A Life Remembered: Toshiya Kuge

For three years, D.C. Roe has hosted an annual remembrance of those lost on September 11, 2001. Please click on the logo to the left for a link to other remembrances this year.
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Long ago there lived in Japan an old man whose name was Hamaguchi. His farmhouse stood on the edge of a plateau, a flat, open space on the side of a mountain. Behind, the mountain rose in lofty wooded peaks. In front, it sloped gently down to the sea. At the foot of the mountain along the shore was the little village, made up of a hundred or more thatched houses and a great temple.

One afternoon in late summer Hamaguchi sat on the balcony of his house and watched the people in the village below. With him was his grandson, a lad of ten. The rice crop had been very fine, and the villagers were holding their harvest festival. All the shops were closed, and the streets were gayly decorated with ropes of straw and paper lanterns. The villagers in bright-colored clothing were about to join in the harvest dance.

Beyond the village Hamaguchi could see the vast blue sea, wrinkling under the bright after noon sun. Suddenly there came a slight shock. The house rocked three or four times and then stood still. Hamaguchi had felt many earth quakes in his time, and he was not at all frightened until he looked toward the sea.

The water had become dark green and very rough. The tide had suddenly changed --- the sea was running swiftly away from the land! The villagers stopped their dancing, and ran to the shore to watch. None of them knew what this strange thing meant. But the old man on the mountain had seen one such sight as a little child. He knew what the sea would do. There was no time to send a message to the village, nor to ring the big bell in the temple, and yet the people must be warned.

"Yone!" he called to his little grandson. "Light a torch! Quick!"

The boy was puzzled, but he asked no questions. He kindled the torch at once. The old man ran to the fields, where hundreds of rice stacks stood awaiting sale. It was all his wealth. He ran from one stack to another, applying the torch to each. The dry stalks caught fire quickly, and soon the red flames were shooting upward, and the smoke was rising in great columns to join the wind clouds in the sky.

Yone ran after his grandfather, shouting and crying, "Grandfather! Grandfather! Why? Why are you setting fire to the rice?"

The old man had no time to answer, but ran on, firing stack after stack. The high wind caught the sparks and loose brands and carried them farther, until the fields were all ablaze.

The watcher in the temple saw the fire, and set the big bell booming, and the people turned from the sea to look. In Japan every one in the village must give help in time of fire. No sooner did the people see that Hamaguchi's rice stacks were on fire than they began to run. Like a swarm of ants they climbed the mountain --- young men and boys, women and girls, old folk, mothers with babies on their backs, even little children joined in the race to put out the fire.

But when they reached the plateau, it was too late. The flames had already eaten the stacks of beautiful rice.

"It is too bad," the people exclaimed. "How did it happen?"

"Grandfather did it," cried Yone. "With a torch he set fire to the rice. He is mad."

In amazement the people stared at Hamaguchi. "You did this thing !" they cried. "You set fire to the rice fields! "

"Look toward the sea," said the old man, "and know my purpose."

The people turned and looked. Far out they saw a great wall of water sweeping toward them more swiftly than a bird flies. It was the returning sea!

The people shrieked, but their voices were lost in a great sound, deeper than thunder, as the wall of water struck the side of the mountain. The hills shook, and were drenched in a great burst of foam.

When the cloud of spray had disappeared, the people saw a wild sea raving over their village. Great angry waves seethed and tumbled above the house-tops. They rolled away roaring, tearing out houses and trees and great rocks, and bearing them off. Again the wall of water struck, and again and again, with less force each time. At last it fell back once more in its former bed.

The people stood speechless on the side of the mountain. The village was gone; the temple was gone; the fields had been torn away. Nothing was left of their homes but a few straw roofs that floated on the water. But every man and woman and child was safe on the mountain side.

Then the people knew why old Hamaguchi had set fire to the rice. There he stood among them, as poor as any. And they fell on their knees to thank him.

As a little girl-- maybe 3 or 4 years old, I recall my mother telling me Japanese fables and folk stories-- This one and a story about the Little Peachboy are the two I remember the most. I thought this story of sacrifice fitting to share what little I have been able to learn about a young man named Toshiya Kuge.

Toshiya Kuge-san was born in 1981. His parents, Hajime and Yachiyo Kuge must have been proud of their son. He graduated in 1999 from Kitano High School. While in high school he was a good student and was the goalie for his high school soccer team. However, his preference was American football and was a linebacker his freshman year at Waseda University wearing a maroon jersey with number ninety-five. He loved the National Football League and would watch football via satellite in the middle of the night in Japan. He had a poster of the San Francisco 49ers on his bedroom wall, but his favorite team was the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He was in his sophomore year at the prestigious Waseda University studying design and creation of materials at the School of Science and Engineering. In the spring of 2001 he attended an intensive 4 week class at the University of Utah to improve his English speaking and writing skills. In an essay for this class he wrote, "he wanted to be friends with people and to study in America."

After his time at the University of Utah, Toshiya went home to Toyonaka City to spend the summer with family and friends before coming back in August 2001 to the United States and Canada- part vacation - part preparation-- Vacation was to go to whale watching, horseback riding and rafting at Jasper National Park-- Preparation was for his goal to scout out a university for his graduate degree. Among the items he took on this trip was his Pittsburgh Steelers jersey.

"He longed to come to America, " said Toshiya's mother,Yachiyo Kuge. "Perhaps he liked the freedom. He loved the language and the music. And sports. He wanted to play sports there."

From the few accounts I have been able to locate, he was friendly and outgoing with all he encountered. He wanted to visit Niagara Falls from both the Canadian and American sides. He had a passion for the big outdoors. On his rafting trip to Jasper he befriended and shared a lunch with two women from Chicago- Kristine White and Debbie Schiies.

On that fateful day, September 11, 2001 Kuge-san was on his way home to go back to school at Waseda. Instead, he and the other brave souls aboard United Flight 93 lost their lives in an attempt to take back their hijacked plane. This young man- his entire life ahead of him stolen and gone in an instant by haters of freedom and liberty. We will never have the good fortune of knowing what this young man could have contributed to our lives---.

In April 2004, Toshiya Kuge was recognized by Professor Shirai, President of Waseda University and was awarded the status of Alumna.

It is important to remember that Americans were not the only souls lost on that dreadful day- 234 people from other countries are counted in the numbers... from those 234 foreigners, 24 were from Japan.

