Some Quick Notes.

Last night I had the pleasure of meeting AJ aka "The Humble Devil Dog" host of "Random Firings of Neurons", and Beth the hostess of "Yeah, Right, Whatever". My better half Deb, who has taken a short blogging hiatus, was at my side as well. We had thought it would be a couple hours of good conversation....well let me tell you, between the four of us we got in a solid 5 hours. IF we did not have to go and "rescue" the kids from the clutches of their sister, (yeah, right, like they really hate spending time with her, her husband, and all their neet games and such) we would have stayed and proceeded to bend each others ear off.

There were sea stories told with all the earnestness only an old salt can convey. The Marine, not to be out done, countered with his own tales of daring-do. As for Deb and Beth, they provided their own commentary, and selected kicks to our backsides when things got ....errr a little deep shall we say? Then proceeded to regale us with some of their own exploits. All in all the time spent was much too short. I hope the respective journeys back to the great state of Texas are without incident for either of them (separate vehicles...and not sure of their respective time frames). If we finally get out of the Peoples Republic of Illinois, that will most likely be the state we would end up in as well.

The other quick note, as you can see there has been a slight cosmetic change to the blog. The titles to each post have a new look, and at long last I have the date for any given day up as well. So the outside of the "Harbor" is all but done...tho I expect to be doing some tweaking behind the scenes as time and talent warrant.

"To Absent Comrades."

Day is done, gone the sun,
From the hills, from the lake, from the skies.
All is well, safely rest,
God is nigh.

Go to sleep, peaceful sleep,
May the soldier or sailor,
God keep.
On the land or the deep,
Safe in sleep.

These are two of the many versions "of the words for Taps"...there is no "official" version, though the top one is most often heard.

During the late 70's, early 80's I was the bugler for the Navy Honor Guard unit we had out of NAS Dallas (Grand Prairie, Tx). It was my high honor and privilege to sound Taps at a number of memorial events and funerals.

To all who have served, in all branches of service, and those who answered the call while in civilian attire, may you, upon hearing that short but most eloquent of trumpet calls, find yourself at rest...be it Fiddler's Green, Valhalla, or in God's good graces-in the bosom of Abraham...and always remembered with cherished and honored memories, by those of us left behind.

A final note/reminder:

The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress, asks Americans wherever they are at 3 p.m., local time, on Memorial Day, May 30, 2005 to pause in an act of national unity (duration: one minute).The time 3 p.m. was chosen because it is the time when most Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holiday. The Moment does not replace traditional Memorial Day events; rather it is an act of national unity in which all Americans, alone or with family and friends, honor those who died for our freedom. It will help to reclaim Memorial Day as the sacred and noble holiday it was meant to be. In this shared remembrance, we connect as Americans.

Eddie Albert 1906-2005

WLS Radio reported (via ABC news wires) Eddie Albert has died at the age of 99. Albert was a Lt(jg) in the Navy, and a haled from my home state of Illinois (born 1906, in Rock Island Illinois). It is interesting to note-like many from his generation- he chose to take an active part in fighting the Axis during WWII, unlike some of those from the next generation of actors (see previous post). Albert, by then well into his thirties, answered the call instead of avoiding it, or protesting. Better then 40 years after the fact, he was awarded the Bronze Star for his actions.

From the Navy News Service archives:

During the Battle of Tarawa on Nov.
21, 1943, LTJG Edward A. Heimberger, boat officer on board
attack transport USS Sheridan (APA 51), pulled Marines from
the beaches and surf to waiting personnel on USS Schroeder
(DD 501).
For this, actor LTJG "Eddie Albert" Heimberger was
awarded the Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Device,
presented during ceremonies held Oct. 13 at the U.S. Navy
Memorial in Washington, DC.
The citation, presented by Secretary of the Navy John
H. Dalton, states that Heimberger "was responsible for
leading certain elements of the amphibious assault craft to
their designated landing sites on the beach. In the midst of
one of the bloodiest battles of the war, LTJG Heimberger
organized and initiated the removal of both the dead and
wounded from the lagoon. He gathered three other landing
craft to assist in the effort which resulted in saving many
lives."
More than 40 Marines and soldiers, both the dead and
wounded, were recovered as a result of his actions,
witnessed by Sailors on the Schroeder who took the rescued
on board.

For more "traditional information" about his acting career you can go to the IMDB listing for him here. Too bad a majority of today's actors and actresses don't have half the character and integrity that many of their seniors did.

Send Hanoi Jane a "Kiss"

Figuratively, of course!! Let her know how much you appreciate all she has said and done for the many Vietnam era vets, for the families of those who never returned from that Southeast Asian conflict. What's that you're saying?? She didn't do a damn thing for the vets...she was anti-war to the point of being a traitor?? .... As most of you know, seriously, this is not anything new. That she has, in recent years, been trying to put her own version out there, as opposed to what is really "the truth", is sad but not unexpected. This is a typical stock in trade reaction from the progressive/liberal side of the street, if you don't like history/your past, re-invent same.

