That Fallen' Angel

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2008-11-26T14:36:00.002-06:00

I know I have not written in a long while. I have been litterally living in the gym trying to get my upper body strength back so I can get back to work in late December. Still, all of you are on my mind and in my prayers! Have a very happy Holiday and let us not forget those on the other side of the world who can not be with their families tomorrow because they our defending ours.

Pass it On...

2008-10-14T16:42:00.005-05:00

Hello friends, received this today from a friend who has a history associated with certain aquatic mammals in the Navy. It brought me to tears...and I promised to get it to as many people as possible. So without further ado:

Your cell phone is in your pocket.
He clutches the cross hanging on his chain next to his dog tags.

You talk trash about your 'buddies' that aren't with you.
He knows he may not see some of his buddies again.

You walk down the beach, staring at all the pretty girls.
He patrols the streets, searching for insurgents and terrorists.

You complain about how hot it is.
He wears his heavy gear, not daring to take off his helmet to wipe his brow.

You go out to lunch, and complain because the restaurant got your order wrong.
He doesn't get to eat today.

Your maid makes your bed and washes your clothes.
He wears the same things for weeks, but makes sure his weapons are clean.

You go to the mall and get your hair redone.
He doesn't have time to brush his teeth today.

You're angry because your class ran 5 minutes over.
He's told he will be held over an extra 2 months.

You call your girlfriend and set a date for tonight.
He waits for the mail to see if there is a letter from home.

You hug and kiss your girlfriend, like you do everyday.
He holds his letter close and smells his lover's perfume.

You roll your eyes as a baby cries.
He gets a letter with pictures of his new child, and wonders if they'll ever meet.

You criticize your government, and say that war never solves anything.
He sees the innocent tortured and killed by their own people and remembers why he is fighting.

You hear the jokes about the war, and make fun of men like him.
He hears the gunfire, bombs and screams of the wounded.

You see only what the media wants you to see.
He sees the broken bodies lying around him.

You are asked to go to the store by your parents. You don't.
He does exactly what he is told even if it puts his life in danger.

You stay at home and watch TV.
He takes whatever time he is given to call, write home, sleep, and eat.

You crawl into your soft bed, with down pillows, and get comfortable.
He tries to sleep but gets woken by mortars and helicopters all night long.

And then you heard the young man whisper to himself to refresh his mind:

"My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own."

If you support your troops, pass this on... REMEMBER our Troops now, and do not forget them LATER.

Please my friends...pass it on.

Greatest Movie Line Ever?

2008-09-23T02:39:00.004-05:00

Now that's an accolade sure to cause some highly animated debate, but it's the title of the video as it was sent to me and I'm not going to challenge it. While I'm not sure if its the best line ever, I would feel no shame granting it a spot in the top ten...maybe even the top five.

So...grab a bucket of butter infused pop corn, the over-priced beverage of your choice, and pull up a chair, my friends. Have a look-see and decide for yourselves.

(And don't forget to stop by the comments section before exiting the theatre.)

More IKE Picks

2008-09-16T11:43:00.008-05:00

If you really want to see the spectacular stuff YouTube has some amazing videos of the eye wall coming in. Since I'm smart enough NOT to be outside during that event, I didn't take any picks or videos. But here is what else I do have for those who care to see... (Facade of strip center near my home ripped off) (Kinda speaks for itself)

(more tree damage one street over)

(What's left of my bank's sign)

(Just another tree) (Someone will be doing fence repair!)

(Down power line - NOT active)

That's it for now folks, if I get anymore good pics I'll post 'em for you.

Be Safe & Count Your Blessings!

Angel Out!

Contrary to Elections past...

2008-09-16T00:15:00.005-05:00

This is NOT how I feel right about now. In all honesty, we were VERY lucky in my neighborhood. It wasn't fun with no power or water for three days, not to mention the occasional looters. (One more reason I love my AR-15 and my dog!) Here are some more pics of the damage just in my neighborhood alone. I will be able to take more tomorrow when I go to work with a National Guard POD (Point Of Distribution), but here's what I have so far. As I said, while this wasn't fun, I don't regret staying and I'm glad I can still help those who literally have nothing left but a slab where their home was only a few days ago.

