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.



Sunday, June 28, 2015

Shall We Gather at the River

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private James K. Sturgeon (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 15, 1864, at Kenesaw Mountain, Georgia. His citation reads:

Advanced beyond the lines, and in an encounter with 3 Confederates shot 2 and took the other prisoner.

Second Lieutenant Jerome A. Sudut (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 12, 1951, near Kumhwa, Korea. His citation reads:

2d Lt. Sudut distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. His platoon, attacking heavily fortified and strategically located hostile emplacements, had been stopped by intense fire from a large bunker containing several firing posts. Armed with submachinegun, pistol, and grenades, 2d Lt. Sudut charged the emplacement alone through vicious hostile fire, killing 3 of the occupants and dispersing the remainder. Painfully wounded, he returned to reorganize his platoon, refused evacuation and led his men in a renewed attack. The enemy had returned to the bunker by means of connecting trenches from other emplacements and the platoon was again halted by devastating fire. Accompanied by an automatic-rifleman 2d Lt. Sudut again charged into close-range fire to eliminate the position. When the rifleman was wounded, 2d Lt. Sudut seized his weapon and continued alone, killing 3 of the 4 remaining occupants. Though mortally wounded and his ammunition exhausted, he jumped into the emplacement and killed the remaining enemy soldier with his trench knife. His single-handed assaults so inspired his comrades that they continued the attack and drove the enemy from the hill, securing the objective. 2d Lt. Sudut's consummate fighting spirit, outstanding leadership, and gallant self-sacrifice are in keeping with the finest traditions of the infantry and the U.S. Army.

Ensign Daniel Augustus Joseph Sullivan (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 21, 1918, on board the U.S.S. Cristabel. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism as an officer of the U.S.S. Cristabel in conflict with an enemy submarine on 21 May 1918. As a result of the explosion of a depth bomb dropped near the submarine, the Christabel was so badly shaken that a number of depth charges which had been set for firing were thrown about the deck and there was imminent danger that they would explode. Ens. Sullivan immediately fell on the depth charges and succeeded in securing them, thus saving the ship from disaster, which would inevitably have caused great loss of life.


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The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

Shall We Gather at the River


This great hymn was written in 1864 by Robert Lowry. You can read about it here.


Shall we gather at the river
Where bright angels feet have trod
With its crystal tides forever
Flowing by the throne of God.

Chorus
Yes, we'll gather at that river
The beautiful, the beautiful river
Gather with the saints at that river
That flows by the throne of God.

When we reach that shining river
We'll lay every burden down
Then grace our spirits will deliver
And will receive our robe and crown.

Chorus

Soon we'll reach that silver river
Soon our pilgrimage will cease
Soon our happy hearts will quiver
With the melody of peace.

Chorus

Oh yes, we'll gather at that river
That flows by the throne of God.
That flows by the throne of God...

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

RIP Dream…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private First Class Stuart S. Stryker (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 24, 1945, near Wesel, Germany. His citation reads:

He was a platoon runner, when the unit assembled near Wesel, Germany after a descent east of the Rhine. Attacking along a railroad, Company E reached a point about 250 yards from a large building used as an enemy headquarters and manned by a powerful force of Germans with rifles, machineguns, and 4 field pieces. One platoon made a frontal assault but was pinned down by intense fire from the house after advancing only 50 yards. So badly stricken that it could not return the raking fire, the platoon was at the mercy of German machine gunners when Pfc. Stryker voluntarily left a place of comparative safety, and, armed with a carbine, ran to the head of the unit. In full view of the enemy and under constant fire, he exhorted the men to get to their feet and follow him. Inspired by his fearlessness, they rushed after him in a desperate charge through an increased hail of bullets. Twenty-five yards from the objective the heroic soldier was killed by the enemy fusillades. His gallant and wholly voluntary action in the face of overwhelming firepower, however, so encouraged his comrades and diverted the enemy's attention that other elements of the company were able to surround the house, capturing more than 200 hostile soldiers and much equipment, besides freeing 3 members of an American bomber crew held prisoner there. The intrepidity and unhesitating self-sacrifice of Pfc. Stryker were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