You want to send a small, but clear signal you are not buying into her repackaged bs? Well funny you should ask, Russ Vaughn sent me a link to a San Diego "classic rock" radio station, which is running a poll (its on the right hand column as you look here. This should be a nice little tweek from all of us to the "Traitor who set the standard for all the others who followed (Kerry, M. Moore, etc). I am of the opinion, if they get enough response for this...it could effect the number of theaters who elect to show her film (Especially theaters near military installations, or military retiree communities.)

Anyhow go vote...an show one of Hollywood's finest, shinning examples of "morally bankrupt" how much you "support" her.(It's true...look in the encyclopedia...right next to "morally bankrupt actress" is a picture of Hanoi Jane.)

(And she is still truly unrepentant after all these years.....traitorous bitch!)

Btw, as of 11am this morning the "keep her movie out of theaters near military installations" was at 76%. Those who would support dried up old crones having their films shown were just a tad over 23%. And this was in the land of fruits, flakes, and nuts.....maybe there is hope for California yet.

UPDATE:

It seems as of Sunday Morning, the radio station has changed their poll. The Fonda question is history now. But as of 11:25pm, Saturday night those who would want her film not to be shown still had around 64% against those who would have no problem with it being shown at theaters near military installations 35%.

My solution to this concern is as follows. Once you are either doing a long stretch in a federal pen, or have been sent to "the great protest march in the sky", via the judicial use of "Kevorkian Joy Juice" ™ , because you have been found guilty of treasonit is terrifically hard to make any movies period...so end of concern. Your mileage may vary.

Remembering Poppies, Fields, Fallen, on this Memorial Day

Memorial Day, now celebrated on the last Monday in May, was traditionally observed on May 30th. This day, originally set aside to honor Soldiers who fell during the Civil War (on both sides), was expanded to honor all service members from all our battles. This gives a good overview of the day, how it has evolved over the years, and what is being done to return it to the day of remembrance it was intended as, vice "the first official three day holiday of summer".

We all have known Grandfathers, Uncles, Fathers, Brothers, Sons, (and a number of Grandmothers, Aunts, Mothers, Sisters, and Daughters as well) who are at eternal rest, having given their last full measure of devotion, to protect and defend that which they held most dear.

Kids; Now and Then

Do you remember doing things like this, or being a part of same, when you were growing up?

mike : whassup?
navvet1955: just finished dinner...how's by you?
mike : doing good, making some home-made ice cream at the moment...
navvet1955: ahhhhh the good stuff!!
navvet1955: haven't had any of that in years...dad used to have an ice cream maker
mike : yeppers...tonight's recipe is strawberry-banana....
navvet1955: I like fresh strawberry ice-cream...and colonial ice cream used to have one called "Strawberry Cheesecake" that was outstanding!
navvet1955: but the fake/processed stuff makes me ill
mike : yeah, I remember that one....first time with this recipe, but strawberries and bananas complement each other, so should be good...
navvet1955: add a little rum to the mix and see what happens*grin*
mike : 1 qt. heavy cream, six bananas and a pint of strawberries, processed, three eggs, some vanilla extract, some lemon juice, 2 cups sugar, the rum, and four cups milk....in the machine as we speak....
navvet1955: mmmmMMMMMmmmm
mike : it should be fabulous, if the unfrozen mix was any indication
navvet1955: well there ya go! Someday will have to try and do the same kind of thing here too.
mike : of course, we're using a modern ELECTRIC ice cream maker....the old fashioned way would have been out on the patio, a line of strong guys taking turns on the crank, and a line of kids to sit on the bucket until they got frostbite on their butts...
navvet1955: there is that...and a beer or four to help the fella's doing the cranking keep their strength up*grin*
mike : that as well, although I am at least having the beer LOL
navvet1955: it's the thought that counts!
mike : and the whole reason for the kids sitting on the bucket was....well, it made their butts cold, and gave them something to do LOL
navvet1955: yeppers, and they were "helping" so it made the ice cream taste all that much better...plus the older kids were wanting to have the privilege of "turning the crank" so they could be considered "closer to adulthood"...a minor but important rite of passage.
mike : ok, just added more rock salt and ice....should be about half-way thru the "crank" phase, then more ice and rock salt for the firming stage
navvet1955: like sitting at the adult table during thanksgiving dinner...and getting to help set off the fire works on the fourth of July.
mike : indeed it was Guy,...

The above conversation, between Mike (the old host of DGCI, now Head man in charge of the CIA...Cigar Intelligence Agency ...check it out*grin*) got me to thinking about what it was like when we were kids...and some of the memories my folks shared with us about their youth as well. 'Course some things are different now...at least in this (blue) state.

