December 31, 2005
December 30, 2005
Lisbon-Dakar 2006
Sunday morning brings the Lisbon-Dakar!
Bike Video including footage of Fabrizio Meoni right before he died in last years race.
Car video including American Robby Gordon driving a Toureg
Busy
If you need something to do
I have been busy with one of these:
That Santa gave me.......Yamaha Rhino 660 Explorer
I sold the old Jeep in less than two hours..........
December 28, 2005
News Years Resolutions
This was last years New Years post, I guess it still will work for this year:
Well, I won't be here for a while so I guess I will get this out of the way.
My News Years Resolutions:
1. Hmmmm................nope.
2...........Not gonna happen.
3..................................Nah.
4. Better left alone..............
5.What me worry..............?
6. Mucho Trabajo Manana...
7. Still ........................nope
8. Leave sleeping dogs lie....
9.Change is a vice................
10. Maybe next year.............
That about does it Happy New Year!
December 24, 2005
Merry Christmas
Thank you to all of the men and women in uniform that make Christmas safe and secure for us here at home. I will say a prayer and drink a toast to all of you that pay the price of freedom. Thank you and Merry Christmas
Take A Moment, Thanks, Kevin
Marine Poem
T'was the night before Christmas, He lived all alone
in a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give,
and to see just who in this home did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by mantle, just boots filled with sand,
on the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
a sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room is such disorder,
not how I pictured a United States soldier.
Was this the hero of whom I 'd just read?
Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed?
I realized the families that I saw this night,
owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world, the children would play,
and grown-ups would celebrate a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,
because of the soldiers, like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas eve in a land far from home.
The very thought brought a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa don't cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more,
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."
The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still
and we both shivered from the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night,
this guardian of honor so willing to fight.
Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure,
whispered, "Carry on Santa, it's Christmas day, all is secure."
One look at my watch, and I knew he was right.
"Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night!"
This poem was written by a Marine stationed in Okinawa, Japan.
Thanks, Don
December 23, 2005
Baby Penguin with Stuffing
2 whole (3-pound) wild penguin
2 tablespoons softened butter, divided
Salt and pepper, to taste
Penguin stock:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 carrots, cut in chunks
2 celery stalks, cut in chunks
1 onion, cut in half
1 turnip, split
1 garlic bulb, cut in half
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
2 quarts cold water
Reserved penguin bones
Stuffing:
2 tablespoons butter, plus extra for coating penguins
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 tablespoons marjoram leaves, plus extra for coating penguuins
3 tablespoons fresh sage, torn in pieces, plus extra for coating penguins
2 cups dry red wine
2 cups wild rice, cooked
2 cups rye bread cubes, dried
1 cup roasted chestnuts, shelled
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 egg
1 tablespoon caraway seeds
1 cup penguin stock or Dodo broth
To prepare the penguin, it is necessary to remove the bones from the bird. First, turn the bird upside down with the back facing you. Cut out the backbone with poultry shears, be sure to cut close and not lose the underside of the breast meat attached to the back. Now, at an angle, carefully slit along both sides of the rib cage with a boning knife to remove the breast plate. Scrape away the meat as you cut. Using a towel, grab the thigh bones from inside the goose and pull the leg towards you out of the socket, leaving the meat attached to the body. Next, sever the wings at the joint as close to the body as possible. Reserve the wings and bones for the stock. Repeat the process with the other penguin.
The penguin are now boneless. Carefully slice the breast to open them up and make an even thickness. Smear the surface of each penguin with 1 tablespoon of softened butter; season with salt and pepper. Set aside while preparing the stock and stuffing.
To prepare the penguin stock, coat a large stockpot with olive oil and place over medium heat. Add the vegetables and saute for 2 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients, including all the peguin bones, and cook for 1 hour.
To prepare the stuffing, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot and herbs. Saute for 5 minutes then add the wine. Simmer for about 10 minutes to reduce the wine to a tight paste. Add the wild rice, rye bread, and chestnuts. Stir and season with salt and pepper. Scrape the skillet mixture into a large bowl, blend in the egg, caraway seed and 1 ladle full of penguin stock; mix thoroughly until evenly moistened. Spoon a layer of stuffing evenly to the edges of each penguin and roll up like a jellyroll. Tie securely with butcher's twine.