Staff Sergeant (then SPC 4) (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 25, 1967, near Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Stumpf distinguished himself while serving as a squad leader of the 3d Platoon, Company C, on a search and destroy mission. As S/Sgt. Stumpf's company approached a village, it encountered a North Vietnamese rifle company occupying a well fortified bunker complex. During the initial contact, 3 men from his squad fell wounded in front of a hostile machinegun emplacement. The enemy's heavy volume of fire prevented the unit from moving to the aid of the injured men, but S/Sgt. Stumpf left his secure position in a deep trench and ran through the barrage of incoming rounds to reach his wounded comrades. He picked up 1 of the men and carried him back to the safety of the trench. Twice more S/Sgt. Stumpf dashed forward while the enemy turned automatic weapons and machineguns upon him, yet he managed to rescue the remaining 2 wounded squad members. He then organized his squad and led an assault against several enemy bunkers from which continuously heavy fire was being received. He and his squad successfully eliminated 2 of the bunker positions, but one to the front of the advancing platoon remained a serious threat. Arming himself with extra handgrenades, S/Sgt. Stumpf ran over open ground, through a volley of fire directed at him by a determined enemy, toward the machinegun position. As he reached the bunker, he threw a handgrenade through the aperture. It was immediately returned by the occupants, forcing S/Sgt. Stumpf to take cover. Undaunted, he pulled the pins on 2 more grenades, held them for a few seconds after activation, then hurled them into the position, this time successfully destroying the emplacement. With the elimination of this key position, his unit was able to assault and overrun the enemy. S/Sgt. Stumpf's relentless spirit of aggressiveness, intrepidity, and ultimate concern for the lives of his men, are in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.

Fireman First Class Loddie Stupka (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 21, 1903, on board the U.S.S. Leyden. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Leyden, for heroism at the time of the wreck of that vessel, 21 January 1903.


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I realize I am late posting this, but I couldn’t let it happen without saying anything. On June 11, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes passed away at the not as old as it used to be age of 69. He didn’t look like the typical professional wrestler… rather, he had a body type a lot like mine (only bigger). Rhodes was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007. Over his long career, he was at one point or another the NWA World Heavyweight Champion, a United States Champion, a World Television Champion, World Tag Team Champion and Six-Man Tag Team Champion. He was fun to watch in the ring and even more fun to listen to on the mic. RIP Dusty Rhodes.

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Maybe “they” weren’t who I thought “they” were…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Benoni Strivson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from August to October, in Arizona. His citation reads:

Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians.

Sergeant James N. Strong (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 27, 1863, at Port Hudson, Louisiana. His citation reads:

Volunteered in response to a call and took part in the movement that was made upon the enemy's works under a heavy fire therefrom in advance of the general assault.

Specialist Fourth Class Robert F. Stryker (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 7, 1967, near Loc Ninh, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sp4c. Stryker, U.S. Army, distinguished himself while serving with Company C. Sp4c. Stryker was serving as a grenadier in a multicompany reconnaissance in force near Loc Ninh. As his unit moved through the dense underbrush, it was suddenly met with a hail of rocket, automatic weapons and small arms fire from enemy forces concealed in fortified bunkers and in the surrounding trees. Reacting quickly, Sp4c. Stryker fired into the enemy positions with his grenade launcher. During the devastating exchange of fire, Sp4c. Stryker detected enemy elements attempting to encircle his company and isolate it from the main body of the friendly force. Undaunted by the enemy machinegun and small-arms fire, Sp4c. Stryker repeatedly fired grenades into the trees, killing enemy snipers and enabling his comrades to sever the attempted encirclement. As the battle continued, Sp4c. Stryker observed several wounded members of his squad in the killing zone of an enemy claymore mine. With complete disregard for his safety, he threw himself upon the mine as it was detonated. He was mortally wounded as his body absorbed the blast and shielded his comrades from the explosion. His unselfish actions were responsible for saving the lives of at least 6 of his fellow soldiers. Sp4c. Stryker's great personal bravery was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.


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I have lived in South Carolina my whole life (18 years on James Island, 13 years in Summerville and 5 in Rock Hill) and I am proud of that. I’m proud to be from the South. I believe there is a book titled American by Birth, Southern by the Grace of God… and I truly feel this way. I don’t deny or hide that fact. I love the South. If God wanted me to love the north, I figure, He would pick up James Island and put it in the north. The first shot of the Civil War was fired from JI (if the plaque my Labor Day Uncle DG and I saw many years ago is to be believed). There are men in my family tree (on both sides) who fought for the Confederate States. I don’t deny this, either. I do not believe these men owned large plantations with tons of slaves. I’m not 100% sure any of them owned any slaves. I choose to believe that they fought to protect this great state from the yankees… but I honestly have no idea. For all I know, they were a bunch of jerks who beat slaves all day/every day and only fought to keep the black man down. But since I have no way of knowing if that is true, either, I choose to believe they were good people. Where am I going with this? I’ll tell you…

