Let's Play Fair

Most of my friends know I grew up in the Florida Panhandle (Pensacola area for my International friends) and still have family and friends in the area. I experienced firsthand several hurricanes that impacted the Gulf Coast as well as numerous tornadoes living in North Alabama—including the outbreak of APR 2011.

I have gone without electricity, clean water, gasoline, etc numerous times while waiting for “help”. It is no fun. At first, you are just thankful to be alive and you still have most of your belongings and only minimal storm damage to your property. Thankfully, I have never lost a primary residence or any substantial property loss.

Years ago, I along with the world watched first in horror then in complete rage as fellow Americans were stranded on rooftops, or wading through waist-deep contaminated water to seek help. We saw thousands of people literally dying of thirst because there was no fresh water to be found. I remember watching Shepherd Smith on Fox News reporting with passion and anger saying someone needs to get these people some help. It was frustrating sitting in the comfort of my home and not being able to help those who so desperately needed help.

We remember the now infamous photo of “Bush’s Flyover” as he surveyed the destruction from Air Force One. He was portrayed by the media as disconnected and uncaring as if he was both figuratively and literally above it all. What many did not know then and refuse to acknowledge now, is Bush and his team chose not to be a hindrance to the first responders. When the POTUS visits an area, a lot of resources are used to ensure his safety. Roadways are blocked, hospitals are secured, fire/rescue units mirror the POTUS’ movements and LEOs from different agencies are pulled from normal activities to direct traffic, clear areas, and provide outer rings of security.

Several days later during a live event “A Concert for Hurricane Relief” simulcast on multiple stations, Kanye West rants about the lack of support and stated, “George Bush does not care about black people”. He had every right to say what he wanted, regardless of the level of truth it contained.

Contrast the events of Katrina (2005) to Sandy (2012); there is video after video of white people crying and begging for fuel, electricity, and water. Mayor Blumberg told the President, “Thanks, but no thanks” when POTUS suggested he wanted to make a Storm Stop in NYC. Why did the Mayor say no? Because of the same reason, President Bush did not want to land and walk through the affected areas. It disrupts the rescue and recovery efforts. You do not want your limited resources used in an ineffective and inefficient manner. Where are the Left of-Center entertainers now? Should they not be saying “Barak Obama does not care about white people”?

Victims affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Could both national emergencies have been handled differently? Yes. I thought from the mistakes learned from Katrina, the Federal government had a better idea of prepositioning supplies and duplicate distribution chains. Something has gone wrong. There are people who cannot get to work. There are people that cannot get medicines. There are people who cannot heat their homes. All of this in the city that represents USA’s successes—New York City. The Left deflects this and falls back on “Global Warming” which has now become “Man-made Climate Change”. Well, that is beyond the scope of this writing, but where is the outrage from the Left?

Let’s play fair.

I Want to Know

I am not one who believes the POTUS should have served in the military to be a more effective Commander-in-Chief. I prefer they have served in uniform because they are afforded the opportunity to understand camaraderie and can experience firsthand, what being a member of a team feels like.

From the very first day of Boot Camp, we are taught we must trust the Marine (Soldier, Sailor, Airman) to our left and right because they and our training are all we have. They will watch your back, treat your wounds, and if necessary bring your body home. The movies love to show the lone warrior dodging incoming mortars, diving for cover, and maybe even sustaining a wound, just to get his buddy’s body. We are taught to run towards the gunfire, to protect those who need protection, and to help those under fire. The thought of hearing your buddies cry out in agony while still maintaining fire discipline trying to hold out until help—you—arrive, serves as a motivator. Those same cries easily turn to torment, if you do not get there in time. You second guess your every action, attempting to determine what you could have done, to get there before they died.

I do not know how it was in Benghazi, but I can imagine Ambassador Chris Stevens and Sean Smith running for their lives into what they thought was a location secure enough to hold out until help arrived. They probably reassured themselves, maybe even picking up items that could be used as weapons. A mile away, former USN SEAL Tyrone Woods hears the mortars and small arms fire and wants to go help them—to run towards the gunfire. He is told No. Stand Down. He asks again, and a third time. Each time he was told No. Stand Down. Disobeying orders, he and a small group of men go to help. They recover Sean Smith’s body but cannot find Amb. Stevens. During the fight, Tyrone Woods is killed. A while later, a second former USN SEAL, Glen Doherty is also killed trying to help his countrymen. During it all, everyone is calling for help. Help that is denied. They are told No. Stand Down.