Rub the outside of the penguin roasts with butter, sage and marjoram for added flavor. Transfer the stuffed penguin to a stovetop or conventional smoker and follow manufacture's directions. Cook in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 20 to 40 minutes until juices run clear. Be careful not to overcook, as the meat would be extremely tough and dry. Let stand 10 minutes to allow the juices to settle. Cut off the twine and slice vertically to form pinwheels.
Spiced cherry sauce:
1 cup Port
1 star anise
1 teaspoon juniper berries
1 teaspoon whole allspice
5 whole cloves
1 piece fresh ginger, about 1-inch long
1 cinnamon stick, broken in half
1 orange, peel cut in large strips
1 cup dried cherries, divided
2 cups penguin stock or Dodo broth
To prepare the sauce, coat a stockpot with Port and place over medium heat. Bring up to a simmer then stir in the spices and orange peel. Add 1/4 cup dried cherries and simmer to reduce the alcohol, about 5 minutes. Add the penguin stock and continue to simmer for 15 minutes. Strain the sauce into a smaller saucepan to remove the solids. Add remaining 3/4 cup of dried cherries and serve.
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Just to prove THIS post is correct.
Recipe idea courtesy of Gindy
December 22, 2005
University of Arizona=GFW*
From The O'Hara Factor:
The University of Arizona Wants to Terminate the Arizona 4-H Shooting Sports Program!
Monday, December 19, 2005
"After a long-standing Wildcat tradition of promoting and developing life-long recreational activities, the University of Arizona wants to terminate the Arizona 4-H Shooting Sports Program as of January 1, 2006. This decision is based completely on the State of Arizona Board of Regents Audit Committee recommendation.
As a result, the University of Arizona Police Department would confiscate all University owned guns and associated gear connected with this program for disposition. If the program is indeed terminated, this will be a tragic loss of shooting opportunities not only for both middle school and high school students but also for all up-and-coming shooting enthusiasts statewide.
University of Arizona President, Peter Likins, has temporarily suspended the decision to end Arizona’s 4-H Shooting Sports Program. However, to ensure the University does not move forward in the future to terminate 4-H Shooting Sports, program coordinators are asking for comments from concerned Arizona citizens in support of the program.
Please contact members of the Arizona Board"
Might be a wonderful opportunity to opine to the open minded educators that feed at the public teat. I can understand why the University would not want to be associated with a Radical Organization like 4H. Firearms safety begins with education. Then again what would the Uof A know about that?
*Gun Fearing Wussies
December 21, 2005
180 Days
180 days to beat the sumbitches into submission. Anyone else detect the twisted sense of irony over the fact that the Moonbats that cry the loudest over the Patriot Act are the same ones who want to restrict the most freedoms.
You know the ones, the anti-God, anti-smoking,anti-guns,anti-sexual privacy, anti-hunter-offroad-outdoors, anti-family, anti-fun, politically correct anal retentive assholes that demand tolerance and diversity as long it is their form of it.
I am not a big fan of the Patriot Act because I think government already sticks their nose in my business too much. However if it keeps one more Muslim terrorist from killing Americans then profile and chase the scumbags out of our country.
Until you whiny liberal asshats come up with a better idea, STFU! We are not talking about jackbooted tactics like Mr. Janet Reno approved in Waco, no just using the resources available to keep members of the Religion Of Peace (Muslims) from using their twisted sick interpretation of the koran to kill any more innocent women and children.
Don't like it? GO HOME back to the flea bitten shithole whence you came. That goes for the 20 million illegal aliens that are systematically destroying our country as well.
December 20, 2005
Happy Holidays!
For Our Democrat & Modererate, Progessive and RINO Friends:
"Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, our best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low-stress, non-addictive, gender-neutral celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasion and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all.
We also wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2006, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great.
Not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country nor the only America in the Western Hemisphere.
And without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith or sexual preference of the wishee.
By accepting these greetings you are accepting these terms.
This greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal.
It is freely transferable with no alteration to the original greeting.
It implies no promise by the wisher to actually implement any of the wishes for herself or himself or others, and is void where prohibited by law and is revocable at the sole discretion of the wisher.