Fireworks are far too dangerous for mere mortals to buy and use....so the state must, once again, protect us. Rites of passage are becoming fewer and fewer as the years go by. Your kid wants something, be it sitting at the "adult table" or even a new (or heaven forbid a used) car, as soon as he or she gets their drivers license....well, you have to take out another loan against the house, or make room for one more body at the table (usually mom saying "That's alright, honey, you can sit here, I'll eat later"....or in the kitchen), we wouldn't want to damage their self esteem. Or even, watch what you want on tv (or better yet, go watch it in your room on YOUR set).

We, and our kids especially, have it easier then ever before, and yet.....do they?

Remember...
Used to be if you got in trouble at school, if the teacher didn't *whack ya* the Principal did, followed by one or both of your parents once you arrived home. (And they would already know, cause the school called)...If you lived in a larger city or major metro area, and the "cop on the beat" (remember those?) saw you and your buddies hanging around on a corner...he might rap ya with the nightstick and send you on your way, and that had better be home, cause he was going to be checking up on you later...If you were caught with booze (and that meant beer on up to what ever you got your hands on), and or were found to be a tad intoxicated, the same cop escorted you home (and in the more rural/suburban areas...drove you there) and dropped you off in your parents lap...knowing you would be *attended to*...The same thing applied to curfew laws (remember those?).

"Recruiting, The Media, And Reality" (Part Two)

This is a bit different than the last post. Though there are some similarities. The biggest being parental influence. And to a lesser extent, that of some medical professionals out there, who willingly follow the "flavor of the day" in treating those who seek answers to their (alleged) medical concerns.

I am talking about kids, asthma, and wanting to (eventually) join the uniformed services.

Eligibility Determinations and Waivers b. Medical Waiver

(1) In addition to the medical requirements for enlistment contained in the
Army Regulation 40-501 and the Manual of the Medical Department
Chapter 15), the following additional information is provided to determine
whether a request for a medical waiver should be submitted:

• Asthma. The Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs) has granted
waiver authority for asthma in remission to CHBUMED. Prior to
submitting an asthma waiver request, ensure that the examining
physician has written in Block 25 of the DD Form 2807-1 the last date of
occurrence of symptoms of asthma, reactive airway disease, exercise
induced bronchospasm, wheezy bronchitis, asthmatic bronchitis, or any
pulmonary symptoms that may interfere with duties or restrict activities,
and the age of the applicant on that date.

(2) Refer applicants who report experiencing any of the following asthma
symptoms to CHBUMED via CNRC (Code 00M) for waiver consideration.

(a) Episodes documented in the medical record as asthma, reactive
airway disease, exercise-induced broncho-spasm, wheezy bronchitis,
or asthmatic bronchitis.
(b) Documented history of a cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath
generally lasting 6 months or longer.
(c) Complaints of any breathing problems that interfere with performance
of duty or restriction of activities.
(d) History of using an inhaler for any reason.
(e) Cases where a clear determination cannot be made on the above
symptoms.
(f) History of asthma or suspected history thereof, at any point the
applicant’s past medical history.

The above was from the "Recruiting Manual (Enlisted)". This was an older copy (circa 2001) which was found via google and was a PDF file. There may have been changes since this was published, your best source of up-to-date information regarding eligibility is your recruiter! Talk with them.

But getting back to my original point. If all you have is mom's belief (or grandma's or Auntie Rottencrouch's) that you suffered from asthma, and you want to get in the service...bring medical documentation. The recruiter can not diagnose your symptoms, but they can (and will) submit your paperwork to the appropriate personnel for review or disposition, if you are sincere in wanting a career in the service. We had a case of an applicant who was active in the school track program, ran in marathons, but during the interview, claimed their doctor told them (No, I am not going to name names...sheesh) they had "Sports Asthma". ™ Well, they brought in the supporting paperwork (frankly, we found this one hard to believe), and by god, they *did* have it listed as such....claimed it hurt after running *x* number of miles....well, most folks I know, who do any running at all note it isn't a picnic (go figure). But again, let the doctors at the MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) and or the medical review board(s) make the call as to whether or not you can join...that's what they get paid the big bucks for. Your mom, aunt, or grandma, however much they love you, are not doctors (okay, there are doctors who are mothers, aunts, and grandmothers....put a sock in it you smart asses *grin*), and neither are the recruiters, but they know what avenues can be taken to address any medical concerns the potential enlistee may have, and in most cases, that is getting the paperwork submitted up the chain for review.