Body of Ambassador Chris Stevens.

This attack was not a surprise—it was expected. In the previous six months, two different attacks were made on US soil. Ambassador Stevens made multiple requests for more help. He was denied. Why did he not have more protection before 9/11? Why were requests to help denied during the attack? Who told Amb. Rice, Jay Carney, and Sec State Clinton to say this was a result of a video? There are too many questions, yet this administration believes they do not have to answer. Even worse, most of the mainstream media is refusing to ask questions. As an American citizen, I want to know. Do you? It is my opinion his campaign made the decision(s) relating to Benghazi because if they acknowledged there was a threat, then al-Qaeda is not on the run. Please remember the same president who was quick to spike the ball after the SEALs' actions in Abbottabad is the same president who was even quicker to punt the ball when the SEALs needed his action in Benghazi. Again, I do not know what happened, but I want to know. Do you?

Perhaps if President Obama had spent time in the Service or at least in the uniform of a Little League Baseball team, he might have some understanding of what it means to belong to a group of people who depend on each other. He might have some idea that Commander-in-Chief is not a title that is easily thrown around in a manner to build his self-esteem, but rather is a title that burdens even the strongest of men. Mr. President, please tell us what happened. I want to know.

Cheers!

Last night while watching ET, there was a segment about the cast of Cheers reuniting for a dinner celebrating the 30^th anniversary of the premier episode (30 SEP 82). Cheers has always been one of my favorite shows, as well as its spin-off Fraiser. I could watch them every night and on some nights when I am up late, I do.

Anyway, while watching the segment I started thinking back through years—those fleeting images, the black and white photos in my mind’s photo album—to that time 30 years ago. I missed the first several episodes; when the show premiered I was six days from claiming the title of MARINE from the REAL Marine Corps Recruit Depot on Parris Island. It was not until mid-OCT at 29 Palms MGAGCC, that I caught part of an episode on a small color TV in the barracks’ common area. I do not remember much about it, but do remember watching the show after the Christmas break and quickly loved the show. It became part of my “Must See TV” on the Thursday night lineup.

What was it about this show that on its final episode pulled in over 40,000,000 viewers (20 MAY 93)? What was it about this show that became America’s watering hole?

Perhaps, it was the opening photo montage of early 20th-century bar patrons accompanied by the show’s theme song. It immediately put us at ease. We learned that our problems are neither unique or are they new. What we are experiencing today has been happening to others for a long time. This provides us a feeling of familiarity and we can identify with others. We know the characters that sidle up the bar. How many of us waited for Norm to walk through the door and shouted “NORM!” with the other bar patrons? Honestly, who hasn’t wanted to find their very own special hangout, “where everybody knows your name”? We could all identify with one or more of the characters and the storylines and knew that no matter how bad the problem, it could all be resolved in 22 minutes. Didn’t we all feel better after watching?

The show tackled topical political and social events with irreverence yet tactful humor that forced us to think about the issues, while still allowing us to laugh. Along the way, there were cast changes and additions to several notable guest stars; do you remember the episodes?  Local Sports Figures Wade Boggs (Red Sox) and Kevin McHale (Celtics). Television Hosts Arsenio Hall, Dick Cavett, Johnny Carson and Alex Trebek. Government Officials ADM William J. Crowe (Chairman, JCS), Tip O’Neill (Speaker of the House), John Kerry (MA Senator), Michael Dukakis (MA Governor), and Gary Hart (CO Senator). Musicians Harry Connick, Jr. and Bobby Hatfield & Bill Medley (The Righteous Brothers). Future TV Stars Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe of Friends) and Michael Richards (Kramer of Seinfeld) and Future Fraiser Stars John Mahoney and Peri Gilpin.

I do not know if the creators understood at the time of their decisions, that the show they created was timeless. The comedy, the writing, the characters, and the storylines are as topical today as they were thirty years ago. From the first chord of the opening of the theme song to the last chord played in the closing credits, the show produced a feeling of instant nostalgia and a sense of camaraderie. It is easy for me to watch the show and be transported back to that time.

So where were you when you first started watching Cheers? What were you doing in the fall of 1982? Scan through those mental snapshots and think back to a much simpler time; a time most of us were just starting our adult journey; a time of fewer problems. To help you go back in time, below are the lyrics to the theme song and a list of events that occurred in 1982. I would love to read your comments. Happy Reminiscing and Cheers!

