The Laughing Wolf

A Letter To The Brass

I have posted this in the comments at Blackfive to a post by Uncle Jimbo, but thought it might make a good post here. I sent the following to several addresses in the Corps, just wish I thought the addy for the CotC was good:

Gentlemen,

I am writing in regards the matter of CPL Bellile and the song "Hadji Girl." As the son of a Marine, the friend of several Marines, and with a few other relatives who are Marines, I am disgusted with the behavior, lack of character and moral fortitude, and failure of basic decency being shown by members of Corps high command in this matter. While my father loved his fellow Marines, he had no love for those who commanded, and sorrow does not do justice to my realization that his worst expectations for such have been born out.

Is the song politically correct? No, then again war is not either, nor should it be. Could the song be used by our enemies against us? Yes, with your full help and collaboration, it is being done so in the media and elsewhere. Instead of caving in to CAIR and our enemies, you should be taking the offensive against the lies and distortions being portrayed. An aggressive defense of the truth and of the rights of freedom of speech, even that which can be found offensive, would do more to help promote growth in the region and set high the ideals we preach. Instead, the wanton capitulation shown is fanning the flames and encouraging those who are our enemies.

I echo what has been written by Jim Hanson:

"Your press release stated that the video was clearly inappropriate. What exactly did the USMC find that was clearly inappropriate? I watched the video and laughed out loud. I understand the difficulty that something such as this can cause in relations with the Iraqis, but in taking the complaints from CAIR to heart you have actually made things worse. You validated the lies they have told about the song and have given ammunition to anti-American media and messengers worldwide."

To continue on the course you have set, and to throw CPL Bellile under the bus for your own gain and protection would be a travesty, and a rank betrayal of your oaths and your obligations to the members of the Corps, most especially to those who are risking their lives in combat in the cause of freedom.

Semper Fi.

Is it a phrase you truly live? Or just a toss off with no meaning? Your actions will speak louder than any words your true answer.
 
LW

UPDATE: Welcome readers from CBS. The letter really was sent to Marine "Brass" and while not directed at the MSM, if the shoe fits... Meantime, feel free to check out the Saving Pvt. Journalism series; general posts on the media; posts on rational preparedness; my posts on the miltary posted here; and, best of all, be sure to check out all the good posts at Blackfive. Make yourself comfortable, keep it civil, and enjoy. LW

Memorial Day -- Remember Them All

From the War of Independence to the War on Terror, from the open field to battles away from publicity's light -- remember this day all who have made the ultimate sacrifice, for freedom is never free.

LW

Memorial Day, Part 3

The adage that an army travels on its stomach is only partly true. You see, any military lives or dies on its logistics: food, fuel, ammo, spare parts, replacements, and more. Keeping any group supplied is critical, for not only can you not afford to screw up your logistics but you also have to know that the enemy is going to do its best -- if it has a brain -- to hurt your logistics efforts as much as possible. My Uncle James knew of that first hand.

A lot of people don't know that in WWII, the Marines in the Pacific Theatre had much of their logistics taken care of by the Army. It was Army supply ships and people that allowed the Leathernecks to do their island hopping. I know of it because of Dad and Uncle James.

My father's family had members in every branch there was, and Uncle James had gone into the Army. In an unusual move for the Green Machine, they picked up on his organizational and managerial abilities and actually put a round peg into a round hole, and put him into supply and logistics. Not just any supply and logistics, but those for the Marines.

Despite it not being a combat slot, logistics was not a safe haven. At some point late in the war, the fleet was being replenished and Uncle James was there on a supply ship when a kamikaze attack took place. Thinks looked very grim as one headed in straight for his ship, making it through the fighters and the flack. Just as Uncle James said he was reverting to training and trying to dig a foxhole in the steel deck of the ship, fire from the New Jersey took out the plane seconds from impact. Dad and James met up at a later date, and Dad asked him about the incident. James discussed it and how thankful he was for the fire that took it down. Dad looked at him, smiled, and said "You're welcome." Yes, it was Dad on the quad 50s that took down that plane, knowing that if he didn't, he would lose a brother.

Dad wasn't there at another time and place, when the ship James was on went down. He survived, but was in the water for a long time, long enough for some algae/fungal growth to get into his lungs. He was rescued, went back to work, survived the war, and even became National Commander of the American Legion later in life. That sinking, however, ended up killing him as they never could get rid of the stuff in his lungs, and it ultimately was a major factor (as I was told) to the heart attack that killed him. I am glad he made it as long as he did, for he told me of things that otherwise might have been lost, and taught some valuable lessons.

Those who make sure that the sharp end has what it needs oft get overlooked, but are a major target even today. How many people in the Someone You Should Know section were involved in supply runs? How many of the unsung heroes (especially in the Old Media) were involved with logistics as primary or secondary duty. On sea, in the air, or on land, supply will always be a target. Remember them this day, from those who labored to get food and supplies to Washington's troops to the 507th Maintenance Company, to those who put themselves at risk today to get food and more to the troops wherever they are.

LW

Memorial Day, Part 2

My father never flew with me. It had nothing to do with my skills, well maybe a little to do with a sideways (crab) approach witnessed by Mom, but a lot more to do with an older brother, a friend, and Admiral Spruance.

My Uncle Sam (real name) was one of Dad's older brothers, and I suspect the one he most admired and somewhat modeled himself upon. This is an uncle who has a bit part in the original "Ten Commandments" and apparently had some involvement with the chariot wreck at the start of the pursuit scene. At what would now be considered a far too young age, Uncle Sam went off to WWI, and ended up flying those newfangled aeroplanes. That was in a day when the plane itself could be much more dangerous than the enemy, being but bits of wood and fabric that might or might not hold together. While he enjoyed flying from various accounts, I have a suspicion that his matter-of-fact descriptions of such may have cooled Dad's thoughts of following in those particular footsteps.

The next nail in the coffin was a boyhood friend of Dad's, who became a pilot and flew some of the early dive bombers. I think it may have been during Dad's first hitch in the Corps that they met up near DC, and he invited Dad to go up with him. I think Dad thought it would be fun, let them spend some time together, and see DC and surroundings from a new perspective. The latter was quite true, as it turned out.

