Don't be a DouChe'

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Dear angry, hate-filled lefties welcome to Blackfive. We aggravate more hippies by 9 am than most people ever do. I guess you are seething because I defaced one of your religious icons. The problem is you picked such a giant DouChe' as your hero. I mean Che got booted out of every country he tried to revolutionize in and the only thing he is really known for is his sick fetish for executing hundreds, maybe thousands of randomly-chosen prisoners in Fidel's paradise with a pistol round to the head. Real compassionate doctor this Che' ministering death to the poor.

Also welcome to any University of Wisconsin parents who were heartened to see the wanker's picture treated properly on graduation day. I decided that he needed a musical anti-homage so I present The many colors of DouChe'. More T-shirt designs after the jump.

Continue reading "Don't be a DouChe'"

The Sisters of Fallujah

Posted By Blackfive

An Iraqi woman, a member of "Sisters of Fallujah," practices shooting a weapon under the supervision of International Police Advisor Anna Bailey on a range in Fallujah, Iraq, April 29, 2008. Sisters of Fallujah is a security force comprised of local women that help maintain security in their neighborhoods.    U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Erin A. Kirk.

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FALLUJAH, IRAQ -- Sgt. Natalie Cespuglio, a Sisters of Fallujah trainer with Regimental Combat Team-1, assists an Iraqi women in firing an M9 pistol on the firing range here, April 21. The Sisters of Fallujah undergo several days of security training to certify and work alongside Iraqi Police at entry control points (ECP) throughout Fallujah. (OFFICIAL U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Chris Lyttle) (RELEASED)

Story from RCT1 after the Jump...

Continue reading "The Sisters of Fallujah"

Man I love Dead Tangos

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

T-shirt back design #1.

An after shot just so you know they got well ventilated.

Friday Links

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Michael Totten reviews Michael Yon's new book in City Journal.

Herschel Smith looks at the Marines in Helmand Province.

Jim C is working on another letters from home project. Once again, the letters can be sent to letters@thinking-right.com.

Tanker's Wife sends along a link to a cool way to show the troops you care.

And if you missed the Freefly BBQ/Grill edition last night, this was dinner, half a ribeye and half a NY Strip, little potato w/ sourcream and an ear of corn. Now that's livin'.

Splash

Posted By Blackfive

A Navy SEAL completes a water jump during a Special Boat Team 12 maritime craft air delivery system training exercise. (U.S. Navy photo/Seaman Matthew Syberg)

The Freefly- BBQ, American Idol & Code Pink/Hezbollah

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

I repudiate my BBQing days when I thought that was what you called a group of people grilling and tilting cold ones, nope it is pulled pork, ribs and brisket the actual chow that is BBQ. Fine. Plus Kev cops to a crush on David Archuleta and reports on Iranian Counter-Terror successes.

An Introduction and a Big Thank You

Posted By Danny Strickland

First, I would like to thank Matt very much for giving me the opportunity to post.

As you already know, Matt is a great American.  As for me, I’ve been basking in the warm rays of mediocrity for over 45 years. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes mediocrity is hard to achieve and I actually broke a sweat a few times.

I spent 24 years active duty Army that included 5 combat tours. I was one of those guys that was enlisted (E-7) and took the OCS route to a commission. I retired a few years back as a field grade Infantry officer.

Maintaining my mediocrity in places like the 1^st Ranger Battalion and 1^st Special Forces was a chore but I managed it. I actually volunteered for SF to avoid another assignment that I thought would be hard. How’s that for being dedicated to mediocrity?

Currently I have a son in the 82^nd Airborne that just returned from his third tour and a newly commissioned daughter in the 4^th Infantry Division.

They are both over-achievers; guess mediocrity will skip a generation.

After I retired, I opened a small business and actually wrote a book.

Then it occurred to me; I was losing my mediocrity! That’s why I contacted Matt. Posting in the company of the folks here brings me back to a comfortable level.

Anyway, hopefully I can bring something to the dialogue.

Wish me luck.

A Veteran - whether active duty, retired, National Guard, or Reservist....is someone who, at one point in his or her life, wrote a check payable to "The United States of America" for an amount of "up to and including my life".

That is an honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand it.          

Author Unknown

Terrace Report & B5 tagline suggestions

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Ok we need to hammer out a tagline for the Blackfive schwag so we can get it made. We have a new logo and will be making hats and shirts. We will definitely have a "Don't be a Douche" model as well as a "Don't be a DouChe' ", but we need a family friendly one. So.....any suggestions? I always loved the Paratrooper(s) of Love, but that doesn't really help much and is moderately inaccurate. All my favorites seem to fail the A-Dub can I wear this in polite society test. I mean I like "Fact-checking the shit out of the media" or "Annoying the hell out of the left for fun and entertainment" or "Stomping a mudhole in Murtha's ass". Oh well. I found the source for the peace signs the emaciated kids were eating in yesterday's TR and some other funkiness.

Vets Against the War on Capitol Hell

Posted By Blackfive

IVAW brought a few anti-war vets to capitol hill today to testify, not under oath (but they brought lawyers anyway), about war crimes, racism, tons of harsh language, starchy underwear, and really bad army food...oh, and one guy complaining that the military is racist because his unit referred to local Iraqis as Hadji.

Over at "The Sniper", you have the run down of events, live blogged by Thus Spake Ortner, in hilarious fashion.  The stuff is sad. - Farce in the time of Cholera:  The not so under oath testimony of IVAW

...OK kiddies, here we go. TSO is back in his Attila the Celt chair, ready and eager to listen to the testimony of the heroes of IVAW and give you a blow by blow commentary on the asshattery that will ensue before the Congress. And by "Congress" I of course mean only those Members of the Progressive Caucus that actually go.