“Where Everybody Knows Your Name”

Making your way in the world today

Takes everything you got

Taking a break from all your worries

Sure would help a lot

Wouldn’t you like to get away?

Sometimes you wanna go

Where everybody knows your name

And they’re always glad you came

You wanna be where you can see

Our troubles are all the same                             

You wanna be where everybody knows your name

Other Memorable Events for 1982

• EPCOT opens (Come on, does citing this really surprise you?)
• Ma Bell was forced to break up
• Falkland Islands War
• Tylenol poisoning scare
• The word “Internet” was first used to describe the connected computers of ARPANET
• Compact Discs (CDs) introduced
• Space Shuttle Columbia launches for the first time
• Prince William was born
• Graceland opened to the public
• The Cardinals were World Series Champs
• The 49ers were Super Bowl XVI Champs
• We were all saying “Like” (think Valley Girl), “E.T. phone home”
• John Belushi dies
• Michael Jackson releases “Thriller”
• Movies: “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial”, “An Officer and a Gentleman”, “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn”
• TV Shows: “M*A*S*H”, “Magnum, P.I.”, “Falcon Crest”, “Dallas”, “Dynasty”
• Top Songs: “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” by Chicago (18 SEP – 01 OCT), “Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League, “Abracadabra” by The Steve Miller Band, “Jack & Diane” by John Cougar (later known as John Cougar Mellencamp, then John Mellencamp), “Mickey” by Toni Basil,  “Maneater” by Hall & Oates

Sustain the Awe

Like many of my generation, I was saddened yesterday when I learned of the death of Neil Armstrong (25 AUG 12). He became the symbol of a nation that could climb any mountain, move any obstacle, and face any challenge. Even before entering the astronaut program, he demonstrated he had the “right stuff”. He flew 78 combat missions over Korea and even had to “punch out” when his F9F was hit by anti-aircraft fire. He resigned his commission at the age of 22 and later went on to become a test pilot.

Armstrong salutes the US Flag.

Earlier today, I watched Moonshot (again), and I am filled with mixed emotions: pride in all the USA accomplished during the years we had manned space travel, sadness at the loss of an American hero, and a bit concerned that our children will not experience the sense of awe many of us felt late 20 JUL 69 watching the “Eagle” land on the moon on a black and white TV. The mission of Apollo 11, commanded by Neil Armstrong, with Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins had made it to the moon.

Saturn V Rocket at US Space & Rocket Center

Even living in the Rocket City, (Huntsville, AL) home of the Marshall Space Flight Center, Werhner von Braun, and the Saturn V rocket, I wonder if many of the next generation understand the significance and contributions we have gained from manned space exploration. I wonder how many of the children sitting in the classrooms of Columbia and Virgil “Gus” Grissom High Schools, Challenger and Ed White Middle Schools, and Roger Chaffee Elementary School understand the heritage of the schools they attend? What do they think when they drive along I-565 and see the full-scale Saturn V rocket standing high above the U.S. Space and Rocket Center? Do they understand that the cell phone in their hands has more computer power than all the computers on the command module? Do they know that the GPS system they used to go across town was a product of NASA exploration?

The space race brought all Americans together to achieve the mandate given to us by President John F. Kennedy—to put a man on the moon by the end of the decade. There was pride felt around the world as the stars and stripes were planted on the lunar surface and then saluted by Armstrong. Now, after leading the world in manned space exploration, the US does not even have a way to get our astronauts to the International Space Station. (See Note Final Flight originally published to Facebook 08 JUL 11.)

Since its inception in 1958, NASA has given us many, everyday items and a source of many tech transfer products or spinoffs. These include Satellite TV (Dish, Direct), Satellite Navigation (GPS), Thermal Protection Systems (Firefighters and NASCAR), Freeze Dried Food (MREs), Water Filters, Memory foam (mattresses), Scratch resistant lenses (eyeglasses), and Kidney Dialysis Machines. However, the most significant “spinoff” is knowledge, critical thinking skills, and expansive thinking: seeking answers to questions that have eluded us for centuries and even learning of questions we did not know existed.

Several months ago, I watched a program about NASA. Even adjusted for inflation, NASA’s budget is only 850 billion dollars. Yes, that is a lot of money but just compare that to the bailout of 2008: 4 trillion dollars. That is a “4” with twelve zeros (4,000,000,000,000) compared to NASA (850,000,000,000). The budget for FY 2013 is a paltry $17.8 billion. NASA Budget We as a nation should make manned space exploration a priority and continue reaping the benefits of the programs. In my opinion, this should be achieved through both private enterprises and government programs.