"Recruiting, The Media, And Reality" (Part One)

Militantpundit, over at Making Tomorrows Military Today, (a good man doing an often thankless job, and a very demanding one at that) has a couple of concerns. Having "toted the bag" a few years, myself, as a Navy Recruiter, I know where he is coming from. So thought I would speak about that profession, along with addressing some of his concerns from his post.

Let's start with the story about the son of a current anti-war protester. The following blockquote is from the father's web site, so there is a strong possibility it is biased, not only from a father's point of view (understandable, being a father myself, I can see how that would happen), but based on the overall content of his site, and his point of view, biased by his beliefs as well. (Also understandable, but considering he was a vet, and has to have had some sort of understanding about what and how a member of the armed services can speak to the press in or out of uniform, has been less then straight forward with his blog visitors and with his son.) But let's see the quote....

During this time, Drew [The son of the anti-war father, and a "nuke" in the Navy, on active duty--ed.] was home on leave. He met me at one of these vigils. He held a sign that read "Bring Our Troops Home." He wasn't in uniform.

While at the vigil, he answered a reporter's question about the war in Iraq. "I just don't agree with what we're doing right now," he said. "I don't think our guys should be dying in Iraq. But I'm not a pacifist. I'll do my part."

The reporter who interviewed my son worked for the Associated Press. The story he wrote ran nationally. The next day we received numerous phone calls from other journalists wanting to question this active-duty sailor who dared question the war. Drew declined all further requests for interviews. He never intended to cause a stir. His answer to the original question had been a simple, heartfelt reaction to the daily pictures of carnage that the embedded reporters were describing to the nation.

My son was prosecuted for his comments. The Navy charged him with violating Article 134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice: Disloyal Statements. At his hearing, he was asked if he were a sympathizer with the enemy and whether he had considered acts of sabotage. To both of those questions he answered no. When asked if he regretted his comments, he also answered no. He was convicted and demoted.

Unless they changed the UCMJ Article 134 reads as follows:

§ 934. Art. 134. General article Though not specifically mentioned in this chapter, all disorders and neglects to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces, all conduct of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces, and crimes and offenses not capital, of which persons subject to this chapter may be guilty, shall be taken cognizance of by a general, special, or summary court-martial, according to the nature and degree of the offense, and shall be punished at the discretion of that court.

And yes, looking further into the UCMJ, there is a specific charge of Disloyal Statements (item 72) under the Article 134. But there are lots of questions here:

1. Was the young man brought up on charges due to his statements to the press? Or was it something else (more) that he said? Based on what the father claims, this seems very flimsy for this kind of charge, and or to have the time spent on prosecuting same. (This is assuming it was a court-martial, vice Captain's Mast- the Navy's version of Office Hours for you non seafaring types) My guess is there is more then a couple of things going on here we don't know about.

2. What, if any, are the sons affiliations with the fathers anti-war organization(s)? This could be behind the charges being leveled at the son. If there wasn't enough evidence to tie the son into the groups, or if coercion (by the father) was used to get the son to follow along, the lesser charge of Disloyal Statements, may have been "a slap on the hand" (if done at Captain's Mast) to try and get him to realize his career in the Navy is in jeopardy if he continues to be a part of same....not to mention he is seriously messing with his chances to hold on to his security clearances...being a part of the nuclear team.

Eagle And The Serpents

Wow, talk about serendipity....what better way to start off a new blog year than with a new bit of verse from Russ. Today he takes aim, with pin point precision, on a favorite whipping boy of everyone, (and rightly so!!) the Main Stream Media.

So, go below the fold and check it out!!

Another Year Older...

and deeper in debt. Hard to believe, but today marks the one year anniversary of this bit of fluff on the net. If nothing else, it has allowed me a chance to blow off a little steam at any number of events which have caught my eye, and in this Americanized version of a Hyde Park Speakers corner, much ranting and pontificating, has indeed, occurred.

I have also had the pleasure of making many new acquaintances. Ccommunication via e-mail, IM, and land line, has allowed for indirect meeting with a number of fellow travelers. And I am richer for this. Sadly, for any number of reasons, I haven't had the chance to met but one of you in person. (Though this may change in the next week, if we can get the logistics worked out. More on that in a future post.) With luck, the number of in person meetings will increase over the course of the next year.

As you may know, I have moved to Munuvia. (Thanks again to Eric, Jim, and all others who offered suggestions, support, and images.) Blogspot will hiccup for me no more. (The old site, will remain up until I can get the archives over here.)

What will be going on here? Well, much the same as before...but who knows what the future holds? I may try to write on other topics, then those of a political bent. I have been far too lax on any Navy news, and hope to correct that. There will be future visits from my dad (as the spirit moves me *grin*). If there is a chance to get in on the net radio side of the house (Radio DGCI rocked.) well, I would be hard pressed to say anything but "yes". It was fun before, don't see any reason why it wouldn't be so again.

