Disclaimer

If you do not know me (I mean, really know me) then there is something you need to understand before you read this blog: I value the truth above everything else... except a good laugh. A good laugh will almost always beat the truth as far as I’m concerned. Everything you read on this blog will be true, somewhat true, or something I made up in an effort to get a laugh. Sometimes I will go on a rant that I don’t really mean (or only kind of mean). Sometimes I will mean what I write only to completely change my mind a year, month, or day later. Such is life. By reading this blog you agree not to get offended by anything I write (or, at the very least, you agree not to tell me or anyone else that you are offended). It is worth noting that my employer does not endorse my blog (or even read it, to tell you the truth). The Wife also does not endorse my blog (though she will read it from time to time). I am not paid to write this... it’s just my way of giving back to the community. I have, and will, touch on a wide range of subjects and will give my opinion on these subjects. Again, most of what I say is for laughs but every now and then I will say what I really think and feel (see my views on Westboro Baptist Cult). How will you know when I’m serious and when I’m trying to get a laugh? You’ll know. And if you don’t know, well... maybe this isn’t the best thing for you to be reading. So, sit back, read and enjoy. Leave comments if you want and don’t be afraid to publicly follow me.



Tuesday, December 31, 2013

HAPPY NEW YEARS (EVE)!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Sergeant Henry Newman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 13, 1872, at Whetstone Mountains, Arizona. His citation reads:

He and 2 companions covered the withdrawal of wounded comrades from the fire of an Apache band well concealed among rocks.

Private Marcellus J. Newman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 14, 1864, at Resaca, Georgia. His citation reads:

Voluntarily returned, in the face of a severe fire from the enemy, and rescued a wounded comrade who had been left behind as the regiment fell back.

Lieutenant William H. Newman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 6, 1865, at near Amelia Springs, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.


We at I'm just sayin... hope all of you out there have a wonderful (and safe) New Years Eve! Go out and party like my friend Cory at the lake house (hard, but safe).




Picture Tuesday


Princess Susie wearing/holding the Christmas gift she got from her Aunt Bebba and Uncle Jeremy (and Lucas)

Sometimes life is all about picking your battles... Keeping her daughter from laying down on the floor during the Christmas Eve service is a battle my good friend (and past I'm just sayin... Fan of the Year Ashley decided not to pick

Susie on Christmas morning

Mary Ruth on Christmas morning

I think Scooby was more excited than anyone else on Christmas morning

Daniel on Christmas morning

Silly Susie

Daniel playing cars with Nana

Maverick using his bed that Santa brought to him


Sunday, December 29, 2013

Proverbs 22:2

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Orderly Sergeant William Newland (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864, on board the U.S.S. Oneida. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Oneida in the engagement at Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Carrying out his duties as loader of the after 11-inch gun, Newland distinguished himself on board for his good conduct and faithful discharge of his station, behaving splendidly under the fire of the enemy and throughout the battle which resulted in the capture of the rebel ram Tennessee and the damaging of Fort Morgan.

Private First Class Melvin Earl Newlin (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 4, 1967, at Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a machine gunner attached to the 1st Platoon, Company F, 2d Battalion, on 3 and 4 July 1967. Pfc. Newlin, with 4 other marines, was manning a key position on the perimeter of the Nong Son outpost when the enemy launched a savage and well coordinated mortar and infantry assault, seriously wounding him and killing his 4 comrades. Propping himself against his machinegun, he poured a deadly accurate stream of fire into the charging ranks of the Viet Cong. Though repeatedly hit by small-arms fire, he twice repelled enemy attempts to overrun his position. During the third attempt, a grenade explosion wounded him again and knocked him to the ground unconscious. The Viet Cong guerrillas, believing him dead, bypassed him and continued their assault on the main force. Meanwhile, Pfc. Newlin regained consciousness, crawled back to his weapon, and brought it to bear on the rear of the enemy, causing havoc and confusion among them. Spotting the enemy attempting to bring a captured 106 recoilless weapon to bear on other marine positions, he shifted his fire, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy and preventing them from firing the captured weapon. He then shifted his fire back to the primary enemy force, causing the enemy to stop their assault on the marine bunkers and to once again attack his machinegun position. Valiantly fighting off 2 more enemy assaults, he firmly held his ground until mortally wounded. Pfc. Newlin had single-handedly broken up and disorganized the entire enemy assault force, causing them to lose momentum and delaying them long enough for his fellow marines to organize a defense and beat off their secondary attack. His indomitable courage, fortitude, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of almost certain death reflect great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