May you all be safe & Well!

Angel

(Me waiting in the dark - well , candles, but dark enough!)

(One street over)

(My House)

Penn & Teller Tell It Like it is!

2008-08-07T03:19:00.006-05:00

Don't believe me...see for yourself:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SgbWkeHxq0

Well, Hello Dolly!

2008-07-23T02:46:00.002-05:00

You know, it's not every day a gal gets a hurricane for her birthday.

Thankfully, this is a Cat 1 storm that isn't expected to do much damage, especially in my neck of the woods. The outer bands have been hitting here all night and it's the kind of rain that makes you want to stay under the covers all day if it wasn't for that darned lightening illuminating everything in the cozy solitude of your bedroom.

So...Hello Dolly and thanks for an early start to my 38th year on this lovely planet.

I wouldn't trade a moment of it, even if I do complain a bit.

After all...I can sleep when I'm dead.

And I am most definitely *NOT* that tired.

Milestones...

2008-07-20T05:44:00.004-05:00

We all have them in our lives...births, deaths, anniversaries, and just those special memories that we keep in our hearts as moments of deep, rich emotion in which to draw in times of need or just sit back and smile as we realize how truly blessed we have been in our lives..
I have one of those, a birthday, coming up next week. I take no shame in my age, I will be turning 38. But more importantly, almost exactly one month ago there was a chance I wouldn't see that birthday. But after meeting with my Neuro team Friday and being cleared for a *little* more activity, I decided to celebrate the two milestones of my healing and my birthday together.
Now, don't fret, I was careful, but I spent 2hours horseback riding this morning. I kept her (Piper- a friends mare,) at a trot, but mostly I let her have her head and we just roamed the hills together. I have to tell you, it felt like Heaven.
Unless something remarkably new comes out of my operation, this is the last of my posts about it. One of the conclusions I came to with Piper this morning is that it's time to move to to more important things in the wold and Lord knows there are plenty of them.
Thank You All for Your Well Wishes and Support...it means the world to me and it too has helped me decide to move on.
God Bless,

Angel Out

Wish I'd Writen These...

2008-07-13T04:40:00.004-05:00

I'm awake in the wee hours lately since a simple turn of my head in my sleep that never woke me before now ensures I won't be returning to bed anytime soon. So, I was catching up on some of my favorite blogs when I stumbled across these little gems. Since I *am* a woman who's been known to have a less than docile temperament at times *and* I am half Scots-Irish, (Hence the temperament,) I loved these letters I found at BLACKFIVE.

The first one entitled "THE IRISH WONDER WHY WE ARE EVEN VOTING" is not only funny as Hell...like all good humour, there's more than a kernel of truth to it.

An email from Ireland to our brethren in the States...a point to ponder despite your political affiliation:

'We, in Ireland, can't figure out why people are even bothering to hold an election in the United States.

On one side, you have a pants wearing lawyer, married to a lawyer who can't keep his pants on, who just lost a long and heated primary against a lawyer who goes to the wrong church who is married to yet another lawyer who doesn't even like the country her husband wants to run.

Then...you have a nice old war hero whose name starts with the appropriate "Mc terminology," married to a good looking younger woman who owns a beer distributorship.

What in Lord's name are ye lads thinking over there in the colonies??

Sincerely,

Tony from Ireland
Now this next one is written by a housewife in New Jersey. She is one ticked off lady!

I thoroughly agree with her every word, but I have a special appreciation for her blatant refusal to sugarcoat or pull punches in her writings for the mere sake of being ladylike and polite. I really like her style. Check her out at BLACKFIVE through the link below and I bet you will too.

A Letter from one 'Angry Woman'

Just a helpful hint: Her letter is directly below the Irish Letter so you'll need to scroll down a bit to read it.

Enjoy!