In those days, before truly good bombsights came out, the most accurate way to put ordnance on target was considered to be dive bombing. This entailed putting the plane in a very steep dive, as steep as the structure could stand, and then releasing the bomb at the lowest possible point that would allow the plane to pull up and not hit said target itself. Keep in mind that this must be done in a bouncing bucket of bolts that is buffeted by winds and is being shot at by anyone and everyone in the vicinity of the target... Easy it was not, but it did provide accuracy not possible with carpet bombing from higher altitudes.

Budgets being very tight back then, the practice bombs were bags of flour. To this day, I have no good idea what Dad was expecting, other than a nice ride, maybe a reasonable descent and release of bombs, and the beauty of watching that flour spread out over the target. What he got, from his description, was a full-up pushing-the-edge demonstration of precision bombing of a snag in the Potomac river not very far from DC (no airspace restrictions then). Dad remarked that he had a very good view of the floor of the plane, as that was where he got when the plane went straight down -- at least according to him. He was honest enough to admit that his friend found Dad's reaction rather amusing (and no doubt as planned).

I suspect another nail, though never discussed, was my Uncle John. John was a B-29 pilot on Tinian, and he paid a different price after the war. Dad and John were able to see each other a fair bit towards the end of the war, as Admiral Spruance spent a lot of time at Tinian. Dad never talked much about John, or the demons he faced later, but I do know that they discussed the flights and what all happened.

The final nail, however, was an incident with Admiral Spruance. While I can't find much on it, the Admiral apparently had learned to fly and did what was necessary to keep up his certifications and such. One such flight found Dad invited to go with him. Now, as bodyguard and orderly, Dad (or those under him) were supposed to be with the Admiral pretty much 24/7, but there is not much they can do to protect from gravity and cranky mechanical constructs, so flying was not usually an area where they went. For some reason, however, Dad was invited along with the Admiral went up in a P-38, and from some phrasing used one time, I suspect the Admiral did it as a bit of informal challenge, perhaps wanting -- as pilots often do -- to have some fun.

If you have ever seen that twin-tail devil, aside from some training aircraft they did not have two seats. What they did have was a sort of shelf that went back behind the pilot. While OSHA and the safety nannies would have fits today, that is where Dad found himself, looking out over the Admiral's shoulder. Looking out over that shoulder and up, according to him, at people on the deck of the New Jersey, against which the Admiral decided to make a mock attack. Dad swore he did not know how they managed to avoid going into the side of the ship, but they did. Nor would I ever accuse my father of embellishing a story a bit, but he maintained that he could clearly make out faces of those along the rails watching. From his mutterings, the Admiral may have just been getting warmed up too. Not sure, but what I do know is that from that day forward, Dad apparently declined any offers to go up. Come to think of it, he avoided commercial aviation as much as possible too... Dad was remarkably unamused when later, without knowing the story, I chose that plane as my favorite fighter from WWII and wanted to fly in one.

Dad did not talk a great deal about certain things, but we did share a few moments and I came to know of his respect for those that did fly. The suicidal bravery of the pilots at Midway, whom he respected and came to yet another level of respect courtesy of the Admiral. The bravery of those who pressed home other attacks he watched later in the war. The dedication of the ground-support craft who went in on bombing and strafing runs in support of his fellow Marines as they went island-to-island, often going in low, and even slow, against the enemy so as to protect the troops no matter the danger to themselves. He respected the fighters who tried to keep the enemy at bay, and would come in after them even within the defense zone of the ships, and risked being hit by the fire put up by Dad and others at the enemy they pursued. And what fire it was, for everything could and would open up at need. When the Admiral was on the New Jersey, Dad's battle station was the quad-50 on top of the 16-inch turret up forward, a fact I discovered when I built a model of the New Jersey as a child, and seeing it opened up something within him long closed.

I think he saw that same spirit in the chopper pilots in Nam, who would risk all to make a pickup or give fire support, and I know reports from Desert Storm reached that same place within. He may not have flown, but he knew the price paid by those who did, and he saluted them in his own way.

He accepted my explanation of the crab, as it had been caused by the instructor killing the engine a mile or so out from the airport and telling me to make it. I did, with plenty to spare including a certain amount of pilot ego and panache, which resulted in my coming in sideways for the last part so that I could kick it out and touch down just past the overrun. I was left to surmise a bit, but he apparently recognized something in me, and had had enough of pilots gleefully showing him what plane and pilot could do. A pity, as I would have loved to give him a nice boring ride just to make a point; then again, that may have been why as well.

Remembering this, and all the pilots who have served so well, from the skies above the trenches to the support for Iraqi Freedom where still today they give all going in close to support those on the ground, is a part of Memorial Day.

LW

Memorial Day, Part 1

I never knew my Uncle Foster, and the image above is the memory I have of him. I've seen pictures of him at various ages, right up until he was in uniform. There is one of him with a very lovely lady, his girlfriend who may have also been his fiance.

Foster was the last of 15 children in my Dad's family, and as such reports were that he was a touch spoiled and indulged -- at least for the first part of his life. His life, and the lives of the others, were forever altered by the Great Depression. They were prosperous until then, but afterwards lost almost all they had, along with my grandfather. They fell back on the farm they owned, worked it, and got by. In point of fact, they did okay for those days and times. There was food on the table, a roof overhead, clothes to wear, and the occasional treat.

The stories I have of Foster vary, though I think I have enough to have a fairly good picture. Most of the sources were biased, especially my Dad. There we had an odd mix of things, from the usual things brothers carry about each other to a strong pride.

It was from Dad that I first came to truly know that I had an Uncle Foster. I had seen the entry in the family tree, and maybe a picture or two, but Dad made him real one night at a restaurant. Growing up, eating out was a rare treat, and my seven- or eight-year-old self was chowing down on what passed for Chinese at that time in my hometown (the first real Chinese restaurant with real Chinese did not open for several more years if memory serves). Dad made some remarks about how Foster had loved Chinese food (and maybe culture a bit too, the memory fades) and how my enthusiasm reminded him very much of a dinner with Foster in Honolulu. There were a few more comments, then he closed down as he often did in regards the war and other painful subjects.

