Picture Time!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Joseph Jeremiah McCarthy (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 21, 1945, at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of a rifle company attached to the 2d Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 21 February 1945. Determined to break through the enemy's cross-island defenses, Capt. McCarthy acted on his own initiative when his company advance was held up by uninterrupted Japanese rifle, machinegun, and high-velocity 47mm. fire during the approach to Motoyama Airfield No. 2. Quickly organizing a demolitions and flamethrower team to accompany his picked rifle squad, he fearlessly led the way across 75 yards of fire-swept ground, charged a heavily fortified pillbox on the ridge of the front and, personally hurling hand grenades into the emplacement as he directed the combined operations of his small assault group, completely destroyed the hostile installation. Spotting 2 Japanese soldiers attempting an escape from the shattered pillbox, he boldly stood upright in full view of the enemy and dispatched both troops before advancing to a second emplacement under greatly intensified fire and then blasted the strong fortifications with a well-planned demolitions attack. Subsequently entering the ruins, he found a Japanese taking aim at 1 of our men and, with alert presence of mind, jumped the enemy, disarmed and shot him with his own weapon. Then, intent on smashing through the narrow breach, he rallied the remainder of his company and pressed a full attack with furious aggressiveness until he had neutralized all resistance and captured the ridge. An inspiring leader and indomitable fighter, Capt. McCarthy consistently disregarded all personal danger during the fierce conflict and, by his brilliant professional skill, daring tactics, and tenacious perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds, contributed materially to the success of his division's operations against this savagely defended outpost of the Japanese Empire. His cool decision and outstanding valor reflect the highest credit upon Capt. McCarthy and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

First Sergeant Michael McCarthy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from June 1876 – June 17, 1877, at White Bird Canyon, Idaho. His citation reads:

Was detailed with 6 men to hold a commanding position, and held it with great gallantry until the troops fell back. He then fought his way through the Indians, rejoined a portion of his command, and continued the fight in retreat. He had 2 horses shot from under him, and was captured, but escaped and reported for duty after 3 days' hiding and wandering in the mountains.

Ship’s Printer John McCarton (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 4, 1882, on board the U.S. Training Ship. His citation reads:

For jumping overboard from the U.S. Training Ship New Hampshire off Coasters Harbor Island, near Newport, R.l., 4 January 1882, and endeavoring to rescue Jabez Smith, second class musician, from drowning.


Picture Tuesday

I love how Daniel is able to sleep on the floor... with his legs sticking through the gate.

We took the kids to Charles Towne Landing.  We should do that more... we had a great time. True story, I know a Charles Towne.  We call him Chuck.  I don't think this is his landing, though... but I've never asked him so I guess it might be.  But I doubt it.

If you love otters (and who doesn't), you need to go to Charles Towne Landing.  The otters there are great.  Very active.  One of them was showing off for Mary Ruth.

The Wife wants an otter

Of all the animals we saw there, the little dog got the most love from the kids... and The Wife.

Bison in the wild don't know what they're missing... there's nothing like scratching youself on a chain link fence.

This reminds me that Daniel said I am as big as a bear.