So, stand by for good times. It should have all the allure of watching John Tesh conduct an orchestra of homeless people play trashcan lids. It should be as exciting as playing lawn jarts while blindfolded. As dangerous as shaving your arse with Greg Louganis' razor. As soothing as cleaning a scrotal laceration with hydrochloric acid. As sexy as Rosie O'Donnell in a coconut bikini. As (ok, ran out of similes, make up your own.)...

Jonn Lilyea at This Ain't Hell was there at the "testimony" - IVAW takes the Road Show to Congress.  Here is Jonn describing one of the new Winter Soldiers/IVAW/testifiers not under oath:

Kristopher Goldsmith told the committee that he’d only joined the Army because he wanted to kill, that his longing for killing went back to his youth - but we shouldn’t be afraid of him because he’s not a killer or a racist anymore.

Whew.

I'll be in DC soon.  Too bad I missed this circus.  I could have bought Lilyea a beer...

12 Meellion

Posted By Blackfive

Crossed the 12,000,000 unique visit threshold this afternoon.

11,999,999th visitor was referred by Ace of Spades.

12,000,000th visitor arrived at Blackfive via Hugh Hewitt's Townhall blog.

12,000,0001st visitor was referred by the Anti-Idiotarian Rottweiller.

Thanks, peeps!

Hit Dog Always Hollers

Posted By Subsunk

Biden: Bush's comments were 'bullshit'

“This is bullshit, this is malarkey. This is outrageous, for the President of the United States to go to a foreign country, to sit in the Knesset . . . and make this kind of ridiculous statement.”

Hmmmmmm. Dad always used to say that a "hit dog always hollers". Perhaps the rock hit a little too close to the bulldogs nuts?  I guess a sentence with the terms pot, kettle, black in it would be appropriate here?

Maybe not? Discuss amongst yourselves.

Subsunk

The GI Film Festival

Posted By Blackfive

From Andi at the most excellent MilBlogs:

The second annual GI Film Festival will take place in Washington, DC from May 14-18. In addition to film screenings and other fun happenings, the festival will present a series of panel discussions.

The festival has added a panel on milblogging to this year's agenda.

The nation’s military blogging community (Milblogs) prides itself on providing military news and context that you won’t often find in the mainstream media. Join some of the nation’s most popular milbloggers in a spirited discussion on how GIs and military families are portrayed in the media and on film. For more information about Milblogging, see www.milblogging.com, the world’s largest index of military blogs.

Runtime: 01 hr : 30 min

Blackfive, The Donovan and Chuck Ziegenfuss will be sitting on the panel. If you're in the Washington area, get a ticket to attend.

I'll be around the festival and DC.  If you want to meet up for a drink on Saturday afternoon, send an email.

You Can Pretend To Care, But You Can't Pretend To Be There

Posted By Subsunk

Or: The Neighborhood Watch Is Good People Too

BiilT has a great post on the underlying reason the Surge has had a positive effect on the war. How courtesy and invitations to join the family for food lead to bigger and better things. The words come from an Iraqi Aviator and summarize his life since the invasion. Husayn uses smaller words, so even us dumb Yanks can understand it. (Don't get me wrong, he's not disrespectful of Americans... I am.) Go and read it and smile.

Thanks, Instapundit.

Subsunk

Pics from scenic Baghdad

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Mr. Ardolino keeps us up on the latest info from Baghdad with another excellent slide show.

Miss Ladybug and CJ are helping out some JROTC folks.

LongTabSigO highlights a good cause.

Please take a moment to view the attached flyer.  This appeal, started by a Chesapeake, VA Dad, is an effort to promulgate a nationally sanctioned symbol for the families of Servicemembers killed in action. This would be an adjunct to the POW/MIA flag.

I ask that you review this flyer, and the website "www.honorandremember.org". If you think it worthy of support, please present it on your blog, and share with others who may be interested.

This gentleman is looking for info, ping me if you can help him.

This may possibly be a stretch here, but I'm hitting on anybody who
may have served in the 5th SFGA, MACV-SOG in Vietnam. My brother, SGT
Gary Hartman, served at least two tours there, in 64-65, and in 70-1or
2; he passed away 2 years ago of heart, kidney and diabetes problems,
and I'm trying to find anybody who served with him. I'm attempting to
write his biography for family history, and have little info to go on.
He did say he served with(MAJ-Ret) John Plaster, who wrote the book "
SOG",

Coasties to the Rescue!

Posted By Blackfive

AIRLIFT
A fishing vessel crewmember who sustained an eye injury aboard the vessel Sapphire II 580 miles southwest of Oahu, April 29, 2008, is airlifted aboard an HH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Air Station Barbers Point , May 1, 2008.   Photo courtesy of U.S. Coast Guard cutter Walnut.

How to exploit the success in Iraq

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

The goals in COIN shift considerably when you transition from kinetic operations to a strategy that aims to change minds, put simply a move from breaking things to fixing things.

The first  part of that is a large reason why we gave ourselves the insurgency we did. The Thunder Run to Baghdad and the complete disappearance and dissolution of Saddam's army failed to deal the Sunnis who supported him any serious blow to their prestige or will. It's much easier to make peace if you have defeated your enemy, ours just stepped out of the way and put on track suits.