Being the meek and biddable soul that I am, I began to hunt for more, for I would know of this man to whom I apparently bore some striking similarities. We both loved Chinese food and more, had dreams of flight, and... what more? Knowing that Dad was a tough nut to crack, even then, I went and started asking relatives, for they were more forthcoming and I could use what I learned to get Dad to talk more. There was not nearly as much as I would like, for I quickly found out that the reason I knew him not was that his life was cut short.

When the war came, Foster went into the Navy and into Naval Aviation. From what I have been able to learn, he may have had a gift as a pilot, though he apparently told Dad that if he and his crew did not make it back it would probably be because of his navigation. I can empathize with that a bit, as dead reckoning is hard enough on land, much less over water far from shore.

The meal Dad mentioned that night was, I think, the last time Dad saw his baby brother alive. By rare chance, they were both in Honolulu at the same time, and went out for dinner. They apparently had a good time, with Foster very much enjoying the food. I suspect Dad did too, though not quite as much, and afterwards, well, he never did have a taste for it again.

It was towards the end of the war, and Foster's unit went forward and did some of the last conventional raids on Japanese harbors. Dad was forward deployed with Admiral Spruance, and got the news. Foster and his crew did not return from a raid. The ship with Foster's CO was in the same harbor, and the Admiral had arranged for Dad to go talk to the CO, but orders came and the ships must leave, so the discussion was by radio.

The raid went well, though the target well defended. From what I have heard, Foster took his plane in, and placed load on target. It was coming out that something went bad, and his plane went down. The others in the squadron reported that it angled down in such a way that indicated the pilot was dead, or unconscious, at the controls. The gunners/others never had a chance to get out before it went in, and none came up after it did. Dad felt, possibly guiltily, that such was for the best given what the Marines had found in regards the treatment of prisoners by the Japanese. Such was but one of the reasons the Marines were glad to oblige those who chose to fight to the death... Foster's death shook him, and hit hard. So hard that despite the many gifts he received after the surrender, he gave it all away and took nothing home that would remind him of the war.

So, a few years ago, I found myself at the Punchbowl. A request to the guardians of that place saw me in, and my taxi driver willingly took down his sign from his roof for commercial vehicles are not allowed in that hallowed space, and waited without charge while I walked. I walked and I searched, and I found:

It seems strange that such a simple marker could bring a tear to an eye for a man never met; nor that such a journey would move a taxi driver who had probably seen it all and heard it all. Yet that marker is a cenotaph to all who fell and will not come home until the sea shall give up her dead. For Foster was but one of many who so fell, and is honored in that place.

May she look down them all, those who fell then and those who fall now. May she gather them up and guide them to the Green where the light awaits them all.

This is one part of what Memorial Day means to me.

LW

BTW, should any read this who served with Foster, please do drop me a line. For I would know more, for good or for ill, of this man.

Operation Perish Hilton: Questions For Hilton Management

Crossposted at Blackfive

Andi at Andi's World has heard from Brian Kelleher, the General Manager of the Capital Hilton. He has agreed to take questions from the Milblog Community in regards the eviction of Fran O'Brien's -- which will terminate their longstanding Friday night meals for wounded veterans. You can submit your questions for him here at Andi's for submission on Monday. Please ask questions not already asked and do so in the comments, per her request. My own advice remains to keep it rational, reasonable, and polite -- which does not rule out asking hard questions.

As I noted here in the comments, this smells to me. First, I have questions about due diligence. In any business decision, there are various elements of due diligence. Most apply it to the financial end, but true due diligence involves looking at non-financial obligations, good will, and impacts. Second, I have questions about the process of the lease renewal/non-renewal. There are some conflicting reports, but generally such things are handled openly and reasonable efforts are made to keep everyone updated so that whatever happens does so in a reasonable and orderly manner. I will note that giving a two-week notice of non-renewal of a lease is not something nice, and is most especially something you don't do unless you are trying to use the rotary connector to attach someone to a wall. Not nice, and a couple of the reports are such that I want to know about the process. Third, I want to know when Hilton began to truly care about the veterans and the dinners. I have a strong suspicion, though I will say that I hope I am wrong.

Given my concerns, my questions are as follows:

1. Was the impact to the veterans considered as a part of due diligence in the decision not to renew the lease?

2. There are reports that indicate that during the lease renewal process, the owners of Fran O'Brien's were told that a new lease was being developed, then no information, then a two-week notice. Is this accurate, and if not, please describe the steps taken to keep the parties informed?

3. Is a two-week notice of non-renewal of a lease standard procedure for Hilton Corporation? If not, what is the normal period of notice?

4. When, precisely, did planning begin to keep hosting the veterans?

5. When, precisely, did Hilton reach out to WRAMC and/or the Assistant SecDef?

6. Was anyone with corporate communications/public relations involved in this decision prior to it getting publicity?

7. Who from corporate communications/public relations and legal were involved in reviewing and/or vetting the answers to these questions?

8. Was this a local business decision, i.e. made by you or within the management of the Capital Hilton; or, was this decision made on a corporate level? If the latter, where in the corporate hierarchy was this decision made?

9. When was the decision made?

It will be interesting to see what answers are received. Go on over, read the questions there, and add your own. Keep it reasonable, and pour it on. Fire for effect.

LW

The Private Body Armor Ban

Also posted at Blackfive

By now, probably most of you have seen this story about the Army banning the use of privately purchased body armor. Three key points in the story are, of course, almost at the bottom. The Army has asked Pinnacle to provide 30 sets for independent testing, which the company will be able to provide in May; previous small-scale testing was "disappointing"; and, it also notes that more than $800k has been provided to Pinnacle in funding to develop improved armor. Pity that this information could not be brought up before the end...

When I saw the story last night, I asked some people to provide me with some thoughts. One of whom I think highly said:

"First of all, the Army really doesn't have much of a choice but to put out a policy like that for a couple of reasons. First of all, unlike the enemy we face today, we wear uniforms and adhere to the rules of war as outlined by the Geneva convention and to remain in uniform the Army has to establish guidelines. More importantly, the Army has an inherent responsibility to protect and take care of its soldiers. If they allow Joe to wear whatever body armor he/she wishes and it should fail in combat, the public and press would have a field day with the Army for not properly protecting their kids. The article mentions a new Dragon Skin armor that is very appealing to soldiers, especially SF guys (I'm told from some of my SF friends) because it allows for much more mobility. What needs to be fixed is the system by wear the Army tests and appropriates these new technologies to make it quicker and more efficient.