For my whole life, the Confederate Flag (at least the most well-known version of the Confederate Flag) has either been on top of the State House or on the State House grounds. It was put there (on top of the State House… when Dad was in college), it has been said, in honor of the 100th Anniversary of the Civil War. If I am not mistaken, it was only supposed to be up for 1 year. This was during the civil rights movement… they ended up leaving the flag up there. Officially, I believe, to honor those who fought… but I don’t think it’s that big of a stretch to see it as a big middle finger to the civil rights movement. Many years later (when I was in college), there was a compromise to remove it from the top of the State House and put it on the grounds at a memorial site. That site ended up just being right on the busiest street. I was able to convince myself that this was ok because it was part of a compromise… but really, what bigger middle finger could there have been. Still, I viewed the flag as a way to honor those who fought for the state. And, I really believe that many other people in this state felt the same way. But…

…But, a bunch of racist assholes also used the flag. They used it when committing racist, hateful acts. Sure, they had other things too… but the Confederate flag was all over the place. Sadly, the racist assholes still use it today. That doesn’t mean everyone who likes the flag is racist… it just means that the racist people have ruined the flag.

For most of my life, I thought “they” (the people on the other side from my views) were the people wanting the flag to be taken off of the state house grounds. Now, I’ve come to realize I had it wrong all along. The real “they”… the real people on the other side, were the racist jackasses who used it to promote hate. And I’m at the point, that I can no longer support the same thing they support (even if we supported it for different reasons). That is why I emailed my state senator and representative yesterday morning to let them know my views. Maybe they don’t care, but I do. Plus, they have no problem sending me emails I didn’t ask for, so I had no problem emailing them. I know this flag didn’t cause hateful things to happen (like the killing of nine innocent people in a church at a Bible study), but that isn’t a reason to keep it there. It’s a distraction that keeps people from focusing on issues that could really make a difference, so the time has come to take it down.

Monday, June 22, 2015

HAPPY 13th Anniversary to The Wife!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private William H. Strayer (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 26, 1872, at Loupe Forke, Platte River, Nebraska. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Commander George Levick Street, III (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 14, 1945, at Harbor of Quelpart Island, off the coast of Korea. 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 the U.S.S. Tirante during the first war patrol of that vessel against enemy Japanese surface forces in the harbor of Quelpart Island, off the coast of Korea, on 14 April 1945. With the crew at surface battle stations, Comdr. (then Lt. Comdr.) Street approached the hostile anchorage from the south within 1,200 yards of the coast to complete a reconnoitering circuit of the island. Leaving the 10-fathom curve far behind he penetrated the mined and shoal-obstructed waters of the restricted harbor despite numerous patrolling vessels and in defiance of 5 shore-based radar stations and menacing aircraft. Prepared to fight it out on the surface if attacked, Comdr. Street went into action, sending 2 torpedoes with deadly accuracy into a large Japanese ammunition ship and exploding the target in a mountainous and blinding glare of white flames. With the Tirante instantly spotted by the enemy as she stood out plainly in the flare of light, he ordered the torpedo data computer set up while retiring and fired his last 2 torpedoes to disintegrate in quick succession the leading frigate and a similar flanking vessel. Clearing the gutted harbor at emergency full speed ahead, he slipped undetected along the shoreline, diving deep as a pursuing patrol dropped a pattern of depth charges at the point of submergence. His illustrious record of combat achievement during the first war patrol of the Tirante characterizes Comdr. Street as a daring and skilled leader and reflects the highest credit upon himself, his valiant command, and the U.S. Naval Service.

Private Christian Streile (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 5, 1865, at Paines Crossroads, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.


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13 years ago today The Wife and I walked that aisle… stylin’ and profilin’, said “I do” and started our lives together. I am thankful every day for her. She is a great wife, friend and mother. She is also hard working… probably the hardest working person I know. I am very proud of her.

Sunday, June 21, 2015

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain of the Top Robert Strahan (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 19, 1864, on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge. His citation reads:

Served as captain of the top on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as captain of the No. 1 gun, Strahan carried out his duties in the face of heavy enemy fire and exhibited marked coolness and good conduct throughout the engagement. Strahan was highly recommended by his division officer for his gallantry and meritorious achievements.