Finally, I want to thank all of you who have taken the time and energy to stop by to look in on what is going on here at the Harbor. And as the mood strikes, to leave a comment or two. Some times I don't get back to you as quick as I should have, but whether by a follow up comment, or by e-mail, I try to do so. For those who have honored me by linking, trackbacking, or adding my port in the storm to your blog roll(s), thank you very much. I hope I can continue to provide something you consider worth reading (if at the very least sporadically).

Lets see what the next year brings shall we?

Bill Whittle's Mightly Sword Defines Sanctuary

Bill's mighty sword, is a combination of his cyber quill, a clarity of thought, and the God given talent of being able to transfer this wisdom to his electronic parchment. If you are in need of substance, to shore up your soul due to the constant onslaught of progressive, statist, "we know what's best for you" thoughtspeak. Run, do not walk to here.

If you count yourself among the fellow travelers of the left and all they hold dear, but feel an unaccounted for emptiness where your soul should be, and want to begin your adventure toward the light of sanity and reason, go here. Drink deep from his well. Bill Whittle provides the very title of his essay, with every brush of his pen, and we are all the richer for it.

The "Real ID Act"

I received a comment from fellow waterman, someone I feel has his head screwed on in quite the right fashion IRT the WoT and individual preparedness. Plus I like the guy (even if he was in the Air Force *grin*). But Riverdog takes exception to my concerns regarding the "Real ID Act". So I thought I would take another look at it.

First off, take a look at the whole thing.

On the face of it there are a number of things I can agree with:

1. A much tougher stance and review process on persons seeking asylum in this country. They will be required to produce physical evidence to back up their claim(s) of being a "refugee" if the reviewing "trier of fact" deems it necessary to validate said claims, beyond written or oral statements given by said refugee or their assembled witnesses present at said review. The bill also does away with having an established "minimum allotment" on the number of persons who enter this country under the auspices of asylum.

2. The physical closing of the borders (fences for example) will be allowed for without being impeded by any outside agency. In other words if building/finishing/repairing said fence or border obstruction endangers, for example, "The left large nutted tree frog"...well that is too bad, sorry folks this time the safety of human beings is going to take precedence over something further down on the food chain, and there is not a damn thing y'all can do about it.

3. The need to improve the "ground security surveillance" and "communication and information sharing with border security forces". This can't be anything but a good thing, unless you happen to be someone trying to enter the country in other than a legal manner.

So, yes, there are some good points to this bill. And I agree with Riverdog, that we need to address both the concerns about terrorists gaining access to our country and the immigration problem in general. But here is what is also in the bill, and what sends off little warning bells.

Does Ms Republic Got The Hots For Mr Empire?

Newsweek ran a story in which it is stated that our service members (or those acting as their agents) have desecrated copies of the Koran. The end result....15 dead due to Islamic violence (or groups alleging to be influenced by same). Newsweek has since retracted the story, however at this time they were unable to retract the deaths attributed to same.

The President of Mexico, Vicente Fox, actively pursues and promotes actions which will continue the influx of illegal immigration in to this country. And makes noises when the smallest of steps are taken on this side of the border to stem the tide of same.

In a quiet move, the house, senate, voted and past a military appropriations bill. Nothing to unusual about this....except for the rider attached..that there is now legislation, passed and signed by the President, allowing for the establishment of a national ID system to be actively in place by May of 2008.

We do indeed live in "the crazy years". And what is really sad is the political party which controls the house, senate, and oval office support two out of three above items.

The president has long said he supports the concept of a national ID system. He has also be very active (or at least in tacit approval of) actions which would allow for the virtual free flow of immigrants from south of the border.

He has allowed the military to be systematically attacked by the press and fifth column members of the house and senate (and any other moonbat out there who has some sort of celebrity status). There has been no action taken against those who if not treasonous, were at the very least seditionistic in their words or actions toward the government in a time of war. Abu Ghraib being a prime example. The detention camp in Gitmo is the current pinata of the press...where the press hopes to find a torture treat to pump up their flagging circulation while at the same time...help to smear the President. Amazing, he allows for the feeding of the very group which seeks to suck on his bones.

Now, I would agree the actions at Ahbu Ghraib were less then professional. But said actions certainly did not warrant the level of concern or coverage garnered. I would agree we should not be boiling the prisoners at Gitmo in hot boiling pork fat, but the conditions to which they were subjected to...rise to the level of a lifestyle one would expect to see on Hogan's Hero's, and not a regulated camp where those who directly or indirectly were advancing the cause of fanatics and despots against the United States.

The Final Post

"Turn out the lights....the party's over...."

Not so fast there Julie London! All we are doing is moving a bit further uptown, not tossing in the towel.

Yes, this is the last post here at snuggharbor.blogspot.com . I am still cleaning and getting the new place shipshape. But for all intents and purposes, the doors are open and ready for business.