... the Army has to err on the side of caution to protect your soldiers and just because the Dragon Skin might be popular with the boots on the ground, doesn't mean that it'll protect them when it matters."

For those interested, there is a good deal of information about attempts to reform the military procurement system, as well as changes, available at Winds of Change. In this case, it appears that Army procurement has been moving to deal with this situation, and not all the delays can be laid at their doorstep.

We can but hope that all parties will expedite as much as possible, and also know that the efforts to help give our troops the best possible protection are continuing unabated.

LW

Dec. 7

We remember. May more remember the lessons of the day...

LW

To All Our Veterans

Thank you.

You left your comfortable homes
You left behind that softer world
For marching, drill, and kit
For rules and days with bugles lit
For barracks and grounds and rounds

So that others could peaceably sleep
in beds soft and sweet
You stood post in the cold
on hard grounds untold

In peace and in war you have stood
between the darkness and homes warm hearth

So well have so many served that today many fail to see, much less appreciate, the job done so well. To be honest, I am around people every day who look down upon those who serve. Who refuse to acknowledge or even consider that they can spout off -- even complete and utter nonsense -- without fear of true repression only because of the sacrifices made by those who's shoes they are not fit to clean.

To every man, woman, and child who has served in the U.S. military since the very beginning, my thanks to you. Because you have stood your watch, and made your sacrifice, we enjoy the sweet fruits of liberty in a way that the majority of the world still does not.

LW

NOTE: Yes, children. Study your history as children have fought as everything from Navy powder monkeys (as young as five if memory serves) to infantry. Some of our greatest soldiers lied about their age to get in. And just for the record, you will find that some who have served lied about their gender to do so too -- just check out the Civil War for a few examples... Each and every one of them, man, woman, and child has more balls, honor, and integrity than all of the anti-military types put together.

Happy Birthday USMC!

Go wish the Marines a Happy Birthday and go wish both Eric and the Marines Happy Birthday here.

To my Marine friends around today: Happy Birthday!

To my Dad, his friends, and friends of mine passed: Absent Friends

They shall finds the streets of Heaven guarded by United States Marines...

LW

A Visit To Walter Reed

Go read.

LW

Thought And Prayer Time

Reading Army Wife Toddler Mom this morning, I found that Soldier's Mom's son received a serious spinal injury in a VBIED attack. The update is that waging "spiritual warfare" as Blackfive phrased it has paid off. There is still a long ways to go, so keep SPC Noah Pincusoff and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

LW

National Airborne Day

Okay, I am a day late, but that does not mean you should not check out the wonderful posts at Blackfive. Start with the proclamation, then check out the various airborne posts he has done, then peruse the great list of Airborne bloggers he has up, then the the original Blackfive photo, and finally one of my favorite photos as it combines Airborne with appropriate Old Media commentary. Check it out.

LW

Russian Sub: News On A Saturday

Okay, semi-breaking the rule for Saturdays for a public service announcement. For a number of reasons I will not be commenting much on this story, but will say that I agree with Chap and that I think Instapundit got it flat wrong. If you want to know what is going on, go to the experts.

The single best source is Ultraquiet No More, a milblog for submariners.

Other milblogs covering include Chapomatic and Indepundit/Citizen Smash.

The best Old Media coverage appears to be Interfax. Itar-Tass also has regular updates.

Good thoughts go out to the crew of the sub, their families, and for all involved in this rescue effort. Keep them all in your thoughts and prayers.

LW

UPDATE: Instapundit steals, shoots, SCORES! And I add a belated link to the good coverage at Gateway Pundit.

UPDATE II: Baldilocks is covering this as well.

UPDATE III: MosNews is reporting the sub has been ordered to surface, but there is still a good bit of confusion. Let us all hope for the best.

Food For Thought: A Personal Story Of Hiroshima

My Dad's family was large, very large. It took my grandfather two wives (the family joke is that the first one died of exhaustion/self-defense), but by the time he blew his brains out at the start of the Great Depression (a story well worth telling one day), there were eight boys and seven girls. Of the males, at least one served in WWI, and at least four served in WWII, including Dad and my uncle Foster.

Foster was the baby of the family, and by many accounts a bit spoiled. I can't really speak to that, for I did not know him then and mostly know that Dad (and others) were a bit protective of him. Even after he was grown. I do know that Foster and I both had a thing for Chinese food and flight. WWII saw Foster follow that dream, and become a pilot in the U.S. Navy flying attack planes.

As regular readers may remember, Dad was a Marine, having served a hitch in the 30s well before war loomed. Back in, he got out of a suicide assignment by becoming the bodyguard and orderly to Admiral Raymond A. Spruance. As a "Buck Sgt." he also led the Admiral's marine detail though only in real rank a corporal. Didn't matter, as when the Admiral said jump they all jumped, and all loved him enough to work hard to take care of him. In turn, the Admiral was known a time or two to take care of them.

Towards the end of the war, Dad was home in Macon, Georgia, on a very rare leave. The leave had some time to run, but that changed with the arrival of a telegram ordering Dad to report to the U.S.S. Indianapolis (oft used by the Admiral as his flagship because of its speed) in three days time. It seems the Admiral was up to something and wanted Dad there. I rather doubt the Admiral specified the three days, because unlike Rear Echelon Mother F.... (REMFs) and other such life forms, he was both intelligent and had sense.

Three days in a nation without interstates, without the massive air transport network we have today, without high-speed and dedicated rail links. Even with the priorities that came with the telegram, it was impossible even though Dad left not long after getting the telegram. It took longer than three days, but was as fast as could be done in that day and age. Never mind, Dad was arrested and threatened with court martial by a REMF for not doing the impossible. Fortunately, Dad got word to Admiral Spruance of what was going on, and the situation was resolved (possibly with one or more REMFs being awarded new orifices, do wish I could have watched) and Dad released.