Angel Out

Still Here, Still Healing & Still Learning

2008-07-11T05:47:00.003-05:00

Sorry it's been so long folks. I've been doing a LOT of physical therapy (2-4 hrs per day,) plus working out on my own so that I won't lose any more muscle tone and strength in my abs and legs.

The good news is, it's working. Granted, it's working VERY slowly, and I won't be 100% till Christmas, but I can do more now with my hand and have 95% range of motion in my neck. Hopefully, now that I can sit up for more than a few minutes at a stretch and am not so drugged that I can't understand half of what I'm reading, I'll be able to catch up on all of your blogs soon. I have missed them a lot.

I did something the other day that *really* gave me some perspective on this whole incident. I'm human, and tend to fall into those "poor pitiful me" moods sometimes, so hoping to get that to end for good, I visited Fisher House and the VA hospital here. We get a lot of overload from Walter Reed and since I used to volunteer there, I thought a visit might do me some good. Well, I don't need to tell you that meeting a 19yr old double amputee will make you more than grateful, but what was amazing was to watch this kid try (and succeed) to cheer me up! I've said it before but this country is more blessed than it knows to have such fine men and women defending her. Once the doctors clear both of us to run. (We can both only walk a minimum of 5 miles a day now,) we made a "date" to start working out together. I'm telling you folks, there is no creature on earth like the American Soldier and I for one am honored to have met this one. (Who will probably run circles around me!) I know that no matter how frustrated I get, I will NEVER feel sorry for myself again. That's a lesson worth a few broken vertebrae in my book.

May you all be safe, happy and well.

Angel Out

God, Friends & Titanium

2008-06-24T08:50:00.012-05:00

I'm not quite sure where to begin this post but I know I need to start with thanking each and every one of you for your prayers and well wishes. You have no idea what they accomplished and they may very well have saved not just my limbs, but my life.

Here's why:

In my last post, I explained how my surgeon and I agreed to "wait and see" before I had surgery. Since the idea of anyone cutting on my neck held little appeal, I was more than willing to try physical therapy and wait right along with them. I posted that on the morning of the 12th. By 2300 hours that same evening I had a new neurosurgeon and was admitted for some serious surgery on June 17th. (It took that long for them to figure out how to put "Humpty Dumpty" back together again.) I noticed the left arm symptoms increasing so rapidly on the 12th, that I went to the E.R. again...but this time, I went to our trauma center. They admitted me so fast because my cervical spine was literally collapsing on itself. I had progressed well beyond spinal stenosis. My nerves were literally being crushed by the vertebrae - hence the loss of motion in my hands. Had it continued for the original waiting period, I wouldn't be here typing this today. Remember that "wonderful" doctor I found? He never returned the pages from the trauma center. Not one of them. But it turns out that was a blessing in disguise. Now, they say it was luck of the draw, but I say it was God who determined that I would end up with one of the brightest neurosurgeons in the state. He ran a lot of tests and took a lot of pictures before deciding how to remedy this little problem and when he did it, he did it right. I now have 2 titanium plates, 8 titanium screws, 2 "donor"* disks and 2 units of O+ holding my neck together. The technical term for the procedure is "ACDF" - Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion.

I will spare you the gory details of those 4 hours since the important part starts when I woke up in post-op and was immediately able to use my left hand and arm and saw a 50% improvement in the right one. The latter will come back with time and therapy now that it has a decent blood supply again.

I *am* still on pain killers so I don't want to sit here typing too long, but I wanted to let all of you know that I'm ok and thank you for such sweet comments. As for your prayers...well, I was discharged Friday morning and am expected to make a complete recovery as far as my right hand is concerned well before Christmas. In light of that, I think it is safe to say that God listened.

And for that, my friends...I thank you.

Angel Out

*I'm going to post about organ donation as soon as I am clear headed enough to do so. I've been an organ donor since I could drive...I never imagined I would be on the receiving end of such a loving gift.

I'm here...just a little under the weather.