We should also not deny the next generations the feelings we shared through both the successes and failures of the past 50+ years of space exploration. Not only did Neil Armstrong leave his footprints on the surface of the moon, but he also left a legacy that transcends ethnicity and nationalities. It was estimated that 1 out of 5 individuals watched as he made that “…one small step for man. One giant leap for mankind.” This was further evidenced in the plaque he and Aldrin left on the moon’s surface. It stated, “Here men from the planet Earth first set foot upon the moon. July 1969 A.D. We came in peace for all mankind.”

Carl Sagan wrote, “Everybody starts out as a scientist. Every child has the scientist’s sense of wonder and awe.” Who knows, perhaps a young boy or girl alive today, will be the first to set foot on a distant planet, and the rest of the world will watch it live on their cell phones. We must sustain the awe.

Final Flight

"Final liftoff of Atlantis, shoulders of the space shuttle; America will continue the dream."

It was a little over 30 years ago (12 APR 81) I watched the Space Transportation System—STS-1 (Columbia) rocket skyward towards the heavens. In addition to the contrails that streaked skyward, its journey marked the beginning of a new era of space travel and demonstrated to the world that the USA maintained its dominance in space exploration. Today, STS-135 (Atlantis) began the final journey that will close this chapter in manned space exploration. It leaves a legacy along with Enterprise (never orbited), Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, and Endeavour. In addition to the cargo, experiments, and astronauts, the Shuttles carried American pride. Their recognizable silhouettes represent a rich history of American tenacity, technology, and triumph. Together they carried 803 crew members into space and returned all but 14. We shall forever be indebted to those brave souls that remain “in-flight” and the sacrifices they made for all of mankind. Today, NASA’s Final Four—Christopher J. Ferguson, CAPT. USN, Douglas G. Hurley, Lt. Col. USMC, Sandra Hall Magnus, and Rex J. Walheim, Col. USAF—rocketed into history and space—the Final Frontier. They in our Final Flight like their predecessors have “trod the high untresspassed sanctity of space, put out their hands, and touched the face of God”. God Speed Atlantis.

Where Do We Get Such Men?

Today we celebrate the 236^th birthday of the United States Marine Corps; tomorrow, we

National Historical Plaque, Tun Tavern, Philadelphia, PA

observe Veterans Day. Allow me a few moments to reflect on what these dates mean to me. Of all my accomplishments, earning the title of Marine is the one that I hold most dear. I have several college diplomas, none of which ever hung on a wall or were even framed. I have worked hard and received a couple of professional certifications, yet you will not find any of these displayed in my home. However, my Honorable Discharge is framed and hanging in my daughter’s bedroom. I will celebrate the event with a shot of Jack and quiet reflection of the good times and those Marines that now guard the streets of Heaven.

My time in service to this country was the source of great pride and many wonderful memories. The Marines I met, worked alongside, went on Liberty with, trained with, and served with represented a cross-section of the United States. There were whites, blacks, Hispanics, Italians, Asians, Christians, Jews, agnostic, rich, poor, Republicans, and Democrats—we represented the United States, this great melting pot that accepted “the tired, the poor, and huddled masses” from around the world. We accepted each other and respected the individual. We swore an oath to “…support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that I will bear the true faith and allegiance to the same, and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to the regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.”

We laced our boots, shouldered our rucksacks, and picked up our rifles to “serve in every clime and place” to defend this great country. We walked in the footsteps of the Marines that came before us. Marines like Presley O’Bannon, Smedley Butler, Lewis “Chesty” Puller, and Dan Daly. We are connected from the newest recruit reporting to Boot Camp to the first “poolie” who signed his name to enlistment papers at Tun Tavern on 10 NOV 1775. Our values of honor, courage, and commitment provide the foundation that enables us to remain “always faithful” to God, Country, and Corps.

Our history is full of memorable events and battles from around the world. From the Civil War to Tripoli (1805), Chapultepec (1847), Belleau Wood (1918), Iwo Jima (1945), Chosin Reservoir, (1950), Khe Sanh (1968), and now the Global War on Terror. We are the finest fighting force in the World. Every recruit at both Parris Island and San Diego along with the officer candidates in Quantico are taught the history of the Corps, its traditions, and the significance of the uniform. Most importantly, Marines are taught to rely on their own abilities and to trust and depend on their fellow Marines. It is through this process, that each Marine becomes a Leader—a Leader who possesses Honor, Courage, and Commitment.