So, I share this fable about the burning rice fields with you--- Although profoundly sad, it is a story of sacrifice and a keen understanding of a greater good. I want to believe--- I need to believe that the men and women who lost their lives that awful day were not in vain, but stand over us as guardian angels to remind us to stay vigilant and to never forget and never ever allow this to happen again.

A Life Remembered,

Toshiya Kuge
1981 - 2001







My Other Tributes:

2006 - Marion Britton
2007 - Tom Burnett
2007 - Deora Bodley

Resources:

Japan Times
Ongoing Tales
Among the Heroes - United Flight 93 and the Passengers and Crew Who Fought Back, by Jere Longman
Legacy.com
Waseda University article
Daylife.com
Post-Gazette
Find a Grave

Project 2996

D.C. Roe is again hosting a day of remembrance at Project 2996.

He has added this beautiful Coat of Arms.

When I decided that Project2996 needed some sort of logo I wanted something a little more dignified than a standard graphic design. I've been a fan of heraldry for many years, and recently have become an student of the field, it seemed a natural fit.

The poppy is a flower that has long been associated with remembrance (including a longtime link with WWI veterans). The four stars above the poppy represent the four planes and four crash sites of 9/11. The coloring scheme where the shiled is divided into two colors with the charges inverted is called counterchanging, and is used to represent the stark change our country and world went through.

If you have time, write a tribute or link a tribute you have done in the past. But whatever you do, take a moment to read a few tributes and remember what we all lost seven years ago.

Love Never Loses It's Way Home

It was a beautiful Sunday. Michael and I were asked to help with some preparations for Matt Maupin's homecoming. Some last minute changes and we were off helping prepare for the Maupin Scholarship Fund Raiser and Dinner. It is held on April 9... the 4th anniversay of the day Matt was captured. Below are a few of the photos I took today. Pretty breathtaking... It was an honor for us to participate. It is my understanding that Keith and Carolyn don't know about this.

Let us never forget. Let us always be thankful for the fine men and women who serve our country.

click on the photos for larger view

A Life Remembered: Tom Burnett

Tom Burnett's name is probably one of the most recognized names of those that perished on September 11. Tom Burnett was a born leader and up until his last moments in this life, he continued to work the problem and never saw failure as an option that fateful day. There is little I can add to these accounts. His heroic actions have been documented in the 9/11 Commission Report, in movies, in documentaries, on countless websites and books. His wife, Deena keeps Tom's memory alive through the Tom Burnett Family Foundation. Tom often said that one of the most-noble pursuits in life is raising our children to be “good citizens.” The Tom Burnett Family Foundation is dedicated to helping young people in this country to become good citizens and future leaders, so his legacy will go continue.

On a personal note, everything I have read, everything that I have learned about this man, I would have liked him very much. He would have had my profound respect. I could see myself flying his flag at work and following his lead. He was a man of conviction, integrity and strong moral character. I would have loved working for a man of this caliber.

Born and raised in Bloomington, Minnesota, Tom attended public schools Ridgeview Elementary, Olson Middle School, and graduated with honors from Thomas Jefferson High School. Wearing number 11 in high school, Tom played quarterback for the Jefferson Jaguars and was recruited to play football by several universities and chose Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota. He enjoyed the conversations and discourse with the Benedictine monks who lived there, and often said his experience provided incredible depth to his faith in God. After two years, an injury shortened his football career and he transferred to the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. He was named President of the Alpha Kappa Psi Fraternity, then later graduated with a B.S. degree in Finance. Working with Thoratec, a medical device company, he climbed the ladder to corporate success quickly. He received an M.B.A. degree from Pepperdine University and was making plans to work on his doctorate.

By 1989, he'd met Deena in Atlanta, where she'd just completed flight-attendant training for Delta Airlines. Their first date was at an Applebee's where they spent six hours talking. She knew she would marry him after he unscrewed the light bulb above the table and tossed it over his shoulder, shattering it on the floor. "I'm trying to create a mood here," he told her, "and this light's not helping." They married in April 1992 after a "romance in the air." Since Burnett traveled all week, the couple would meet in airports, or Deena would leave notes for him on planes. They agreed they were as comfortable in planes as they were in cars. But in 1995, when Deena was expecting, she stopped flying.

Years later, as senior vice president and chief operating officer of Thoratec Corp., known nationally for its creation of heart assist pumps, he was successful beyond his earlier dreams. Burnett would tell his wife, Deena, that he couldn't believe his achievements.

Articulate and competitive, a motivator who could talk a person into almost anything, Burnett was a born salesman. While he couldn't talk his mother into letting him fish from the edge of a dock as a 3-year-old, he did persuade her to let him sit in the middle of it and drop his line through the cracks.

Burnett entered fatherhood on his own terms. He liked pushing their three girls around the neighborhood in the stroller, but only while smoking a cigar. Diapers, baths and feeding were on an as-needed basis.

For all his traveling, Burnett was cautious. Long wanting to parachute, he backed out when the chance came, worrying about his family. And when the two of them left for a vacation, he insisted they take separate planes so an accident wouldn't leave the children parentless.

By Deena’s own telling, her husband of nine years thought of himself as anything but a hero. He was a man who, at thirty-eight, held a senior executive position at a respected medical device company headquartered in Pleasanton, California. He was a loving husband and father who adored his three young girls. He worked hard, was respected by his colleagues, and, on a daily basis, practiced quiet acts of integrity, honesty, respect, and kindness toward those with whom he came in contact.

“He was a man of heartfelt compassion, deep convictions, love, and had a keen sense of right and wrong, and he believed that morals and values were not debatable. To have died with such honor and valor is befitting of my husband.

“His actions, and those of his fellow passengers, are a call to each of us to stand for our beliefs and convictions,” Deena continued. “If he were here tonight, he would ask you to go one step further and to honor him by living a life worthy of those who have died for our freedom, and to remember that heroes can give their lives all at one time, or they can give a little each day.”

Tom lived his last minutes of life they way he had lived all the previous minutes. He knew what he and his fellow passengers were facing. Tom took the lead and organized the effort aboard United Flight 93. Allowing the terrorists to succeed was not an option. He and the passengers of Flight 93 died heroically. They thwarted the efforts of the bad guys. Yes, Tom Burnett was a citizen soldier.

