffers from is that he is more excellent than almost anyone he meets, to include the president. The troops love him. Strong people surround themselves with the most excellent people they can find, even those brighter and more capable than themselves. Weak people don't."
There is a shameful indignity in how this hero was treated. "The president couldn't find the time in his schedule, nor could the [defense secretary] find the time to look him in the eye and say thank you in person," this warrior told The Washington Times. "It's one thing to say 'we support the troops' and trot out your first lady to do that, but this is where it counts. It would have been an appropriate gesture to come here to recognize the professional and personal sacrifice of this extraordinary man. It would have been the dignified thing to do."
The hero remained above it all. The cannons boomed and the crowd cheered and Gen. Petraeus stood smiling in the sun.
© Copyright 2011 The Washington Times, LLC.
Honor Gen. Petraeus by sending this to those who will care.
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Not Racist; Not Violent; Not
Silent Anymore.
GO GATORS!!!!!!!!!!!!
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swandive4
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My Marine Corp son-in-law is home from Afghanistan but in de-briefing this weekend and my Marine Corp daughter is making a road trip Monday morning to go fetch him and bring him home - thank you Lord!
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There is no such thing as common sense because if sense were common then everyone would have it - Liberals wouldn't exist and Obama wouldn't be president!
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Old Cuz
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swandive4 wrote:
My Marine Corp son-in-law is home from Afghanistan but in de-briefing this weekend and my Marine Corp daughter is making a road trip Monday morning to go fetch him and bring him home - thank you Lord!
Welcome back Swandive4, it's been quite a while since you checked in. Sure glad for your Marine Son In Law and of course your Daughter, Give them both all our heart felt thanks and best wishes.
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GO GATORS!!!!!!!!!!!!
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RetiredE8
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Old Cuz, thanks for the article on Gen Patraeus retirement. I believe if GW Bush had been invited, he would have been there. It's a shame that this man's retirment was snubbed by the SECDEF and wannabe CINC
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Old Cuz
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You are most certainly welcome, I too find it almost beyond belief that President Bush wasn't invited, particularly the way he has honored the troops since he left office. I highly suspect that Obama would be hard pressed to show any respect to Bush as he has already taken all the credit for any sucesses in Iraq or Afganistan all the while blaming him for everything from warts to fallen arches.
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GO GATORS!!!!!!!!!!!!
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loner1115
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Proposed Changes to Military Retirement Benefits
The military retirement system is one of the most loved – and valuable – benefits available to military members. It is unique in many ways, and one of the few retirement plans in the US which starts paying beneficiaries immediately upon retirement without a standard waiting period or age limit.
Unfortunately, it is also a target by cost-conscious members of the government who are looking for ways to decrease the military budget and cut costs over the next few decades. Because of the high cost of the military retirement system, the Defense Business Board which was tasked with studying the military retirement system and making recommendations on how the government can save money on the military retirement system in the coming decades
http://themilitarywallet.com/changes-to-military-retirement-plan-benefits/
____________________
Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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Herb
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loner1115 wrote: Proposed Changes to Military Retirement Benefits
The military retirement system is one of the most loved – and valuable – benefits available to military members. It is unique in many ways, and one of the few retirement plans in the US which starts paying beneficiaries immediately upon retirement without a standard waiting period or age limit.
Unfortunately, it is also a target by cost-conscious members of the government who are looking for ways to decrease the military budget and cut costs over the next few decades. Because of the high cost of the military retirement system, the Defense Business Board which was tasked with studying the military retirement system and making recommendations on how the government can save money on the military retirement system in the coming decades
http://themilitarywallet.com/changes-to-military-retirement-plan-benefits/
This highlights the cost problem with a large standing military. The non-military bean counters will always be trying to find ways to lower the cost of the military and the services themselves really don't care about what happens to retirees.
____________________
MGySgt USMC
(Ret)
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swandive4
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Congratulations to my daughter Shannon who, as of February 1, 2012 will be pinned Sergeant in the United States Marine Corp - you go girl...!
Only girl I've ever known that can put a round through a fleas butt at 200 meters!
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There is no such thing as common sense because if sense were common then everyone would have it - Liberals wouldn't exist and Obama wouldn't be president!
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loner1115
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swandive4 wrote: Congratulations to my daughter Shannon who, as of February 1, 2012 will be pinned Sergeant in the United States Marine Corp - you go girl...!
Only girl I've ever known that can put a round through a fleas butt at 200 meters!
Congratulations to her and thank her for her service.
____________________
Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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loner1115
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Amazing 51-Year-Old Mom Completes Army Boot Camp & Shows Age Is Just a Number
In case you were feeling woefully understocked with news of general bad-assery today, there's this: Sergeant Sandra Coast, 51 years old, just graduated from Army bootcamp. And she finished with one of the highest physical fitness test scores in her company. And she did all of this after shedding 30 pounds just to qualify for basic training.
According to Army 1st Sergeant John Byars, "She never expected us to feel sorry for her. She is a prime example that age is just a number. She ran faster than soldiers young enough to be her kids."
So, yeah. Bad. Assery.