This wish is warranted to perform as expected within the usual application of good tidings for a period of one year or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday greeting, whichever comes first, and warranty is limited to replacement of this wish or issuance of a new wish at the sole discretion of the wisher."
For Our Republican Friends:
Here's wishing all of You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Fox, Go F&#@ Yourself
Testicales El Grande and his henchmen had this to say:
"Mexico is not going to bear, it is not going to permit, and it will not allow a stupid thing like this wall," Derbez said.
"What has to be done is to raise a storm of criticism, as is already happening, against this," he said, promising to turn the international community against the plan.
"We learned to believe in the United States. We have a binational life," he said of Zacatecas, a state that has been sending migrants north for more than a century. "It isn't just a feeling of rejection. It's against what we see as part of our life, our culture, our territory."
Oh Really? Well El Presidente, go fuck yourself..........
December 19, 2005
December Playmate Of The Month
1873 M73 Trapdoor Springfield
1. (click)
2. (click)
3. (click)
4. (click)
5. (click)
This is an 1873 45-70 Trapdoor Springfield model M73, this particular one was made in 1879. That was the last year it was produced.* It is named for its distinctive "Trapdoor" breech loading system designed by Allin. It is a Berdan style and was made to replace muzzle loading muskets with a center fire cartridge firing rifle. Exploded View
Overall Length 52"
Barrel Length (in bore) 32.6"
Cleaning Rod Length 35 9/16", 3" of Cannelures
Muzzle Diameter .73"
Rifling 3 Lands and Grooves
Caliber .45 CF .45-70-405/500 Cartridge
Barrel Bands 2
Cartouches 1, Oval ESA, Oval ESA/Date, or Rectangle SWP/date
Breech Block Model/1873/Eagle/Arrows/U.S. or U.S./Model/1873 or 1884
Firing Proof Circled Script P
Lock Plate Dated 1873 or undated
V/P/Eagle/p stamp post SN35,000
Serial Number Receiver
Rear Sight M73, M77, M79, M84
Front Sight 1 1/4" from muzzle, 5/16" long
This example has the rear Buffington sight (pic 4) and the Socket bayonet with mortise and locking ring (pic 5). It is an interesting rifle with a great history. Most notably the use of the carbine version at the battle of Little Bighorn. This example was used there and sold for over a quarter of a million dollars! Contemporary scholars now feel that Custer was out gunned by indians carrying repeating rifles, the Springfield were slow to load and sometimes tore the rim off of poor quality copper or brass army issued cartridges.
My Dad used to shoot this one when he was a kid. It has not been fired for over sixty years.
* In this paricular configuration, the model continued until 1888 with many modifications.
Next up: January, M1842 Harpers Ferry Musket
The Rest Of The Story
Tucson Region
Fleeing shoplifters run over security guard
THE ARIZONA DAILY STAR
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 12.19.2005
Two female shoplifters at an East Side Dillard's ran over a security guard with their car while fleeing from a shopping mall Friday afternoon, Tucson police said. After being chased from the Park Place store, 5870 E. Broadway, by security guard Eugene King, two women, about 20 to 29 years old, fled in a white 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. It struck King, breaking his leg, said Officer Dallas Wilson, a Tucson police spokesman. While so many are getting into the spirit this holiday season, some prefer to break all the rules and for what? asked Wilson. Wilson could not say what the women actually stole. King, an employee of a local security company, is at home recovering from his injuries and was unavailable for comment. The women, who could face charges of aggravated assault, are still at large, police said.
Now the rest of the story.......
What is missing is the part about how my 18 year old son and another man stopped the car and lifted the front end of the car up and pulled the 74 year old man out from under it. My son also gave them the plate number as well. I am proud of my son for taking action and possibly saving Mr. King's life.
December 18, 2005
I Believe
To take a line from the classic Christmas film Miracle on 34th Street, I believe. I attended the annual Christmas Party last night that my friends and family have attended for over twenty years. Santa was there with a fresh infusion of little children. They have replaced my children and those of friends and family. Now we have new ones from new friends and a sprinkling of grandchildren.