6:27 a.m.( pacific time) First cell phone call from Tom to Deena

Deena: Hello
Tom: Deena
Deena: Tom, are you O.K.?
Tom: No, I’m not. I’m on an airplane that has been hijacked.
Deena: hijacked?
Tom: Yes, They just knifed a guy.
Deena: A passenger?
Tom: Yes.
Deena: Where are you? Are you in the air?
Tom: Yes, yes, just listen. Our airplane has been hijacked. It’s United Flight 93 from Newark to San Francisco. We are in the air. The hijackers have already knifed a guy, one of them has a gun, they are telling us there is a bomb on board, please call the authorities. He hung up.

6:31 Deena calls 911

6:34 The phone rang in on call waiting, Tom’s second cell phone call.

Deena: Hello
Tom: They’re in the cockpit. The guy they knifed is dead.
Deena: He’s dead?
Tom: Yes. I tried to help him, but I couldn’t get a pulse.
Deena: Tom, they are hijacking planes all up and down the east coast. They are taking them and hitting designated targets. They’ve already hit both towers of the World Trade Center.
Tom: They’re talking about crashing this plane. (a pause) Oh my God. It’s a suicide mission…(he then tells people sitting around him)
Deena: Who are you talking to?
Tom: My seatmate. Do you know which airline is involved?
Deena: No, they don’t know if they’re commercial airlines or not. The news reporters are speculating cargo planes, private planes and commercial. No one knows.
Tom: How many planes are there?
Deena: They’re not sure, at least three. Maybe more.
Tom: O.K….O.K….Do you know who is involved?
Deena: No.
Tom: We’re turning back toward New York. We’re going back to the World Trade Center. No, wait, we’re turning back the other way. We’re going south.
Deena: What do you see?
Tom: Just a minute, I’m looking. I don’t see anything, we’re over a rural area. It’s just fields. I’ve gotta go.
He hung up.

6:45 a.m. Third cell phone call from Tom to Deena

Tom: Deena
Deena: Tom, you’re O.K. (I thought at this point he had just survived the Pentagon plane crash).
Tom: No, I’m not.
Deena: They just hit the Pentagon.
Tom: (tells people sitting around him “They just hit the Pentagon.”)
Tom: O.K….O.K. What else can you tell me?
Deena: They think five airplanes have been hijacked. One is still on the ground. They believe all of them are commercial planes. I haven’t heard them say which airline, but all of them have originated on the east coast.
Tom: Do you know who is involved?
Deena: No
Tom: What is the probability of their having a bomb on board? I don’t think they have one. I think they’re just telling us that for crowd control.
Deena: A plane can survive a bomb if it’s in the right place.
Tom: Did you call the authorities?
Deena: Yes, they didn’t know anything about your plane.
Tom: They’re talking about crashing this plane into the ground. We have to do something. I’m putting a plan together.
Deena: Who’s helping you?
Tom: Different people. Several people. There’s a group of us. Don’t worry. I’ll call you back.

6:54 a.m. Fourth cell phone call to Tom to Deena

Deena: Tom?
Tom: Hi. Anything new?
Deena: No
Tom: Where are the kids?
Deena: They’re fine. They’re sitting at the table having breakfast. They’re asking to talk to you.
Tom: Tell them I’ll talk to them later
Deena: I called your parents. They know your plane has been hijacked.
Tom: Oh…you shouldn’t have worried them. How are they doing?
Deena: They’re O.K.. Mary and Martha are with them.
Tom: Good. (a long quiet pause) We’re waiting until we’re over a rural area. We’re going to take back the airplane.
Deena: No! Sit down, be still, be quiet, and don’t draw attention to yourself! (The exact words taught to me by Delta Airlines Flight Attendant Training).
Tom: Deena! If they’re going to crash this plane into the ground, we’re going to have do something!
Deena: What about the authorities?
Tom: We can’t wait for the authorities. I don’t know what they could do anyway.
It’s up to us. I think we can do it.
Deena: What do you want me to do?
Tom: Pray, Deena, just pray.
Deena: (after a long pause) I love you.
Tom: Don’t worry, we’re going to do something.
He hung up

"Don't worry, we're going to do something."- Tom Burnett












Thomas Edward Burnett Jr.
May 29, 1963 - September 11, 2001

Sources:
Tom Burnett Family Foundation
Among the Heroes: United Flight 93 and the Passengers and Crew Who Fought Back, by Jere Longman
Post Gazette
September 11 Victims
Legacy.com
Pepperdine University Press Release


Also for Project 2996:

from 2006 A Life Remembered: Marion Britton
from 2007 A Life Remembered: Deora Bodley

A Life Remembered: Deora Bodley

I have volunteered for a second year to write a memorial for Project 2996. Like last year I wanted to remember the heroes from United Flight 93. Dale left it up to each person that volunteered to pick a name(s) of our choice. I chose 2 names from Flight 93 that did not receive a memorial last year.

I first read about Deora Bodley in Jere Longman's book, Among the Heroes. She was an idealistic 20 year old. She was the youngest passenger aboard United Flight 93 and was heading back to California, back to her junior year at Santa Clara University when her life was tragically ended despite the courageous acts of her fellow passengers and crew.

At the tender age of eleven she wrote, "People ask how, what, where, when and why. I ask peace." When I read those words, I remembered what it was like to be a child and have everything as a possibility. I remember thinking I could make a difference and the world could be a better place. At the age of eleven or even twenty there are no boundaries there are only opportunities. That is how this young woman lived her short precious life.

By coincidence, Deora and I share a birthday. She was born on April 8, 1981 to loving parents, Deborah (Bodley) Borza and Derrill Bodley. Her parents divorced when Deora was only two years old. This possibly contributed to her being introspective and wanting to help others. She was active in school, captain of the basketball team her senior year in high school, she participated in an AIDS peer program, and volunteered with the Special Olympics and at her local animal shelter.

As a twenty year old, she wanted a world without war and disease. She lived her life focused on making a contribution to this dream. Her love of writing and her ability to speak fluently in French, contributed to her success while she attended Santa Clara University and participated in America Reads program tutoring children with reading and writing. One of the children wrote, "Deora made the sun shine brighter." She made it a point to help children whenever possible as she did for a pair of Vietnamese twins in the literacy program that came from Toronto. She translated stories from English to French for them. It was obvious Deora had a natural gift in working with children. Her major in college was Psychology and her goal was to become a child psychologist.