The Admiral had some very specific orders for Dad, though he could not say why he wanted Dad (and no one else) doing them. There was a large crate in one of the seaplane hangars on the Indianapolis, very securely chained down to the deck. There was a red line ten feet around it. Dad was introduced to an Army officer, who was authorized to cross the line. Dad, and his team, were then introduced to the very few people other than the Army officer allowed to cross the line. Anyone else crossing the line by so much as an inch was to be shot and killed on the spot. No exceptions. No explanations. Just a clear and unambiguous order.

Like all good Marines, Dad said "Yes Sir!" and set up the watches. The Indianapolis left port once, and came back because of a submarine sighting. They left again, the throttles were tied down, and they set a transit record reaching Hawai'i. They then did the same thing going to Tinian.

In those days, creature comfort was not a priority for warships, or any ships for that matter. According to Dad, Marine Country was well below water line and hot as hell. To his dying day, he would claim that his sleeping on top of the crate with a .45 had all to do with it being cooler, not the special cargo and the words of his Admiral. It was for his comfort that he slept there, being awakened when the duty guard needed to hit the head, got sleepy, or just wanted company. Yep, creature comfort on top of a hard crate with loads of chains. Yeah. Right.

When they arrived at Tinian, the bustle around the crate was quite something, with lots of brass involved. In short, normal procedures and such went away in the rush and confusion, with the result that Dad and the Admiral's Marines were still onboard as the Indianapolis began departing. Fortunately, the Admiral once again caught the detail (not clear if Dad may have somehow gotten word to him despite ongoing radio blackout) and had his Detail returned to him. They went over the side down cargo nets to a special (Admiral's?) barge that came alongside as the ship cleared the harbor. They rejoined their Admiral, and the Indianapolis had its rendezvous with destiny but a few handful of hours later.

A while later, Dad was engaged in the time honored tradition of all bodyguards and orderlies and looking semi-discretely over Admiral Spruance's shoulder. He saw the pictures of the cloud and the results, and he admitted to me later that despite all efforts he made his face must have been a sight. The Admiral put down the pictures, laughed, and turned to Dad to say "Now you know what you were sleeping on."

From a small aside Dad made to me one time, I have the impression that Admiral Spruance sort of thanked Dad for his reaction, for giving him something to laugh about, for laughter is oft the best way to deal with something so overwhelming. For the atomic bomb did indeed overwhelm, not just targets but political and military thinking as well. It still does, and needs must we continue to think about the unthinkable given the war we are in today.

Uncle Foster is why I have no problem with dropping that bomb, the one my Dad slept on and guarded during those interesting times. Foster had long joked that if he and his crew died, it would be because of him. The joke was that it would be because he screwed up navigation (you try finding a postage stamp in the middle of an ocean). The truth was that his plane was hit by the fierce anti-aircraft fire that responded to one of the last conventional naval aviation attacks against Japan. We don't know, we will never know, exactly what happened. His crew could have been wounded, they could have been dead, or, they could have been alive and unable to do anything. The one thing we do know from witnesses is that his plane was hit, and it crashed in a manner indicating a pilot dead or unconscious thrown forward onto the controls. There is no record of the Japanese finding any bodies or taking any prisoners, and Foster's mates indicated to Dad that if any were still alive when they hit that they did not survive the crash.

I will never know if we shared more than a ready grin, a love of Chinese food (and more), and a delight in flight. Was he the spoiled and arrogant brat some describe, or was he much more than that? Did he change and how did he change from being a boy into a man? No one, not I, will ever know. Nor will the families and friends of his crew know their loved ones as well.

Despite revisionism, the intel of the day suggested a very strong defense of the home islands, with a million or more casualties to take them. From things that have come out later, portions of that defense were even more fanatical than originally estimated. Some portions may have fallen easily, but others most certainly would not have.

A million or so Fosters, each affecting a much larger number of others: wives, children, parents, uncles, aunts, friends, and co-workers. No, we made no mistake dropping the bomb, for it spared millions. If the revisionists were correct in all their claims, then surrender would have come immediately, not after a second bomb. The only mistake we made was not in rubbing the collected noses of Japan into their excesses as we did that of the Germans. For that misguided "kindness" has allowed a much worse revisionism to flourish, and the truth of medical experiments to make Mengele blush, the rape of Nanking, and so much more to be buried and denied.

Yes, many died when The Bomb fell, yet how many more would have died and suffered had it not? Hindsight is always 20-20, and no matter the public face when you make a decision like that questions will find you in the night. I speak not for those who made the decision to drop, for that belongs to them. I have engaged in debates, discussions, and more, and simply offer up the idea that had they not done so, might worse things have come later because no one saw the reality of what happened when they were used? Ignorance of consequences rarely leads to bliss.

Ultimately, though, it all comes down to Foster. I would have loved to have known this man, even were he a complete and utter cad. Because of the bomb, a million plus Fosters got to come home. Though part of me is sad at what happened to make it so, I am also so very glad that they got to do so, and for those that got to know them.

This day, remember all.

LW

All The Best!

Go over and congratulate two wonderful people as they start a new life together. Take two weeks Doc, we understand and approve. May the light shine on you both, light the path you walk together, and add to the warmth of the love you share.

LW

A Caption Contest

ROFASix has this wonderful picture, found courtesy of Watch Your Six and the Pilsbury Dough Boy always wonderful Blackfive. The picture deserves a caption, so I hope you will leave a few here. My own entries are:

"Holy Cow! A three-second burst is waaaaay too much for a single cat!"

"Oh S**T, I just blew up the dog biscuit supply!!"

And yours are???

LW

Happy Birthday Chesty

T1G reminds me of a special birthday. Go read, and then read some more.

Happy Birthday Chesty, wherever you are. Say hi to Dad for me.

LW

A Different Thought On Lt. Pantano

Blackfive links to a different take from the norm. I have not commented on this case because others were doing it well and because of insufficient data. It was clear that the murder charges should never have been filed, however, and I am glad he was cleared.

The murder charges are the basis for my own different take. To have them pushed as hard and as far makes me want to start a betting pool. What do you want to bet that one (or more) of the people involved use them as a basis for running for DA or a judicial seat? As in "see how tough I was and that is how tough I will be here" type thing. Wonder if we can start a pool in Vegas on this...

LW

D-Day: Remembrance

It was 61 years ago today that the liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany truly began. Go check out Blackfive's D-Day Blogburst from last year for a number of truly outstanding posts. My own entry, with error noted, is here and includes links to many of the other posts. A lighter note is here.

