Moving On

I have decided, after a lot of thought and a bit of sadness at the same time, to discontinue this blog, effective October 11th. What you read here will be the last post...sounds like a movie title..."The Last Post." Whatever, it's time for me to move on.

Reasons? Not really that important but the main ones are:

1. Not enough interest to make it worthwhile, considering the fact I normally get less than 40 page views a day, and that's been about the same for the past year.
2. My little piece of the world and what I have to write about is really not that important, especially when we see so many other blogs online today. No need for me to continue to clutter that all up.
3. I ain't getting any younger...and want to spend more time doing "other" things...mainly with my cameras. In that regard, pop on over to jmichaelphotos to see what I'm doing. I invite you to bookmark it and come back any time.

So...this is it. No big deal really. As I wrote above, there are far better thoughts to read online than what I might write. My photos, on the other hand, are competitive. Another plug for the link above.

In closing, remember to always think, act and move forward with the heart of a Sapper. We ARE the Engineers!

To Blog or not to Blog

I have published just over 800 posts here since I began this blog several years ago. That amounts to an average of three posts per week. I get near 50 page views a day on average, and that's been pretty consistent for a long time.

When I began this blog it was my intent to have a place where I could offer opinion and comment about the Army, as well as some of my views on lots of topics. It gave me a place where I could write things in between issues of Army Engineer magazine, for which which I am editor. For example, in the magazine I have an "Editor's Independent View" page.

It's my opinion that given the number of other blogs and online information people read everyday, which has increased dramatically since I began this blog, it seems likely that my little piece of the world may not be all that important.

I'm thus going to ponder whether or not to discontinue the blog. Note I write "ponder." I do not allow comments on this blog due to having been "spammed" in the past. But, if you have a comment about my perhaps ending this blog, I invite you to email me at ae.editor@gmail.com.

My Morning Routine

For years I have walked briskly every day except Sunday, when it's not raining or snowing too hard. My route through our neighborhood is 2 miles and it's the same every day, but I sometimes reverse direction. Before we moved here I ran every day except Saturday and Sunday, usually 3 miles in length, and I did so generally before sunrise because I had to go to a regular job. When I was on active duty in the Army I ran the same days a week, but 4 miles or more in length...and I did so either with close friends or in a unit formation. In short, I developed the morning routine I have now a long time ago.

What I have now that's different from before is a more peaceful experience. I guess age has something to do with that, but I also have to credit my increasing religious faith as well.  I can, for example, listen to various sorts of music on my iPhone and gain inspiration at the same time from reading bible passages on its screen while walking. It may seem to those I greet along the way that I am "alone" but I am clearly not.

My attitude improves as I walk, because I have to admit I usually walk out of the house a bit hazy, not yet fully aware of the pluses and minuses of the day ahead, so it may take a mile before my outlook improves. The same barking dogs (caged or tied up in yards) greet my passing, and there are the same neighbors out and about also walking. We say "Good morning" to each other and maybe add a few other tidbits of wisdom such as, "Weather's looking good, eh?" On Saturdays I have to watch out for many more passing cars than normal because that's "yard sale" day, but only in the spring, summer and fall. People around here don't sell any of their household junk during the winter. Not sure why.

Some have written that routine daily exercise can become an addictive habit, and when you don't do it your body shouts out, "Why not!" For me it's more of a "guilt" thing if I miss a day walking (except for Sundays as I wrote earlier). In sum, my morning routine is a way for me to put things in perspective as I begin each day, and to realize I am indeed thankful for what I have been given.

A Budget Proposal?

I read in Army Times that a Colorado lawmaker, and member of the House Armed Services Committee, has proposed transferring 100,000 active duty positions to the Army Reserve...as a "legitimate" (my quotes) way to reduce defense costs. I doubt this proposal will be adopted, but if it were to be, my first question would be, "In these hard economic times, where are civilian jobs going to come from for those individuals being placed in reserve (part-time) military duty positions?"

His proposal also suggests the Army "find" the 100,000 active duty positions to transfer into the reserve component, by returning home those now based in Europe and Korea. That suggestion alone pretty much sums up his total proposal as being not well thought out...in my opinion of course.

A link to the story is here.

Getting out and finding a job

I have the greatest sympathy with the struggles of those having left military service so far this year, in finding a suitable job which takes into consideration the skills which they have developed. It's tough finding a job outside the military and there's no doubt it's not going to get much better...at least for the next year or so. So, what can one do who has decided to hang up their ACUs and move back into the "civilian" world, to give them a leg up in finding a job?

First advice is to not wait until you get out to start looking for a job. This implies deciding what it is you want to do and listing specific professional objectives in that regard. Most important, prepare a competitive job experience resume, without using military terminology. For example, rather than saying you were a great engineer squad leader in Afghanistan while involved in route clearance missions, write down that you supervised "X" many individuals under highly demanding circumstances, while at the same time creating a highly motivated and cohesive work group. Lastly, use correct grammar and spell check it several times.

Talk to others you know who have already left the military and learn from their experiences. Get out your address book and find as many people already employed somewhere, who you can start a network with. One of your friends might, for example, be able to put you in contact with someone looking to hire a person just like you.

Lastly, never say, "I'll do all this after I get out." Not only is that attitude not wise, it's going to put you at a great disadvantage in the job market when you consider just how many unemployed there already are right now.

Unfortunately there is not much good news in any of this, so some may decide to just re-enlist rather than get out. I have to say that being in the military does create a nice "blanket" of security in many respects, and when that blanket goes away, some people panic. Best I can advise is to keep a positive attitude, never give up, network with as many others as you can, and remember that your military job experience is most definitely in demand...you just have to market that in terms civilians will appreciate. Good luck!

Reno Race Tragedy Part 2

If you're interested, here's a link to one of the photographer's mentioned in my prior post, who was at the race when the tragic acident happened. It pretty much sums up what this business is all about...aviation racing and photography. It's worth a read.

Unexpected Tragedy

We who wear or have worn a military uniform for any length of time…most of us anyway…have learned to deal with various forms of adversity such as having a comrade injured or killed. This happens both during peacetime and during war. It's when tragedy strikes at unexpected times, under circumstances when such should never happen, that coping with these losses becomes harder.

The recent crash of a racing plane during the Reno Nevada Air Races, where nine people lost their lives and scores of others were injured, is a good example of what I'm talking about. I'm a non-professional photographer and over the years I have followed the daily lives of many professionals in the industry, by reading and commenting from time to time on their photo blogs. I have come to consider these folks as friends…virtual as that friendship may be. Two of those individuals were at the Reno Race taking photographs for their business clients, and for themselves, and while both were not injured I am sure they have been adversely affected in many ways.

One of them is a strong believer in the value of religious faith in our lives, and his photo posts are usually accompanied with words of inspiration. The other is equally passionate about his photo profession, but seems less open about his religious faith. For both of them, however, their week at the air races was supposed to be educational for those attending "workshops", and it was supposed to be an exciting and fun time to make photos of vintage aircraft that would be impossible to do collectively, under normal circumstances. In short it was supposed to be a festive week throughout, but it did not turn out to be so.

Mission Complete

Yesterday I worked from about 0730 until 1530, with my grandson Michael helping, to execute my annual mid-September mission "Close the Swimming Pool." It was a success and today when I got up early for my AM walk, I looked on with satisfaction at the new 25x45 foot green tarp spread tightly across the pool, all tied down securely with filled water bags placed along the perimeter to make it even more secure from winds, rain and snow which will be the weather norm until I execute another annual mission, "Open Swimming Pool."

In-ground swimming pools are fun to have and use when you have young kids involved, splashing about, diving crazily into the deep water at one end, and floating about on all sorts of cheap, air filled devices that will generally last only one season. However, when the kids grow up, they tend to spend all their time on chairs and lounges at pool side, sunning themselves, never wanting to do the crazy stuff they once did, or many times never even getting wet...except from sweat. And so, the pool is left to the older folks, who generally float or bob about with sunscreen slathered all over exposed body parts, trying to stay as cool as possible. For example, it's been years since I dove or jumped off our diving board, and I never swim laps anymore.