Deora was a wide eyed young woman. The world was her oyster. She loved her family and friends and there is no doubt that they love and miss her still. Her life lives on in those she loved and the lives she touched.

"If I would just live for the moment and make every moment count, maybe the future would work out. Maybe that moment would be a doorway to the future." - Deora Bodley, age 13














Deora Frances Bodley
April 8, 1981 - September 11, 2001

Sources:
Among the Heroes: United Flight 93 and the Passengers and Crew Who Fought Back, by Jere Longman
Post Gazette
SFBA Flight 93 Memorial
findagrave
Legacy.com
Deora's Candles - features a jazz composition written by her father Derrill Bodley, who passed away in September 2005. Steps to Peace, a song he composed right after Deora's death was later recorded by Dave Brubeck.

Also for Project 2996:

from 2006 A Life Remembered: Marion Britton
from 2007 A Life Remembered: Tom Burnett

A Quiet Sunday

Sunny - Hi 114 Lo 86 for Baghdad, Iraq
Morning Rain - Hi 103 Lo 71 for Qandahar, Afghanistan
Partly Cloudy - Hi 95 Lo 72 for Northern KY, USA

Song of the week: I Want You To Be My Love, Over the Rhine

I am smitten with this duo, Over the Rhine. Not because they formed in my hometown of Cincinnati or even because they named themselves after a historic (and sadly run down) part of the city, but because they are talented. This song is sweet and melodic and comforting. The indie video I found goes hand in hand. I hope you enjoy it.

Ramble:

I don't have the heart to write this week... enjoy your Sunday, have some coffee and listen to my music selection.

...and to all the wonderful fathers out there... Happy Father's Day.

Blogs and Links to Check Out This Week:

I try to visit LindaSog at Something and Half of Something a few times of week. She loves Marines almost as much as me...

Anyway, she put up a link that held me captivated for a good solid hour the other night. It is a tribute to Army Corporal Chris Mason. Chris' father sent an email....

I miss Chris today, more then ever; I was riding my bike and found tears running
down my face. I love my son, but he loved freedom more then he loved life it's
self.

Here is a link to Chris' MySpace that has been lovingly cared for by his father. I encourage you to watch all the videos... It is a reminder that on this day- we have sons and fathers in harms way... and we have sons and fathers waiting for loved ones in harms way to come home safe. Please, go, go now.

Lastly, in the next few days I'll be posting an intense piece written by my Italian buddy, Carlo at I Diavoli Neri. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the words.

Happy Father's Day and Have a great week everyone!

Defying Gravity

Mostly Sunny - Hi 86 Lo 62 for Baghdad, Iraq
Sunny - Hi 81 Lo 60 for Northern KY, USA

Song of the week: Defying Gravity, From the Musical - Wicked - Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth

Last April I went with a few of my favorite women to Chicago to shop and see Wicked. The sets, the costumes, the story line... so much fun. The song Defying Gravity was the climax of the production--- our hearts were soaring by the time this song started and when Elphaba defied gravity by flying... well, I left the show feeling anything was possible.

Ramble:

Thoughts of the massacre at Virginia Tech have had me preoccupied. So much has been said and written...news, opinions, blogs... I really do not have much to add to the discussion.

Let me just say this... I agree with those that state if someone had been carrying a firearm there is no doubt fewer souls would have been lost. However, I believe the bigger question and debate is over something else that I have not seen covered anywhere-- I suspect because it is such a taboo topic. I also suspect I will get some serious hate mail for this, but I qualify my thoughts based on personal experience (the liberal way of having a debate--I have personal experience...therefore I can talk about it)... This massacre is what happens when we are not given the opportunity to institutionalize people that can not be left on their own. It has already been established that this young man was disturbed. I don't know what the right answer is... Asylums of yesterday were inhumane... would we as a society allow that to occur today? I imagine a good percentage of homeless folks are mentally ill. Is it humane to allow someone that is mentally ill to live on the streets- homeless? The question has been asked "Why did he do this?" The answer is pretty simple. He was demented... disturbed... sick... mentally unstable... and needed to be institutionalized- he was a threat to himself as well as others.

In Memoriam: Virginia Tech Remembers

I was saddened to hear that one of our finest and elite was lost in South Carolina on Saturday. The Blue Angels have always made my heart soar. The entire team is from the Navy and Marines... our finest...

I was surprised to hear that the pilot was killed, but after reading this most recent report, I have no doubt this pilot stayed with the jet to minimize injury to civilians.

BEAUFORT, S.C. (AP) - A Navy Blue Angel jet crashed during an air show Saturday, plunging into a neighborhood of small homes and trailers and killing the pilot, the county coroner said.

Witnesses said the planes were flying in formation during the show at the Marine Corps Air Station and one dropped below the trees and crashed, sending up clouds of smoke. At least one home was on fire.

Raymond Voegeli, a plumber, was backing out of a driveway when the plane ripped through a grove of pine trees, dousing his truck in flames and debris. He said wreckage hit "plenty of houses and mobile homes."

"It was just a big fireball coming at me," said Voegeli, 37. "It was just taking
pine trees and just clipping them."

The complete article from AP

The following video is about 16 minutes long... I hope the Blue Angels do not cancel the remainder of their schedule. I am sure they will have to investigate what occurred and caused the accident, but we need these ambassadors of our military to tour our country... airshows are the best place to go to feel American... to get a sense of patriotism... to tear up while singing our National Anthem... and most importantly to thank these fine men and women.

Everyone deserves the chance to fly!
And if I'm flying solo
At least I'm flying free
To those who'd ground me
Take a message back from me
Tell them how I am
Defying gravity
I'm flying high
Defying gravity

Defying Gravity

Something has changed within me
Something is not the same
I'm through with playing by the rules
Of someone else's game
Too late for second-guessing
Too late to go back to sleep
It's time to trust my instincts
Close my eyes and leap!

It's time to try
Defying gravity
I think I'll try
Defying gravity
And you can't pull me down!

Quick - come with me. Think of
what we could do together.

Unlimited
Together we're unlimited
Together we'll be the greatest team
There's ever been
Glinda - Dreams, the way we planned 'em

If we work in tandem:

There's no fight we cannot win
Just you and I
Defying gravity
With you and I
Defying gravity

They'll never bring us down!
Well? Are you coming?