They simmered in Sunni tribal regions and with no livelihoods and no love for us the insurgency began. The chance to deal a KO was lost and now we had the makings of a quagmire. Ironically we needed the insurgency to grow to a point where it was a credible adversary and then to deal it the blow we never did initially

This happened with the surge of troops last year and the change of strategy to COIN ensured that the people saw us as security and then stood beside us to protect their neighborhoods. Al Qaeda in Iraq lost it's ability to hide in Sunni areas when the sheiks in Anbar got sick of all the Sunnis they were killing. The Anbar Awakening began the process of Iraqis taking back their own country from the extremists who made it a Hell for everyone. This has now spread through the Shia areas and the militias have returned their power drills to the auto shops.

Continue reading "How to exploit the success in Iraq"

The Terrace Report

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Interesting items from my daily walk from UW Memorial Terrace and Lake Mendota across the Isthmus to Frank Lloyd Wright designed Monona Terrace on our other lake. I think the guy in the chalk is George W, the text around it says "We do not recognize the legitimacy of this democratically elected official".

Also here is a look at the Matty O' designed Blackfive cards showing our new logo (Uncle J exclusive). Oh and the tiny little thing between the  cards  is the new HD camera, 12x  optical lens, 16G card memory for 5 hours of full 1080i HD movies, 14 oz. It has shot all the video and stills from the past two weeks. It is luscious.

Maliki Roars

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Ed Morrissey at Hot Air follows the narrative in Iraq as it actually plays out for the Iraqis and the world, unsurprisingly a different view than the media. He follows Maliki's travels and notes a very important message has been sent and received.

Maliki’s presence sends a message to Iraqis in Mosul that the central government will not allow terrorists to create a state within a state. Having the leader of the elected government ride into Mosul at the head of a column of Iraqi soldiers gives AQI an answer to its terrorist attacks, which is that Iraq will not be terrorized into retreat. If Maliki can face down a native Shi’ite extremist like Sadr in Basra and Sadr City, he won’t get intimidated by a handful of foreign Sunni lunatics who kill more of their sectarian brethren than anyone else.

Over the last six weeks, Maliki has staged an impressive show of statesmanship and command. He has used his resources daringly and adapted well to changing conditions and tactical setbacks to liberate large swaths of his country from militias and thugs. If he can crush AQI in Mosul in the near future, he may well set Iraq on a path of unity and strength that could barely be predicted at the end of 2006.

Maliki has been much maligned in the press as unable to create unity or at least put Iraq on the path to reconciliation. Much of that criticism ignored the fact that reconciliation is near impossible during sectarian violence and until the people could feel safe in their homes and markets nothing was going forward. Well, we accomplished that and lo and behold old feckless Maliki turned out to have a whole bunch of feck.

The Battle of Basra where the Maliki government defeated Sadr's thugs represented a major turning point for Iraq as it was the first battle led and won by the Iraqi forces themselves. Then the dregs of the JAM Militias in Sadr City signed a cease fire that would more properly be called a surrender. Now he capitalizes on these and goes straight to the last infestation in Mosul. He rides at the head of a column of victorious Iraqi soldiers who just created mounds of dead tangos in Basra and I don't think anyone would predict any chance of success for the bad guys in Mosul. So where will that leave Maliki and the Iraqis overall.

One of the solutions for Iraq suggested in a strange alliance by RealPolitik types on the right and some cut and runners on the left was to install another strongman to replace Saddam. It is the risk-aversion, washing my hands of this solution, but it was always a gutless, weaseling out of a responsibility we took on by deposing Hussein. The idea wasn't bad because having another strong man in charge wouldn't help, it probably would. It was bad because we should not be in the business of creating puppet dictatorships.

But if a homegrown strongman could rise out of the hell that was Iraq for the past few years, then good on him. Maliki survived the horrors and now has emerged at the other end as the classic Big Man in Iraqi/Arab society, the mighty warrior who crushes his foes scattering their bodies and then is magnanimous in victory helping all members of the al Iraqi tribe. He's not there yet, but it is exactly the kind of narrative that could unite the country. Good luck.

Aerial Weapons Teams At Work

Posted By Blackfive

[This video is from today, May 14th, at 10:50AM (1050 hours) Baghdad time...]

Here is some raw footage of criminals in Iraq launching indirect-fire (mortar) attacks in the Kadhamiyah district of Baghdad.  They didn't know that an aerial weapons team (AWT) was observing the activity.  The AWT engaged the criminals with 2 Hellfire missiles.  Result:  One criminal killed, the others shook up (wounded?) and one mortar tube *cough* rendered inoperable.

Roundtable: Aid Flight into Burma

Posted By Grim

We were lucky enough to speak this morning with USAF Captain Trevor Hall, who took the first US C-130 into Rangoon, Burma (Myanmar) to carry aid to the victims of the recent storm.  If you listen to the interview, you'll learn a lot about American air drop capacity, and a few things about American security and diplomatic efforts in the region.  As you know, the chief impediment to aid getting to the people has been Burma's own government.

That is starting to change.

We had extra heavy lift capacity in the area because of the Cobra Gold exercises.  Though it needs no introduction to anyone who has been involved with the Pacific Command since 1982, the Cobra Gold exercises are an annual affair.  Since 2004, they have included not just US and Thai troops, but troops from regional nations like the Philippines and Mongolia. 

Doing good works for the people wins their trust and friendship, and helps establish local authorities that can maintain law and education in poor regions.  This year, Cobra Gold focused part of its efforts on training for just such exercises by putting US and Thai efforts together to help build a school in Surat Thani province, southern Thailand.