Remember them all, and honor the sacrifice made this day.

LW

Memorial Day

Today we remember those who have fought over the years so that we are free to celebrate this day. Those who by their service, and even by their deaths, make possible posts such as these; who have made possible the debates/hystrionics that are the hallmark of the modern Congress; who have allowed those who scream about the jackboot of oppression and modern Nazi's to do so without discovering the real meaning of same; and, who have made it possible for freedom's sweet ring to spread to the dark places of the world. Where once there was darkness, today there is light where there was none and the gleaming of a new and better dawn in so many more.

The price they have paid has been of blood, toil, tears, and sweat. It may simply have been serving their time, or, it may well have been a far greater sacrifice. Read this moving post to get some idea of the ultimate price, and its aftermath.

Take the time to thank them all. There are less than 30 veterans of WWI left, and the number of WWII veterans dwindles each day. Acidman notes the passing of Eddie Albert. I wonder how many people know he served in WWII, and even earned the Bronze Star for rescuing wounded Marines at Tarawa? Korea and Vietnam vets dwindle too... Take the time today, and every day, to thank a vet because without them, there would be no vestige of freedom left this day.

Thank them. Then help spread the light of freedom around the world, to honor them for their service and to help do yours.

LW

Memorial Day: Doing Good

This Memorial Day Weekend, take the time to do some good for the people who have fought, and are fighting, so that you can have this holiday weekend.

As for me, if you scroll down on the right you will find a graphic for Soldier's Angels. I can't say enough good about that organization and the wonderful people within it. Blackfive has a good list of ways to help as well.

Take the time. Help them out, and if you know a veteran thank them for their service.

LW

American Soldier Needs Your Help

Over at Citizen Smash's place the other day, I learned that American Soldier faces a rather terrifying battle. Go on over there and wish him well, for he needs all the good thoughts and prayers he can get right now.

LW

ALERT: Phony Casualty Officers Scamming Military Spouses

BOLO two males posing as a Marine and a Sailor, scamming or trying to scam the spouses of those serving in Iraq.

Blackfive has the details.

While I am tempted to use Mischa's "rope, tree, some assembly required" line here, they probably should be turned in alive. Note that I do not say good condition, only alive.

Spread the word, and try to make sure that any spouses you know understand how things are really done, so that they won't be taken. I hope that these two try to scam someone who does know, and who arranges a very warm reception for them.

LW

Remembering Windy Two Five

When Teresa was waiting for word on her son, Blackfive was a rock amidst the storm. He even ignored my aspersions about his knobby knees, and kept his eyes on guiding Teresa (and others I suspect) through the process of waiting, and celebrating the news that this son was safe.

Here, Blackfive introduces us to the sons and daughters who were not so lucky, men and women who were, and always will be, soldiers. Go meet these brave people, who died so that others might be free. Keep them and their families in your thoughts in the days ahead.

LW

Eagle Flight

Go read this moving post. Then, remember them and keep them and those left behind in your thoughts.

LW

Good News, And Bad

The good news: Teresa has heard from her son and he is okay.

The bad news: Not all families were as lucky. Take some time this weekend, and in the weeks ahead, to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Go make a donation to Soldier's Angels or any of the other fine groups who look after the wounded and those left behind. Honor their sacrifice.

LW

Waiting Hell Update

The good news is that CaliValleyGirl has heard that her boyfriend is okay. It also means that it is likely that Teresa's son is okay as well, as no notification has been received. Thoughts and prayers continue to be needed, however, for all those not so fortunate. May the light continue to shine upon them all.

LW

Thoughts And Prayers Needed

Teresa of Technicalities and CaliValleyGirl are both in a form of hell right now, the hell of not knowing. All they can do is sit and wait, pray and hope. Please go pay them both a visit, let them know you are thinking of them and wait with them, and send thoughts and prayers their way and to all those who wait for word amidst fear and hope, and for all those who have died.

LW

UAW: Too Little, Too Late

While the matter appears to done, so too is the damage. The world has now seen just how much the UAW really supports the troops. For me, I hope the Marines never park there again under any circumstances, for fair weather friends and sunshine patriots are to be shunned. Also, the Marines need to focus on real things, such as real friends and real threats before they deploy. I wonder if the UAW people responsible realize exactly how much backlash this is generating? I know that even if all is forgiven officially, many of us will never forget it.

LW

On A Happier Note

Go congratulate Greyhawk on his 20. Thank you Sir! Heck, the Shady Lady might have a chance at restoring some semblance of credibility if they did hire you.

LW

Despicable!

When reading this post at Blackfive's I came across a story that raised my hackles and blood pressure. Despicable is far too kind a word for the selectmen of Stewarstown, NH. They have no honor, integrity, or shame and the contempt they have shown to one particular serving member of the Armed Forces is nothing compared to the contempt I have for them, and for any who would have them serve and represent them. Those far-from-select types deserve nothing less than complete and utter approbation from those in the town, and from any Citizen of this Republic. If the Citizens of that town do not have a mechanism for removal, they need to get one now and implement it. Otherwise, they too should be shunned by all, male or female, who hold themselves as Honorable Men and responsible Citizens. At least one Old Media outlet gets it, and I hope that Weekend Pundit will continue to keep us updated on this story, and the intellectually and ethically challenged beings behind it. I do wish that the Soldier involved would simply say to them "Ave Emperator! Ti Morturi Puricamus!" Not sure I have the spelling quite right, but it is close. That, and the dust of his boots, are all they deserve, and less than they should get.

LW

Good Hospiblogging: Chapomatic

Chap and the wife are doing the good side of hospiblogging: she is in labor. Go on over and wish them well. May things go well, and may the light shine down on this new life with health, happiness, and all manner of good things!

LW

UPDATE: We have a Launch! Congratulations to all.

With A Killer Rabbit Logo?

I would suggest Bun-Bun, but figure he would do more than beat me up for so doing. Meantime, this story is causing my head to hurt from the boggle, and my sides to hurt from the laughing.