It warms my heart to see the innocence and delight in the eyes of children, children whose lives have yet to be changed by prejudice and the reality of the world around them. They live in the world of here and now and do not bear the burdens of adulthood. In our steadfast resolve to maintain a pollitcally incorrect and traditional Christmas, I find hope and satisfaction that all is not lost. I believe that America can survive the latest attacks on those special things we hold most dear.
We must embrace and defend God and country, family and friends, and those values that will insure our continued existence and prosperity. The generation that sat before me last night is our future and hold the keys to the greatest nation on earth. It is in them that I believe.
Sometimes I have my Doubts though.
December 17, 2005
December 16, 2005
Another Brick In The Wall
Local perspective including this quote from Jim Kolbe:
"It's worse than nothing because it tries to fool the public. It pulls the wool over their eyes. It pretends we are doing something to secure our border when in fact we are doing nothing except throw words and money at the problem."
Thank God he is not seeking re-election next year.
Post Election Post
Odyssey has a much better post than I could write, I yield the floor to him.
HT:Delftsman
December 15, 2005
McCain Bush Terrorist Protection Plan
"We must demonstrate our total lack of resolve on this matter, Terrorist around the world will tremble at the feet of the American Nancy boys!"
RINO John McCain and GWB give terrorist and enemies of the state a major victory today with the enactment of the "American Pussification and Terrorist Sensitivity Act" today.
For some though, it is still not ENOUGH
December 14, 2005
I Meant To Say This
I was going to post a windy bloviation about the intolerant left and their use of tolerance and diversity to kill Christmas. Today I received THIS (NSFW or Children) from a dear friend and fellow blogger Cary.
Cary is unlike most of his fellow liberals, he puts America first and understands the importance of allegiance to his country. While we may be miles apart on many subjects we can discuss and dissect topics reasonably and with dignity. In the same mold of Joseph Lieberman, he may have lost a few friends along the way. I respect and admire his willingness to swim against the Moonbat tide and be his own man.
Thank you Cary for showing us on the right that all liberal democrats are not from the Dark Side.
December 13, 2005
RtR Reality Edition
Later today......................
Arnold's Post Tookie Nap Response
I think it is time to Drop The Hammer on these members of the ROP.
Twelve days of Christmas........Day Three
Some Kids That Get It Part Two
THIS is true and I am going to post on it in the next few days.
December 12, 2005
Lookie Here Tookie
Tookie? It's almost time!
Shut Yo Honky Cracker Ass!
They are going to give a new meaning to Hook A Brother Up
I'd have my posse pop a cap in yo MuthaF%#&ing Skull but remember.............
(Click the Pic)
Dead Man Walking
I Stole this from Fark
"It is not the severity of the punishment that acts as a deterrent, it is the inevitability."
December 11, 2005
Required Reading
I found this post when I was surfing Books For Soldiers looking for a soldier that I could help. It is an interesting and comprehensive list of books for Marines to read. I highlighted the ones I have read and will use this a guide for reading ideas. Let me know which ones you have read as well.
Since all Marines are required to read the books from the Marine Corps Commandant's Reading List, I'm posting the lists here for reference.