This underscores the point made a few days ago:  No matter what good you want to accomplish, from disaster and poverty relief to establishing law in the place of war, the US military is a key element for the solutions to those problems. 

Here we see Americans joining with our friends in Thailand to teach each other about how to do good works, by actually doing good works; and then interrupting those good works to go do some more good works for those suddenly in need.  Both the United States and its network of allies are a force for good in the world.

The Last Voyage

Posted By Blackfive

The last voyage has been completed.  The USS Kitty Hawk returns from it's last mission after 48 years of service (launched May 21, 1960).  The 80,000 ton air craft carrier is the last conventional carrier in the fleet and will return to San Diego to be decommissioned.

The aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk enters Truman Bay, May 12, after completing her last deployment before being replaced this summer by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington. Kitty Hawk is the last conventional-powered aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy. Date Taken: May 12th, 2008. Location: YOKOSUKA, JP. Photographer: Seaman Kyle Gahlau, Navy Visual News Service.

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An aircraft director signals a Strike Fighter Squadron 195 F/A-18C Hornet to taxi to launching position on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk. Aircraft directors are responsible for safely moving aircraft on the flight deck. Kitty Hawk is on its spring deployment its last before it is relieved by the USS George Washington this summer. Kitty Hawk operates from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. Carrier Air Wing 5 operates from Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan. Photographer: Seaman Kyle Gahlau, Navy Visual News Service.

More awesome Kitty Hawk photos by Kyle Gahlau after the Jump.

Continue reading "The Last Voyage"

A Iraqi Zoomie Story

Posted By Blackfive

Over at Castle Argghhh!, Bill T., training the new Iraqi Air Force, has a story about one of it's air men - Hussayn's Story. 

What is it like to guard GitMo?

Posted By Blackfive

On May 4th, Brigadier General Gregory Zanetti, the Deputy Commander at Gitmo, wrote an interesting article published in the Lawrence, Kansas, Journal-World and News:

A day in the life of a Guantanamo guard
By Brig. Gen. Gregory Zanetti
May 4, 2008

Guantanamo Bay, Cuba - Their average age is 23. Most are on their first Military assignment. They wake up at 0430, clean up, throw on a fresh uniform and are standing in formation at 0500. They silently file on to a bus that takes them to the camps. They get off the bus and again stand in formation as the First Sergeant barks out the orders for the day.

They move into the camps and do the requisite shift change duties. They take their posts at 0600. They then "walk the blocks," placing their eyes on their assigned detainees every three minutes for 12 hours. They walk eight to 11 miles during their shift.

At 1800 they get back on the bus, go back to their rooms and change into their exercise clothes. After a short formation, they do at least one hour of PT (physical training). They then clean up, grab a quick dinner, and fall into bed.

And so it goes, four days on, two days off.

While that may be the schedule, it does not tell the full story of a guard's day at Guantanamo Bay . To do that requires an understanding of something called the Battle Update Brief, better known as the BUB. The reason the word battle is used is because the detainees see the camps as an extension of the battlefield.

So do the guards...

Go to the Lawrence J-W&N for the rest of the story, it's worth your time and important in light of the recent suicide bombing by a released prisoner and the Presidential candidates aims to close the  facility...the piece discusses daily/hourly attacks on guards, threats on their families, abuse, etc. and the military guards remain professional all day, every day, in the presence of the enemy.

Update:  LL reminds us that Patterico had an amazing set of interviews with a psych nurse at Gitmo in late 2006.

"You're Not Worth It"

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The news that you went from being worth $5 million to a mere $100,000.00 has got to smart. Here's hoping something else smarts, at least briefly, for you soon.

LW

The Language of the Sea

Posted By Blackfive

Via Corporal Seamus and LtCol Brader comes this article (don't know when or where was published) by Colonel Hammond about the language of the US Marine Corps.

I really liked it for it's pride and history...enjoy (now, it's 0700 hours and I've got to get to work):

Salty Language
by Col James W. Hammond Jr., USMC (Ret)

In the (not so) old Corps, the first time a 'boot' referred to a vertical partition as a 'wall' or said that he had spilled something on the 'floor,' he incurred the unmitigated wrath of the nearest drill instructor. To gain the attention of the miscreant, the DI would smash his swagger stick on the top of the boot's pith helmet accompanied by a very loud bit of enduring advice, 'That's 'bulkhead' [or 'deck']. If you draw the pay, you speak the language!'

Marines are 'Soldiers of the Sea,' and it is right and proper  that conversation be sprinkled with nautical expressions.  In 'The Leatherneck,' his introduction to 'Fix Bayonets,' the late Colonel John W. Thompson Jr., USMC (Ret) described the many men making up the 4th Marine Brigade about to see action at Belleau Wood in June 1918:  'And there were also a number of diverse people who ran curiously to type, with drilled shoulders and a bone-deep sunburn, a tolerant scorn of nearly everything on earth.  Their speech was flavored with Navy words, and words culled from all the folk who live on the seas and ports where our war-ships go.'  He was describing Marine professionals who, like all professionals, have a language peculiar unto themselves.

A language is a living and evolving thing.  As we go to more strange and distant climes, some foreign words creep in. Some are transitory and don't survive. Marines still go to the 'head' to 'pump bilges,' although there was a generation or two who went to the benjo for the same thing. I've always liked the story of the world-traveler Marine sitting in a bar in Athens who politely summoned the waiter and ordered a beer with 'Garcon, iddy-wa, una botella de cerveza bitte.'