For all you good people/lurkers/members of Delta House/and friends I have come to know, enjoying your company, and comments, please change your links to my bit of fluff on the net to http://snuggharbor.mu.nu or http://snuggharbor.net .

This site will stay open until such time as I can transfer the posts here to their new home, or till the end of the month, whichever is longer.

We truly live in interesting times. This blog has tried to reflect how these times have impacted upon me, and my oft times heated response to same. But what really made it something special, was getting to know, through your sites, and words, the incredible people who exist just a keystroke away. Thank you all for making Snugg Harbor someplace you want to drop by.....and don't stop now...come over to the *new* harbor.

Guy

Harbor Master and Head Bottle Washer at Snugg Harbor

Well, Here We Go.....

this will be my first *real* post....even though there is still some house cleaning to be done, most of the place is ready to go. For those who are interested, it seems the http://snuggharbor.net addy is loading just a tad bit faster then http://snuggharbor.mu.nu, as for me I am happy there is no.blogspot after the *real* name of this place so pick your poison.

And though I have said it before, various comments, and e-mails...I am going to say it again "Thank you Eric and Jim! Both these gents have answered more questions from this munubie then the law should allow (and scofflaw that I am, I have a couple left in reserve), without their help and guidance this bit of fluff would not be seeing the light of day. Thanks guys!

Test 2

Just looking at all the different placements and layouts of the various nooks and crannies MT has for us to use and enjoy.

For example, how does the blockquote work?

does it look better if the quote is in bold?

For example, how does the blockquote work?

and what about.....

This is a test

This is a test had this been an actual emergency, you would have been instructed to drop back ten and punt.

We are still under construction...but get a little closer with each passing day. This is not unlike giving your 16yr old the keys to the rebuilt Chevy Nova with a bored out small block and turbocharger in it...and letting him go out and drive round the block, just "to get the feel of driving...for the first time".

Well, it's up for the most part...have to bring the old stuff over and place it in the archives. Get the MuNu blogroll stuffed in on the right hand side, and then get sitemeter to recognize this place and migrate its count over here. Heaven only knows how I am going to get TTLB to transfer. I am kinda surprised Larry hasn't set up a "Snugg Harbor Implosion Pool". This is enough for tonight...the rum and coke is calling.

---The Management---

The Moving Van Is Coming...

Well, we will be starting the migration to mu.nu over the course of the next few days. So posting will be sketchy till the new site is up and about. This site will stay up for at least as long as the move takes place, if not for a week or two longer. I will post the new url here...for those who want to update their blog rolls...and will include it at the end of the first post of any given day until the move is complete.

new url: http://snuggharbor.mu.nu/
or (hopefully after tomorrow) http://www.snuggharbor.net

This is going to be interesting....teaching an old seadog new tricks! (And thank you in advance to Jim for his help -already- and of course to Eric, for helping to set me free of my "chains".

Update The new place is up and out there...but still have a few things to do...should start posting there within a day or two if all other things pan out.

Sigh....If It Isn't One Thing....

Sorry if the site is acting up today. For some reason, yet unknown, my image hosting site has shit the bed. Anyone out there with information on Photobucket.com having problems want to give me a heads up?

Update

Well, less then an hour later it seems to be working again....we'll see how long it lasts.

Odds and Ends

Sometimes You Just Never Know
Haven't posted in a day or two....just thinking about things....and others had touched on the one topic I would have posted on, here. I do agree with Eric, where is all the contemplation, the reflection, by those who were so quick to discard Ms. Shaivo's supposed state of being especially when there were people ready and willing to take over the responsibility of her care and well being, when her husband (for what ever reasons) no longer felt the need to do so.

Pardon Our Dust
Well, I knew this was coming for a day or so...just hadn't received the official word yet. I got that today. Hopefully over the next week or so, I will be moving the site. The fine folks over at MU.NU , via Eric at Eric's Grumbles Before The Grave, who was kind enough to nominate my bit of Naval fluff ? for inclusion to that group. So with any luck at all, blogspot will be but a hiccuping memory. More on this as the process happens. And once I have the new address I'll post same here.

Lite Posting Today
Hey, Eric used this excuse yesterday, so I am going to use it today. Exactly 50 years ago at 5:58am (officially...Mom swears it was 5:55), on the fifth day of the week (Thursday), the fifth day of the month (today), the 55th year of the twentieth century, I was presented to my parents. Two months early (supposed to be a July 4th baby) and as evidenced by the story from our archives, I wasn't even supposed to be here in the first place. But being the stubborn little hairball that I was, showed up anyhow. And no, I am not going to join AARP, dye my hair with Grecian Formula ? , get a sports car, or trade my better half in for "two twenties" (which is a death wish sooner or later depending on whether or not the "Fry pan of DOOM" ? is handy or not).