2008-06-12T08:12:00.003-05:00

Gentle Readers, I apologize for my extended absence. Irony is a funny thing. You see my friends, I was so worried about Dad that I didn't notice that I was having trouble opening my right hand. Once I did, I went to several neurologists and Emergency Rooms who kept referring me back to the other. This went on for almost a month until finally, a wonderful Neurosurgeon happened to be present when my left hand started doing the same thing. This of course led me to another E.R. but this was and is one of the best in the city.

After two MRI's a CT scan AND a PET scan, I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and two herniated disks between C5, C6, and C7. I am now waiting for neurosurgery,which may take up to several months.

I just wanted all of you know that I miss you and that I have not forgotten about you.

I will blog as often as I can physical limitations provided. (It's *hard* to type when your hands won't work...imagine that! LOL!)

Take Care & God Bless,

Angel Out

Where in the world have I been?

2008-05-13T15:00:00.003-05:00

Hello friends,
It's been a long month since I last posted and I want you all to know that I haven't fallen off the planet, I have been busy trying to navigate the medical/legal/insurance system which is a maze like no other, even for someone like me who has worked in two of these fields. (Not legal - I can only stoop so low)
Dad is doing relatively well considering his condition. I hope to have help with him soon so that I can get some semblance of a life back.
I apologize for this being so short but these days I have to take my free time when I can get it, even if it is three in the morning...
God Belss,
Angel

Warriors...in their own words. Courtesy of ROFASIX

2008-04-19T02:13:00.007-05:00

I warn you all now, make sure some Kleenex is in close proximity before you visit this link.
I wish I could claim to have found this on my own, but 100% of the credit belongs to a blogger friend of mine, NOTR, at ROFASIX. In addition to being an exceptional writer, he is one Hell of a pilot. If it's a rotary aircraft he's probably flown it and if he hasn't, it's because it's not in the US arsenal, (though he's probably flown a few of those "others" too.) If it flies at all, he's probably forgotten more about it than some pilots will ever learn.
But above all that, he is a Great man and a Great American which is why I'm making a point of sending you his way - you won't regret it.
His was the third blog that made my daily "must read" list long before I created my own, and if you haven't visited him before, please do. He's a thinking man's man, like many of you folks. (I'm using that as a genderless term, so take no offense Ladies, you'll like him too.)
Yesterday he posted this link: "WARRIORS." It will lead you to a site with an incredible video clip of a current film in production and the story behind it's origins. You will not soon forget what you see. In fact, if more people saw it and remembered, we would not be living as the divided Country we seem to be. That's my humble opinion anyway.
I could be nice and give you the direct link to the movie clip and the site itself, but as my guy, the 1SG, will be happy to tell you in a quote he stole from another movie, "Michael,"...

I'm not that kind of Angel. ;)

Remember what I said about that Kleenex and as NOTR suggests take a moment to explore the site. It may be small but it speaks volumes.

Angel Out

h/t - NOTR at ROFASIX

A gift from my guy...

2008-04-11T05:50:00.008-05:00

The subject line simply read:
"Brings a tear to my eye"

and the following photograph, (not of him,) was attached.

How can I not adore this man?

I need a Dam break!

2008-04-10T15:19:00.009-05:00

The road has been a rough one for many recently, so I thought a bit of humor might be in order. Don't know about you but I laughed my Dam ass off.

The Dam Notice

This is an actual letter sent to a man named Ryan DeVries regarding a pond on his property. It was sent by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Quality, State of Pennsylvania.

SUBJECT: DEQ File No.97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec. 20;

Lycoming County

Dear Mr. DeVries:

It has come to the attention of the Department of Environmental Quality that there has been recent unauthorized activity on the above referenced parcel of property. You have been certified as the legal landowner and/or contractor who did the following unauthorized activity: Construction and maintenance of two wood debris dams across the outlet stream of Spring Pond.

A permit must be issued prior to the start of this type of activity. A review of the Department's files shows that no permits have been issued. Therefore, the Department has determined that this activity is in violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.