First Lieutenant Beryl R. Newman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 26, 1944, near Cisterna, Italy. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty on 26 May 1944. Attacking the strongly held German Anzio-Nettuno defense line near Cisterna, Italy, 1st Lt. Newman, in the lead of his platoon, was suddenly fired upon by 2 enemy machineguns located on the crest of a hill about 100 yards to his front. The 4 scouts with him immediately hit the ground, but 1st Lt. Newman remained standing in order to see the enemy positions and his platoon then about 100 yards behind. Locating the enemy nests, 1st Lt. Newman called back to his platoon and ordered 1 squad to advance to him and the other to flank the enemy to the right. Then, still standing upright in the face of the enemy machinegun fire, 1st Lt. Newman opened up with his tommygun on the enemy nests. From this range, his fire was not effective in covering the advance of his squads, and 1 squad was pinned down by the enemy fire. Seeing that his squad was unable to advance, 1st Lt. Newman, in full view of the enemy gunners and in the face of their continuous fire, advanced alone on the enemy nests. He returned their fire with his tommygun and succeeded in wounding a German in each of the nests. The remaining 2 Germans fled from the position into a nearby house. Three more enemy soldiers then came out of the house and ran toward a third machinegun. 1st Lt. Newman, still relentlessly advancing toward them, killed 1 before he reached the gun, the second before he could fire it. The third fled for his life back into the house. Covering his assault by firing into the doors and windows of the house, 1st Lt. Newman, boldly attacking by himself, called for the occupants to surrender to him. Gaining the house, he kicked in the door and went inside. Although armed with rifles and machine pistols, the 11 Germans there, apparently intimidated, surrendered to the lieutenant without further resistance, 1st Lt. Newman, single-handed, had silenced 3 enemy machineguns, wounded 2 Germans, killed 2 more, and took 11 prisoners. This demonstration of sheer courage, bravery, and willingness to close with the enemy even in the face of such heavy odds, instilled into these green troops the confidence of veterans and reflects the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 22:2

Rich and poor have this in common:
       The Lord is the Maker of them all.

Saturday, December 28, 2013

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARY RUTH!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Edwin M. Neville (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 6, 1865, at Sailors Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Private First Class John Dury New (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 25, 1944, on Peleliu Island, Palau Group. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, 25 September 1944. When a Japanese soldier emerged from a cave in a cliff directly below an observation post and suddenly hurled a grenade into the position from which 2 of our men were directing mortar fire against enemy emplacements, Pfc. New instantly perceived the dire peril to the other marines and, with utter disregard for his own safety, unhesitatingly flung himself upon the grenade and absorbed the full impact of the explosion, thus saving the lives of the 2 observers. Pfc. New's great personal valor and selfless conduct in the face of almost certain death reflect the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Lieutenant Colonel Wendell Cushing Neville (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 21-22, 1914, during the battle engagements of Vera Cruz. His citation reads:

For distinguished conduct in battle engagements of Vera Cruz 21 and 22 April 1914. In command of the 2d Regiment Marines, Lt. Col. Neville was in both days' fighting and almost continually under fire from soon after landing, about noon on the 21st, until we were in possession of the city, about noon of the 22d. His duties required him to be at points of great danger in directing his officers and men, and he exhibited conspicuous courage, coolness, and skill in his conduct of the fighting. Upon his courage and skill depended, in great measure, success or failure. His responsibilities were great and he met them in a manner worthy of commendation.


HAPPY 8th BIRTHDAY TO MY SWEET MARY RUTH!!!!!!!! She is more than I could have ever asked for and I love her very much. Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Friday, December 27, 2013

Flashback…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant William L. Nelson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 24, 1943, at Djebel Dardys, Northwest of Sedjenane, Tunisia. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty in action involving actual conflict. On the morning of 24 April 1943, Sgt. Nelson led his section of heavy mortars to a forward position where he placed his guns and men. Under intense enemy artillery, mortar, and small-arms fire, he advanced alone to a chosen observation position from which he directed the laying of a concentrated mortar barrage which successfully halted an initial enemy counterattack. Although mortally wounded in the accomplishment of his mission, and with his duty clearly completed, Sgt. Nelson crawled to a still more advanced observation point and continued to direct the fire of his section. Dying of handgrenade wounds and only 50 yards from the enemy, Sgt. Nelson encouraged his section to continue their fire and by doing so they took a heavy toll of enemy lives. The skill which Sgt. Nelson displayed in this engagement, his courage, and self-sacrificing devotion to duty and heroism resulting in the loss of his life, was a priceless inspiration to our Armed Forces and were in keeping with the highest tradition of the U.S. Army.