For us today, our pool is generally a weekend affair, and only when the weather is what we call a "good swim day." In the meantime, I have to periodically backwash the large sand-filter and electric pump that keeps the water circulating and clean 24/7; check the skimmer basket daily to empty all the collected debris, including dead bugs, mice, frogs, snakes and (once) a chipmunk. I also have to walk around the pool with long-poled brush in hand once a day, keeping the bottom and sides relatively clean. Adding chemicals on a weekly basis is also a chore (expensive one too) and that involves making sure the chemistry of the water is OK. It's a "chlorine" amount versus "PH" (alkalinity) battle. Shall I mention I never "got" chemistry when I took it in school? Thankfully my wife "gets" it, and our daughter teaches middle school science and thus speaks chemistry very well. So, we manage fairly well throughout the summer, but we do have our challenges from time to time...like this year when the electric pump motor shorted out and had to be replaced.

Anyway, my "pool" mission is complete for another year. Thankfully!

Pick it up!

Being a photographer, and already in the midst of a casual stroll with camera in hand, I was interested in what the definition of a "photo shoot" was, but then I figured out it pertained to "wedding party photography" in this scenic garden park in Greensboro, NC. But what really caught my attention was the sign above instructing me to "Please pick up my poop" which I definitely was not going to do because I have no dog, and certainly I was not going to pick up someone else's dog mess. The line I liked was, "Know what's grosser than picking up dog poop?" Answer was, "Stepping in it." Been there done that. The sign got my attention anyway, and I guess that was its purpose.

Old Time Barbershop

I pressed my camera lens close to the glass window on this barbershop in Stoneville, NC yesterday, because it reminded me of a time back when I was kid, when I'd be sitting on a booster seat (such as the one propped against the wall to the right rear, getting my hair cut. I don't suppose there are many of these shops left anymore, except in small rural towns such as Stoneville.

I remember the powder the barber would brush on my neck after he finished, to get rid of the itch caused by cut hair. I remember the smell of the hair tonic he'd use. I remember looking at all the assembled adults waiting in line, reading old magazines and talking about all sorts of interesting stuff. And, I remember looking in the mirror held up in front of me by the barber, showing me what a great job he'd done (or not).

Later in life, the Army got hold of me and my haircut days changed dramatically. What once was a 15-30 minute enjoyable experience, turned into a sub 5 minute "slash and burn." "High and tight" as they say.

Back to Work!

OK, holiday weekend is over...back to work! My wife wondered yesterday why the Army couldn't have Tuesday also off when a holiday like Labor Day falls on a Monday—as a travel day. Good idea, but it isn't gonna happen force wide. Maybe if it just applied to Labor Day weekend?

I'm reading about troop units who are scheduled to deploy in the near future, having a 2-year dwell time in between deployments...even when they have a 9-month versus 12-month tour. That policy applies to those at division level and below—individual placements and those at corps level and above will serve 12 months.

However, one thing to consider given the total size of the force, coupled with other duties for troop units at home station, are temporary assignments related to national disaster emergencies such as floods, hurricanes, and forest fires. Those extra, unplanned duties are never going away...and often involve being separated from families. Then, there are training exercises away from home, etc-etc-etc. If the size of the force is reduced much more than it is now, and if we remain engaged overseas as we have been this year (Iraq being a big question mark now) then dwell time "months" may be sort of like a play on "numbers." Still two years versus one is pretty good.

Big Labor Day Weekend

One of the many things I miss about being on active duty in the Army is the anticipation I had (as did just about everyone else) for what lay ahead over a long holiday weekend such as the one now present. Being able to shut down beginning at the end of the day on Thursday, and then not having to return to duty until Tuesday AM of the next week, was a real joy. But, there were exceptions.

For example, not everyone had the luxury. Some had assignments that did not allow for it...being deployed overseas for example, or having some sort of official unit assignment. In my time that involved things like guard duty, Officer or NCO of the Day, or whatever. Today, I'm not sure what these type duty requirements entail. My point being that there are always some who have to "hold down the fort" while others are out and about having fun...safely one hopes.

So, for all of you "out and about", Cheers!

When "words" count

In my lifetime I have had hundreds of people younger and older than me offer words of advice pertaining to what I might do, should do, or absolutely not do. Some of that advice passed through my ears like a stiff breeze through a back porch screen door. Here and gone...just like that. However, some of those words of advice (counseling might be a better term) settled into my memory bank and are still vibrant years later.

Words count when they come from people who speak from the heart, speak from experience, and speak with an appreciation of who you are and how you might receive what they have to say. In sum, they really care about what they are saying to you, and they do so in the right way. I'll also include "written" words here...not just those spoken face-to-face.

For example, I read a number of Blogs daily...all associated in some way with photography. One of those is written by a highly regarded photographer who works as a "tech rep" for a major camera company. On his daily blog he shows a photo, writes about the technical aspects of it in some way, and then often adds words of encouragement or inspiration which might or might not be related to the photo. His written words count as far as I am concerned...because they come from his heart.

I also recall coming to work early one morning when I was assigned to an engineer troop unit. After I sat down at my desk I spotted a 3x5 note card propped up in its center. The card contained a hand-written note, in pencil that read, "Thanks for taking care of the troops. From one of them." I saved that card, but never did find out who wrote down the words. All I know is that they counted...then and today.

Prescribed footware policy not sitting well

I read today this article about the Army not allowing (service-wide) the wear of running footware know as "toe shoes." OK, I get it...they look different, but according to serious runners, they are far better on the body than are more traditional running shoes.

The article states that none of the other services have taken this stance. In fact, the top enlisted sailor in the Navy wears them to PT, as do many in the Marine Corp's Headquarters Battalion.

Personally I see nothing wrong with allowing them to be worn...at the minimum allow local commanders to make the call as the Marines and Air Force do. Perhaps they might be prohibited during basic training, but afterwards, why not. Sometimes I have a hard time following the logic of those in the Army who sit in high places. Certinaly I am not alone if one looks at the backlash of negative comments from those now serving.

Watching and Waiting

As I sit here early Saturday morning, in SW Virginia, reading news about the passage and effects of Hurricane Irene, moving up the east coast, I say a prayer of thanks that so far there has been far less impact over what was initially projected…but there's a way to go yet.

I also  am thankful that we made the decision to move off the North Carolina coast back in 2002, after experiencing several major hurricane evacuations…three in 1999. I said then and I repeat now…it's hard for me to agree with those who say living on the beach full time is living in paradise. If paradise includes always looking over your shoulder from June through November, every year, mindful of the fact that all you own could be lost in a surge of wind or waves, then I want nothing to do with it. Been there done that four years in a row and that was enough for us.

I'm still glued every year, however, to the National Hurricane Center's website during hurricane season, and watch the tracks of hurricanes like Irene with a hawks eye…just as if we were still in the potential cone of impact. If you live in hurricane country, you dream about "cones of impact."

Many veterans of hurricanes will often pray they be spared from major impact, but at the same time they are aware that when the storm misses them, it hits another person…so they also pray for them, since everyone is bound together by their experiences of living where they do.

After the storms pass, recovery begins. Sometimes, like with Hurricane Katrina, recovery seems to move excruciatingly slow. At the center of recovery efforts is often the Army Corps of Engineers, the National Guard and active military forces. When the end of November arrives, most give a sigh or relief that it's all over…until next June when it begins again…watching and waiting.

Bear Country

We sort of live in bear country all over SW Virginia, but that region is mostly up in the Blue Ridge mountains...not nearby Martinsville...in the foothills. And then today in the local newspaper there is a front page headline including photos, about two black bears scrounging for food in Bassett, Virginia, just a short drive from our home.

Story is that last weekend a big family reunion took place in Bassett, where a large pig was cooked in a hand-dug and earth covered underground pit, like was done traditionally in this part of the country. Lots of other food went along with the BBQ which I am sure was all pretty tasty. Anyway, two bears got "wind" of the event afterwards and came to inspect. They were "captured" by a camera lens, but eventually wandered away into some nearby woods.

Those having the reunion said they were thankful the bears did not come by when the event was underway, but appreciated the uninvited guests helping to clean up afterwards.