I hope you're happy
Now that you're choosing this

You too I hope it brings you bliss

I really hope you get it
And you don't live to regret it
I hope you're happy in the end
I hope you're happy, my friend:

So if you care to find me
Look to the western sky!
As someone told me lately:
"Everyone deserves the chance to fly!"
And if I'm flying solo
At least I'm flying free
To those who'd ground me
Take a message back from me
Tell them how I am
Defying gravity
I'm flying high
Defying gravity
And soon I'll match them in renown
And nobody in all of Oz
No Wizard that there is or was
Is ever gonna bring me down!

I hope you're happy!

Look at her, she's wicked!
Get her!

Bring me down!

Have a great week everyone!

Sgt. Tommy Rieman an American Soldier an American Hero

Last night during the State of the Union Address President Bush introduced Sgt. Tommy Rieman from Independence, Kentucky.

"Tommy Rieman was a teenager pumping gas in Independence, Kentucky, when he enlisted in the United States Army. In December 2003, he was on a reconnaissance mission in Iraq when his team came under heavy enemy fire. From his Humvee, Sergeant Rieman returned fire - and used his body as a shield to protect his gunner. He was shot in the chest and arm, and received shrapnel wounds to his legs - yet he refused medical attention, and stayed in the fight. He helped to repel a second attack, firing grenades at the enemy's position. For his exceptional courage, Sergeant Rieman was awarded the Silver Star. And like so many other Americans who have volunteered to defend us, he has earned the respect and gratitude of our whole country."

Complete Transcript from State of the Union Address

Well shoot! I know where Independence is!! Heck, I pass the exit everyday going to work... and my sis in law and her whole family live there.... whaddya know?

And what is more cool than real hero action figures?

"Rieman, now stationed at the Pentagon, was chosen in 2004 to be a model for one of the Army's new action figure toys in a product line called "America's Army Real Hero." The action figure depicts Rieman firing an M-4 rifle mounted with an M-203 grenade launcher during the December 2003 firefight."

Excerpt from the Kentucky Post - Local Soldier is Guest at Speech

When it comes to our military, understand this:

Sgt. Tommy Rieman is NOT the exception. Sgt. Tommy Rieman IS the rule.

Photo courtesy of United States Army And Read: OIF troopers beat 10:1 odds in December firefight

UPDATE- My honey works with Sgt. Rieman's Uncle Bubba.... so whaddya know?

The Mamas and the Papas - Denny Doherty

** I * love * pop * music * from * the * 60's. **

On my drive home from work this evening I heard that Denny Doherty from the Mamas and the Papas passed away. As a little girl, I remember their songs coming on the radio and my mom singing with a very thick accent, "Monday Monday". Good stuff, ya know? I have always had a secret fascination (not so secret to those that know me I suppose) with the Mamas and the Papas... Yes, they were a bunch of hippies, yes they lived the free love, drug induced lifestyle... and sadly John Phillips cut his career short because of his drug addiction. But in those 3 very short years that the Mamas and the Papas were together, they created something special. The songs will live on in the beautiful harmonies they created. Their music always seems to warm my soul when I feel myself getting cynical. So, click play and tip a glass in memory of Denny.

Dedicated to the One I Love



California Dreamin'

The Last Conversation I Had with a Crusty ol' Marine

"Cath, I drank too much and I smoked too much and I did a lot of other things that you don't need to know about... And if I had it to do all over again. I would do nothing and I mean nothing differently."

My Great Uncle Charlie passed away Tuesday after a long illness. When I was a little girl he was bigger than life- loud, opinionated, foul mouthed--- your standard issue Marine. I loved him, every bit of him. He served nearly 30 years in his beloved Marine Corp and he was a patriot his entire life. He loved this country with all his heart.

Semper Gratus Uncle Charlie and God Speed.

A Life Remembered: Marion Britton

My Lord, what a morning

My Lord, what a morning!
My Lord, what a morning!
O my Lord, what a morning!
When the stars begin to fall.

You'll hear a sinner mourn,
To wake the nations underground,
Looking to my God's right hand,
When the stars begin to fall.

Refrain

You'll hear a sinner pray,
To wake the nations underground,
Looking to my God's right hand,
When the stars begin to fall.

Refrain

You'll hear a Christian shout,
To wake the nations underground,
Looking to my God’s right hand,
When the stars begin to fall.

Refrain

You'll hear a Christian sing,
To wake the nations underground,
Looking to my God’s right hand,
When the stars begin to fall.

I volunteered to write a tribute for DCRoe honoring and memorializing the lives of those lost on September 11, 2001. For my own personal reasons, my only request to DC was to pay tribute to one of the heroes from United Flight 93. From there, I was randomly assigned Marion Ruth Britton.

Like most volunteers, I knew absolutely nothing about this person. Like all the tributes prior to 2996 - Marion was nothing more than a name on a long list. But, after researching and finding bits and pieces that gave hints to what she was really about, I soon realized that I wish I had known Marion while she was alive. Her brother was quoted in one interview as saying, "She could use stinging language and she'd let you know if she thought you were wrong. She could be bitchy - I was the brunt of it for many years, but she did it for your own good. She was kind-hearted and truthful, and you always knew where you stood."

Marion could be bitchy! Her brother, a reverend, said that! When I read those words, I laughed out loud - we were part of the same sisterhood! She at last had become more than a name on a long sad awful list.

The daughter of a New York City Police officer, Marion Ruth Britton was born on April 28, 1948. She grew up in South Ozone Park a neighborhood in southwestern Queens and on the border of Brooklyn. The neighborhoods that surrounded her no doubt added to the colorful tapestry that became Marion's personality. She graduated from John Adams High School in 1965- a year filled with hopes and dreams, goals and ambitions of a wide eyed seventeen year old. And of course wonderful music such as The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, The Supremes, and The Tempations set the soundtrack for this exciting time in Marion's life.

After working various jobs as a bookkeeper, Marion took a position with the Census Bureau as a Field Operations Assistant. Marion would trudge happily door to door asking quesions. Marion was always looking for an opportunity to tell a story and her early years working with the Census Bureau gave her plenty of material. Some of the more memorable interviewees included inmates at Rikers Island Correctional Facility. Marion's brother was quoted as saying, "One time she talked to a man who was a convicted murderer, and he could talk about murdering like someone else talked about selling groceries. He had these dead eyes in his head. Murdering was what he did for a living."