Sergeant Ralph G. Neppel (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 14, 1944, at Birgel, Germany. His citation reads:

He was leader of a machinegun squad defending an approach to the village of Birgel, Germany, on 14 December 1944, when an enemy tank, supported by 20 infantrymen, counterattacked. He held his fire until the Germans were within 100 yards and then raked the foot soldiers beside the tank killing several of them. The enemy armor continued to press forward and, at the pointblank range of 30 yards, fired a high-velocity shell into the American emplacement, wounding the entire squad. Sgt. Neppel, blown 10 yards from his gun, had 1 leg severed below the knee and suffered other wounds. Despite his injuries and the danger from the onrushing tank and infantry, he dragged himself back to his position on his elbows, remounted his gun and killed the remaining enemy riflemen. Stripped of its infantry protection, the tank was forced to withdraw. By his superb courage and indomitable fighting spirit, Sgt. Neppel inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy and broke a determined counterattack.

Captain Robert B. Nett (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 14, 1944, near Cognon, Leyte, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

Rank and organization: Captain (then Lieutenant), U.S. Army, Company E, 305th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Cognon, Leyte, Philippine Islands, 14 December 1944. Entered service at: New Haven, Conn. Birth: 13 June 1922, New Haven, Conn. G.O. No.: 16, 8 February 1946. Citation: He commanded Company E in an attack against a reinforced enemy battalion which had held up the American advance for 2 days from its entrenched positions around a 3 story concrete building. With another infantry company and armored vehicles, Company E advanced against heavy machine-gun and other automatic weapons fire with Lt. Nett spearheading the assault against the strongpoint. During the fierce hand to hand encounter which ensued, he killed 7 deeply entrenched Japanese with his rifle and bayonet and, although seriously wounded, gallantly continued to lead his men forward, refusing to relinquish his command. Again he was severely wounded, but still unwilling to retire, pressed ahead with his troops to assure the capture of the objective. Wounded once more in the final assault, he calmly made all arrangements for the resumption of the advance, turned over his command to another officer, and then walked unaided to the rear for medical treatment. By his remarkable courage in continuing forward through sheer determination despite successive wounds, Lt. Nett provided an inspiring example for his men and was instrumental in the capture of a vital strongpoint.


Flashback Friday

Usually I would post old pictures in this section of my blog, but I decided to do things a little different in this last Flashback Friday of the year. I watched a DVD of old home videos that Aunt Yvonne gave to me a couple of weeks ago. These were taken mostly by Da (my grandfather) and Dad (my father) during the 1970s and early 1980s. These are old 8mm videos that were transferred to VHS sometime in the early 1990s (I think) by showing them on a white sheet while recording them with a video camera. So while you see the original picture, the only sound is from people talking while watching them in the early 1990s. I wish I could show you the video on here, but I can’t (and if I can, I don’t know how). Since I can’t, I’ll just have to tell you some of the things that stick out to me.

It’s hard to watch more than 10 or 15 minutes of this DVD in a row without getting motion sickness.

There is no real order to the videos that are on the DVD. When we recorded them to VHS, we just grabbed an 8mm reel on the projector and started recording without worrying about the order.

Da looked (and for the most part, acted) the same in 1970 as he did in 1994.

MaMa didn’t look too different in 1970 than she did in 2000s. She had the same hair style up until pretty much the last year or so of her life. And she loved children the whole time.

It seems the theme of the home movies was “This is Sonny’s life, the rest of us are just living in it”. Just about every scene had him in it somehow.

One scene in particular involved MaMa (in her late 50s, I think), out running a young Sonny. Rumor has it that she made a bet with him that if she caught him, he wouldn’t speak a word until he was in college. As far as I can tell, he held up his end of the bet.