Trains do still come and go

I made this photo last week inside the Danville, Virginia train depot. Amtrak and other trains still pass by daily, and if I wanted to, I could board an Amtrak passenger train here early in the AM and be in New York City in mid-afternoon the same day. I like that possibility, because there are few places outside of large cities in the United States today where one can take a train anywhere, except around a small track in some carnival ride or amusement park.

Perhaps it's the old wooden benches in the Danville depot that bring me back to when I was a child riding trains in the midwest and south, as my father changed jobs here and there. We eventually wound up in Little Rock Arkansas, and I got there via train...leaving by car to Missouri, and then later from there via train again to Illinois when my parents were divorced. After I graduated from high school just north of Chicago, I rode a train to Michigan Tech in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in 1959....dragging an old heavy trunk with all my stuff crammed inside.

Trains and the military go hand-in-hand historically speaking, but have been replaced today with planes. Still, I suspect many in the military happily elect to ride trains (or buses) as they travel about. Maybe our country will eventually return to using rail transportation more some day...like in Europe, Japan and China. I hope so.

Changes are Normal in the Army

Just when we thought we knew what was going to happen, the Army changes things...but that's not unusual.

BG Peter A. "Duke" DeLuca is going to become Commandant of the Army Engineer School...and not BG (P) Mark Yenter...who was previously slated for that position. So what happened? BG Yenter was nominated for promotion to Major General, and the Army decided to assign him as CG of the Maneuver Support Center at Fort Leonard Wood, replacing outgoing CG MG David Quantock...a Military Police officer. So, as one engineer friend of mine said, "We got a twofer!"

When the Army assigned MG Quantock to become CG of MANSCEN I was glad because I felt it was time a person other than an engineer command the installation, with its three schools...Engineer, MP and Chemical. Now, an engineer officer will return to that position, but I suppose it really makes no difference what branch that person comes from...it's all about leading soldiers and taking care of families that counts.

One interesting fact is, however, that both Yenter and DeLuca  once commanded the 20th Engineer Brigade (Airborne) at Fort Bragg. DeLuca deployed with the brigade to Iraq in one of its largest configurations. The experience of both these fine officers will clearly help move the Engineer Regiment forward, following the excellent work done by now reassigned Engineer School Commandant BG Bryan Watson. If I were to pick a person to take BG Watson's place it would be BG Duke DeLuca. I just wish I could be there to see it all happen...close up...rather than from the sidelines.

A Special Thing

Water. Our bodies can't survive without it, swimming pools need it to exist…as do lakes, rivers and streams, and when piped into homes through city-operated water distribution systems it's reasonably inexpensive. At this time of the year we hear a lot about WATER.

Lets start with not enough hitting the ground from above, thus creating moderate to severe drought conditions across the United States. You folks reading this who live at Fort Hood, Texas or Fort Sill Oklahoma know what I'm saying. On the other hand, some places have too much water from above but it seems this year they are fewer in number…climate change…whatever.

Also consider that water is at the center of Army physical training, given that failure to drink enough can lead to dangerous situations. Older veterans may remember when we had "lister bags" hanging on tripods at field training locations, full of water being cooled a bit by evaporation on the outside of the heavy canvass bag, and with bottles of salt tablets attached to one of the tripod legs. I wonder…why was it back then, lots of daily salt was good for our bodies? Medical progress today says otherwise.

This summer has been a rugged one as far as obsessive and constant heat is concerned. I wonder if winter will be as wild as have been the past few months. At least water then will be of the frozen variety when it comes from above, and snowmen will grow magically on lawns across America…as will piles shoveled off driveways…like mine.

Water…it's a special thing.

Older Legs

I may not be able to run/jog four miles a day like I once did...in fact "four" as in miles isn't in my brain's vocabulary anymore. But...daily walking at a relative brisk pace is...even though it's of the "two" mile variety.

My New Balance 993 shoes do their job of keeping my feet, knees and legs in good shape, and I replace them every six months or so, even though they are not cheap. I got that advice long ago from a famous sports medicine guy...he said "never run in cheap shoes and replace them often."

What I miss during my morning exercise routine is doing it alone...even though listening to music on my iPod or iPhone is rather peaceful. I remember, for example, when my 0530 running group of three would stand outside my quarters at Fort Leonard Wood,  Missouri patiently waiting for me to come outside to stretch and do a few sit-ups and pushups, before heading off on a 4-5 mile route. Two were battalion commanders and the other was the post Staff Judge Advocate. I was the "senior" guy, so I had the privilege of being late from time to time. When I retired, the group gave me a photo of us four, each attired in various running gear...with bright colors...definitely NOT Army issue. That photo hangs near my work desk today and it brings back great memories.

I'm very grateful that my feet and legs, much less my entire body, is still capable of engaging in some form of daily exercise, and I thank God for that each morning as I start my walk. As we get "older legs" we need all the help we can get.

Can you ever have too many fresh tomatos?

Unlike the cucumber vines I planted and then pulled up because they produced mostly inedible cucumbers, our tomato plants are doing well this year...so much so that I really don't care if the local squirrel population helps themselves to a few.

We actually have more than we can eat, so are giving some away to family and friends. OK, time to get to work and go pick some more!

Keeping the Faith

It's no fun watching the evening news on TV anymore…but I do it anyway. Last week the most depressing news I listened to involved the number of military veterans recently released from active duty, who are having an exceptionally hard time finding full time employment. And that news was on top of equally distressing information about the nation's economic situation, and how ineffective our government is dealing with it all. Sort of makes me want to move to a mountain cabin, in some backwoods hollow with no electricity. But…that's not going to happen.

Anyway, it bothers me greatly that so many of our veterans can't find work…after all they have sacrificed. Politicians just talk about "jobs-jobs-jobs", saying things oriented on their re-election, and meanwhile nothing seems to get done. Historically speaking, our country has been through this sort of stuff before, but it all seems so much worse today…but then what do I know…I was not around the last time it was this bad.

Keeping the faith is good advice. And being thankful for what we do have, and less worried about what we don't.

Toxic Climate

I copied this off an article in Army Times online. "The Army is working to flush toxic leaders from its ranks. A survey of more than 22,630 soldiers from the rank of E-5 through O-6 and Army civilians showed that roughly one in five sees his or her superior as “toxic and unethical,” while only 27 percent believe that their organization allows the frank and free flow of ideas." I add to the quote by noting that in the past year I am personally aware of several senior leaders (primarily senior NCOs) who have been relieved of duty for various ethical and personal conduct reasons. I also note there have been several senior officers in the Army who have exhibited poor judgement in leading soldiers, and have as such also been relieved. Many older veterans will cringe when I mention that this type toxic climate was the same in the late 1970s and it took the Army decades to reverse the trend. Hopefully, the Army will fix the problem faster this time around.

Learning Life's Lessons

Last weekend our new college graduate granddaughter Jennifer moved into a rental home, and for the first time in her life she is really out on her own, in the real world. She's still interviewing for jobs in her career field but fortunately has a full time job where she's at least earning enough to pay her bills. She is also learning that little things can become BIG things really fast. Here's an example.

Up until now she never knew that when person "A" moves out of a rental home they shut the electricity off. When person "B"(Jennifer) moves in, it's up to that person to make sure the electricity gets turned back on, and when that person is a first-time customer on her own, that process is a bit more involved. Before, she had lived in college-oriented apartment complexes, where the complex managers took care of everything, except cable TV and internet services. Jennifer quickly found out that such was no longer the case for her, when the day before the planned move-in, she found out that the electricity could not be turned back on for a couple of days.

Looking back, I have to accept some of the responsibility for her problem because had I asked the right questions, I might have found out about the electric situation. But, maybe it's better the way it happened, because Jennifer now has a good understanding about how quickly a simple thing can turn difficult...in the "real" world. As an epilog, she moved her stuff in anyway, in the heat, but came back home here for the weekend. Today, she's back up in her new home, waiting for the power to get turned back on. Happily, she has some new furniture also being delivered this week, which will make her new home ever better.

Are you seeing what's around you?

Too many of us fail to take the time to look and truly "see" what's there. Everyone seems so busy these days, that they often miss the beauty of things sitting in plain view all around them.