On a number of occasions, Marion would knock on a door and the person would answer the door stark naked. Again her brother said, "She figured that if that's the way they answered the door, that's the way they felt comfortable around the house, answering questions." So, Marion would conduct the questionaire taking particular care to always maintain eye contact.

On many other occasions Marion would knock on the door of a family in need. She would do the interview, but would make her way back to that home with much needed groceries or clothing in tow.

Marion was devoted to her job to the point of being a workaholic. Marion had a love/hate relationship with her job. She loved what she did, she loved the folks she worked with, but she would grow weary and sometimes frustrated with the bureacracy of working for the federal government. Marion worked long hours and weekends to get the job done. Her attention to detail, stubborness and tenacity led to several promotions and despite her frustrations, her superiors saw how valuable Marion was. She spent 21 years with the Census Bureau ending her carreer as an Assistant Regional Director for the New York Office.

On Tuesday, October 2, 2001 the Honorable Dan Miller of Florida on the House of Representatives reported: [...]"During her career with the Census Bureau, Ms. Britton earned several major honors and awards for her outstanding managerial and technical skills and innovative contritubutions. She received the Census Award of Excellence in 1988, the Bronze Medal Award, the highest honorary award granted by the Census Bureau, in 1993, and the National Partnership for Reinventing Government's "Hammer Award" in 1999 for her work on the American Community Survey."

Marion never married and it was no doubt because she was a workaholic as was told by her brother. Instead, she was devoted to her family and friends and this was expressed in how she lived her life.

When Marion found herself with free time she would scout for good restaurants. She organized breakfast gatherings for her co-workers, her friends. She would travel quite a distance to find the perfect restaurant for her dining group. Whenever she traveled away from her beloved city, she would always take a piece of New York City with her, typically New York City bagels. Marion's brother Paul said, "She wanted people to know that the best bagels came from New York and she wanted them to see what they were missing out on."

Marion's nephew as a little boy referred to her as his "fairy godmother". "On any holiday. Marion was like a bag lady, pulling out gifts that were precious and something delicious - Italian or German pastries or New York cheesecakes she'd bring along."

Marion always paid attention to the details. She was the family historian. Every night at 11 o'clock she and her friend Midge would share a phone call for their "nightly chat". She would travel to obscure punk music shops to pick up a CD for her nephew because that was what he enjoyed. She collected teddy bears and dolls. She never forgot a birthday or an anniversary. She always made sure you had food in your belly and left with a smile.

Marion was on United Flight 93. She was one of the many heroes that died while thwarting the plans of the hijackers. She and the other passengers and crew took the plane back from the hijackers and no doubt saved the lives of those on the ground.

Marion was a big, robust, wonderful woman with an even bigger heart to match. She could be sharp tongued and sarcastic and blunt and yes, she could even be bitchy. But she was generous and kind and she loved a good joke, and she loved to tell a good story and she loved to laugh.

Marion lived her life. It was a good life too.



Marion Ruth Britton
1948 - 2001

Sources:
Post-Gazette
Legacy.com
Census.gov
cf.newsday
Avalon Project
Library of Congress
Peacebarn
John Adams High School
United Flight 93 & the Passengers & Crew Who Fought Back: Among the Heroes by Jere Longman

Thank you goes out to Rob for the stroke of genius on the song selection, Wandering Author for helping me with some fact finding and Michael for understanding how important this was to me.

Finally, I'd like to thank Dale for creating and organizing this tribute. All the hours he and his friends that volunteered to keep this organized was a huge undertaking. This has been an incredible experience.

Please go read more tributes here: 2996

Remembering 2996

* last updated 9/26/06

I want to thank everyone that has done a tribute. As I read through them, it is so apparent that this has become a labor of love. I will update and add links to this post of those I find especially moving.

**Lester Vincent Marino has been remembered by Ben and Noah- these bright, cute, little guys are 6 and 4 years old. Noah's tribute here and Ben's tribute here. To echo Dale, this one will make you cry. #343
** Lieutenant William McGinn is remembered by Simply Left Behind
** Firefighter Francis Esposito is remembered by The Unending Journey of the Wandering Author
** Eight Year Old Zoe Falkenberg is remembered by Volcanic Sacrifices
** Donna Wilson is remembered by Celebration of My Existence
** Terrence E. Adderly is remembered by Plancks Constant
** Welles Remy Crowther is remembered by Smooth Stone

Also, as I read them, I will be linking to all the tributes for the passengers and crew of United Flight 93.
* Flight Attendant, Cee Cee Lyles remembered by WardWideWeb
* Passenger, Mark Bingham remembered by Whispering from the Wings
* Passenger, Joseph DeLuca remembered by Kristonia Ink
* Flight Attendant, Lorraine Bay remembered by Blonde Sagacity


Here is a link to the blogroll for all participants.

DCRoe will be doing this again in 2007, he has the website set up already--Project 2996

2996 Blogroll

Nickie Remembered

I just found out that one of my favorite bloggers passed away- Nickie Goomba.

I would visit his blog every day... sometimes I would leave a comment, most of the time I would just laugh... He was so funny!! If I left a comment, he was always polite and responded with a little note for me... a wink and a nod-- but of course he did that consistently for anyone that visited his blog... He always responded to email and even helped me once with a technical issue I was having with my blog...

Because of Nickie, I was fortunate enough to become friends with some wonderful Italian bloggers--my eyes were opened to a world view of America. Once, he helped me translate an email from an Italian blogger.... My new found appreciation for Italy and all things Italian goes to Mr. Goomba.

Nickie was one of the good guys....

I will miss him.

Tonight Michael and I will raise a glass and toast Nickie's name and remember our friend.

Go visit DC. The friendship Daisy Cutter and Nickie had was so apparent to anyone that read either blog .... DC's tribute to his friend confirms that.

Arrivederci Caro Mio!

Post Script: LCpl. Justin D. Sims

"[...]But those present soon realized that this service was different. For on this day the quiet streets of Taylor Mill are suddenly filled with the awesome sound of “thunder.” A sound which overwhelms all else. The sound is coming from a group of over a hundred motorcycles from the group Patriot Guard Riders Most of these motorcycles is proudly displaying an American Flag . The license plates on these motorcycles reveal they are from 5 different states and almost all counties in Kentucky. Each of these motorcycles is ridden by a man or woman with a combined look of respect, reflection, pride, honor and loss on their faces, mixed with the tears flowing from many of their eyes. Each of them is wearing a tag over their heart which states “Proudly riding in honor of LCPL. Justin D. Sims.” [...]