The Department has been informed that one or both of the dams partially failed during a recent rain event, causing debris and flooding at downstream locations. We find that dams of this nature are inherently hazardous and cannot be permitted.

The Department therefore orders you to cease and desist all activities at this location, and to restore the stream to a free-flow condition by removing all wood and brush forming the dams from the stream channel. All restoration work shall be completed no later than January 31, 2008.

Please notify this office when the restoration has been completed so that a follow-up site inspection may be scheduled by our staff. Failure to comply with this request or any further unauthorized activity on the site may result in this case being referred for elevated enforcement action. We anticipate and would appreciate your full cooperation in this matter. Please feel free to contact me at this office if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

David L. Price

District Representative and Water Management Division.

Here is the actual response sent back by Mr. DeVries:

Re: DEQ File No. 97-59-0023; T11N; R10W, Sec. 20;

Lycoming County

Dear Mr. Price,

Your certified letter dated 11/25/07 has been handed to me to respond to. I am the legal landowner but not the Contractor at 2088 Dagget Lane , Trout Run, Pennsylvania ..

A couple of beavers are in the (State unauthorized) process of constructing and maintaining two wood 'debris' dams across the outlet stream of my Spring Pond. While I did not pay for, authorize, nor supervise their dam project, I think they would be highly offended that you call their skillful use of natures building materials 'debris.'

I would like to challenge your department to attempt to emulate their dam project any time and/or any place you choose. I believe I can safely state there is no way you could ever match their dam skills, their dam resourcefulness, their dam ingenuity, their dam persistence, their dam determination and/or their dam work ethic.

These are the beavers/contractors you are seeking. As to your request, I do not think the beavers are aware that they must first fill out a dam permit prior to the start of this type of dam activity.

My first dam question to you is:

(1) Are you trying to discriminate against my Spring Pond Beavers, or

(2) do you require all beavers throughout this State to conform to said dam request?

If you are not discriminating against these particular beavers, through the Freedom of Information Act, I request completed copies of all those other applicable beaver dam permits that have been issued.

(Perhaps we will see if there really is a dam violation of Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams, of the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, being sections 324.30101 to 324.30113 of the Pennsylvania Compiled Laws, annotated.)

I have several concerns. My first concern is, aren't the beavers entitled to legal representation? The Spring Pond Beavers are financially destitute and are unable to pay for said representation -- so the State will have to provide them with a dam lawyer. The Department's dam concern that either one or both of the dams failed during a recent rain event, causing flooding, is proof that this is a natural occurrence, which the Department is required to protect. In other words, we should leave the Spring Pond Beavers alone rather than harassing them and calling them dam names.

If you want the stream 'restored' to a dam free-flow condition please contact the beavers -- but if you are going to arrest them, they obviously did not pay any attention to your dam letter, they being unable to read English.

In my humble opinion, the Spring Pond Beavers have a right to build their unauthorized dams as long as the sky is blue, the grass is green and water flows downstream. They have more dam rights than I do to live and enjoy Spring Pond. If the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection lives up to its name, it should protect the natural resources (Beavers) and the environment (Beavers' Dams).

So, as far as the beavers and I are concerned, this dam case can be referred for more elevated enforcement action right now. Why wait until 1/31/2008? The Spring Pond Beavers may be under the dam ice then and there will be no way for you or your dam staff to contact/harass them.

In conclusion, I would like to bring to your attention to a real environmental quality, health, problem in the area. It is the bears! Bears are actually defecating in our woods. I definitely believe you should be persecuting the defecating bears and leave the beavers alone. If you are going to investigate the beaver dam, watch your step! The bears are not careful where they dump!

Being unable to comply with your dam request, and being unable to contact you on your dam answering machine, I am sending this response to your dam office.

THANK YOU,

RYAN DEVRIES & THE DAM BEAVERS

Someone to watch over me...