Job and family pressures and priorities, failure to just say "time out" and relax, taking on too much at once, and a tendency for us to forget that many things which were "important" to us when we were much younger might still be important today.

For example, why was it when we were kids in elementary school, that the excitement of having a few months off during the summer took away all concerns about how hot it was? Barefooted in shorts and faded tee shirts, we yearned for the outdoors...lakes, streams, woods, hills and mountains and if we were lucky enough, visits to the ocean with breaking waves along the beach, seashells, and chasing sand crabs with a flashlight at night. We "saw" everything around us...missing nothing. And as a result, we were generally stress free...unlike how we became as we grew older.

How many of you reading this blog, took a week-long family vacation this summer, during which you spent several hours a day reading your job related email, or posting on Twitter or Facebook? The time you spent doing those things was time you could have spent looking around at your surroundings, and better appreciating where you are in life, and all the goodness for which you ought to be most thankful. Start thinking like a kid again...not all the time...just a bit to help you remember how it used to be. And...how it might be again.

New Army PT Test

Army Times online has some interesting information about average scores for the new (and more demanding) PT test. It's here if you want to take a look. For me, with muscles much less flexible than they used to be, and a tendency to pull them here and there when doing chores (especially those in my lower back) I am glad that I am NOT on active duty and thus subject to the new test. I am quite proud to say, however, that I  got my highest PT test scores ever the last few years I was on active duty...maxing out every time I took the test. Not sure I could do the same with the new one, but I'd give it one heck of a try were that to be necessary...which (thankfully) it is not.

Battles in Nature

We who serve or have served in the military certainly know a lot about "battles." But, are we aware of what's going on around us in the form of micro-battles in nature?

At our house we love to watch hummingbirds fly to an fro getting nectar which we place inside a glass feeder hung near our back porch. The little guys have become used to us, and even come to feed when we're sitting nearby watching. They tend to be very territorial, however, and when another hummingbird comes to feed, they often try to drive each other away. However, that's nothing like the territorial battles they have with Yellow Jackets.

Yellow Jackets are on my most disliked list of critters in nature. A couple of years ago I disturbed one of their in-ground nests while using a weed eater, and got stung numerous times...making for a painful time for a day or so. I learned to be more careful afterwards and look for signs of nests before doing my yard chores. I also attack their nests with various remedies to kill their nests...which I will not describe in detail because some might say I am not being environmentally sound pertaining to what I use to kill them in-ground. My solution works and that's enough for me. Anyway, I do not like wasps of any sort, but Yellow Jackets are at the top of my list in that regard. Hummingbirds do not like them either.

Our backyard feeder attracts both of these enemies, so it's to be expected there will be battles going on all the time. The hummingbirds zoom in, get a fast drink, then quickly back off hovering in space waiting until the also feeding wasps get out of the way. I learned that Yellow Jackets can and do sting hummingbirds, but I have never seen that happen. What I do see everyday is a back and forth rush to get to the sweet nectar first...sometimes the hummingbirds win out, sometimes its the wasps. I always root for the hummingbirds.

Meanwhile, I do my job by seeking out and destroying as many in-ground wasp nests as I can find. Yes, I know that wasps such as Yellow Jackets have a purpose in killing other insects, plant pollination and so forth and I ought to "let nature be" and not interfere. But, any critter that is an enemy of hummingbirds is an enemy of mine...for life!

Army (Military) Friends

I read a post on Facebook today, which commented how easy is is to make close friends in the Army (military) and then how sad it is to see them go; e.g. move away on a PCS or retirement. I agree totally with that comment, but have an add-on I'd like to make.

Friends you make in the military last a lifetime, but mostly in your memory bank, or during the Christmas season when cards are exchanged. This is especially true after you leave the military, such as with retirement. For those then located in large metropolitan areas with lots of retired military it's better, but even then it's not the same as when you were on active duty. We lived in the Washington DC region for about five years after we retired and there were many of our close friends also living there. However, even though we lived relatively close (within 25 miles) we hardly saw each other throughout the year. Interests (and jobs) had changed, priorities had changed, and new, more current neighborhood friends had been made. After a year or so we began to miss being back on one of the Army installations where we'd lived, with everyone essentially sharing the same chalenges, the same type furniture (in Germany for example), and the togetherness we'd experienced within our housing area and job locations.

So for those of you still on active duty, cherish what you have now and do all you can to keep in touch with close friends and co-workers after your career paths separate and go in different directions. Having served in the military is an experience I'd never trade...even though we had some pretty rough times here and there, and it was certainly not all fun. But the older we get, our minds tend to focus more on the good than the bad. At the center of it all was the network of close friends we had made. Try hard not to let that slip away.

Still a Learning Gardner

If this years experience is any indication, I am not the "gardner" I thought I was. Let me explain.

When we were on active duty in the Army and moved an average of every two years, gardening was not a high priority in my life, but there were times when I did plant various crops. But, some error on my part always made the effort less than satisfying...albeit I adapted. Like the time when we were living in Northern Virginia when I was assigned to the Pentagon on the Army Staff, and that being a four-year tour I had time year by year to try different crops in the backyard. One summer I wanted to plant green peppers...the "bell" type. But, I instead purchased the jalapeno variety, because I did not pay that much attention to the name on the plant's container when I bought a dozen or so. A "pepper was a pepper" was my comment at the time. They grew like crazy but when I saw they did not have the familiar "bell" shape, I realized my mistake. So, we adapted and produced many jars of hot pepper jelly that summer...but no home-grown bell peppers on our salads as desired.

Flash forward to late May 2011 when I bought cucumber plants...three small pots, each with nice sprouting plants waiting to be located into the newly tilled and mounded soil in our garden. Like the jalapeno peppers of long ago, they grew like crazy and I got lots of pretty yellow flowers which would surely turn into nice green, tender sweet tasting cucumbers. But it was not to to be. I got the flowers on long bright green, healthy looking vines, but the only cucumbers which resulted were a sickly light green to white color, and 80% were too bitter to eat. So yesterday I gave myself an "F" in raising cucumbers this year, and pulled three large mounds of long, tough to remove vines out of the ground, and then lifted the heavy mass into a wheel barrow, pulling a muscle in my lower back, which only added to my disappointment of having received a failing cucumber grade.

A grade of "B" or better for our tomatos this year would be good, but that grade is still undetermined. Meanwhile my sore back is slowly improving.

Do you read books?

I have a good friend who is also a retired member of the Army Corps of Engineers, and the other day when I recommended three books he might enjoy reading, he thanked me and said he'd add those to his extremely long list of books waiting for his eyes. Not saying he does not read books...quite the opposite...he's a prolific reader...he can't get enough...so his only solution is to line them up on his to-do list as they come to his attention...first in, first read. Since reading takes time...you get my point.

I suspect there are a lot of people in the Army today who spend little time reading books...most of their time is spent scanning endless words on the internet, emails, cellphone texts, and along the little news bar at the bottom of TV screens. It did not used to be this way and that's a shame. When I was a kid growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas, I would spend an entire summer while on school vacation reading books of many sorts...yes I admit that some were comic books...but even with Archie and Jughead, Mighty Mouse, Superman, and Flash Gordon as the main subjects, many of the "book classics" were also published in comic book form.

I know there are millions of folks who read just as much today, as did their mothers and fathers. Electronic devices such as the Kindle have made it a bit easier, but I know many who shun those devices as if they are devil sent. For them, a good old-fashioned hardback book with removable cover is what they want. Point is...read books no matter the format!

Who is the Mentor?

Important people in a person's life are many...for most of us. In the military we all have had a favorite mentor or two who played a significant role in making each of us into what we've become. Perhaps you've had a mentor without even knowing that person existed. Mentorship comes easy for some, as they tend to act as a magnet, attracting those in need of guidance.

"Guidance" comes in many forms. Some is professional, some is spiritual, some is family and social oriented, and some comes from peers who simply want to offer a suggestion about how you might take on a tough challenge. It's interesting at times, when a person you never expected to become that important in your life, turns out to be truly special.