Sim’s mother, at the height of her grief, taking the time to walk up the hill of flag bearers, hugging and personally thanking each one. I could still feel the her hot tears on my cheek. [...]"
For the complete mission report, go to Patriot Guard Riders.

Related:

Go here for a moving slide show.
Hundreds Honor Marine

Photos By Ernest Coleman/the Enquirer

On Behalf of a Grateful Nation...

Sunny Hi 100 Lo 75 for Baghdad, Iraq
Sunny Hi 67 Lo 43 for Northern Kentucky, USA

Featured Song of the Week: Arlington, Trace Adkins

If you aren't familiar with Trace or this song... just listen to the words.......

Every week I get a little apprehensive because I never have a clear plan on what I will write about on Sunday. This week was no exception. I usually start by picking my music. That always firms the direction I want to take my journal entry.

I thought about all the Iraqis making it to the polls... and how inspired I was all day Saturday because of their courage... Yes... I could have blogged about that... but then I believe the photos I posted yesterday say it all...

I then thought about some of the blogs I visited this past week... and the ones that kept my attention were the military blogs. OK... let me explain something... I'm partial to Marines... always have been... if you have read this blog for any amount of time you'll know that I come from a family of 'em. Now... don't get me wrong... I love all the other branches and have just as much respect and appreciation for them...I love a man in uniform, but nothing compares to those dress blues...nothing....

About a week and a half ago, a friend, Kyle, dropped a note stating that there was going to be a benefit dinner and dance in December for one of our fallen Marines. Kyle... not sure if I've mentioned him before or not... He is a good man. He is a Vietnam Veteran and is definitely one of my heroes. Michael and I met him at a rally in Cleveland- March 2003. As we weaved in and out of the crowd we saw this sign...we saw the colors... we knew...

Ever since that first chance meeting, Kyle has been our partner to countless rallies and lectures. If you read this and live in the Cincinnati area, chances are, he has welcomed home a son or a daughter of someone you know. Kyle's the guy that quietly makes sure no one is forgotten and that you have a frosty adult beverage. The photo to the left is at Glenn Beck's Rally for America in Huntington, West Virginia. A news reporter actually interviewed Kyle...
05/25/2003 5:42:42 AM PDT · Herald-Dispatch 5/25/2003 jean tarbett "Just because," he said with tears in his eyes, summing up the reason he drove from Cincinnati to Huntington, painted USMC on his forehead for "United States Marine Corps" and carted flags and signs into Marshall University Stadium Saturday. When the former Marine found his voice, he managed an explanation: "To thank the ones who have come home and the ones who didn't come home and to thank the families of both."

More recently, Kyle landed some tickets to see Sean Hannity down at the Cincinnati Convention Center. Michael had to work so I invited my brother-in-law, Sam and mother-in-law, a recent convert from the darkside... I'm still in shock.... When you meet Kyle... you've made a friend for life... before we parted ways that evening it was as if he'd known them all his life- hugs and kisses for everyone.

Kyle is the guy you want to have a beer with... and he most certainly is someone you want on your side.

With that said, this past May, prior to starting this blog, Kyle sent me a note stating that one of our fallen Marines, Lance Corporal Nicholas B. Erdy, was coming home. We had about an hour notice. I flew home from work, got changed, Michael grabbed our flag off the porch and off we went to Milford, Ohio. Kyle met us and we followed him to the firehouse where we got a ride with one of his buddies- another veteran, was he the fire chief?

LCpl Erdy arrived at CVG- Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. Law enforcement officials from the Kentucky State Police, the Clermont County Sheriff's Office, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and Owensville Police Department escorted him. When Nick arrived in Milford, he was greeted by countless red white and blue ribbons that women in the town quickly made and the fire department placed along the entire route of this very sad homecoming. As the procession slowly made its way up "Main Street" dozens of people were out with flags to pay their respect. Most were like us... We didn't know this young man, but we were compelled to come and thank him for giving the ultimate sacrifice. I suppose this young man's passing as well as Pfc Jim Miller IV of Anderson in January of this year hit me because they grew up in the same place I did...albeit many years after me... we went to the same schools... walked the same halls... but they had a greater calling- one that I and others like me will never be able to comprehend. These young men new what they were doing. They joined a brotherhood where Honor, Courage, and Commitment is the standard. When they enlisted they knew that going to battle was imminent. What courage.

My hope and prayer is that no one else dies in this war or any war for that matter. However, as long as terrorists continue to plague our planet, injury and death will continue to be a sobering reality for us until we have rid the world of this evil enemy. Understanding this harsh reality, everyone should attend a military procession of this nature at least once, not only out of respect but as a reminder--- freedom is never free. The military funeral ceremony is absolute. It will move you. I encourage you to bring your children- It is important that our young people understand what the ultimate sacrifice is. However, if you have not taught them how to be respectful and reverent-- do it before you show up to something like this. This isn't the time to throw a temper tantrum or have to listen to whining or have kids running around playing... but rather a time to teach your children about heroes.

When in attendance of a military funeral, the flag that draped the coffin is given to either the wife or mother of the fallen Marine... the following words are spoken...

On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and Corps.

Imagine those words being spoken to you. Life is so very precious and Nick Erdy knew that.

Related from my blog:

Anger and Hope
Letter from a Soldier

Related articles and websites:

Cpl Jeffery Boskovitch
Military Mascots
Lima Company
Band of Brothers
Arlington Cemetery
Welcome Home

Blogs to visit!!!!!!

OK, So Here's the Deal
Camp Katrina
Who's Your Baghdaddy?
Six More Months


The fire departments prepares as LCpl Nick Erdy comes home


Savannah & Anna waiting to pay their respects.
They came alone- Her fiance was in Iraq. When the Marines pulled LCpl Erdy's casket out of the hearse, Michael and I held Anna while she cried... we all were crying as I recall.


The sun disappears as we wait for him to come home.

Have a great week everyone...

Tomorrow is Independence Day

Last Updated 9/24/05

Sunny Hi 113 Lo 87 for Baghdad, Iraq
Sunny Hi 90 Lo 68 for NKY, USA

Song of the week: Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue -- Toby Keith
--- If the video doesn't start, just hit your refresh key... Now... turn up the volume and get everyone out of bed!!!! It is going to be a fantastic day!!