Most people Coast's age wouldn't be eligible to enter into military service, but since she served in the Navy from 1982 to 1993, she was given the go. She isn't going to be taking part in any active duty situations, but instead will serve in a virtual unit, which works by Internet and phone. She says, "Everybody in the world thinks I am a total nutcase. I just want to support our troops. I love all of them."
Dang. In addition to inspirational, that's some patriotism right there. Sure, we all want to support our troops, but I don't know too many people who are willing join the military at the age of 51. And the cool thing is (aside from the overall coolness of the situation) is that Coast isn't just a military Sergeant, she's a military mom. Her son is currently serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. She said, "I am thrilled to wear the title of Sergeant in the U.S. Army, but the title that is also very near and dear to my heart is Marine mom. You can't beat that." Love!
How cool is Sergeant Coast?
____________________
Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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swandive4
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Here s a recent article that I think deserves posting:
http://biggeekdad.com/2010/01/tango-mike-mike/
I didn't know whether to stand up and cheer this American Hero or just sit here and cry - so I did both - God bless you brother!!!
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There is no such thing as common sense because if sense were common then everyone would have it - Liberals wouldn't exist and Obama wouldn't be president!
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loner1115
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Trashing Tricare
Obama to cut healthcare benefits for active duty and retired US military
The Obama administration’s proposed defense budget calls for military families and retirees to pay sharply more for their healthcare, while leaving unionized civilian defense workers’ benefits untouched. The proposal is causing a major rift within the Pentagon, according to U.S. officials. Several congressional aides suggested the move is designed to increase the enrollment in Obamacare’s state-run insurance exchanges.
http://freebeacon.com/trashing-tricare/
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
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loner1115
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WWII vet at center of Virginia flag dispute dies
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Army Col. Van Thomas Barfoot, a World War II Medal of Honor veteran who fought for the right to fly an American flag in his front yard, has died. He was 92.
http://www.nbc12.com/story/17071323/wwii-vet-at-center-of-virginia-flag-dispute-dies
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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RetiredE8
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loner1115 wrote: Trashing Tricare
Obama to cut healthcare benefits for active duty and retired US military
The Obama administration’s proposed defense budget calls for military families and retirees to pay sharply more for their healthcare, while leaving unionized civilian defense workers’ benefits untouched. The proposal is causing a major rift within the Pentagon, according to U.S. officials. Several congressional aides suggested the move is designed to increase the enrollment in Obamacare’s state-run insurance exchanges.
http://freebeacon.com/trashing-tricare/
One of the saddest things about this is we're being thrown under the bus by our senior military leadership.
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proudmomof4
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OK, LOVE how this was handled, the vet talked to the guy, gave him an option, didn't manhandle him, beat him(although not sure I would have objected to that) and then said, it's done, let him be, and calls for no more retaliation. MUCH different than our lib nutjobs would have done and the muslims they say are peaceful(yet the kill people for burning their koran.
http://resisttyrannynow.blogspot.com/2012/02/vfw-members-duct-tape-flag-burner-to.html
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Carmen--If God's word steps on your toes, YOU are the one who is out of step.
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loner1115
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Another story on Tricare.
A shiv to the military
So men and women who faced death at Fallujah or Kandahar or Desert Storm are now to face death panels at home? That’s the upshot of the administration’s plans for military health care.
A proposal unveiled at the Pentagon last week would herd our veterans and military personnel and their families into the imminent bureaucratic nightmare of ObamaCare.
http://goo.gl/pHw6V
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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loner1115
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'Welcome Home' program for soldiers comes to an end
DALLAS -- A volunteer program that has welcomed home thousands of U.S. soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan at the Dallas-Fort Worth International airport has come to an end. The last flight bringing soldiers home for two weeks of rest and recuperation landed Wednesday, greeted by a cheering crowd.
As the drawdown of troops from Iraq and Afghanistan continues, the military is consolidating future R&R flights to the Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, where the general public will not have access to greet returning soldiers.
http://dailynightly.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/14/10686739-welcome-home-program-for-soldiers-comes-to-an-end
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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Herb
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WWII heroes who served in elite unit reportedly die on same day
"Mark and Joe were two of the original members of the First Special Service Force, and it's appropriate that they were the last two survivors in the state," FSSF aficionado Bill Woon told the newspaper. "It’s also appropriate that they were an American and a Canadian."
Last edited on Tue Apr 3rd, 2012 05:54 pm by Herb
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loner1115
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Vietnam War hero Spc. Leslie H. Sabo Jr. to get posthumous Medal of Honor
Spc. Leslie H. Sabo Jr., who died in 1970 while saving the lives of his fellow troops during the Vietnam War, has been cleared to receive a posthumous Medal of Honor after a decades-long wait by his family.
http://goo.gl/PpwRE
Additional story.
http://old.post-gazette.com/pg/10129/1056818-54.stm
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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loner1115
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Episode 9: A High-Tech Hand for Kyle?