Dad didn’t own a t-shirt. Every time he is seen on camera, he is in a coat and tie (or, at very least, a tie). Honestly, it’s like I was watching The Godfather.

They filmed Sonny, Teresa Lynn and me coming home from the hospital after each of us was born. Each film went the same way… A look out of the window of the Roper room that they were in (the view in each would look nothing like it would now). Then we cut to Mom walking out of the hospital with a nurse following her holding a baby. Mom gets in the front seat (seat belt, we don’t need no stinkin’ seat belt!) and the nurse hands the baby to Mom. Next Dad films the trip home… WHILE DRIVING THE CAR… OVER MULITPLE BRIDGES!!! Friends, I admit when there are times when I think I have no clue what I’m doing as a parent… And then God gives me this little gift as a way to say, “You think you don’t know what you’re doing… look at what THESE people did… and you, Sonny and Teresa Lynn lived”.

But really, it was cool seeing the changes to James Island and my parents yard/house in those videos.

Speaking of change… MaMa and Da’s Dining Room looked exactly the same in 1970 as it did the day MaMa died. Also… MaMa, Da, Dad, Mom, Uncle Keith and Aunt JoJo all sat in the same seat without ever changing.

It’s possible my cousin Scott was at his heaviest weight in the mid-1970s… when he was about 4 or 5 years old.

I think I looked a lot like my cousin Scott as a little boy. Now, of course, Scott could stand behind me with his arms out to his side and you wouldn’t be able to see him.


If you have any old home videos, take time every now and then to watch them. It’s great to dig up old memories.

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

MERRY CHRISTMAS (EVE)

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Frederick S. Neilson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 9-11, 1874, at Upper Washita, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Sailmaker’s Mate Lauritz Nelson (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1898, on board the USS Nashville. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Nashville during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Nelson displayed extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.

Machinist’s Mate First Class Oscar Frederick Nelson (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 21, 1905, on board the U.S.S. Bennington. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Bennington, for extraordinary heroism displayed at the time of the explosion of a boiler of that vessel at San Diego, Calif., 21 July 1905.



I know that some of you are not able to view the videos I post on here, so I’ll type what was in that video. It had a letter to the editor of the New York Sun from a little 8 year old girl named Virginia that was written in the late 1890s. One of the paper’s editors, Francis P. Church, answered with what would become one of (if not THE) most famous editorials. First, here is the letter to the editor:

DEAR EDITOR:

I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.' Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

VIRGINIA O'HANLON
115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET

Here’s the response from Mr. Church:

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.


From all of us at I’m just sayin… to all of you… MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!


Picture Tuesday

Susie taking time for a picture

Mary Ruth - By the way, we got a letter saying she got in to the Gifted and Talented program at school.  Some say she gets her smarts from her mommy, but I ask... Who is smarter - Me for marrying The Wife, or The Wife for marrying me?  Thank you

Daniel didn't care too much for having his picture taken

Susie was in timeout for hitting Daniel. At some point, I looked down the hall and saw Daniel taking things to her.

Christmas with the Dunlaps!  Lucas in the front with Mary Ruth, Daniel and Susie


Sunday, December 22, 2013

Proverbs 20:21

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private George H. Nee (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 1, 1898, at Santiago, Cuba. His citation reads:

Gallantly assisted in the rescue of the wounded from in front of the lines and under heavy fire from the enemy.

Private Thomas C. Neibaur (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 16, 1918, near Landres-et-St. Georges, France. His citation reads:

On the afternoon of 16 October 1918, when the Cote-de-Chatillion had just been gained after bitter fighting and the summit of that strong bulwark in the Kriemhilde Stellung was being organized, Pvt. Neibaur was sent out on patrol with his automatic rifle squad to enfilade enemy machinegun nests. As he gained the ridge he set up his automatic rifle and was directly thereafter wounded in both legs by fire from a hostile machinegun on his flank. The advance wave of the enemy troops, counterattacking, had about gained the ridge, and although practically cut off and surrounded, the remainder of his detachment being killed or wounded, this gallant soldier kept his automatic rifle in operation to such effect that by his own efforts and by fire from the skirmish line of his company, at least 100 yards in his rear, the attack was checked. The enemy wave being halted and Iying prone, 4 of the enemy attacked Pvt. Neibaur at close quarters. These he killed. He then moved alone among the enemy Iying on the ground about him, in the midst of the fire from his own lines, and by coolness and gallantry captured 11 prisoners at the point of his pistol and, although painfully wounded, brought them back to our lines. The counterattack in full force was arrested to a large extent by the single efforts of this soldier, whose heroic exploits took place against the skyline in full view of his entire battalion.