But over the years I have detected not just a lessening of the use of nautical terms among the naval services, but almost a complete lack of them.  This is more than 25 years ago when my son came home from the United States Naval Academy his Plebe Christmas.  He had been raised on 'deck,' 'bulkhead,' 'overhead,' 'ladder,' 'galley,' etc.  He called his Boy Scout equipment '782 gear,' but he was no longer using those descriptive terms because they weren't in use at the Academy.

After he graduated, I spent a dozen years in Annapolis on the staff of the Alumni Association of my alma mater.  I was appalled at the lubberly-ness of the staff, faculty and midshipmen at the Academy. Fortunately, the Marines on duty there kept the tradition of nautical language alive.  It must be paying off because every year the allotted 'boat spaces' for Marines on graduation are oversubscribed.

But I am not concerned with Navy per se, but rather our Corps of Marines.  I equate it to the reply an old gunnery sergeant gave to the lady who upon hearing the legend that the quatrefoil on the cover of Marine Officers' frame caps stems from days of sail when Marines in the 'fighting tops' could identify their officers on deck by the chalked cross on their caps and not fire on them, asked,

'What about the Navy Officers?'

'Who cared?' snapped the gunny.'

Language is both spoken and written.  'The Marines' Hymn' says, 'We are proud to claim the title of United States Marines.'  There are Army officers and soldiers, Navy officers and sailors, Air Force officers and airmen, but we are ALL Marines. That is why Marine is always written with a capital 'M.'

We must be careful not to allow our own professional culture to be corrupted by the words of other services.  The Army says 1600 (sixteen hundred) hours.  We say 1600 (sixteen hundred).  It is a small but subtle difference.  Many years ago at a large East Coast Marine base, an over zealous 'police sergeant' neatly painted on the 'deck' in front of a regimental headquarters building:

'NO PARKING AFTER 1600 HOURS.'

The commanding general, or 'CG,' came by and saw the offending sign. He dashed into headquarters, burst in the office of the commanding officer, or 'CO,' and began holding 'school-of-the-boat' (the most basic instruction one can give to the landlubber) on the colonel.

He said, 'In the Army, it's 1600 hours; in the Navy, it's 8 bells; in the Air Force, I think it is 'when Mickey's big hand is on 12 and his little hand is on 4,' but in the Corps, it is 1600.  Get that abomination corrected immediately!'...                                                           

Continue reading "The Language of the Sea"

More Korengal Valley Photos

Posted By Blackfive

A soldier from the Headquarters Company (HHC) 2-503rd RCP surveys their area for possible improvised explosive devices (IED) while on a route clearance patrol on February 18, 2008, outside Asadabad, Afghanistan. The soldiers from the HHC have to be in a constant state of readiness to combat the tactics of the Al-Qaeda terrorists. (U.S. Army photo/Spc. Jordan Carter)

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Soldiers from the Afghanistan national army (ANA) gather for a quick photo on February 16, 2008, outside the Korungal Outpost, Afghanistan. The areas outside of the KOP are prime targets for both coalition forces and the terrorists they combat. (U.S. Army photo/Spc. Jordan Carter)

Kim Jong Il & NASCAR

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Not together, except in this post.

NASCAR drivers showing what we already about about their patriotism.

and Lil' Kim notes McCain ought not believe the hype.

Uncommon Valor, Uncommon Bond - The Tiger Force - From Viet Nam to Iraq

Posted By Blackfive

Subtitle: Hack's Tiger Force Lives On!

This is a great story about Viet Nam Tiger Force vets supporting the current Tigers in Iraq.  US Army Specialist Rick Rzepka sends this one:

Uncommon Bond:
Screaming Eagle’s Stay Connected to Vietnam-era Brethren While Serving in Iraq

Story and Photos by Spc. Rick Rzepka
1st Brigade Combat Team
101st Airborne Division (AA)

TIGER

This ain’t your father’s Army.  Some say it’s a kinder, gentler Army, wary of political correctness and public perceptions.  Some say that this has caused Soldiers to lose touch with their roots, to disconnect themselves from the past.  But for one Infantry platoon, at the heart of the fight in Iraq, some things never change and they are neither kind nor gentle.

Somewhere, in the dusty expanse of the Salah ad Din province in Iraq, the Tigers are lurking.  They patiently wait for their prey in the city and in the desert.  They are keenly aware, not only of their immediate surroundings, but of their heritage as well.  They know they have some big boots to fill.

Tiger Force, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), is the most highly decorated platoon sized element in the U.S. Army.  Over the past 48 years, Tiger Force Soldiers have earned two Medals of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, numerous Silver Stars for valor and countless other commendations.  Names like Hackworth, Gertsch, and Gardner are synonymous with the Tiger legacy, which began in the sweltering jungles of Vietnam.

“Out guerrilla the guerrillas”

In 1965, as the Vietnam War picked up steam, Army brass recognized a need for more unconventional, guerilla style warfare.  A young Lt. Colonel in the 101st Airborne Division named David Hackworth proposed that by utilizing small, highly trained units, Vietcong tactics could be effectively countered.  The brass liked what they heard and the Tigers were born through highly experienced, hand selected volunteers from the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division.  Their mission:  “To out guerilla the guerrillas,” according to Hackworth, or as MoH recipient Staff Sgt. John G. Gertsch said, “how to really be there, but not be there.”