LW

A Blurred Line

I first saw this story at Michelle Malkin's site, but then found two of my favorite MilBlogger's picking up on it. Mudville Gazette has a good roundup of the story of a Marine Lt. who was charged well after the fact with murder. So well after the fact that it has been almost a year since the incident, which was reported to higher command and cleared at the time it happened. Mudville also asks some good questions, some of which were ones I had upon reading the story. Neptunus Lex also has some good thoughts and coverage and I love his ending. This story has importance beyond the obvious, and is one to watch -- and best through the eyes of MilBloggers who can most accurately translate and interpret. To echo Lex, let the truth out.

LW

Go Sign The Card

As pointed out by The Commissar, go sign a card to go to our troops. We need to get the numbers way up on this folks, and now.

LW

Be Careful What "Slick" Comes...

Signal understood, just be careful that it is a slick coming in and not a Slick W...

LW
having a hard time not laughing his tail off...

Go Read

You need to go read this post. In fact, go read all the posts there. Courtesy of Blackfive, of course. Then, go read this post at Blackfive that shares the writings of a task force commander. Take your time, and think about it. If you are media, take it to heart.

LW

Russia & China, I Wonder

Backcountry Conservative has an interesting post about joint military maneuvers to be held next year. Sounds like some flexing of political and military muscle, as well as a chance for China to semi-test-drive some advanced weapons they are expected to purchase. The nasty suspicious side of me wonders if some of these games might not include practice at a sea blockade of an island and preventing interdiction/intervention by outside forces...

LW

Sgt. Hook: Please Do Not Go

I have read what Sgt. Hook indicates is his final entry. While I understand his reasoning, and even sympathize with things, I would like to offer the following:

1. You have made one mistake out of hundreds of fine posts. From your writings, I know that you always give others multiple chances and plenty of opportunity to learn from their mistakes and do better. Please give yourself that as well. If shutting down is the only way to appease the hurt feelings, or to ground problems with the Brass, then I understand. If it is not, then you shortchange yourself, your men, and us.

2. If this is indeed the last post, then no matter what, I want to say thank you. Thank you for giving myself and others insight into Army life. Thank you for giving a glimpse into a world, and in the process teaching a number of extremely important life lessons. This work has educated, illuminated, and challenged every reader to hit your site. You have shown the life of the enlisted man in a new way, and made such as real as possible to your readers. You have also shown the lives of those that serve but by waiting and keeping the home fires burning. You have shown the sacrifices they make every day, the hopes they have, and the fear and anxiety under which they must bear as their loved ones are in harms way. Top, your posts have been excellent, and thank you is not enough to express all I feel for all you have done. But it is all I have, so I say again

Thank you.

LW

Something Odiferous

I've posted here and here on Lance Corporal Kyle Renehan. Words never seem enough, and I ask that the light shine on his family and friends in the days ahead, to warm them with good memories and love, and light the path they now must walk.

Yesterday, I was sent a request for a link from a blog written by a Renehan. This blog has a post up about the loss, and insults (condescending as hell is another term that could be used) both the man and the war. I checked with Beth and the "published author" behind the blog is NOT an immediate family member, and they do not know who it is. Legalities forbid me to say what I think of any person who could and would use the death of a soldier this way, as do my rules of rational discourse and use of offensive language. Suffice it to say I have no respect for them whatsoever, and I will not link to their site and pander to their need to feed whatever problem it is that they have. I mention this so that no one gets the mistaken idea that this despicable action has any connection to the family of this brave and thoughtful soldier.

LW

It Was A Quiet Morning

The workday was just getting underway. Coffee and/or breakfast was the order of the day for many, some lucky few were sleeping in. There was no warning, for vital intelligence had been missed, or had not been shared between competing agencies and organizations.

The planes screamed in and the dying began. There were several waves and multiple targets, and pilots gloated as they identified theirs and bored in. There was little that could be done for defense, and only a few intercept planes even made it into the air, but all that could be done was done.

Amidst the debris, heat, and flames, the firefighters and rescuers moved in, knowing that they could and would die as the flames spread and the world came crashing down. Duty drove them, as it did many that day, and all too many paid the ultimate price for freedom that day.

The attack ended, and the recovery began. A stunned nation watched and waited for all too few survivors to be found in the wreckage, and mourned as the bodies and parts of bodies came forth. Many bodies were never found, nor pieces large enough to identify, and familes lived with the horror of never having certainty from a final coming home.

December 7, 1941 is indeed a date that lives in infamy. It was a day of heroism, tragedy, incompetence, and incomparable efforts far above the normal call to duty. September 11, 2001 is indeed a date that lives in infamy. It too was a day of heroism, tragedy, incompetence, and incomparable efforts far above the normal call to duty.

December 7, 1941 was a clarion call for my parent’s generation. It awoke the country from its internal gaze, and awakened it to the evil spreading in the world. An evil that could no longer be ignored, for it now threatened hearth and home. That generation rose to meet the challenge, and did what it had to do. September 11, 2001 was our clarion call, and we do what we have to do.

There are many parallels between the two, and they bear a great deal of thought. Today, however, is a day to remember the sacrifice that came before and the blood price paid.

If you go to Hawai’i, take the time to go to Pearl Harbor. Some of the remaining survivors are still there as guides, as living history presentations, and as a challenge to all who come after. Do as I did and cross the waves. Stare down at the tomb below, rusting quietly beneath the waves, and watch the small drops of oil that continue to rise from tanks last filled before that day. Take the time to read the names, and honor them all. Salute also those that have chosen to come back to be with their comrades, to lie beneath the waves with those from whom they were separated that day.

But don’t stop there. Go to the Punchbowl and see the names there. Walk up the grand staircase and read the cenotaphs on the right, then on the left on your way down. Read the names of those who’s bodies were never found. Walk in peace among the graves, and thank them for that peace and the freedom to visit and live.

Remember long and remember hard the blood price paid, and the down payment made this very day. For at dawn we were indeed asleep, never knowing the burden we would shoulder that day. As we move to continue to shoulder our burden, remember those who shouldered theirs on this their day. Remember their stories, remember their lives, remember that they paid for our freedom with their lives.

LW

Rand has some related thoughts. John of Argghhh! also has some related thoughts and a great list of other Dec. 7 posts. Val, as always, has a good post and good links. Sgt. Hook has it concise. Der Commissar has two good posts up. Backcountry Conservative has a good roundup too. You really need to read the essay that is part of Blackfive's post.