Quarter Gunner John Neil (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 23, 1864, on board the USS Agawam. His citation reads:

Neil served on board the U.S.S. Agawam, as one of a volunteer crew of a powder boat which was exploded near Fort Fisher, 23 December 1864. The powder boat, towed in by the Wilderness to prevent detection by the enemy, cast off and slowly steamed to within 300 yards of the beach. After fuses and fires had been lit and a second anchor with short scope let go to assure the boat's tailing inshore, the crew again boarded the Wilderness and proceeded a distance of 12 miles from shore. Less than 2 hours later the explosion took place, and the following day fires were observed still burning at the forts.


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 20:21

An inheritance claimed too soon
       will not be blessed at the end.

Saturday, December 21, 2013

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Zachariah C. Neahr (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 16, 1865, at Fort Fisher, North Carolina. His citation reads:

Voluntarily advanced with the head of the column and cut down the palisading.

Private Solon D. Neal (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 12, 1870, at Wichita River, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Private Adam Neder (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during the Sioux Campaign. His citation reads:

Distinguished bravery.


Just wanted to swing by the I’m just sayin… offices to wish my Dad a VERY HAP, HAP, HAPPY 71st BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!! While his other son doesn’t care about such things, I happen to love my Dad and would never consider his birthday to be “just another day on the calendar” (That Sonny… so hateful). Anway, Happy Birthday Dad! We love you!



fyi... If you get an error message, hit refresh and try playing it again.  If that doesn't work, imagine 3 kids and one dog singing Happy Birthday to their grandfather.


“This First Amendment is the Freedom of Speech… So whatcha sayin it didn’t include me?” – That, my friends comes from 2 Live Crew. The difference between them and what’s going on now is that their battle really was about the First Amendment. If my memory is correct (50/50 chance), Congress was looking into censoring music back then (not just Rap, but other types as well). That was a Freedom of Speech issue.

Getting suspended from a TV show is not a violation of the First Amendment (unless the government had something to do with it… but I don’t think that’s the case). Now, there are people who don’t like what Phil said and they think he (and the show) should be taken off the air. My guess (and this is just a guess) is that most of those people didn’t watch the show to begin with. What I would like to see is A&E let the people decide. If people are so offended, then they won’t watch. There’s a ton of options out there… It’s not like this is one of 3 shows on every night. My guess is the show would be fine.

What I would also like to see, is people to get tougher skin and stop being offended. How many people would have really seen this if it hadn’t been talked about on Facebook or reported on the news? I wouldn’t have. I mean, who reads GQ anymore anyways? Why let someone you don’t know who has no power over you offend you? And to those out there who are acting like what he said was so extreme… don’t kid yourselves. His views are probably more mainstream than you’d like to know (you don’t see Chick-fil-A’s closing left and right after the boycott they went through last year, do you?). I’m not even sure if I agree with his views or not because I’m not sure I’ve really heard what they are. I don’t trust articles written to sell magazines. You can edit an interview to make someone sound however you want them to sound.

I’m sure I’ll think of more to say on this subject… if I do, I’ll make sure I share it with you.

Friday, December 20, 2013

More Christmas Pics!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal Henry H. Nash (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 3, 1863, at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Was one of a party that volunteered and attempted to run the enemy's batteries with a steam tug and 2 barges loaded with subsistence stores.

Private James J. Nash (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 1, 1898, at Santiago, Cuba. His citation reads:

Gallantly assisted in the rescue of the wounded from in front of the lines and under heavy fire from the enemy.

Landsman David Naylor (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864, on board the USS Oneida. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Oneida in the engagement at Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Acting as powder boy at the 30-pounder Parrott rifle, Naylor had his passing box shot from his hands and knocked overboard where it fell in one of the Calena's boats which was under the bow. Jumping overboard, Naylor recovered his box, returned to his station and continued to carry out his courageous actions throughout the engagement which resulted in the capture of the rebel ram Tennessee and the damaging of Fort Morgan.