In my case I met, by pure chance, an individual who was working at an Army installation to which I was assigned, toward the latter portion of my military service. That person later turned out to be a very important individual in my life...professionally and spiritually. I won't go into all the details, but suffice it to say our paths crossed and because of my position at the time, I was able to help "nudge" him in a new direction professionally. That placed him essentially on a new career track, which turned out to be just what he was looking for. I never gave it much thought when I made the call to do what I did, he was just one of many who were impacted by some decision I might have made at the organizational level I sat...lots of routine stuff usually...at least as I saw it.

After I retired from active Army service, I remained in contact with this individual, and saw him from time to time during events and activities related to my second career. As years passed, he himself rose in professional stature, but did so in a very humble and appreciative way. Whenever I would run into him, he would sometimes remind me of the routine decision I had made...the result of which placed him on the professional path he was now on...a path he says has become his great passion, and as such he considers himself blessed in many ways. "Getting paid to do what I do is pretty wonderful!", is the way he usually puts it.

Recently, my friend gave me a "nudge" in a new direction in life, because as special friends often do, he was/is a ready listener when I needed someone to hear what was on mind. So, I ask, who is the mentor here? Him or me? Maybe both. In the beginning of our relationship it was me doing most the guiding, but now it's kinda the other way around. I like that very much.

When it's Hot...it's HOT!

Ah yes...July. A typically hot time of the year in the United States...and then there's August to look forward to...endure is perhaps a better word. For those in the Army, hot weather means watching the heat index value and altering outdoor training activities accordingly. That's not possible in a combat zone, however, so those deployed there have to adjust to hot conditions as best they can.

It's this time of year when I recall my numerous proclamations made during the cold winter months about how much I was looking forward to being hot...in July and August. Well, here ya go...I got what I asked for! Now, I'm wishing for those times during my early morning walk when I was all bundled up...sweat pants, heavy sweat shirt, jacket, gloves, and warm hat.

So, as July progresses into perhaps even hotter days of August, I tell myself it's all relative, and could be worse...like I could be living in West Texas, New Mexico or Arizona. Yesterday, for example, while it was in the mid 90's at our house, I drove into the Blue Ridge Mountains where it was ten degrees cooler above 3000 feet, and even cooler the higher I got. Going up the mountains was a joy, coming down to reality was less so. Like I said, it's all relative.

Simple Pleasures

I recall a long time ago when I was a young company commander...back when many Army company headquarters were located in a wooden building, at the end of a long row of similar looking structures, with a mess hall at the opposite end. Located in wooden buildings adjacent and parallel to the company to which I was assigned, were other companies...all comprising a battalion. But...Army buildings are not my subject here...trains are.

In my company headquarters where my small office was, we had the company First Sergeant, the company clerk, a supply room with supply sergeant, and one very nice soldier named Private North. Back then the Army had a military occupational specialty called, "Duty Soldier." These men performed a myriad of tasks...all simple, with minimal intelligence required. North was one of these soldiers and he was always in a good mood, and happily did whatever he was asked to do by the First Sergeant...tasks which did not require a lot of innovation.

One day I asked North how he liked the Army and he said it was great...it had given him a home, which he never had before. He was a high school drop out, and was not very smart, but he was motivated and like I said always in a good mood. When I asked what he usually did on weekends, he told me he liked to take a cab from the base to which we were assigned, and ride downtown to a bridge which trains passed under, and where he sat for hours, with a cold Coke in hand, watching massive engines and long lines of rail cars pass underneath. A simple activity, but to North it was a real joy.

To this day, whenever I see a train pass close by where I am standing, I think of Private North. If something like that made him happy, why not me...and that scene does make me happy...thanks to North. So, while he was just a plain, simple soldier, he left me something which I still carry "in my memory pocket", and for that I am grateful. Wherever you are North...thanks!

Thinner and Lighter is Better...Right?

These days it seems that just as we get used to some nice electronic or photographic piece of gear, it's replaced by a new model sold with glaring advertisement headlines which proclaim, "NEW...and now even thinner and lighter...just what you've been looking for!" Well, for me anyway, not exactly.

With some items, such as cell phones and cameras, I prefer models with a bit more weight and size, so they don't slip out of my hands. That characteristic is usually a top priority for me when it comes to selecting what I want...how does it "feel" in my hands.

I like reading books that are thick and heavy (when I read paper versions that is...since I am a Kindle user...which is not too light and not too thin...for me anyway). I like sandwiches that are thick...being full of goodies stacked on top of each other...but not too hard to hold so I don't make a mess on my white tee shirt. And lastly, I always want my milkshakes to be as thick and as heavy as I can get. Finding a gallon size chocolate shake somewhere would be nice...one that takes about an hour to devour before it melts.

How was your holiday?

Many ask that question (in the post title) on the first day back to work following a long weekend holiday...such as we just had. Many will smile and say, "Great...how about you", while others will mumble a few words such as, "OK, I guess." It's all in one's attitude I suppose.

Some are sunburned, some are bone-tired after a long drive home, some are nursing sore muscles after participating in outdoor activities their bodies were not fully prepared for, and others are simply thankful to be back to work...or not.

For my family, we were in the backyard pool at 11AM, and then at 2 PM we sat together on the patio eating peeled shrimp, Jesse Jones hotdogs (a southern treat...red-colored as they are...and full of stuff the Docs tell us is no good...but once or twice a year can't be all that bad, eh?), home-made potato salad, cold slaw and chips...followed by fresh watermelon. Then.. it began to thunder, lightning and rain.

Watching the local radar on my daughter's and my iPhone (we used two different websites to find the one with the best colors...mostly yellow and bright red) as the afternoon and early evening progressed, it became clear that our plan to drive ten miles or so to Eden, NC to watch fireworks was in serious jeopardy, because the weather radar we were watching had a mass of red color all over Rockingham County where the Town of Eden sits. So, we decided to go get milkshakes from Hardys instead, and sit in the house to watch Twilight Zone reruns on the Syfy Channel.

Point being...we had lots of fun...regardless of no fireworks display...even though they did take place. It stopped raining during the third episode of Twilight Zone. Oh well...there's next year...and besides, those Jesse Jones hotdogs made it a special day, fireworks or not.

Keep your bobbers out of the trees

During this July 4th weekend, now upon us, my sincere hope is that all of you reading this remember to keep your fishing pole bobbers out of the trees as you relax and enjoy life.

Cast carefully, away from low hanging tree limbs. Be mindful of those sitting close by, because unlike tree limbs, they bleed when hit by hooks with bobbers attached. And, give thanks when you are able to retrieve said bobbers without breaking the line. In closing, be safe, have fun, and eat lots of hot dogs, burgars, and chips...all the time remembering all the lost bobbers in your life.

Summertime Routine or What?

In the Army, it seems that summertime is for moving to a new assignment. Most of our family moves in almost 30 years took place in June, July or August and I suspect we are a part of a large majority of military personnel with similar experiences.

Looking back, I recall lots of sweat during hot, humid conditions as we sorted though accumulated "stuff" to decide what to have packed versus what to donate to Goodwill, or take to the landfill.

Not so when we moved to the U.S. from Germany (twice) because we went over with most of our household goods in storage—but thanks to my wife's travels in Europe and her desire to buy at least one of every type of crystal glassware (preferably six each) and an assortment of clocks, ceramic pieces of art, assorted beer and wine glasses (my purchases) and much more...which in total forced us to teeter perilously close to maxing us out in terms of weight limit, without having to pay extra.

So, for all you out there going through this normal military routine, all I can say is "stay cool...all soon will pass."

Think about it

I have become more and more dissatisfied with the use of what is commonly referred to as "social media." Twitter, Facebook and cellphone texting for instance, and the manner in which people are utilizing this way to interact instead of having a good old fashioned face to face conversation. It's much easier, for example, to post some comment on your Facebook wall about another person, than it is to actually talk to that person. While I am critical of where this mode of communication has taken us, I use it just as millions of others do. So, why am I unhappy with it?

In my case I am attracted to things that are "new." I like to experiment, and I like change. When Facebook came along, I saw just how beneficial that might be to how we in the Army could keep in touch. Families, units, organizations, whatever. Using Facebook or Twitter with that in mind is a good idea, and as many military units with members deployed overseas have found out, it's a great way to facilitate cohesion and morale.