After being wounded in Iraq and losing his hand, Kyle found his prosthesis useless. ABC News Chief Health and Medical Editor Dr. Richard Besser takes Kyle to Hanger Clinic in New York, to look at the latest in prosthetic technology, to see if Kyle may change his mind.
http://news.yahoo.com/episode-9--a-high-tech-hand-for-kyle-.html
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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Herb
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Mustng959 wrote: And if you believe this Yahoo article, I have some swampland in Florida to sell you.
http://news.yahoo.com/weary-warriors-favor-obama-131752838.html
The media is ratcheting up the pressure to ensure their favorite son gets back in office.
Considering that the only military people that I know of that would vote for him are black, and even with them it is still less than 50% that support him, they must have had to cherry pick to find anyone that liked him.
The majority of the military people I know like Ron Paul the best. Romney is a distant 2nd.
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loner1115
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U.S. soldiers forced to wear U.N. logo?
Appeal explains Clinton's secret executive order
In the 1990s, conservative icon Phyllis Schlafly wrote a moving description of the plight of U.S. Army Specialist E-4 Michael G. New, a medic in the Third Infantry Division who was drummed out of the military because he refused to wear the uniform of the United Nations.
“When American soldiers were killed over Iraq,” she wrote, “Vice President Al Gore told the widows and orphans of those men that ‘they died in the service of the United Nations.’ That wasn’t a slip of the tongue; his words reveal the Clinton administration’s plan to use our armed forces as U.N. mercenaries all over the world at the whim of U.N. bureaucrats.”
http://www.wnd.com/2012/05/u-s-soliders-forced-to-wear-u-n-logo/
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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Herb
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DANG! I sure am glad to be out of that mess...
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loner1115
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Herb wrote: DANG! I sure am glad to be out of that mess...
So am I.
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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loner1115
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Boy giving 2nd Disney trip to family of fallen soldier
Brendan Haas, the 9-year-old Kingston, Mass., boy who gave a fallen soldier’s family a trip to Disney World, has done it again.
During an appearance on ABC’s “Good Morning America” Thursday, anchor Robin Roberts told Brendan that the Walt Disney Co., ABC’s parent company, would award him and his family an all-expenses-paid trip to Disney World. Plus, she said, Disney would provide VIP treatment not only for Brendan’s family, but also for the family of 2-year-old Liberty Hope Steele, whose name Brendan pulled out of a hat to award the first trip. Her father was killed in Afghanistan.
Brendan responded to Roberts in a Skype interview: “We can’t accept a trip to Disney but we have many more people who would like to have an all-expenses paid [trip] through the raffle, so we can do another raffle.”
http://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/05/31/11992264-boy-giving-2nd-disney-trip-to-family-of-fallen-soldier
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Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point
He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to attain what he cannot lose. - Jim Elliot
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Mick1967
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I've heard the same thing too. The bill also has bi-partisan support and here is the reason why: from what I've read, they (Congress) are hacking our retirement so that they can preserve their own. Go figure that men who never wore a uniform or served their country in wartime feel free to hack away at the retirement benefits and pensions of those who have.
I don't know what is wrong with this country anymore.
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Americanism means the virtues of courage, honor, justice, truth, sincerity, and hardihood -- the virtues that made America." -- Teddy Roosevelt
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Alys Pappy
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Mick1967 wrote: I've heard the same thing too. The bill also has bi-partisan support and here is the reason why: from what I've read, they (Congress) are hacking our retirement so that they can preserve their own. Go figure that men who never wore a uniform or served their country in wartime feel free to hack away at the retirement benefits and pensions of those who have.
I don't know what is wrong with this country anymore.
Because people as a general rule vote for what is in it for them instead of what is in it for the county. I believe the majority of Charlie's followers here are the exception!
BTW, My son serving with the 2-8th Combined Arms Battalion, 4th Infantry Division returned to his home from Afghanistan last month. We made the trip out for the welcome home ceremony and I can't begin to express the pride and relief I felt. He had a rough first couple of days adjusting, but seems to be doing better. I call him pretty much every day....mostly because I can. He will be home for his block leave here in another couple of weeks and then we'll see how his adjustment has really been.
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Mick1967
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I'm happy to hear that your son is home and got the welcome he deserved!
Having political leaders who put their nation ahead of their personal gain is becoming a rare thing.
I'm with you on being fed up with Congress. Most of them don't even read what's inside a bill. There is also way too much influence on Congress from special interest groups. I am not a fan of special interest groups (whether right wing or left wing) because they represent their interests and not the Congressman's constituents. Its a sad statement on our democracy when the leaders who are supposed to speak for us are bought off. There is just too much money in politics. Perhaps having an ethics committee with some kind of overseeing power and making term limits mandatory will put an end to that?
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Americanism means the virtues of courage, honor, justice, truth, sincerity, and hardihood -- the virtues that made America." -- Teddy Roosevelt
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Mick1967
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I've heard a lot of the 'liberal intelligensia' say the very same things that Chris Hayes did. Its a prevalent attitude among them. They feel 'nervous' around the military and don't feel that they can 'trust' us.
... of course, we are the first ones they go running to when terrorists attack us. Go figure.
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Americanism means the virtues of courage, honor, justice, truth, sincerity, and hardihood -- the virtues that made America." -- Teddy Roosevelt
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