Now, if the Cubs could pull a win outta their collective butts for today's game...that would be nice.

Update
Bad News: *Sigh*, the Cub's lost

Cool News: From Drudge comes this tid bit.

Today at 5:05:05 am & pm the time will be 05:05:05 05/05/005....

05.05.005 comes only once in 1000 years and coinciding with Thursday (5th Day of the week) comes only once in 7000 yrs...

I think I am going to get a lotto ticket or two...with all these 5's kicking in today...it *has* to be worth something *grin*.

Mistrial!!

ABC news is reporting, as is AP, that the Judge of the Court Martial for Lynndie England, has declared a mistrial! Col. James Pohl entered a plea of not guilty for England, saying he was not convinced she knew that her actions were wrong at the time.

The mistrial for England, a 22-year-old reservist who appeared in some of the most notorious photographs from the 2003 abuse scandal, means the case gets kicked back to the military equivalent of a grand-jury proceeding.

The action came after Graner, the reputed ringleader of the abuse, testified at England's sentencing hearing that pictures he took of England holding a naked prisoner on a leash at Abu Ghraib were meant to be used as a legitimate training aid for other guards.

When England pleaded guilty Monday, she told the judge she knew that the pictures were being taken purely for the amusement of the guards.

Pohl said the two statements could not be reconciled. "You can't have a one-person conspiracy," the judge said before he declared a mistrial and dismissed the jury.

I wonder if they can sneak a quick "Office Hours" option by everyone, give her a less than honorable discharge, and send her on her way, before the press and the liberal attack dogs can catch wind of it? Just a thought...

Military Social Engineering

I think I reached saturation on what is going on with (and to) our military today. This started to take form while talking with my better half, a couple of days ago, regarding the young man who was openly announcing his homosexuality, while a member of the armed forces. This, as a number of you may already know, is against the current guidelines as put forth by the DoD (the famous "Don't Ask, Don't Tell-but more on that a bit further on in this post). Well, today looking at the latest "ta do" about PFC Lynndie England, noting the current status of Lt Pantano, the Marine Officer up on charges stemming from actions taken while in Iraq, and last but not least the "media concern" regarding the detainees at Gitmo....it was an "Enough is Enough" moment.

Now, here is where I step on some "politically correct" toes.

Women in the military:

I think you should be allowed the opportunity to "strike" for any career/field you are physically/mentally qualified for. The same as any guy who would want the same. The caveat here is there are to be no differences between qualifications for males or females in any of the armed services. In other words, if you can't do the push ups, sit ups, chin ups, forced marches/runs....well, ya can't come in. You fail to score high enough on the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test, in any applicable area relating to the career you want, you can't get that career/job. You will not get an adjusted score, just because you are female, and the all powerful god of quotas must be appeased. You want real equality there it is.

Oh, and if you want to be a mother while serving....sorry ain't going to happen. Unlike the civilian side of the house which can either increase manning or prices for their product or services, to support this, the military manning levels are critical when looking at how to approach any number of tasks given them. (We won't even address the tax money used for your training and such...which will have to be, to some greater or lesser extent, duplicated in the training of your replacement.) But wait, it seems the military has learned this lesson. You can be a mother or even a single parent while serving. However there has to be legal paperwork in place which states upon your activation or assignment to an environment which you will not be able to bring your dependent child (ie: a ship), you must have someone assume legal guardianship of said child or children. Or you are no longer going to be part of said military. This sounds more then fair. And, as hinted at above, in the spirit of true equality, this should (and does) apply to single male parents as well.

Relationships in the military:
Now as to the battle of the sexes. I have to agree (for the most part) that you should not be able to have romantic/intimate relations with those directly in your chain of command (either up or down the chain). It will lead, eventually, to some sort of health or morale issue. It is just the way it is. For the one or two times it would work out for the best, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of times when it won't. If you can't keep your hands off a subordinate, then you have issues which should have been addressed well before you ever put on a uniform. However, if an individual is not in your chain of command, (This is where I would seek to change some of the existing laws on the military books. And assuming both folks are not married- yes adultery is still a punishable offence, with just cause in the military.) Then there should be no restriction in who you have a relationship with. In other words, the old chestnut of fraternization (as it relates to officer /enlisted relationships, outside the direct chain of command) needs to be dropped.

The days of officers being where they are due to personal station (nobility) or status (upper level of society/college degreed) are all but a moot point. The facts are, more then half of enlisted ranks have some sort of secondary education degree. Many have post graduate work under their belt, and rather then ascend to the officer corps, are quite happy to remain enlisted.