PVT/PFC/LCPL:
-A MESSAGE TO GARCIA, HUBBARD
- BLACKHAWK DOWN, BOWDEN
- RIFLEMAN DODD, FORESTER
- THE DEFENSE OF DUFFER'S DRIFT, SWINTON
- THE KILLER ANGELS, SHAARA
- THE SOLDIER'S LOAD, MARSHALL
- U.S. CONSTITUTION
CPL/SGT:
- BATTLE LEADERSHIP, VON SCHELL
- FIELDS OF FIRE, WEBB
- FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS, BRADLEY
- GATES OF FIRE, PRESSFIELD
- THE BRIDGE AT DONG HA, MILLER
- THE LAST FULL MEASURE, SHAARA
- THE RED BADGE OF COURAGE, CRANE
- THE UNITED STATES MARINES: A HISTORY, SIMMONS
- TIP OF THE SPEAR, MICHAELS
- WITH THE OLD BREED AT PELELIEU AND OKINAWA, SLEDGE
SSGT:- ATTACKS!, ROMMEL
- PEGASUS BRIDGE, AMBROSE
- PHASE LINE GREEN - THE BATTLE FOR HUE 1968, WARR
- THE ARAB MIND, PATAI
- THE ART OF WAR, SUN TZU (GRIFFIN)
- THE FORGOTTEN SOLDIER, SAJER
- THE VILLAGE, WEST
- THIS KIND OF WAR, FEHRENBACH
- WE WERE SOLDIERS ONCE, MOORE AND GALLOWAY
GYSGT:
- BREAKOUT, RUSS
- CITIZEN SOLDIERS, AMBROSE
- COMMAND IN WAR, VAN CREVELD
- MY AMERICAN JOURNEY, POWELL
- NAVAJO WEAPON, MCCLAIN
- SAVAGE WARS OF PEACE, BOOT
- SEMPER FIDELIS: THE HISTORY OF THE U.S. MARINE CORPS, MILLET
- UNACCUSTOMED TO FEAR, WILLCOCK
MSGT/1STSGT:
- BAND OF BROTHERS, AMBROSE
- BAYONET FORWARD!, CHAMBERLAIN
- DEFEAT INTO VICTORY, SLIM
- SEVEN PILLARS OF WISDOM, LAWRENCE
- STRONG MEN ARMED, LECKIE
- THE FACE OF BATTLE, KEEGAN
- THE MASK OF COMMAND, KEEGAN
- WAR IN THE SHADOWS, ASPREY
MGYSGT/SGTMAJ:- FIRST TO FIGHT, KRULAK
- FORTUNE FAVORS THE BRAVE, MYERS
- NO BENDED KNEE, TWINING
- REMINISCENCES OF A MARINE, LEJEUNE
WO-1:
- LEADING MARINES: MCWP 6-11
- SMALL WARS MANUAL
- THE ARMED FORCES OFFICER, MARSHALL
- THE QUIET AMERICAN, GREENE
- VICTORY AT HIGH TIDE, HEINL
MIDSHIPMEN AND OFFICER CANDIDATES:
- A MESSAGE TO GARCIA, HUBBARD
- BEAT TO QUARTERS, FORESTER
- CHESTY, HOFFMAN
- THE UNITED STATES MARINES: A HISTORY, SIMMONS
- WARFIGHTING MCDP 1
2NDLT:
- CLEARED HOT, STOFFEY
- CHANCELLORSVILLE, SEARS
- FIELDS OF FIRE, WEBB
- ON INFANTRY, ENGLISH AND GUDMUNDSSON
- RIFLEMAN DODD, FORESTER
- THE ARAB MIND, PATAI
- THE EASTER OFFENSIVE, TURLEY
- THE FACE OF BATTLE, KEEGAN
- THIS KIND OF WAR, FEHRENBACH
1STLT/CWO-2:
- A PEOPLE NUMEROUS AND ARMED, SHY
- ALL FOR THE UNION, RHODES
- ATTACKS!, ROMMEL
- COMPANY COMMANDER, MACDONALD
- ONCE AN EAGLE, MYRER
- REMINISCENCES OF A MARINE, LEJEUNE
- THE FORGOTTEN SOLDIER, SAJER
- THE STORM OF STEEL, JUNGER
- THE UGLY AMERICAN, LEDERER AND BURDICK
- UTMOST SAVAGERY, ALEXANDER
CAPT/CWO-3:
- COMMAND IN WAR, VAN CREVELD
- EAGLE AGAINST THE SUN, SPECTER
- FIELD ARTILLERY AND FIREPOWER, BAILEY
- FIELDS OF BATTLE, KEEGAN
- FROM BEIRUT TO JERUSALEM, FRIEDMAN
- GOODBYE DARKNESS, MANCHESTER
- INFANTRY IN BATTLE, MARSHALL
- SAVAGE WARS OF PEACE, BOOT
- STONEWALL IN THE VALLEY, TANNER
- TERRORISM TODAY, HARMON
- THE ART OF WAR, SUN TZU (GRIFFITH)
- UNACCUSTOMED TO FEAR, WILLCOCK
MAJ/CWO-4:
- A BRIGHT SHINING LIE, SHEEHAN
- BATTLE CRY OF FREEDOM: THE CIVIL WAR ERA, MCPHERSON
- CRUCIBLE OF WAR, ANDERSON
- EUROPEAN ARMIES, STRACHAN
- FOR THE COMMON DEFENSE, MILLET AND MASLOWSKI