2008-04-07T04:25:00.004-05:00

I am a Paratrooper's daughter and anyone else who is one will likely agree that you are going to have an interesting life and that sometimes unexplainable things happen or you choose to do them simply because you are cut from the same cloth.
I used to complain that I've been surrounded by AIRBORNE RANGERS or men of their caliber for my entire life and that I was convinced that upon my death, they would form a perimeter around my grave just so they could prove they never let me out of their sight. (And since I want to be cremated and have my ashes scattered on one last jump, I'm sure they'll just bring in the HALO guys.)
But here's the other thing.
I am a Paratrooper's daughter who whenever, wherever I've been at my most scared, lost moments, had someone enter my life I never expected to help me get back to who and how I used to be.
It happened when my father (THE Paratrooper) was killed in Viet Nam and I was adopted by a Korean War Veteran. (Dad) who didn't think he wanted kids, let alone a daughter.
It happened when I left for college and got "adopted" by my best friend, another Nam Vet and Active Paratrooper who was with the 173rd (Sky Soldiers) and is now a parachute rigger for the Texas National Guard.
It happened when I met my 1SG after refusing to date for almost 7 years when my divorce broke my heart; he helped me trust and love again.
And it happened again when my Dad had his stroke.
You know who you are.
I will never complain about being a Paratrooper's daughter again, because someone made me realize he's never really left - he's been watching out for me this whole time, even though he never even got to hold me before he was killed.
And he's made sure that his brothers, and men like them have always been there when I needed them.
When you're a Paratrooper's daughter, there is always someone to watch over you.

Where do I start?

2008-04-06T20:02:00.004-05:00

I suppose a good place to begin would be to thank you all for your kind words and prayers. It's amazing what they can do...
Friends, and you are all in that category now, Dad is here, at home, with me.
He knows who I am.
He can walk, talk, eat and is almost like his normal (stubborn, grouchy, wouldn't-have-him-any-other-way,) self prior to his hospitalization. He has a few deficits, (lingering stoke symptoms,) but the important thing is that he's here. He's OK.
Now where to go?
Well, as I was writing this post the first time, I got word that my guy's FOB/AOE got seriously hit today with confirmed casualties along with the attacks in the green zone. (My guy is S.E. of the "Zone.")
I'm not telling you where he is exactly, but y'all are smart folks and you'll figure it out should you care to try. (If you can read headlines- you probably have already.)
So, I added to the initial post a new request for prayers...for the families of those who lost Fathers, Sons, Siblings, Husbands, Friends and Brothers In Arms with maybe an extra prayer that my 1SG was alright. I knew he would be too busy to email me since I wasn't even sure if this thing was over yet, plus, he had his men to look after.
I also knew he would be devastated if any of his men were so much as scratched, let alone seriously injured...or worse. (Not that he would show it until he was home for good and only in our most private face to face conversations, where we talk about such things.) And I'm sad to say that there were a lot of casualties and injuries between the two AOE's.
But you can imagine what I was most afraid of.
My guy does not fight from a desk.
He'd retire before he'd even consider it.
He is a Warrior in the truest sense of that word.
As I was about to post all of this, I couldn't stand it anymore and stopped to send him an email apologizing for asking questions that he would have already given me the answers to if it was something I needed to know.
(Personally, I think I need to know a lot more than he thinks I do, but that's what 24 years in the Army will do to a guy.) Then again, look what he did last week after a 4 day firefight? I told him I knew he was busy, tired and to please just email me with an "I'm OK" once he'd gotten some sleep. I got a near immediate reply that read:
"What the Hell are you talking about?"
For a gal who isn't big on tears or overt emotional displays, this week I have been one giant mess of both, but nothing compared to when I read that email.
When I sent him one of the many articles covering the attacks he wrote:
"Oh Hell, honey________ gets hit with 5 rocket or mortar attacks a week at least, we're fine. How's your Dad?"
You know that smiley face emoticon that rolls it's eyes? I think I sent him one of those with the statement
"Well, THAT makes me feel better!"
But the truth is, it did.
I still ask all of you to pray for the American Soldiers who lost their lives defending all that we hold dear today, and for their Iraqi brethren who were killed fighting by their side so that they might have the same for their children someday.
As for me, at this moment...all is right again in my little corner of the world.
My Dad is here with me, at home, sleeping peacefully in his own bed where he belongs.
My Soldier and his Soldiers are ALL alive and well
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some prayers to say and much gratitude to express.
And know that the first of those prayers will be those of gratitude for all of my new friends who took the time to offer comfort to a stranger.
As I said in one of my comments: Y'all are the real Angels, I'm just learning how to fly."
Good night and God Bless,
Angel Out

Please God...