“During the Vietnam years, Tiger Force went through many changes in the full spectrum,” said Hank “Doc” Ortega, who served as a Tiger Force medic in 1968.  During their time in Vietnam, Tiger Force Soldiers ran the gauntlet of small unit operations, from scouts, ready reaction and long range reconnaissance.  “We were basically the eyes and ears of the battalion commander,” he said.

“Here is a platoon deep-rooted in history and tradition,” said Lt. Col. Peter Wilhelm, “Above the Rest” Battalion Commander.  “A platoon that I reserve for the best of the best,” he said. 

Tigers today, still serve at the behest of the battalion commander in the surly terrain of the Salah ad Din province.  To pigeon hole the Tigers, would be to say that they simply serve as the battalion’s sniper and recon asset, but like their predecessors in Vietnam they have found themselves covering down on a wide array of missions and have been instrumental in taking high-value targets, weapons caches and IEDs off of the streets, as well as conducting various non-lethal operations. 

A Tiger Force Soldier on a recent mission in Bayji, Iraq.  Tiger Force, which is part of the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, is the most highly decorated platoon sized element in the U.S. Army.  Tiger Forces Soldiers, past and present, maintain close ties.

“We do what is necessary in the area of operations to defeat Improvised Explosive Devices, secure high –value targets and support the division’s effort,” said Sgt. Josh Smith, Tiger Force sniper section team leader.  “Today’s battlefield requires so much more out of every element,” he said.  “There’s no arguing that what we are doing today is the graduate level of warfare.  You’ve got to think outside the box or wind up in a box.”

The Bond

For Smith and other Tiger Force Soldiers, preserving the Tiger’s legacy is an important part of the job.  “We do everything with the past in mind,” said Smith.  “The bond that the current members have with the past members is unbelievable,” he said. 

During a 101st Airborne reunion event dubbed “Week of the Eagles”, in the summer of 2000, Ortega and other Tiger Force veterans returned to Fort Campbell, KY, to give young Soldiers a glimpse into their past and have been dropping in on the Tigers ever since.

“We gave these young men back their history,” said Ortega.  “We brought names like James Gardner and John Gertsch to life because we knew these men and served with them,” he said.  “They are not just names on a wall to us, and the young guys deserve to be connected to that history.”

In garrison, it is not uncommon for an old Tiger to stop by the battalion to see how the platoon is coming along.  During these visits, tales are swapped and the vets get a chance to check out the newest tools of the trade.  “Back in the day they were using M-14 rifles with big old Starlight scopes and they were really impressed with the new gear,” said Smith.  “They get a kick out of it and we get a kick out of doing it because it’s just old meets new.”

In today’s rapidly evolving force, Soldiers often overlook the history of their units and have little or no link with the warriors who came before them.

“I would say it’s very rare,” said Smith.  “I’m in touch with at least a dozen Vietnam-era, Tiger Force vets, and a few in between,” he said.  “We are very much a big extended family.”

Veterans of Tiger Force send care packages and essential items to their deployed brethren in Iraq and have acted as a support system through the hard times.

“December was a bad month for us,” said Smith.  On Dec. 4, 2007, Tiger Force lost its Platoon Leader, Capt. Adam Snyder and two fellow Soldiers, Sgt. Eric Hernandez and Pvt. Dwayne White to an IED attack.  The loss was devastating to Tiger Force Soldiers both young and old.

“When we lost men on Dec. 4th of 2007, it felt the same to us vets as when we lost those we served with…exactly the same,” said Ortega.  “These young guys are our brothers.”

Tiger Force Soldiers investigate a building suspected of being used to store black market fuel in Bayji, Iraq.  Tiger Force, which is part of the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, is the most highly decorated platoon sized element in the U.S. Army.  Tiger Forces Soldiers, past and present, maintain close ties.

Tiger Force veterans were in attendance at each fallen Soldier’s funeral services and were there to provide support to loved ones.  “They got in touch with the families, made trips for support and basically did everything they could to make them as comfortable as they could be in their time mourning,” said Smith.  “You’re not going to see that level of dedication, 40 years later, in may other places,” he said.

For Ortega, supporting the Tigers isn’t a random act of kindness, it’s fulfilling the oath of honor and country.

“For my own part, my wife and I spent almost two months at Fort Sam Houston at the bedside of a Tiger who was wounded, assisting him and his family with his recovery,” said Ortega.  “I would work in the aid-station if I could.”

“Doc” Ortega’s selfless-service to his country and to the Tigers is the model upon which the latest generation looks up to.

“All I can hope for is that the new Tigers are as receptive to the older guys as we are,” said Smith.  “They go so far above and beyond.  So many people get out of the Army and leave it all behind,” said Smith.  “They are who we are.”

Ortega would like to see more of these uncommon bonds forged between warrior generations.  “I think that more and more Vietnam-era veterans, especially of combat units, are making an effort to relocate their buddies and as a part of that effort, they are sometimes making contact with their younger counterparts at the reunions,” said Ortega.  “We need to make this sort of contact and support far less unusual.”

For Smith and the rest of the Tigers in Iraq, bridging the generation gap has bred a sense of respect and admiration to the Tiger name.  “We’re just proud to know them, you know?  “The best thing for us is for them to feel like they’re still part of the team.”

The Love Goes Both Ways

Posted By Laughing_Wolf

The last few weeks, you've heard a lot about different ways to support the Troops. Today brought a great reminder that the love and support does indeed flow both ways.

Last February, I met Amy Hammonds at the Soldier's Angels Executive Meeting. Amy has been taking care of a soldier since she joined Soldier's Angels in 2005, and on this deployment she has even been taking care of his team.