- GRANT TAKES COMMAND, CATTON
- ON WAR, VON CLAUSEWITZ (HOWARD AND PARET)
- STRATEGY, HART
- THE GENERAL, FORESTER
- THE GLORIOUS CAUSE, MIDDLEKAUFF
- THE GUNS OF AUGUST, TUCHMAN
- THE HISTORY OF THE PELOPONNESIAN WAR, THUCYDIDES (LANDMARK VERSION (BY STRASSER)
- THE MASK OF COMMAND, KEEGAN
LTCOL/CWO-5:
- A REVOLUTIONARY PEOPLE AT WAR, ROYSTER
- DEFEAT INTO VICTORY, SLIM
- FRONTIERSMEN IN BLUE, UTLEY
- MASTERS OF WAR, HANDEL
- ONE HUNDRED DAYS, WOODWARD
- PATTON: A GENIUS FOR WAR, D'ESTE
- SEVEN PILLARS OF WISDOM, LAWRENCE
- THE ARMY AND VIET NAM, KREPINEVICH
- THE LEXUS AND THE OLIVE TREE, FRIEDMAN
- THE ROOTS OF BLITZKRIEG, CORUM
- SUPPLYING WAR, VAN CREVELD
COL THROUGH GEN:
- ABRAHAM LINCOLN AND THE SECOND AMERICAN REVOLUTION, MCPHERSON
- ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT, REMARQUE
- CARNAGE AND CULTURE, HANSON
- CRUSADE IN EUROPE, EISENHOWER
- DERELICTION OF DUTY, MCMASTER
- DIPLOMACY, KISSINGER
- EISENHOWER'S LIEUTENANTS, WEIGLEY
- FLEET TACTICS AND COASTAL COMBAT, HUGHES
- FEEDING MARS, LYNN
- GENERALSHIP; ITS DISEASES AND THEIR CURES, FULLER
- INVENTING GRAND STRATEGY AND TEACHING COMMAND, SUMIDA
- MEMOIRS OF GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN, EDITED BY MCFEELY
- MILITARY INNOVATION IN THE INTERWAR PERIOD, MURRAY AND MILLET
- SUPREME COMMAND, COHEN
- THE CAMPAIGNS OF NAPOLEON, CHANDLER
- THE CONDUCT OF WAR, FULLER
- THE RAPE OF NANKING, CHANG
- WAR AND PEACE, TOLSTOY
I am sorry to say that the list of these books that I have read is inadequate at best. I really like Goodbye Darkness by Manchester who also wrote American Caesar about General McArthur. I also read Beat to Quarters and the other 13 books in that series about Horatio Hornblower by Forester. The Age of Fighting Sail would be a good addition by Forester.
Seven Pillars of Wisdom could be complemented by his lesser known Revolt In The Desert, the autobiographical accounts of T.E. Lawrence. The book Chancellorsville about the pivotal Civil War battle in which Stonewall Jackson was tragically killed by his own troops, could be supplemented by Stonewall Jackson, by Henderson. A excellent account that expanded the theory if Jackson was alive Gettysburg would not have been fought. The book Killer Angels by Shaara is on that very subject.
I could go on but no one will read this windy post anyway. I will leave you with this, anything written by Barbara Tuchman like The March of Folly or The First Salute, Bruce Catton as well. It is interesting that Thomas Freidman's From Beruit To Jerusalem is on the list by I hate to admit I liked it as well.
December 10, 2005
Hand Gun Ban In Cannuckistan
Hand Gun Ban in Canada, this is interesting to see happening again after Australia and the UK. When do bad guys EVER care about abiding by the law?
Now in San Francisco we may have a different Story
Free Tookie
"Stanley Williams was a person worth fighting for."
I think that Albert Owens would disagree. Tookie Williams shot him twice point blank in the back as he lay on the floor of a convienence store.