Surgeon Paul F. Straub (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 21, 1899, at Alos, Zambales, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

Voluntarily exposed himself to a hot fire from the enemy in repelling with pistol fire an insurgent attack and at great risk of his own life went under fire to the rescue of a wounded officer and carried him to a place of safety.

First Sergeant Bernard A. Strausbaugh (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 17, 1864, at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Recaptured the colors of 2d Pennsylvania Provisional Artillery.


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I’d like to wish my Dad a VERY HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m sure Teresa Lynn will call him. Not so sure about Sonny. I’ve done some thinking since “The Call” on Mother’s Day and I’m pretty sure he pressed the wrong button on his phone (people his age aren’t great with technology) and couldn’t end the call before Dad answered the phone and handed it to Mom. Maybe I’ll call Sonny from Dad’s phone and then act like he was really calling Dad and hand Dad the phone. I could even feed Sonny a line before I hand the phone over… something like, “Happy Father’s Day! Sorry I’m not more like Greg… except as far as weight goes… I’m pretty happy in that regard, but other than that… Sorry I’m not more like Greg!”


The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

This is the Day


I actually found multiple versions on the web of this song by different people. The first verse was pretty much the same for all of them… but the other verses were different. I had trouble finding which came first and all of that, so I’m just going to post what I found here. This is a song (at least the first verse of it) that I remember singing in Vacation Bible School when I was growing up. I’m not sure I’ve heard it a lot since then, but it’s stuck with me…


1. This is the day, this is the day
that the Lord has made, that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice, we will rejoice
and be glad in it, and be glad in it.
This is the day that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day, this is the day that the Lord has made.

2. This is the day, this is the day
when he rose again, when he rose again;
we will rejoice, we will rejoice
and be glad in it, and be glad in it.
This is the day when he rose again;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day, this is the day when he rose again.

3. This is the day, this is the day
when the Spirit came, when the Spirit came;
we will rejoice, we will rejoice
and be glad in it, and be glad in it.
This is the day when the Spirit came;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day, this is the day when the Spirit came.

Note: Verse 2: Easter; Verse 3: Pentecost

Sunday, June 14, 2015

This Little Light of Mine

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Mitchell W. Stout (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 12, 1970, at Khe Gio Bridge, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

Sgt. Stout distinguished himself during an attack by a North Vietnamese Army Sapper company on his unit's firing position at Khe Gio Bridge. Sgt. Stout was in a bunker with members of a searchlight crew when the position came under heavy enemy mortar fire and ground attack. When the intensity of the mortar attack subsided, an enemy grenade was thrown into the bunker. Displaying great courage, Sgt. Stout picked it up, and started out of the bunker. As he reached the door, the grenade exploded. By holding the grenade close to his body and shielding its blast, he protected his fellow soldiers in the bunker from further injury or death. Sgt. Stout's conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action, at the cost of his own life, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon him, his unit and the U.S. Army.

Landsman Richard Stout (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 30, 1863, on board the U.S.S. Isaac Smith. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Isaac Smith, Stono River, 30 January 1863. While reconnoitering on the Stono River on this date the U.S.S. Isaac Smith became trapped in a rebel ambush. Fired on from two sides, she fought her guns until disabled. Suffering heavy casualties and at the mercy of the enemy who was delivering a raking fire from every side, she struck her colors out of regard for the wounded aboard, and all aboard were taken prisoners. Carrying out his duties bravely through this action, Stout was severely wounded and lost his right arm while returning the rebel fire.

Corporal Freddie Stowers (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 28, 1918, on Hill 188, Champagne Marne Sector, France. His citation reads:

Corporal Stowers, distinguished himself by exceptional heroism on 28 September 1918 while serving as a squad leader in Company C, 371st Infantry Regiment, 93d Division. His company was the lead company during the attack on Hill 188, Champagne Marne Sector, France, during World War I. A few minutes after the attack began, the enemy ceased firing and began climbing up onto the parapets of the trenches, holding up their arms as if wishing to surrender. The enemy's actions caused the American forces to cease fire and to come out into the open. As the company started forward and when within about 100 meters of the trench line, the enemy jumped back into their trenches and greeted Corporal Stowers' company with interlocking bands of machine gun fire and mortar fire causing well over fifty percent casualties. Faced with incredible enemy resistance, Corporal Stowers took charge, setting such a courageous example of personal bravery and leadership that he inspired his men to follow him in the attack. With extraordinary heroism and complete disregard of personal danger under devastating fire, he crawled forward leading his squad toward an enemy machine gun nest, which was causing heavy casualties to his company. After fierce fighting, the machine gun position was destroyed and the enemy soldiers were killed. Displaying great courage and intrepidity Corporal Stowers continued to press the attack against a determined enemy. While crawling forward and urging his men to continue the attack on a second trench line, he was gravely wounded by machine gun fire. Although Corporal Stowers was mortally wounded, he pressed forward, urging on the members of his squad, until he died. Inspired by the heroism and display of bravery of Corporal Stowers, his company continued the attack against incredible odds, contributing to the capture of Hill 188 and causing heavy enemy casualties. Corporal Stowers' conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism, and supreme devotion to his men were well above and beyond the call of duty, follow the finest traditions of military service, and reflect the utmost credit on him and the United States Army.


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The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

This Little Light of Mine


Since this past week was Vacation Bible School at my church, I decided to pick a hymn this week that reminded me of when I went to VBS. You can read more about the song here.


This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

All around the neighborhood, I'm going to let it shine.
All around the neighborhood, I'm going to let it shine.
All around the neighborhood, I'm going to let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Hide it under a bushel? No! I'm going to let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No! I'm going to let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No! I'm going to let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Don't let Satan [blow] it out! I'm going to let it shine.
Don't let Satan [blow] it out! I'm going to let it shine.
Don't let Satan [blow] it out! I'm going to let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUSTIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Lester R. Stone, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 3, 1969, west of Landing Zone Liz, 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. Sgt. Stone, distinguished himself while serving as squad leader of the 1st Platoon. The 1st Platoon was on a combat patrol mission just west of Landing Zone Liz when it came under intense automatic weapons and grenade fire from a well concealed company-size force of North Vietnamese regulars. Observing the platoon machinegunner fall critically wounded, Sgt. Stone remained in the exposed area to provide cover fire for the wounded soldier who was being pulled to safety by another member of the platoon. With enemy fire impacting all around him in the machinegun, preventing him from firing the weapon automatically. Displaying extraordinary courage under the most adverse conditions, Sgt. Stone repaired the weapon and continued to place on the enemy positions effective suppressive fire which enabled the rescue to be completed. In a desperate attempt to overrun his position, an enemy force left its cover and charged Sgt. Stone. Disregarding the danger involved, Sgt. Stone rose to his knees and began placing intense fire on the enemy at pointblank range, killing 6 of the enemy before falling mortally wounded. His actions of unsurpassed valor were a source of inspiration to his entire unit, and he was responsible for saving the lives of a number of his fellow soldiers. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military profession and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Sergeant John H. R. Storey (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 28, 1864, at Dallas, Georgia. His citation reads:

While bringing in a wounded comrade, under a destructive fire, he was himself wounded in the right leg, which was amputated on the same day.

Private First Class Luther H. Story (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 1, 1950, near Agok, Korea. His citation reads:

Pfc. Story, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. A savage daylight attack by elements of 3 enemy divisions penetrated the thinly held lines of the 9th Infantry. Company A beat off several banzai attacks but was bypassed and in danger of being cut off and surrounded. Pfc. Story, a weapons squad leader, was heavily engaged in stopping the early attacks and had just moved his squad to a position overlooking the Naktong River when he observed a large group of the enemy crossing the river to attack Company A. Seizing a machine gun from his wounded gunner he placed deadly fire on the hostile column killing or wounding an estimated 100 enemy soldiers. Facing certain encirclement the company commander ordered a withdrawal. During the move Pfc. Story noticed the approach of an enemy truck loaded with troops and towing an ammunition trailer. Alerting his comrades to take cover he fearlessly stood in the middle of the road, throwing grenades into the truck. Out of grenades he crawled to his squad, gathered up additional grenades and again attacked the vehicle. During the withdrawal the company was attacked by such superior numbers that it was forced to deploy in a rice field. Pfc. Story was wounded in this action, but, disregarding his wounds, rallied the men about him and repelled the attack. Realizing that his wounds would hamper his comrades he refused to retire to the next position but remained to cover the company's withdrawal. When last seen he was firing every weapon available and fighting off another hostile assault. Private Story's extraordinary heroism, aggressive leadership, and supreme devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the military service.