Daniel and I have started wrestling. This involves him running full speed at me and “knocking me down” (until I get tired of that… then I catch him and body slam him). Every now and then if I won’t let him up, he yells, “Help me Susie!” If I look at her, then Susie will usually shake her head and say, “No way Daniel”… but if I don’t look, she’ll jump be from behind and start hitting me. Then I pin her down and tickle her until Daniel gets back in the fight. I’m trying to teach them how to be a good tag team. It’s a lost art, but I want them to be like the great teams of my youth (Arn Anderson/Tully Blanchard, Rock & Roll Express, Midnight Express, Road Warriors, Steiner Brothers, Sting/Lex Luger…). Right now they are fighting under the name “The Giggle Wiggle Twins” since Susie likes to giggle and Daniel likes to wiggle… and… well… strangers think they’re twins.


Flashback Friday

Teresa Lynn, Brent and Uncle George

Uncle Keith and Granny

The front of Mom and Dad's house (looks a little different now)

Mom

Uncle Keith... probably holding up the same shirt Dad is holding up... MaMa usually got them the same thing.

Da in Mom and Dad's house... this room isn't there anymore

Brent, Teresa Lynn and Dad in Mom and Dad's living room

Another one of Mom

Sonny, me and part of Teresa Lynn

Me and Mom


Tuesday, December 17, 2013

You guessed it… More Labor Day pics

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Scout Nannasaddie (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from 1872-1873. His citation reads:

Gallant conduct during campaigns and engagements with Apaches.

Scout Nantaje (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from 1872-1873. His citation reads:

Gallant conduct during campaigns and engagements with Apaches.

Private First Class David P. Nash (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 29, 1968, at Giao Duc District, Dinh Tuong Province, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Pfc. Nash distinguished himself while serving as a grenadier with Company B, in Giao Duc District. When an ambush patrol of which he was a member suddenly came under intense attack before reaching its destination, he was the first to return the enemy fire. Taking an exposed location, Pfc. Nash suppressed the hostile fusillade with a rapid series of rounds from his grenade launcher, enabling artillery fire to be adjusted on the enemy. After the foe had been routed, his small element continued to the ambush site where he established a position with 3 fellow soldiers on a narrow dike. Shortly past midnight, while Pfc. Nash and a comrade kept watch and the 2 other men took their turn sleeping, an enemy grenade wounded 2 soldiers in the adjacent position. Seconds later, Pfc. Nash saw another grenade land only a few feet from his own position. Although he could have escaped harm by rolling down the other side of the dike, he shouted a warning to his comrades and leaped upon the lethal explosive. Absorbing the blast with his body, he saved the lives of the 3 men in the area at the sacrifice of his life. By his gallantry at the cost of his life are in the highest traditions of the military service, Pfc. Nash has reflected great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.


I just got done reading a GREAT book, Pursuit: The Chase, Capture, Persecution & Surprising Release of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, by Clint Johnson. I’m going to be honest, the title kind of gives a lot away. It’s kind of like if Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back had been called something like Star Wars Episode V: Darth Vader is Luke’s Father. I mean, I guess I’m not giving anything away when I say that Jefferson Davis tried to flee, but was caught, persecuted and then released. Still, this book is very much worth reading. It talks about things that were never taught in school. If I was an American History teacher, I would have my students read this book. I won’t go in to any more detail should any of you want to read this book (and you should).


I know this is going to come as a shock, but we have some more Labor Day pics for the blog today. I think this is the last Picture Tuesday where we will have pictures from this past Labor Day. Hope you enjoy them…


Picture Tuesday

Our big meal of the weekend...


All of the grown-ups got to sit at the big table except for me, Brent and Sonny... It was their loss

Daniel and Sonny sitting the in the game room watching football

A crowd in the media room watching Clemson play UGA in the first game of the season

Sitting around the table talking about how great I'm just sayin... is.

Another shot from the media room during the game

Me and Susie

Nana holding Daniel while he takes a nap... or maybe it's Daniel holding Nana while she takes a nap.