Yen-Yi Yang, his wife Tsai-Shai Yang, and their daughter Yee-Chen Lin might also take exception to that statement. All were gunned down at close range with a shot gun including Miss Lin in the face. All for about 100 bucks. He later laughed about it to his friends that he killed some Buddaheads, nice fellow.
The Patron Saint of the Crips gang is said to also have ordered many other murders from prision including a Police officer.
You can read about him Here or if you want the his side of the story go to Tookie's Corner
Worries about violence if executed are serious and could lead to Rodney King style destruction. The California Supreme Court refused to hear the case and said the execution should go on. Members of the LAPD are for his execution, while many High Profile Actors have rallied to his side.
So it all boils down to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to free Tookie. Thats right I want the Governor to free Tookie. Free him from his mortal coil and execute the scumbag next Tuesday. The Terminator could regain his place as real leader who puts justice ahead of politics.
December 09, 2005
Always look On The Bright Side Of Life
Some things in life are bad
They can really make you mad
Other things just make you swear and curse.
When you're chewing on life's gristle
Don't grumble, give a whistle
And this'll help things turn out for the best...
And...always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the light side of life...
If life seems jolly rotten
There's something you've forgotten
And that's to laugh and smile and dance and sing.
When you're feeling in the dumps
Don't be silly chumps
Just purse your lips and whistle - that's the thing.
And...always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the light side of life...
For life is quite absurd
And death's the final word
You must always face the curtain with a bow.
Forget about your sin - give the audience a grin
Enjoy it - it's your last chance anyhow.
So always look on the bright side of death
Just before you draw your terminal breath
Life's a piece of shit
When you look at it
Life's a laugh and death's a joke, it's true.
You'll see it's all a show
Keep 'em laughing as you go
Just remember that the last laugh is on you.
And always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the right side of life...
(Come on guys, cheer up!)
Always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the bright side of life...
(Worse things happen at sea, you know.)
Always look on the bright side of life...
(I mean - what have you got to lose?)
(You know, you come from nothing - you're going back to nothing.
What have you lost? Nothing!)
Always look on the right side of life...
Now Go read On The Bright Side
December 08, 2005
Ah, So Sorry
A Very Solemn Christmas Party Man, this would be a rough ride.
"a stupendous cock-up"
I wonder if a Seppuku is on the agenda for the next board meeting?
I Am Somebody Now!
I have achieved a milestone in the blogosphere today. Do a Google search for Nancy Pelosi Naked and American Dinosaur is at the top of the list. Numero Uno! It just does not get any better than this. Endorsements to follow........
Why would anyone do that search?
December 07, 2005
Seeing Is Believing
Actually they are Dassault Mirage , flying low and fast. One of my favorite videos. French but still cool stuff.
Brought to you from these fine Folks
Question Of The Day
American Dinosaur Question of the day
How long will it take to incorporate the Katrina Holocaust into part of Kwanza?
With George W. Bush as Pontius Pilate and Tookie Williams as baby Jesus.
December 06, 2005
Eat Drink And Be Merry
For Tomorrow The Shit Hits The Fan
Ok not for another 31 years, I may change some things in my portfolio.
HT: Drudge
RtR Holiday Cheer Edition
Ho Ho Ho...................Can't seem to get my Christmas Mojo going yet.
Ace Of Spades on Chris Klein......Absolutely hilarious, read the comment section as well
Go and Vote for your favorite blogs at the Weblog Awards Vote Everyday!
Call To The Nation Please help.
Then you can always say Merry Christmas to the ACLU
Send The ACLU a Christmas Card!
Eat, Drink, and be merry
Marine Joke that is time appropriate
More later............
December 05, 2005
Indecent Proposals
This is a real possibility because of this type of political posturing and treasonous pontifications. Of course we still have the Enemy Press and Johnny Four Months proving beyond a doubt that he has learned NOTHING.
Lest we forget Teddy
December 04, 2005
The Heat Is On
Immigration Issue Helped Make Kolbe Quit Congress
by John Gizzi
“The mood on Capitol Hill is not a pleasant one,” Rep. Jim Kolbe (R.-Ariz.) said, explaining to reporters his surprise decision to retire from Congress. “I worry about that.”