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I just wanted to swing by the I’m just sayin… offices to wish my favorite nephew Austin a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope today is the start of some great teenage years for him.

Sunday, June 7, 2015

Precious Lord, Take My Hand

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Gunner’s Mate Second Class Andrew V. Stoltenberg (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 16, 1900, at Katbalogan, Samar, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

For distinguished conduct in the presence of the enemy in battle at Katbalogan, Samar, Philippine Islands, 16 July 1900.

Private Frank Stolz (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863, at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."

First Lieutenant James L. Stone (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 22-22, 1951, near Sokkogae, Korea. His citation reads:

1st Lt. Stone, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and indomitable courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. When his platoon, holding a vital outpost position, was attacked by overwhelming Chinese forces, 1st Lt. Stone stood erect and exposed to the terrific enemy fire calmly directed his men in the defense. A defensive flame-thrower failing to function, he personally moved to its location, further exposing himself, and personally repaired the weapon. Throughout a second attack, 1st Lt. Stone; though painfully wounded, personally carried the only remaining light machine gun from place to place in the position in order to bring fire upon the Chinese advancing from 2 directions. Throughout he continued to encourage and direct his depleted platoon in its hopeless defense. Although again wounded, he continued the fight with his carbine, still exposing himself as an example to his men. When this final overwhelming assault swept over the platoon's position his voice could still be heard faintly urging his men to carry on, until he lost consciousness. Only because of this officer's driving spirit and heroic action was the platoon emboldened to make its brave but hopeless last ditch stand.


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The I’m just sayin… Hymn of the Week

Precious Lord, Take My Hand


Thomas A. Dorsey was a jazz and blues musician, whose wife had just died in childbirth, and their newborn son along with her. In his grief, he cried out to his Lord to lead him "through the storm, through the night." Dorsey wrote a song, "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," that's continued to reach out to those who are suffering – in New Orleans' famed jazz and blues community, and everywhere else. Read more about the song here.


Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When my way grows drear precious Lord linger near
When my light is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When the darkness appears and the night draws near
And the day is past and gone
At the river I stand
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

Friday, June 5, 2015

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANNY (yes, that Danny)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Sergeant Alonzo Stokes (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 George Stokes (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 16, 1864, at Nashville, Tennessee. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Chief Master-at-Arms John Stokes (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 31, 1899, on board the U.S.S. New York. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. New York off the coast of Jamaica, 31 March 1899. Showing gallant conduct, Stokes jumped overboard and assisted in the rescue of Peter Mahoney, watertender, U.S. Navy.


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Help Team I’m just sayin… in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

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Today I’d like to wish my good friend Danny L Wright (the second of his name) a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I trust our Favorite Nurse Jen and their sweet little girls will make it a great birthday.


I forgot to tell you before, but the I’m just sayin… Favorite NASCAR Sprint Cup driver is Kevin Harvick (in the #4 car). I know you care about stuff like this, so I wanted to keep you updated.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADRIAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Gunnery Sergeant Fred W. Stockham (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 13-14, 1918, at Bois-de-Belleau, France. His citation reads:

During an intense enemy bombardment with high explosive and gas shells which wounded or killed many members of the company, G/Sgt. Stockham, upon noticing that the gas mask of a wounded comrade was shot away, without hesitation, removed his own gas mask and insisted upon giving it to the wounded man, well knowing that the effects of the gas would be fatal to himself. He continued with undaunted courage and valor to direct and assist in the evacuation of the wounded, until he himself collapsed from the effects of gas, dying as a result thereof a few days later. His courageous conduct undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his wounded comrades and his conspicuous gallantry and spirit of self-sacrifice were a source of great inspiration to all who served with him.

First Lieutenant George H. Stockman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863, at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."

Seaman James Stoddard (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 5, 1864, near Yazoo City, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Off Yazoo City, Miss., 5 March 1864. Embarking from the Marmora with a 12-pound howitzer mounted on a field carriage, Stoddard landed with the gun and crew in the midst of heated battle and, bravely standing by his gun despite enemy rifle fire which cut the gun carriage and rammer, contributed to the turning back of the enemy during the fierce engagement.


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Today I’d like to wish my good buddy Adrian a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We hope Michael and the boys make it a GREAT birthday! A nice gift would be to make a donation to my Walk to Ed Alzheimer’s in honor of Adrian. I’m just sayin…