2008-04-05T07:11:00.008-05:00

Dad Korea-1952

Folks, I try not to have too many poor pitiful me parties here, but I think I might just have one now.Tuesday, I told you about this wonderful woman I call Mom who I lost too soon to even grasp just HOW wonderful she was.Mom, with her (their) first car as a Surprise for Dad's Homecoming -1953.

Well I am heartbroken to say that I rushed my Dad by Ambulance to the hospital Friday night when he began to slur his speech, didn't know my name & swore it was 1948.

I thank God here and now that I personally know every Firefighter, Paramedic, Nurse and ER Physician who so much as looked at him, and many of them taught me when I was the FNG. He could not have been in finer hands.

They chased me out of the hospital a little while ago when they transferred him out of the ER to admit him to Neuro IMC, (a step down unit from ICU, but by no means a regular medical floor,) but before I left his nurse who I also know well, let me "accidentally" see the preliminary CT Scans...he knew I just had to.

Until a Neurologist AND a Radiologist confirm it, nothing is ever "official," but even I know a right lacunar infarction when I see one.

Sorry, forgive my med-speak. I tend to get almost coldly clinical when I have to deal with the really hard stuff...and treating anyone's kids or your own family is about as hard as it gets. What I meant to say is that he's had a stroke, and this will be his 4th one.

His 4th....

I will be there at 0730 in the morning to bring him clothes and other personal items, but I'm terrified someone is going to call me at 0200 and say that I need not make the trip.I know no one is ever really ready for this...but Dear God, if you're listening, I'm really, really not ready for this. I can't lose another parent.Not now, Not Yet.Please, don't take him yet.

Please?

I'd vote for him!

2008-04-03T05:07:00.003-05:00

This has been shamelessly stolen from Laughing Wolf over at Black Five, but I simply couldn't resist the idea of "President Leonidas." We could use a Spartan or two around here these days....

Happy Birthday Mom...I Miss You

2008-04-02T03:23:00.004-05:00

Today is my Mom's birthday. I was put up for adoption at about 6 months old and I lost my adoptive Mother (Mom,) to a pulmonary embolism when I was nearly 20.

I don't think anyone is every ready to lose their parents, but I sure wasn't grown up enough to not need her anymore.

I miss her every day.

I will visit her grave today and bring her favorite flowers...Yellow Roses.

What I wouldn't sacrifice to have given her a dozen of them every week for the 20 years I was blessed to have her.

She was a truly loving, beautiful Woman, Wife & Mother.

Little Things Mean a Lot.

2008-03-30T05:41:00.003-05:00

Hadn't heard from my guy in about 36 hours which isn't unheard of but it's rare. Then yesterday morning I woke up to this:
"Bad guys got stuck on stupid and we're into our 4th day of fighting. I haven't slept in about 3 days, but I wanted to warn you before I rack out that you're going to hear things in the media that sound familiar, like the names of provinces and FOBs. I don't want you to worry - my guys are kicking ass and we are all ok. I know you're going to worry anyway and not let a soul around you see it, but if it does get too hard, remember the promise I made you."
Not 20 minutes later the AP had picked up the incidents he was referring to, including a mortar attack on his FOB. But my guy, exhausted as he was, took the time to send me that email. How many guys would do that?
I'm thankful to say mine would.
Oh, and that promise he mentioned? Crying women don't do much for him and I agree that it doesn't help him any to sound like a woman at the Wailing Wall when deployment should be the only thing on his mind. So we made a deal:
I wouldn't cry at the Airport when we said goodbye.
He would come home safe to me.