It should be noted, that I wholeheartedly agree with the need for a formal chain of command, and in providing proper curtsey towards those senior in rank (both Officer and Enlisted) to oneself. The obedience toward those in said positions fosters good order and discipline, as well as helps to promote a strong esprit de corps (when it is honored in both directions).

Gays in the military:
I have mentioned this elsewhere, that the current policy toward homosexuals is a no win situation for them and the military. It is a compromise which is unfair to both. And we are starting to see the results of same. Once a member of the armed forces has taken part in an action either involving battle, or any other formal rite of passage,(with any luck at all) they are bound with those who were, or have been, part of the same. If a man or woman rises to the fore, with displays of courage and or competency, is it fair to them and to those who serve with them, to see them removed from the ranks solely due to their sexual preference, once it is "found out"? (This being based on the current DoD policy of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell".)

For better or worse the DoD needs to make a hard and fast rule one way or another. Either let homosexuals in (and are there any takers out there, that *this time* the tests, scores, physical requirements, etc, will not be "fiddled with"?), or restrict them across the boards, and deal with the anguished cries of the progressives out there.

Boot Camp / Basic Training / OCS
This is last but not least in importance. And in many ways ties in all of the above. For the groundwork for many an enlisted and officer, was molded in one of these three ways. I'll wager there is not a single person who has been through same, who does not still recall the "comforting sounds" of their Drill Instructor, Company Commander, or Drill Sergeants, as they are instructed on the proper way to "secure their gear", "Field Strip their" piece, recite their Chain of Command, or sound off
with the proper General Order of a Sentry.

It is my humble opinion, the men and women who are given the awesome responsibility of shaping recruits into our future Soldiers, Sailors, Airman, and Marines, need to be given a bit more of a free hand in doing so. No, I am not calling for the return of "real sadists". But, there should not be even one politically correct word heard out of an instructor's mouth. Colorful language has a place in the world, and this is it. If you get your knickers in a knot when the DI calls your mother everything but a white woman....well you had better get over it son, cause that is going to be the easy part of Boot Camp. You don't like being called some sort of ethnic or racial stereotype, or slur, (and there are far many more then just the one or two which are currently non-pc btw)....well if you can't toughen up when faced with this, how are you going to truly acquire the discipline to handle an enemy who is smart enough to use the same? You loose your cool when hit or struck (due at least in part to your own stupidity)? Perhaps if you had paid attention to detail that wouldn't have happened....or your friendly neighborhood Company Commander was seeing how you react to same...or the stress...did you try and counter the blow, instinctively, or did you go to pieces? Or did you "see red" and forget everything you were trained in regards to self defense? All good things to know before sending a recruit out to the fleet, or the battalion, or the AFB (if they are allowed to graduate at all).

No, now we have to be more sensitive to the feelings and self esteem of recruits. With the supposed end result being a more "normal" individual (read that as "more like a civilian"). And not the "alleged baby killers", the social engineers would have us believe, were the norm during and immediately following Vietnam. Well, sports fans, I contend, if we go back to producing the men and women Soldiers, Sailors, Airman, and Marines like we did before all this sweetness and light, their precious self esteem, would in fact, be even stronger and thus, of greater benefit to themselves and to the respective branch of service they have chosen. This is the area were the social engineering starts....and the last area (if let in at all) it should be felt.

Wake up DoD. You are trying (or planning) to get by with a more stream lined military, and that means one person screwing up, due to not being caught in basic, or not gaining the maximum benefit of basic, has the potential of causing much more in the way of problems. This will be especially true when they are expected to be able to cover the same amount information, actions, or events, as (for example) what was covered by three individual troops a generation or two ago. We need the old ways brought back now more than ever before.

Well, I am sure I missed a spot or two. And I may have made any number of folks more then a bit irate. I would suggest those of you who are irate, to ask yourself this. Do you want a military able to *really* meet the ever increasing demands placed upon it? (Or do you really want a military at all.) For those within the reserve ranks, do you want them to be able to, with minimal muss and fuss, to be brought up to speed when called to full time active duty? Do you want to see even one less death on the battlefield or due to a military related incident? If your answer is "yes" to any of these, then any or all the above suggestions would be really worth looking into. Or better yet, strongly suggested to be taken on board by our military powers that be. The time to end the social experimentation and political correctness which has run rampant in the DoD, is now. Anything less is a slap to our men and women currently serving, to those who have been there, and most importantly, to the memory of those who gave their last full measure of devotion in the service of their country.

Thank You

Eric, over at Eric's Grumbles Before The Grave, has honored me. He has seen fit to allow me to borrow his soapbox for a post. Which explains why I haven't placed anything here, in the last day or so. What I am going to do, is follow up on what was said on the above mention post, as soon as I can smooth out my thoughts a bit.

Thanks again Eric, for allowing me the use of your home on the web to rant a bit. Hope I don't scare away any of the folks who regularly pop in.