Sunday, December 15, 2013

Proverbs 19:23

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Masato Nakae (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 19, 1944, near Pisa, Italy. His citation reads:

Private Masato Nakae distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 19 August 1944, near Pisa, Italy. When his submachine gun was damaged by a shell fragment during a fierce attack by a superior enemy force, Private Nakae quickly picked up his wounded comrade's M-1 rifle and fired rifle grenades at the steadily advancing enemy. As the hostile force continued to close in on his position, Private Nakae threw six grenades and forced them to withdraw. During a concentrated enemy mortar barrage that preceded the next assault by the enemy force, a mortar shell fragment seriously wounded Private Nakae. Despite his injury, he refused to surrender his position and continued firing at the advancing enemy. By inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy force, he finally succeeded in breaking up the attack and caused the enemy to withdraw. Private Nakae's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army

Private Shinyei Nakamine (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 2, 1944, near La Torreto, Italy. His citation reads:

Private Shinyei Nakamine distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 2 June 1944, near La Torreto, Italy. During an attack, Private Nakamine's platoon became pinned down by intense machine gun crossfire from a small knoll 200 yards to the front. On his own initiative, Private Nakamine crawled toward one of the hostile weapons. Reaching a point 25 yards from the enemy, he charged the machine gun nest, firing his submachine gun, and killed three enemy soldiers and captured two. Later that afternoon, Private Nakamine discovered an enemy soldier on the right flank of his platoon's position. Crawling 25 yards from his position, Private Nakamine opened fire and killed the soldier. Then, seeing a machine gun nest to his front approximately 75 yards away, he returned to his platoon and led an automatic rifle team toward the enemy. Under covering fire from his team, Private Nakamine crawled to a point 25 yards from the nest and threw hand grenades at the enemy soldiers, wounding one and capturing four. Spotting another machine gun nest 100 yards to his right flank, he led the automatic rifle team toward the hostile position but was killed by a burst of machine gun fire. Private Nakamine's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.

Private First Class William K. Nakamura (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 4, 1944, near Castellina, Italy. His citation reads:

Private First Class William K. Nakamura distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 4 July 1944, near Castellina, Italy. During a fierce firefight, Private First Class Nakamura's platoon became pinned down by enemy machine gun fire from a concealed position. On his own initiative, Private First Class Nakamura crawled 20 yards toward the hostile nest with fire from the enemy machine gun barely missing him. Reaching a point 15 yards from the position, he quickly raised himself to a kneeling position and threw four hand grenades, killing or wounding at least three of the enemy soldiers. The enemy weapon silenced, Private First Class Nakamura crawled back to his platoon, which was able to continue its advance as a result of his courageous action. Later, his company was ordered to withdraw from the crest of a hill so that a mortar barrage could be placed on the ridge. On his own initiative, Private First Class Nakamura remained in position to cover his comrades' withdrawal. While moving toward the safety of a wooded draw, his platoon became pinned down by deadly machine gun fire. Crawling to a point from which he could fire on the enemy position, Private First Class Nakamura quickly and accurately fired his weapon to pin down the enemy machine gunners. His platoon was then able to withdraw to safety without further casualties. Private First Class Nakamura was killed during this heroic stand. Private First Class Nakamura's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 19:23

The fear of the Lord leads to life;
      then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Flashback to Christmas Past

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private George S. Myers (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 19, 1863, at Chickamauga, Georgia. His citation reads:

Saved the regimental colors by greatest personal devotion and bravery.

Major Reginald R. Myers (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 29, 1950, near Hagaru-ri, Korea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as executive officer of the 3d Battalion, in action against enemy aggressor forces. Assuming command of a composite unit of Army and Marine service and headquarters elements totaling approximately 250 men, during a critical stage in the vital defense of the strategically important military base at Hagaru-ri, Maj. Myers immediately initiated a determined and aggressive counterattack against a well-entrenched and cleverly concealed enemy force numbering an estimated 4,000. Severely handicapped by a lack of trained personnel and experienced leaders in his valiant efforts to regain maximum ground prior to daylight, he persisted in constantly exposing himself to intense, accurate, and sustained hostile fire in order to direct and supervise the employment of his men and to encourage and spur them on in pressing the attack. Inexorably moving forward up the steep, snow-covered slope with his depleted group in the face of apparently insurmountable odds, he concurrently directed artillery and mortar fire with superb skill and although losing 170 of his men during 14 hours of raging combat in subzero temperatures, continued to reorganize his unit and spearhead the attack which resulted in 600 enemy killed and 500 wounded. By his exceptional and valorous leadership throughout, Maj. Myers contributed directly to the success of his unit in restoring the perimeter. His resolute spirit of self-sacrifice and unfaltering devotion to duty enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Private William H. Myers (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 9, 1865, at Appomattox Courthouse, Virginia. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action; was 5 times wounded.