• Honor means we will hold ourselves to a high standard (physical training, education, appearance, etc) and will live by the highest ethical and moral benchmarks. We will treat others with respect, and always act in a responsible manner.
• Courage means we will face our fears and overcome them. We will use all of our training, skill sets, and spiritual, mental, and physical strength to face all challenges that we confront.
• Commitment means we are dedicated to a purpose and determined to see that purpose completed. We will not stop until the goal or mission is done. 

Once a person earns the right to wear the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor and claim the title of Marine, they shall forever be a Marine. No one can take the title from us. Once a Marine, Always a Marine. A Leader for Life.

Obviously, I am partial to the Corps but please do not misunderstand—I have great respect for the other branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. I was fortunate to train alongside many great Soldiers, Sailors, Airman, and Coastguardsmen. Any man or woman who freely volunteers to serve their country in uniform—active or reserve—has my unending gratitude and sincere appreciation.

US Marines at Arlington.

So, as we take a moment to recognize the Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day I ask you to reflect on what freedom means to you and your family. Yes, we have differences of opinions, different spiritual beliefs, different backgrounds, and perhaps different political views, but we all live under a flag that represents FREEDOM! This freedom comes at a high cost—one that is never paid in full. Many men and women must live with the physical and emotional scars of battle, while others pay the ultimate price. I encourage you to take your sons and daughters to a National Cemetery and walk it in silence, reading the names, hometowns, and ages of those who died in battle so that we may live free. Be prepared for a rush of emotions from anger to sorrow to pride. The men and women serving in the military today, bring to mind the memorable quote from The Bridges at Toko-Ri, “where do we get such men?” While James Michener wrote this line referencing Naval Aviators, I believe it is still appropriate today. However, I submit we change to line to include women.

If you feel thankful, then donate your time to a Veterans Association, or money to a charity such as Wounded Warrior Project. At the very least, when you see a veteran, tell them “thank you” and give them a hug. If the veteran is a Marine--give them a kiss too.

Semper Fi

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Below is a rough draft response my youngest daughter Morgan wrote to a question on a scholarship application. I am sharing this with you, not because of pride and feeling good about her response, but more importantly of the greater message.

We go about our daily lives responding and reacting to what life throws at us usually without giving much regard to what others see. We can choose to run and hide from the problems, or we can face them head-on and work through them. At the time we may not know or realize we are being watched. We do not know how others will interpret our actions. Morgan’s response to the question “Who are some of your favorite role models? Why?” reminded me of this.

My pain “anniversary date” is 31 JUL 94. This JUL marks 17 years of chronic pain that has impacted every facet of my life: physical health, ability to provide for my family, emotional impact on family, spiritual, daily activities, etc. Morgan was not yet 2 years of age when my pain started. Essentially, all of her memories are of a dad with pain. Yet, through it all, her young eyes and ears were observing me. Most children see their dads as “Superman” and can do no wrong, and then one day they realize that dads are merely human. Thankfully, most of them overlook that fact and still love unconditionally. I messed up a lot, yet she saw the good in my actions. There are many things I would love to take a mulligan, but sadly I cannot. I am proud of both of my daughters. They have had to deal with a lot in their lives, but each day they get up and go about life.

Morgan. Spring 2011.

As you read her words below, I ask you to think of your life. How are you dealing with “life”? What do others see? What can you do differently? So remember, someone is watching and as the old adage states, “Actions speak louder than words.”

Who are some of your favorite role models? Why?

Morgan Gilley: Without a doubt, my father is my biggest role model. While most children can consider one of their parents as a role model, my reasoning far extends past a parental/child bond. For the past sixteen years, my father has been physically disabled. He is also a chronic pain patient. From this, I have learned the most important lessons about life. On several occasions, I have heard people ask my dad how he can handle it. How can he deal with constant pain 24/7? Over the years, his actions and attitude taught me that quitting is never an option. No matter how hard life becomes, or what obstacles come your way, you work through them. You do your best with the hand you have been dealt and leave the rest up to the Lord. While it would have been the easy path for Daddy to throw in the towel over a decade ago, he will never give up. He clings to his faith and wakes up every day determined to be the best he can be. Lessons like these of perseverance, faith, responsibility, I cannot learn from any classroom. I only hope that one day, I will be able to impact a single person in the way that my father has inspired all of those he comes into contact with.