...And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

As we reflect on our Nation's birthday, the words above were an oath that our Founding Fathers promised to each other. They were willing to give up everything. My question to you-- How many of us today would be willing to do the same thing-- give of our lives, loves, material possessions and something most of us don't even consider today... Our honor? I consider myself very fortunate because I have been surrounded by patriots- men and women of honor my entire life.

This weekend, as we celebrate the 4th of July, our Independence Day, please take a moment to remember all those that came before us that had a vision of liberty and freedom. Take a moment to remember and pray for our men and women in the armed forces today. Pray for their families and friends.

It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the soldier, not the campus organizer, who has given us the freedom to demonstrate. It is the soldier, who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the flag."

- Father Dennis O'Brien, Chaplain, USMC


Learn about the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence.

You can find some of our local heroes here and here.

Kaziah the Goat Woman paints portraits of fallen heroes for free.

Celebrating Freedom

Our great nation was almost lost 142 years ago. For a very special remembrance and tribute, please visit The Beacon - Informed Patriotism.


This blog is dedicated to the following people:

*My Great Great Great Great Great Grandfather, Captain Israel Jones - Revolutionary War, served under General Washington -- how cool is that???

* My Great Great Great Grandfather, Robert Wilcox Jones - Civil War

*My Great Grandfather, Haven P - USN - WWI
*My Great Grandfather, Arthur S - Army National Guard - WWI, Alsace Lorraine Front and Argonne Forest, France
*My Great Great Uncle Earl Jones - USMC - WWI
*Rob C's Great Grandfather Fred Hutzel - USA - WWI, Rainbow Division

*My Grandfather, James R. P - USMC - WWII, Solomon Islands
*Michael's Grandfather, Louis Friedhof - USA - WWII
*My Great Uncle Calvin P - USA - WWII
*My Great Uncle Dick Davis - USA - WWII, Normandy
*My Great Uncle Dickie P - USA - WWII
*Rob C's Uncle Herbert Hall - USA - WWII, Darby's Rangers. POW - Escaped
*Rob C's Grandfather Robert L. C Sr. - USA - WWII, Battle of the Bulge
*Rawland Patrick "Pat Crosby - Retired USA - WWII, served under General Patton at the Battle of the Bulge, Korean War
*Robert Allen Johnson - USMC - WWII, Midway, Guadalcanal, Okinawa

*My Great Uncle Junior (Arthur) S - USMC - Korean War

*My dad, Ted M. P- USMC - Vietnam
*My Uncle Steve P- Retired USMC - Vietnam War
*My Great Uncle Charlie S - Retired USMC - Vietnam War
* My Great Uncle Tommy S - USMC - Vietnam War & Retired USAF
*My Great Uncle Denny S - USA - Vietnam War
*My Great Uncle Rex P - USA - Vietnam War
*Kyle S - USMC - Vietnam War
*Tom B - USN - Vietnam War
*Charlie D - USN - Vietnam War
*My Great Uncle Darrell C - USMC - Vietnam
*Rob C's father, Robert L. C Jr. - USMC - Vietnam War

*Anita I - USMC - Persian Gulf War
*My 2nd cousin - Darren C - USN - Persian Gulf


*Mike E - USA
*My cousin Jim P - USMC
*My brother in law Sam Y - USA
*Russell S - USA
*John K - USMC
*Michael D - USA
*James Kevin P - USMC
*John A - USA
*Mark B - USAF
*Murray R - USA

a humble prayer for those that gave the ultimate sacrifice:

*Pat Tillman, KIA - USA - Afghanistan

*Paul R. Smith - KIA - USA - Iraq, Medal of Honor Recipient

*Taylor B. Prazynski, KIA - USMC - Iraq

*Nick Erdy, KIA- USMC - Iraq

*Timothy J. Hines Jr., died from wounds sustained on 6/19, 7/14/05 - USA - Iraq

*Ronnie D. Williams, KIA 7/18/05 - USA - Iraq

*Timothy Michael Bell Jr., KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*Michael Cifuentes, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*William Brett Wightman, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*Christopher J. Dyer, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*David Kreuter, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*Casey Sheehan, KIA, 4/4/04 - USA - Iraq

*Ken Welch, KIA, 9/20/84 - USA - Lebanon



and a special prayer for those currently serving:

*Cpl Mitchell Neil "Mikey" Price - USMC
*Spc Keith Scott - USA
*Sgt Kris Petrosky - USA
*Tech Sgt Chris Ryan - USAF
*Lt. Cmdr Scott Boisvert - USN
*SSgt. Matt Maupin, MIA/POW - USA Iraq
*Our Commander in Chief George W. Bush
***and All military bloggers that are keeping us in touch...
*Samantha Colling's "little" brother, Cpl Francis Louis "Frank" Arnold - USMC
*SGT John Furman - USA - Mosul, Iraq
*SGT Michael O'Rourke - USA - Baghdad, Iraq
*Michael McVey - USMC - Baghdad, Iraq
*LCpl Stephen R. Thompson - USMC - Iraq, Purple Heart Recipient

To those currently serving: You need to know that I and countless others stand behind you and support you and your mission. I am deeply grateful and profoundly humbled by your courageous service to our great country. May God bless you and keep you safe.

If I have omitted anyone, I am truly sorry. If I have printed something erroneously or incorrectly, please let me know so I may correct it. One thing I have found out about these guys--- "Y'all don't talk about it..."

Lastly, I would like to add to this list and see it grow... so if you know someone that is serving in the military or has served in the military, please send me their information and I'll just keep adding to the list...


On Monday---Have a happy Independence Day and remember to fly the flag.

Have a great week!!!

**The link to the tribute for Pat Tillman is quite moving and I highly recommend you view it. However, it must be noted that I do not endorse the author's position on our stance on the war in Iraq. I respectfully disagree with Chris Valentine and as I have mentioned in this post, I support our armed forces and their mission.


My Papaw


Uncle Steve, 1970 in full gear, Vietnam


My Uncle Charlie is standing in the back on the left. 1961 in Patras, Greece.


My Grandfather watching as my Dad is being inducted into the Marines. 1963


My Uncle Calvin is on the right. On the back of the photo, it reads, "This is one of the boys with me. I am still dirty. I just got off from work so you will have to overlook the dirt and the silly grin I got on my face. Love Calvin"


Old Glory