What bothers me more these days is how abusive and insensitive people have become on Facebook or Twitter regarding what they write...or in  the case of some...what they upload in the way of photos. It boggles my mind why anyone could be so stupid to post something in a moment of anger, for all the world (potentially) to read...or see. What's that say about that person? Would you want that person working for you...or with you?

Maybe we just need to be more mindful and respectful of others, regardless of how we might feel about them or their beliefs. More importantly, maybe we need to think twice before making a comment on Facebook, Twitter or in a cellphone text. If there is any doubt in your mind how it might be received...take a deep breath and delete it.

Habits and Routine

Routine is good...as are some habits. Both can also be bad. Depends on who is in control...you or someone else. This applies to people only...because pets like cats and dogs always like routine; but they, like people can adopt bad habits.

When our Alaska Malamute dogs were alive they both had bad habits, but thankfully nothing we could not deal with. Our two cats now are the same. But both the dogs, and now the cats, absolutely loved "routine." Like right now for example. My cat Lucy is lapping up the left-over milk in my cereal bowl. She does that every day, and her eyes light up when she sees me go to the pantry to get the cereal box out, and then she sits patiently waiting for her treat. Regular feeding time is another thing the cats love...my personal belief is that both have internal clocks that can tell exactly when it's 8 AM or 5PM...daylight savings time taken into consideration.

With the dogs, they were less concerned about the time they ate, than they were about what the food was. Picky eaters both. What was important to them time-wise was, however, their daily runs with me...some being long runs, like when we were in Germany with dog Nicki when we'd run the woods in Karlsruhe for miles and miles...and he never got tired...unlike me. Our female malamute Mystee was not as good a runner as was Nicki, but she wanted to "GO" anyway, and in her younger days runs of 2-4 miles were easy for her, especially when we lived on the North Carolina coast...she loved running in beach sand.

Anyway, we all have our routines and habits...man...woman...cat...or dog.

Hard Choices

I'm a Vietnam War veteran with two combat tours. What was said back then about the hard choices of staying there or leaving, are again being said about Afghanistan. Unfortunately just as during the war in Vietnam, "political considerations" play too large a role in making decisions. Frankly, I find it hard to understand how a politician will argue for this or that based mostly on opinion polls, and how a position they might take will affect their re-election. We're not taking about popularity here, we're talking about men and women being sent into combat...being killed, wounded and otherwise being affected in many ways which will follow them the rest of their lives.

The President is going to address this topic tonight on television, and perhaps I ought to wait until afterwards to make this post. But, I decided to post it anyway. What he says or does not say isn't going to make any difference to how I feel personally about it all.

Lets Cool Off!

Take two minutes and watch this amazing video of a couple of some pretty crazy but brave guys skiing off a cliff...fortunately wearing a parachute. It will cool you off on these hot days.

Waiting for a Train

Traveling the back roads of South Western Virginia and the Piedmont region of North Carolina which borders the Commonwealth, I see many things as they used to be...through the lens of my camera...sights that often make me sad; but in a way happy, because so many personal hopes and dreams were once realized in this wonderful, rural part of the United States. They still are, but much less so.

I recently passed by this old train station, long shuttered and free from the noise, excitement and expectations of those happy souls about to board a train off to somewhere, or for those getting off, returning home. The station is in Madison, NC and it's just a short walk to the center of this small, once thriving town. Trains still pass by the station today, but none stop. In fact, Madison is probably a rare stopping place for most people these days...except for those working and living there, or those like me who like to visit and remember how things used to be.

Some Things to Ponder

A good friend of mine recently recommended a book to me..."The Shack" written by William P. Young. In short, it's about a father's first hand multi-day encounter face-to-face with God...and more...following a family tragedy which had affected him deeply. I'm not preaching here, but there are some excellent spiritual points to ponder in this book, and the story line is not only captivating, but it's got some twists and turns that to me were unexpected.

I'm just saying you might want to check out the book's website and see whether or not you too might like to read it...if you have the same reaction as I did, you won't be disappointed.

They do listen at the top

Way to go Army! You listened to those who count the most and dumped the black beret from being worn with the ACU. Now, it's back to the good old field cap. Personally, I would have dropped the beret altogether and not allow it as an option to be worn with the service (Class A) uniform. Adopting it was a mistake, but I don't get a vote anymore.

Graduating Seniors

In the past 30 days I have attended graduations of two of our granddaughters...one from Virginia Tech, and the other from high school. The former was relatively short and sweet for us, given that Tech has two ceremonies...the first outdoors at the stadium with speeches, but no actual handing out of degrees and individual student recognition. The one we attended was scheduled the next day indoors, for each individual academic college (such as science, engineering, business, etc) where graduates walk across the stage receiving their diplomas...but with no speeches other than introductions of dignitaries. High School graduation, on the other hand, is "all of the above" and they are long...and I'm thinking that few graduates pay much attention to what's going on except when it's time to stand up to cross the stage as their names are called. The messages offered to them are positive, however, if they would just listen to what's being said.

What's common to both, however, is that graduates today are walking into a world much different from the past...job wise. Not only are temporary or more permanent jobs for high school graduates much harder to find these days, but statistics reflect that upwards to 50% of college grads do not have a job when they get their diploma. Joining the military seems for many to be a good way to go...but as the military reduces the size of its forces as projected, even that route will not be as open as it has been.

Reversing the dismal unemployment trend we've been experiencing in the past several years is not going to be easy...and none are as hopeful to see quick and permanent positive change than are recent academic graduates at all levels.

It is a big deal!

As you may have seen here, it's been announced that MG Ed Cardon will take command later this year of the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea. Not necessarily news that a new division commander has been selected, but to us engineers when one of our own is so named, it IS a big deal.

I remember well, when early in Operation Iraqi Freedom (then) Colonel Cardon commanded the engineer brigade assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division. They were a part of the initial thrust into Iraq, and soldiers assigned under his command performed magnificently. I remember saying to myself words to the effect that, "this guy is going places in the Army." He certainly has, and I wish him all the best in the future.

If you need to recharge your batteries...

Whenever my Army Engineer Sapper Spirit Engine batteries get low, I re-charge by talking to, watching, admiring, and wondering how so many can be so good...engineer soldiers I'm referring to. My annual trip to the Headquarters of the Engineer Regiment at Fort Leonard Wood usually provides me with enough "juice" to last a year...the place is that inspiring...especially to one like me who remembers when the installation was much less (you insert a discriptor here).

In between my trips out west of the Mississippi River, I receive "trickle charges" to my batteries by writing about things going on within the Regiment...for Army Engineer magazine. In the process, I see not only images made at Fort Leonard Wood, but get a large amount of material from those deployed...military and civilian. As I insert photos into magazine layouts, I often visualize myself actually being on the ground where the image was taken. Makes me feel less old and more relevant.

So, for you other engineer veterans out there reading this, seek out an engineer soldier or two if you can, and see how much your Sapper Spirit will be energized. If that's not possible, visit AEA's website and click on Unit Links. Lots to see and read there.

Some day "things" happen

Don't you just love it (hardly) when stuff breaks...important stuff which you rely on daily...like electronic devices, vehicles, appliances, heat pumps/air conditioners and similar modern day necessities. When such happens to me I remember long ago when we did not rely as much on these sorts of "things" as we do today...so our levels of stress seemed lower.

Anyway my recent encounter with a "broken thing"was the day after Memorial Day when I discovered a small leak in the filter pump at our in-ground swimming pool...a convenience I wish we did not have...but it came with the house when we moved in and we liked the house, so there you go. I called the pool maintenance guys who had installed the pump and they came out a few days later to replace all the gaskets, etc. Took forever it seemed because the PVC piping in and out of the pump had to be modified a bit when everything was taken apart, but eventually it all went back together. Still leaked. So...they took it all apart again, eye-balled every crevice, said, "hummmmm" and then put it all back together. Turned the pump back on, still leaked. Third time they took it apart, and a third time they put it back together. Leak remained.