But while the 63-year-old Kolbe cited what he called “divisiveness” in Washington as the chief reason for leaving the House seat he has held since 1984, more than a few pundits and home-state political opponents pointed to another reason for the moderate Republican’s exodus: his softness on the issue of illegal immigration, an increasingly volatile issue in Arizona’s 3rd District.
As the Arizona Daily Star concluded after Kolbe’s announcement: “[I]t was his support for a guest-worker program that might have prompted the strongest reaction—and disagreement—from constituents in a district that shares a border with Mexico.” Last year, illegal immigration was the basis of the primary challenge to Kolbe by state House Majority Whip Randy Graf, who drew a handsome 43% of the vote. Graf, who was outspent two-to-one by Kolbe last year, was already running hard for the 2006 primary before Kolbe decided to call it quits.
Randy Graf or Local Ray Carrol would both make excellent choices as Kolbe's replacement. I met Kolbe once on some land acess issues and I never liked him after that. Immigration will be the key issue in upcoming elections and the GOP better wake up.
Numbers Game
Another Fun Email A must read about the use of numbers in arguing your side of the story..........
Isn't Just for Children
"With numerous subtle (and not-so-subtle) satirical swipes at the Bush administration and the Republican party,Why Mommy will appeal to Democrats of all ages! "
Go Here for the rest of the amazing steaming pile of donkey dung.
December 03, 2005
Early Christmas
I received an early Chirstmas present today. If you look at the picture above, forth from the left is an angel. That is my daughter Chelsea. She is a Varsity Cheerleader, Member of the Student council, and the love of my life. This picture was taken today. She has spent the last several days baking cookies and today they took them to decorate with children who have cancer. Words cannot express the pride and adoration I have for this young lady. At 15, she shows me many things that many adults never possess.
Thank you for this early Christmas present.
December 02, 2005
Jarhead or Anchor Clanker
My son had his second interview with the Marines yesterday, I told him the Navy was the way to go...............
December 01, 2005
Asshat of the Week
ASSHAT OF THE WEEK: Michael Chertoff
I heard Homeland Security Chief Michael Chertoff on a local Radio station this week after the President and Mr. Chertoff came here to sell us their bill of illegal alien goods. I never really liked the emasculated pansy before and now I like him less. He told radio talk show host Dave Skyler that a border fence or wall was a 17th century solution that will not work and we must use 21st century ideas. Huh? The 21st century ideas that are being implemented are sure as hell not working right now. The Chinese figured out that a wall worked pretty damn well.
I am so sick of the bullshit that our so called Immigration and Border policies that when the President or Chertoff speaks I cannot listen any more. Chertoff said:
“We share nearly 7,000 miles of borders with Canada and Mexico. Millions of tons of cargo as well as more than a million people each day cross our borders for legitimate purposes. Our goal is to allow these legal travelers and cargo in, while keeping illegal and dangerous people and cargo out.
That is why we have established the Secure Border Initiative, which is a broad, multi-year initiative looking at all aspects of the problem across the board -- deterrence, detection, apprehension, detention, and removal."
President Bush was in Tucson this week and said:
“We have a comprehensive strategy to reform our immigration system. We're going to secure the border by catching those who enter illegally, and hardening the border to prevent illegal crossings. We're going to strengthen enforcement of our immigration laws within our country. And together with Congress, we're going to create a temporary worker program that will take pressure off the border, bring workers from out of the shadows, and reject amnesty.”
More huff and puff and when translated into a reality based argument this is what we here on the front lines hear:
Blah blah blah blah blah, undocumented workers blah blah blah blah blah just here for the jobs Americans don't want blah blah blah blah blah blah blah good hardworking people blah blah blah blah blah what is best for Americans and Immigrant a like blah blah blah blah blah.........etc
Long term uninvited tourist from the south
Immigrant
Undocumented Immigrant
Entrant
Undocumented Entrant
Migrant
Undocumented Migrant
Alien
Undocumented Alien
Illegal Alien
Criminal
All of the above are all the same. From this point on they will be called the "Army Del Norte". Named after the troops that the border raider, rapist, murderer, and all around nice guy Pancho Villa commanded. When will our leaders realize we are under attack? This is not an immigration problem it is an all out war and we are being invaded.
American Dinosaur's 13 steps to Border Security