Flashback Friday


Da

Teresa Lynn and me...


Me (in the white) and my cousin Louis in blue to the left of me [my right]

Ugly Sonny and Cougar (with baby Allison)

Me and Mom (with Dach in the basket in front of Mom.  Note Da's bowling trophies on the TV behind Mom...

Mom

Sonny (with maybe me in front of him... I can't tell for sure)

Brent with a baby

Me and Granny

My cousin Jason

Thursday, December 12, 2013

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRENT!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Thomas Murray (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 25, 1876, at Little Big Horn, Montana. His citation reads:

Brought up the pack train, and on the second day the rations, under a heavy flre from the enemy.

Private William H. Murray (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from July 21 –August 17, 1900, at Peking, China. His citation reads:

In the presence of the enemy during the action at Peking, China, 21 July to 17 August 1900. During this period, Murray distinguished himself by meritorious conduct. (Served as Henry W. Davis.)

Sergeant Fred Myers (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 1, 1891, at White River, S. Dakota. His citation reads:

With 5 men repelled a superior force of the enemy and held his position against their repeated efforts to recapture it.


I just wanted to swing by the office today to wish my brother-in-law Brent a Very Happy Birthday! We hope Teresa Lynn and the girls make it a great day!

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Yep... more Labor Day pics

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal Thomas Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 25, 1869, at Seneca Mountain, Arizona. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

First Lieutenant Charles P. Murray, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 16, 1944, near Kaysersberg, France. His citation reads:

For commanding Company C, 30th Infantry, displaying supreme courage and heroic initiative near Kaysersberg, France, on 16 December 1944, while leading a reinforced platoon into enemy territory. Descending into a valley beneath hilltop positions held by our troops, he observed a force of 200 Germans pouring deadly mortar, bazooka, machinegun, and small arms fire into an American battalion occupying the crest of the ridge. The enemy's position in a sunken road, though hidden from the ridge, was open to a flank attack by 1st Lt. Murray's patrol but he hesitated to commit so small a force to battle with the superior and strongly disposed enemy. Crawling out ahead of his troops to a vantage point, he called by radio for artillery fire. His shells bracketed the German force, but when he was about to correct the range his radio went dead. He returned to his patrol, secured grenades and a rifle to launch them and went back to his self-appointed outpost. His first shots disclosed his position; the enemy directed heavy fire against him as he methodically fired his missiles into the narrow defile. Again he returned to his patrol. With an automatic rifle and ammunition, he once more moved to his exposed position. Burst after burst he fired into the enemy, killing 20, wounding many others, and completely disorganizing its ranks, which began to withdraw. He prevented the removal of 3 German mortars by knocking out a truck. By that time a mortar had been brought to his support. 1st Lt. Murray directed fire of this weapon, causing further casualties and confusion in the German ranks. Calling on his patrol to follow, he then moved out toward his original objective, possession of a bridge and construction of a roadblock. He captured 10 Germans in foxholes. An eleventh, while pretending to surrender, threw a grenade which knocked him to the ground, inflicting 8 wounds. Though suffering and bleeding profusely, he refused to return to the rear until he had chosen the spot for the block and had seen his men correctly deployed. By his single-handed attack on an overwhelming force and by his intrepid and heroic fighting, 1st Lt. Murray stopped a counterattack, established an advance position against formidable odds, and provided an inspiring example for the men of his command.

Staff Sergeant Robert C. Murray (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 7, 1970, near the village of Hiep Duc, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

S/Sgt. Murray distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader with Company B. S/Sgt. Murray's squad was searching for an enemy mortar that had been threatening friendly positions when a member of the squad tripped an enemy grenade rigged as a booby trap. Realizing that he had activated the enemy booby trap, the soldier shouted for everybody to take cover. Instantly assessing the danger to the men of his squad, S/Sgt. Murray unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own safety, threw himself on the grenade absorbing the full and fatal impact of the explosion. By his gallant action and self sacrifice, he prevented the death or injury of the other members of his squad. S/Sgt. Murray's extraordinary courage and gallantry, at the cost of his life above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.


Picture Tuesday