Last week, she got an instant message from him, saying he had sent her something. She responded that he didn't have to do that, and he replied

"i got a special surprise for you coming very soon since you been getting me all spoiled now its my turn and believe me you are not ready for this one at all."

Amy expected a card. Instead, she got...

A footlocker.

Continue reading "The Love Goes Both Ways"

Invade Burma?

Posted By Blackfive

ROFASIX takes issue with the suggestion by Time magazine...check it out.  A million people may die because of Burmese military generals afraid to let foreigners hand out aid...

PJ and Pave Hawk Rescue Cuban Refugees

Posted By Blackfive

PAVE HAWK RESCUE
A U.S. Air Force HH-60G Pave Hawk picks up a pararescueman and a survivor off a ship about 260 miles south of New Orleans during a rescue mission, April 25, 2008. Responding to a U.S. Coast Guard request, the rescue team performed a 10-hour mission to retrieve Cuban migrants in distress who were picked up by a passing ship.   U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Gina Chiaverotti.

Pistolfist!

Posted By Blackfive

I was asked to review a new and independent comic book series set during the American Revolutionary War period called "Pistolfist".  The author, JS Earls, sent along some information:

BLACKFIVE,

 

My name is J.S. Earls and, first and foremost, I am incredibly thankful for all our soldiers who truly lay their life on the line for their loved ones and millions of other Americans they'll never meet and -- honestly -- I'm ashamed of the way we carelessly abuse our freedoms and/or play political games with their lives.  They deserve a LOT more honor and a lot LESS criticism.

 

That said, I am also a professional Writer and one of my more recent projects is a comic-book set in the American Revolutionary War. It is essentially the saga of a masked, runaway slave (fictional brother of Boston Massacre martyr Crispus Attucks - "the first to defy, the first to die") whose struggle changes from wanting revenge against the Redcoats to fighting for freedom with the Colonists.

 

The other stars are Benjamin Franklin, his daughter Sally, his loyalist son William, his friend/double-agent spy Edward Bancroft, founding fathers Richard Stockton and Benjamin Rush, the infamous Benedict Arnold, as well as Ethan Allen, the Green Mountain Boys and many, many more...

Since I know next to nothing about comics (although I know that "Joe" loves his comics), I asked an expert about Pistolfist.  Below is the take of an Active Duty soldier and OIF vet, "Sapper", on Pistolfist.  Hope you enjoy it.

Blackfive

B5,

I read the first 3 issues of the comic and here are my thoughts...

First, as an avid comic book fan for over 20 years, I do have a tendency to favor independent comic creators. As you already know it takes a lot of effort and money to get something actually published. So here goes:

Pros:

1. The quality of the final project: This book was proffesionally done. It looks as good as any mainstream Marvel or DC.
2. The cover artist is phenominal. His art is on par with any major publisher and he can draw photo realistic. I'm impressed. The covers alone are enough to draw you in. Here's his website:

http://www.artpusher.net/comics.htm

3. Interior art: The interior art is very clean, and in many ways draws inspiration from many of the popular contemporary artists. He is a mix of John Cassaday, Frank Quietly, and to some degree post Spider-Man Todd McFarlane. Very popular style.
4. Historical accuracy: I really appreaciate that he is incorporating real history into the story. And I really like the fact and fiction page at the end. If a kid reads this, it might get him interested in American history...which we can all appreciate. Cool touch.
5. Plot: The plot is well paced and leaves you with daring enough cliff-hangers. I actually read the next two issues because I wanted to find out what happened.
6. Character design: Cool character costume. I like the mask, and I like the concept of the archaic cyborg with almost crude mechanical parts. Visually very cool.

Cons:

1. Story development: I tend to prefer character driven stories. This is definitely plot driven. Everything happens due to fate and preconceived plot twists.
2. There is a disconnect between the story and the interior art. The story is a dark classic science fiction ala HG Wells, but the art is modern art driven comics that we often see published by Top Cow. The art is good, but I think it doesn't match. I think the interior cover artist would be a better pick.
3. Dialogue: The attempt at the historical vernacular comes off as very cheesy. "Trollop"...enough said. Maybe some Nathaniel Hawthorne is in order to discover how people really spoke in the 18th century.
4. Ben Franklin: He looks like a disgusting blob. I get that he is fat, but does he really need to look like Jabba the Hut?

Overall, very impressive effort by both writer and artist. I think Soldiers looking for a quick, entertaining read would like it.

Cool story, good art.

I wouldn't be surprised if either the artist and writer eventually get picked up by a bigger publishing company such as Top Cow or even the DC imprint of Wildstorm.

I sent it to a couple of Soldiers to get their opinions. I'll let you know what they think.

Respectfully,

Sapper

So, you can now order Pistolfist this month for it's first release on July 4th.  Here's the trailer (great sound, too) and at the end is the info to order (you can order from your local store, too):

Patrolling w/ the Sons of Iraq

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

Bill Ardolino of the  Long War Journal is still taking a first hand look at the elements of progress in Iraq. This photo essay has him patrolling one of Baghdad's biggest markets w/ the Sons of Iraq.

Saberhawk Hoist

Posted By Blackfive

Petty Officer 3rd Class Justin Sherman, assigned to the "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 47 is hoisted back into an SH-60B Seahawk during an air power demonstration by ships and aircraft assigned to Abraham Lincoln Strike Group. The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and Carrier Strike Group 9 are on a scheduled seven-month deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.  Date Taken: April 22nd, 2008. Location: PACIFIC OCEAN, Photographer: Petty Officer 3rd Class James Evans, Navy Visual News Service.