Want To Help Coalition Troops?

If so, Blogfather Joe has updated and reposted his extensive list for all troops. Go take a look and do what you can.

LW

A Moving Tribute

There were many excellent posts about Veterans and Veteran's Day. One, however, caught my attention because of the self-honesty involved, and the fact that the person had the courage to post it despite any potential embarassment. We all do foolish things as children. What matters, is what we do as we mature. This post, says a heck of a lot good about the poster and provides some good food for thought for us all. Thanks for sharing it with us, Val.

LW

To Our Veterans

Thank you. For your service; for your blood, sweat, tears, and toil; for giving of life and limb; for sacrifices small and above the call of duty; and, for standing forth against the dark so that hearthlights shine bright in our homes.

To The Families Of Our Veterans

Thank you. For all the sacrifices you make and the support you give.

Thank you all. Because of you, we have our freedoms.

Remember all that freedom is never free. Thank a veteran for paying the price.

LW

A Belated Happy Birthday

Goes out to the United States Marine Corps. Semper Fi!

LW

Fantastic News To Share

I am not surprised in the least to find out that the leadership of the Army did something very right, and have decided to promote Sgt. Hook to Sergeant Major Hook. This is a man I much admire, and am honored that he reads me often. Top, the honor is indeed mine, and undeserved, but appreciate it. They did something right this time, and I'm very glad it came your way. Go on over and congratulate him!

LW

You Need To Read This

Right now. Go here and read this. The F word is there in abundance, but so is a moving story and some of the best damn writing around. Those voting need to be sure to read the last paragraph. I meant to post this sooner, and really should have, but it is up now. Take the time and read it now.

LW

Buy A Beer For A Soldier

Go here now and help slake a thirst.

LW

About Time

As always, the devil will be in the details but it past time to change our positioning around the world. We no longer have the threat of the Soviet Union dictating our positions in Europe, and there is no reason that we should continue to shoulder the burden. There are new challenges that face us, a new world situation, and only idiots or politicians with strong vested interests, would say otherwise. I think this a great idea, and eagerly await the details so that they can be analyzed and decided upon in a rational and reasonable manner. Given politics, that is a stretch, but it is a goal worth shooting for.

LW

My War Continues

The excellent My War apparently will continue, which is great news. He is a diamond in the not too rough, and a voice that needs to be heard. Send encouragment his way, and get view from inside events by reading the blog.

LW

Go Support My War

The soldier behind the blog My War is considering quitting. He is far too good a writer to do this, especially since his command has made clear that they want him to continue. So, go give him a visit, leave a comment, or send an e-mail of support. Any of you who are military and can help explain exactly how much they want him to continue based on his description of the interview with his BC, please do so. We need a lot more like him, in every respect and not just in terms of blogging.

LW

Quote Of The Week

Kathy has it as the Quote Of The Day, but I think it is better than that. So I am stealing it from her to post here:

"America has been in too many wars for any of our wishes, but not a one of them was won by being sensitive." Dick Cheney.

All too true. Thanks Mr. Vice President. And thanks again Kathy. This made my morning.

LW

A Clean Exit Strategy

The good Sgt. Hook has an excellent post up on the need for a clean exit strategy. While I agree with his post, there are some areas deserving of some scrubbing.

Welcome Home Cpt. Patti!

Go get the news here, and I hope we see nothing else posted for a week or two. They deserve a lot of time together, and need to take it for themselves. Glad you made it back safe and sound! Thanks to Tammi for the heads-up on this one.

LW

Gmail For The Troops

Jim K. at Right Thoughts has taken the idea of getting free Gmail for the troops and is running with it. Go check it out, and join in this effort.

LW

Iran Seizes British Navy Ships?

News flash just out, stating that Iran has seized three Royal Navy ships that allegedly entered its territorial waters, and arrested the sailors on board. Stay tuned.

LW

Operation Shoe Fly Underway

Okay, go here and do all that you can. Plan to see this on a regular basis until the job is done.

LW

D-Day + 60 Years: The Maskirova

This post is part of Blackfive, the Paratrooper of Love's D-Day Blogburst Armada. Please go check out all the wonderful posts being done as a part of this effort. Also, take the time to thank Blackfive for coming up with this idea and making it a reality. And thanks to Greyhawk for the great graphic!

Any good deception plan operates on several levels and through as many channels as possible. Two crucial parts to the D-Day plan were: General George Patton and false intelligence done as part of Fortitude/Fortitude South

D-Day: A Slightly Lighter Note

It is hard to imagine that anyone has not seen the movie The Longest Day. Today it will probably be shown on multiple channels. Take the time to watch it, and look for what I think/suspect was a wonderful piece if revenge. In the movie, a German officer – Pluskat – and his “hund” go forward to the defenses at Normandy to check things out. His reaction to the ships, and the shelling, provide some comic relief to the movie. Especially delightful is the contrast between Pluskat at the coffee/tea sipping officer comfortably ensconced well away from the front. Now, pay attention to the credits, and note who is a technical advisor. You’ve got it: Pluskat. He survived the war, and helped with the film. I rather strongly suspect that some of the portrayals of the people above him in the chain of command was a bit of his way of expressing how he felt and getting a bit of revenge. The man apparently had no problem with his portrayal, having a pretty good sense of humor about himself. Besides, it also made those same superiors look pretty foolish… What better way to get back at them, than to make them look foolish to millions of people across many generations.

LW

Midway

Yesterday was the 62nd anniversary of the start of the Battle of Midway. I missed it, but Smash did not. Go check it out, as it was the pivotal battle of the Pacific Theatre in WWII. I also tend to credit it with keeping my Dad alive, but that is a different story…

LW

Securing A Building

This is stolen from an e-mail newsletter I get, and it shows how each service views the concept of securing a building:

If you tell the Navy to secure a building,
they'll turn out the lights and lock the door.

If you tell the Army to secure a building, they'll
occupy it and forbid entry to anyone without a pass.

If you tell the Marines to secure a building,
they'll assault with heavy machine-gun fire,
capture the building, fortify it, and call-in for air strikes.

If you tell the Air Force to secure a building,