I elected to give up and decided this was a truly dead pump and the fixing process was a journey to nowhere. So, the decision was made to let it leak until a new assembly could be ordered (it was not really a big leak... drip or so every second). So, I turned it back on so the pool would remain useable over the weekend and they left promising to call back Monday when a new assembly had been located. As soon as they drove away, the circuit breaker by the pool pump popped...because (apparently) the "small" leak had shorted out the pump's electric motor. My sense of urgency to replace the thing NOW heightened, and I immediately called them back. So, they returned early the the next day (Saturday) with a new pump/filter assembly (fancier too...and more costly). Installed it, and now we're back in business poolside. We are also going to be poorer when we get the bill.

We never had these sorts of problems when our "backyard pool" was an 8-foot circular inflatable thing that always left circles of dead grass where it sat usually full of kid play toys throughout the hot summer. But, it was cheaper and easier to replace grass than an electric pump/pool filter!

Those who serve

Our cross-the-street neighbors moved in just a few months ago. Young couple...Dan is a Corporal with the Martinsville Sheriff's Office and his wife Sarah is seeking work as a Registered Nurse. He and I seem to have hit it off in many ways...perhaps it's because of my military background. This week he and his wife had some bad news...but it turned out to be OK... relatively so. Here's the story.

Dan's brother is a Sergeant with the Virginia Highway Patrol, and earlier this week he responded to a call regarding a "be on the lookout" for a person who (at that time) was suspected of killing his wife that day. The alleged felon worked for the Franklin County Virginia Sheriff's office which made his apprehension even more urgent. Dan's brother spotted the car with the suspect driving and pulled him over. In the process, the trooper was shot in the leg, and the shooter fled, followed by other law enforcement personnel who later got into a gun battle themselves, seriously wounding the suspect. Meanwhile, Dan's brother had been taken to a nearby medical facility where he was cared for...soon to be joined by Dan and other family members.

What this story is all about is the dedication of our law enforcement personnel...and their comrades in public service in fire departments all across the nation. They are there every day, all doing their jobs professionally...except for a bad apple from time to time, such as the shooter in this case. What I saw first hand, however, was how everyone quickly came together as events transpired, and afterwards. They were "one."

The Franklin County shooter is now lying with several shots in his chest, in a hospital bed in Virginia. If he survives, he will soon move behind bars where he belongs. Dan's brother, on the other hand will eventually return to his job, protecting us all daily as best he can. Law enforcement and fire department personnel are at the top of my list of heroes...certainly equal in stature to those who serve in the military.

Better than ever...

I suppose you had to see for yourself to get to my Blog, unless it's been bookmarked as a favorite of yours before, but AEA now has a totally re-designed website look...the absolute best ever...and it was done in total by our magazine's Associate Editor, Beth O'Hara, who is officially now designated as the "person in charge" of anything "web" related. I just fired myself from that position, because Beth is way better than I am with website design. So, if you have yet to navigate around the site, give it a look here. And...THANKS Beth!

All for political gain...or loss

I hate it when politicians, radio talk show hosts and others who have never worn a uniform in defense of the United States use the military for their own personal gain...by pandering to us...about how much they support what we are doing, etc., all-the-while knowing we are just stepping stones to help them get to their planned destination.

Remembering...

There is much we too often overlook when Memorial Day comes around each year...given our desires to celebrate time away from work at the beach, on the lake, or in a backyard standing next to a BBQ grill loaded with hot dogs, or chicken, or burgars...with lots of other good old American food sitting nearby waiting to be enjoyed. There's more...much more...we need to think about.

While we rightly mainly focus on the sacrifices made in battle by those who served in uniform, we sometimes fail to recognize similar sacrifices made by family members of service men and women who served alongside their loved-one...in good times and bad.

So, over this holiday weekend as you raise a flag, or say a prayer, or recall those you knew who are no longer with us, taks a few moments to remember military spouses and children who were a part of it all too.

Role of the U.S. Military in the World

It is my view that Defense Secretary Robert Gates is correct when he says (recently as quoted on Army Times Online) that the need to reduce defense spending is going to cause the U.S. to re-evaluate it's role militarily in the world, and to eliminate some defense programs, and having a smaller force than what we've had for the past decade. I say it's about time this was discussed so openly at his level, and in the manner he's doing it. Personally,  think we're going to miss him after he leaves office.

Judgement

The Army Chief of Staff is looking hard at the quality of Army leadership in the force today, and in my view he's doing the right thing. In the past year, for example, we read about brigade and battalion commanders being relieved...some for performance, some for questionable judgement. We also see very high percentage rates of officers being promoted...much higher than in the past...a sign of the Army perhaps being more concerned with filling slots than with having the best at the top.

Then today, I read in the Army Times online about three brigade commanders in Korea who "performed a skit" at a social event, that was definitely edgy and perhaps crossed the line in relation to the Army's "don't ask, don't tell" policy elimination. Why a brigade commander feels they have to  try to be edgy or funny in front of an audience made up of other senior leaders is beyond me. Each was reprimanded and of course their careers are over...and that's not to say these guys did not have a future ahead of them in the Army, given they were all combat veterans with excellent performance records.

I'm not saying senior leaders in the Army have not done "edgy" things before, nor am I saying that it's all necessarily bad. I am saying that there is a place and a time to be edgy, and it's probably good advice to ask yourself first, how close to the line am I, and if the answer is "close", then maybe it's better to stop before you cross the line, by design or by accident.

Too easy to get promoted?

I read today that the Army Chief of Staff  (CSA) is concerned about high percentages of people being promoted in the force today...with little attention being given pertaining to selecting only the "best" to receive said promotion.  


He said, “We’re promoting 95 to 98 percent of captains to major, 93 or 95 percent of majors to lieutenant colonel,” Dempsey said. “We’re not really separating out the true high performers that we should aspire to have. We shouldn’t be satisfied that 98 percent of captains are being promoted to major, because 98 percent of captains don’t deserve to be promoted to major. Statistically, that’s an infeasible percentage. And we’ve got to do the same thing on the noncommissioned officer (NCO) side.”


The CSA wants to reverse this trend and rightly so. If this does not change soon, the Army is going to find itself with a lot of average performers running itself in the future. Not a good thing in my view.

I Love the Rain

There is a song that's been featured on a Chevy TV commercial recently, titled, "I Love the Rain", sung by a group called (interestingly enough) "The Real Tuesday Weld." The TV commercial shows a bunch of kids racing out the door of a home, with rain gear on, splashing their way to a new Chevy SUV sitting in the driveway, waiting to carry them all away somewhere. It's a catchy song, and you can view it on You Tube here. Anyway, what's my point?

This has been a wet (way understated) spring this year, especially in the Midwest and Mid Atlantic regions of the US. During breaks in the rain here in SW Virginia, I have so far this week: 1. cut way back some very large holly bushes along the front of our house...with the help of my cross-the-street neighbor, 2. attempted to mow our entire yard, being aced out in the back portion which is like mowing through a marshland in spots, 3. lowered the level of our swimming pool twice, and 4. observed with bug spray in hand, a slow invasion of insects around our house...small "red" bugs that like to bunch up on rotting wet vegetation, making it a rather simple task for me to kill them all in one or two sprays of insecticide.

In July and August we will probably be yearning for wet weather as yards grow brown and crispy, and listening to that song, "I Love the Rain" will bring back memories of the wet weather we've been experiencing recently. On a more serious side and before I close, however, my thoughts and prayers go out to all those along the Mississippi River who have been impacted by this year's record flooding. I'm sure the referenced song above will not be very humorous to them.

Hokie Grad Now Looking for a Job

We have a new Virginia Tech graduate in the family...Jennifer in the middle with her mother (our daughter) Leslie on the left and my wife Barb on the right, together in Jennifer's apartment just prior to her graduation May 14th with two Bachelor of Science Degrees...Biology and Chemistry. That's quite an achievement given the academic difficulty at Tech.

Jennifer's looking for a job in which to apply her knowledge, but fortunately is not actually unemployed at present, given that for the past several years she has worked at Krogers as a cashier and part-time manager. She also worked for the VT Chemistry lab as an assistant part time during her five-year quest for her degrees. I say this to point out that there are many young people like Jennifer today who not only work hard at gaining a higher level of education, but who are not reluctant to work even harder earning their way at the same time.

So, while I often lament the sad state of our youth today, there are shining examples of success out there. And...I'm not just saying that because I'm biased toward Jennifer as my granddaughter...I see many others like her as well.