30 things I believe today

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

1. I believe this is the shittiest planet I have ever lived on, bar none.

2.I believe GOD created everything we know and that no one on earth knows who GOD is.

3. I believe you should do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

4.I believe that man is an inherently selfish and low animal, but preferable to mosquitos.

5. I believe it is impossible to support the troops and oppose their mission.

6. I believe dogs are preferable to cats, but that kittens and puppies are equally cute.

7. I believe America is the greatest nation yet to exist on this earth, and anyone who disagrees can kiss my ass.

8. I believe that bacon is actually a vitamin

9. I believe regret is a wasted emotion, learn and move on.

10. I believe worrying is like paying interest on a debt you may not even owe.

Please add to the list in the comments if'n you wish.

Continue reading "30 things I believe today"

Operation Redwing tribute- Someones You Should Know

Posted By Uncle Jimbo

We have begun work on a video tribute to the men who were lost in Afghanistan on Operation Redwing, the story recounted in Marcus Luttrell's book Lone Survivor. Universal is currently starting the movie which is sure to be a huge success as the first movie about the wars which is not a smear.

We want to make sure there are quality stories about the men who died that day and especially about the lives they lived before Afghanistan. So if you can point us to any of the families and friends of these people please contact me jimbo at unclejimbo.com and let me know. We will begin filming the first week of June and will keep you all advised where we will be and when. This is not a dirge to mourn the passing of 19 brave men, but a celebration of their lives that will serve in their places. One of the reasons I ask for your help is that you all always manage to cover my back. In the vid, I had a brain cramp and say 13 SEALS and 6 Nightstalkers died, reader Hugh reminds me it was 11 SEAls and 8 Nightstalkers. 

The Last Stand of Cpl. Yale and Lance Cpl. Haerter

Posted By Blackfive

Take a look at this photo...These Marines are gathering together one week after two of their brothers fired on a VBIED which then detonated and killed them.  The two Marines, Lance Cpl. Jordan Haerter and Cpl. Jonathan T. Yale, saved their brothers lives by giving their own.

CAMP RAMADI, Iraq - The Marines with 3rd Platoon, Police Transition Team 3, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, come together April 29 to prove their resolve and to show support for one another. Cpl. Jonathan T. Yale, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment and Lance Cpl. Jordan Haerter were killed in action April 22 by a suicide bomber inside a dump truck with approximately 1,000 pounds of high explosives. "I was on post the morning off the attack," said Lance Cpl. Benjamin Tupaj, a rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Police Transition Team 3, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, with a hurtful tone in his voice. "I heard the (M-249 Squad Automatic Weapon) go off at a cyclic rate and then the detonation along with a flash. It blew me at least 3 meters from where I was standing. Then I heard a Marine start yelling 'we got hit, we got hit.' It was hectic." (Photo/ LCpl. Casey Jones).

---

Heroic Last Stand, Marines Thwart Enemy Attack
By Lance Cpl. Casey Jones
Regimental Combat Team 1

RAMADI, Iraq – It was a typical quiet morning on April 22, with the temperature intensifying as a bright orange sun emerged high from the horizon.

However, this morning would be different. Quickly it would turn chaotic, then tragic. Two Marines would gallantly sacrifice their lives so others could live.

Lance Cpl. Jordan Haerter, a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, and Cpl. Jonathan T. Yale, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, RCT-1, were standing post, just as they’ve done numerous times before. It was during a standard length watch at a small checkpoint protected by concrete barriers where they overlooked a small gravel road lined with palm trees leading to their entry control point.

A truck packed with thousands of pounds of explosives entered the area where Haerter and Yale were standing guard. Realizing the vehicles intentions Haerter and Yale, without hesitation, stood their ground, drew their weapons and fired at the vehicle. The truck rolled to a stop and exploded, killing the two Marines.

“I was on post the morning of the attack,” said Lance Cpl. Benjamin Tupaj, a rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Police Transition Team 3, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines. “I heard the (M-249 Squad Automatic Weapon) go off at a cyclic rate and then the detonation along with a flash. Then I heard a Marine start yelling, ‘we got hit, we got hit.’ It was hectic.”

In the face of a committed enemy, Haerter and Yale stood their ground, in turn saving the lives of numerous Marines, Sailors, Iraqi policemen, and civilians. Both Marines displayed heroic, self-sacrificing actions and truly lived up to the Corps' values of honor, courage, and commitment.

“They saved all of our lives; if it wasn’t for them that gate probably wouldn’t have held,” Tupaj said. “The explosion blew out all of the windows over 150 meters from where the blast hit. If that truck had made it into the compound, there would’ve been a lot more casualties. They saved everyone’s life here.”

“They are heroes because thousands of pounds (of explosives) would’ve made its way through the gate and many more of us wouldn’t be here,” said Lance Cpl. Lawrence Tillery, a rifleman with 3rd Platoon. “I have a son back home, and I know if that truck would’ve made it to where it was going – I wouldn’t be here today. Because of Lance Cpl. Haerter and Cpl. Yale, I will be able to see my son again. They gave me that opportunity.”

A week after the attack, the Marines with 3rd platoon, remember their fallen brethren as good friends and Marines.

“Cpl. Yale was a great guy, really friendly and kind of shy,” said Hospitalman Eric Schwartz, a corpsman with the platoon.

Lance Cpl. Jordan Haerter