In closing...anyone looking for a hard working Biology-Chemistry new Hokie graduate...email me. Granddaughter or not...it's a tough job market and I'll do my best to help her find a job. End of commercial message. :-)

Critters

Last fall, here in SW Virginia and all along the east coast, we were invaded by Stink Bugs...small, shield shaped, armor plated, insecticide resistant critters that do, in fact, stink, when pestered with or killed. According to the bug experts, they were looking for a place to "winter over", unfortunately inside houses...such as in the attic. Well, winter is over by a long shot and now these little pests are coming out of their hiding places, seeking a way to get back outside. Problem is...I am in their way.

Typically, I find and capture around ten of these bugs each day, usually while we are watching TV in the evening. My death method is to catch them with a small, wet piece of paper towel, and to then wrap them firmly in more paper towel before placing the bug package under the faucet in the kitchen sink...sending them to bugdom whatever that is, and then in the trash can they go.

From what I have read, there is no way for us to deal with these insects any better than what I have been doing. But, I have to admit they are becoming a giant pain in the butt. I'm hoping we will soon see an end to those critters who wintered over in our attic. My wife, being a non-bug person, is hoping even more than I am.

It's that time of year when...

It's that time of year when:

1. I miss reading about or watching sports on TV other than anything related to the NBA...unprofessional as it seems to have become over the years.
2. Weeds grow faster than I can keep up with in our flower beds and gardens.
3. Bugs begin to creep out from winter hiding places, which signals the beginning of my constant battle with those which serve no useful purpose...spiders are OK because they are on my side, as are small wasps which help control the enemy too.
4. It's 80 degrees one day and 60 the next...with severe thunderstorms and tornados lurking about.
5. We open up our swimming pool...with a seemingly never ending series of summer maintenance chores ahead.
6. I switch from wearing sweats for my AM 2-mile walk, to shorts and tee shirt.
7. Monthly expenditures on gas rise, due to weekly lawn mowing with my John Deere lawn tractor on our 2.5 acre yard.
8. And lastly, it's that time of year when I remember how excited I used to be in May when I was much younger, and had none of the thoughts listed above. Like...school was almost out and a wonderful summer was ahead with all sorts of youthful joys waiting for me to attack them with gusto.

The Royal Wedding...a look back

For me anyway, escaping in some small way from the terrible state of affairs in the world we live in today, is always enjoyable. Unfortunately, I can't really do that as much as I'd like. However, watching the wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton came as close to taking me "away" as I might hope to find. Call me as sentimentalist or whatever, but my "roots" are English/Welsh...my name being one of the most common in the UK...Morgan that is. So...call me British.

I've been to the UK several times and each trip there was unique in its own way. I am also very interested in the English Monarchy, although trying to learn English history can be a challenge, given its age. Heck, it's hard enough keeping track of our own history here in America.

I guess there's not much I don't like about the UK. Golf there is something not to be missed. A "pint" in a London pub is wonderful...not possible to have only one. Fish and Chips wrapped in a newspaper is the only way to eat that treat. And, meat pie is good too, but I'd never ask for what the ingredients are.

I've always said that I could live there (Wales would be my choice). But alas, it's not to be. I'll just have to go there in my mind, through the internet listening to live streaming music from BBC One or Jazz FM, reading books, and of course keeping close track of the Royals as they go about their business...especially the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge...Kate and William.

Honoring Our Fallen Engineers

Last week I was at Fort Leonard Wood. While there I visited, along with many others, the newly dedicated Engineer Memorial Wall, sited in the Engineer Grove near the Museum complex. The wall is composed of three large T-Walls, made from Missouri granite, with the names of all those engineers, military and civilian, who have, thus far, lost their lives in OEF, OIF. The wall is a "living" one, and those who lose their lives in the future will have their names added.

While nothing can ever fully comfort those who remain behind, with the loss of their loved one, this large eight-foot high wall provides a place of solitude in which to honor their sacrifice. I highly recommend you visit this wonderful memorial when you can.

Fort Leonard Wood

This week I was fortunate to have been able to receive a series of briefings from key personnel in the U.S. Army Engineer School & Headquarters of the Engineer Regiment, at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. No way am I going into the details of those briefings here...you'll have to wait until the July-August 2011 edition of Army Engineer Magazine to read about all that. But, short and sweet news here is: the Engineer Regiment is in excellent hands as evidenced by the outstanding work which I saw first hand.

Fort Leonard Wood is BIG today, with joint training underway not only for Engineers, but for MPs and Chemical soldiers as well. On a Thursday and Friday of most weeks of the year, the population of the installation swells with the arrival of thousands of family members coming to watch with pride their young soldier graduate from training. It's an inspiring scene.

Then there's the off-post part of the area. I remember back when it was a pretty bleak place outside the main gate to post. Today there are numerous chain restaurants, motels and retail stores in large, well maintained shopping areas located nearby. It's light years ahead of what it once was, and is one of the most outstanding military installations in the world.

Every time I come out this way, I leave energized and more confident about our military than I was when I arrived. Kudos to all in charge who made this all possible.

Remembering

This is the Engineer Regiment's Stained Glass Memorial dedicated years ago to recognize those engineers who served during the Cold War period.

It's located in the original portion of the Army Engineer School building opened in 1988, and which is now no longer used by engineer students there, who attend classes in a newer addition. Thus, I wonder if those students are aware of its existence. Perhaps they do find the beautiful and solemn memorial as they move about the large modern facility, but I still wonder whether this is so. My point is, we need to always remember those who have gone before...and one way to do that is to seek out memorials of this nature, and offer thanks in some way.

Take a couple of minutes...

As we are once again celebrating the Easter weekend, here's a very nice video to help you appreciate all that we have...here on our planet...problems and all.

Glimmer of Hope

I’ve commented on this before, but I am frustrated with today’s youth and how they generally have become so resistant to developing a reasonable level of personal responsibility, coupled with a seemingly lack of basic values which will help them later in life. For those who flounder and flip-flop from one interest to another right after graduating from high school, with little incentive to improve themselves, a simple solution to would be to enlist in the military. Problem solved...a better person comes out the other end. I’ve witnessed it time and again.

Some conclude all this is due to the rapid advancements in electronic technology such as mobile phones, computers, video gaming, and essentially worthless television shows full of poor examples of personal conduct. My take is that it’s largely due to a collapse in the “family” structure which had been up until the latter part of the 20th Century, one of our strengths. Single parenting, double income earners, a poor economy, and many more things have contributed to a fracture in the fabric of the traditional family; which once ate three meals a day together, shared their visions, fears and joys together, and mostly prospered together. It seems today that few have any time for this. That alone may spell bleak times ahead. True, there are numerous examples of success to be seen around us. That positive serves as a glimmer of hope.

Women in Combat...Make it Official

I have always been a strong supporter of the Army removing restrictions which prevent women from fully serving in combat units. Army Times online has a great article about a woman combat engineer who served with the 27th Engineer Battalion as a Platoon Leader in Afghanistan. That's just one example supporting my point, but it's a powerful one.

Recruiting then and now

I've been reading a series of books about life in the British Army during the early 19th Century, when they were fighting battles in India, Portugal, Spain and France. The books are written by Bernard Cornwell, and are not only fun to read, but from a historical standpoint they are most informative. Check them out...so, what's my point.

I just finished one of the books wherein it was described how the British Army used to (it was legal) engage in what was known as "crimping" where contractors were hired to lure men into uniform with all sorts of promises, none fulfilled, and then once signed up, new recruits were trained and sent mainly to those units who had extreme problems getting volunteers, such as in Australia and the Americas. Monthly pay promised to the men was sometimes skimmed off in various ways, and thus many officers and sergeants profited, the recruiting contractors profited even more. Apparently, this sort of recruiting business is still alive today.

I read in the Army Times online that a Chinese national in California was arrested and charged in a recruiting scam where he convinced 100 other chinese to pay him upwards of $450 as an "initiation fee", to join the Army, with a promise that such would lead to U.S. citizenship. He even issued fake uniforms, ID cards, etc. So...recruiting schemes from the 19th Century seem to still be alive in the 21st Century.