I didn't shed a single tear.
And he doesn't break promises.

Hillary Wasn't Lying! - Bosnia Footage Discovered!

2008-03-28T11:49:00.003-05:00

This would be so wrong if it wasn't so damn funny!

h/t Frankie Cee

When You Wish Upon A Star...

2008-03-27T22:06:00.012-05:00

In my previous post on Birthdays you may recall that I made this wish:

"My one wish in this world, is that I have become a woman that he would be as proud to call his Daughter as I am to call him my Father."
To anyone who says that prayers aren't answered and wishes don't come true, I give you the following gifts I received from a complete stranger, The Average American, who I suspect I may be lucky enough to call a friend someday soon.

"Consider your wish granted. I can assure you just from reading your last few posts that your father would have been EXTREMELY proud of you. I was there in 1968 and was lucky enough to be one of the 98% that came home."

He included this video as a tribute to my father:

So, if wishing on a star doesn't work for you, try wishing on a soldier...they're pretty much the same thing.

Thank you so very much Sir, for the beautiful video tribute and for making *my* wish come true

Please stop by and visit him at The Average American, although once you're there I think you'll agree rhat he's anything but average,

Birthdays

2008-03-26T03:23:00.004-05:00

I willingly admit that these particular days, the one recently past and the one soon to follow in April are both difficult, sad days for me...yet I could not live with myself were I not to note them here.

The first is of the Man who gave me life.

The second is of the women gave me love.

On March 21st, my biological Father was born. He served with the 101st in Vietnam and was killed one month and three days after I was born. I have learned from his Army buddies that I am more like him than I ever imagined or hoped to be, and I am honored to carry part of him in my blood and in my heart.

My one wish in this world, is that I have become a woman that he would be as proud to call his Daughter as I am to call him my Father.

On April 2nd, 1929, my Mother, the woman who raised me and loved me as her own was born. I lost her at age 20 and still miss her every day. I will be writing more about this remarkable lady when the day comes.For now I simply wish to thank God, Fate - whatever you choose to call that power for making these people a part of my life.

I think I like this guy...and I like politicians less than I do reporters.

2008-03-25T22:16:00.007-05:00

I don't sing the praises of many politicians, but after reading the following letter and visiting the Congressman's website and blog, I have to say I was impressed, especially when compared with some of the other pitiful attempts to get votes lately. I'm not asking you to take my word for it, but I am asking you to visit his site and blog and see for yourself. He not only has solutions in mind, he has an entire section dedicated to YOUR opinions on how well they will work for you personally. Again, I'm NOT endorsing or stumping for anyone, but I think this man is worth taking a look at.

Dear Friend,
Before adjourning for recess, House Democrats passed the largest tax-hike in American history; a rate hike that will soak an average of $3,120 from every family. In an economy reeling from a slowing housing and job market, this is a burden that American families and small business owners simply cannot afford.

Let's be clear: This Democrat tax hike raises the tax burden of every American, particularly the middle-class. Their budget, which they voted to pass this week, includes the following tax assumptions:

~ Raises the current "10 percent tax bracket" to 15 percent. This would increase the burden on all American taxpayers, especially the lowest income earners.
~ Implements an across-the-board increase on marginal income tax rates.
~ Reinstates the marriage penalty. Approximately 23 million married couples would be affected.
~ Slashes the $1,000 per-child tax credit in half.
~ Increases the tax on dividends, which often supplement the income of senior citizens relying on Social Security.
~ Reinstates the death tax, which is considered the largest impediment to transferring family-owned businesses from one generation to the next.

The consequences are chilling for ordinary Americans. Democrat strategists believe that by hiding these assumptions in a larger budget, the American people won't hold them accountable over the resulting tax hikes. Fortunately, the legislative struggle is not yet over and it is not too late to prevent their plan from succeeding.
House Republicans will fight against these tax hikes at every opportunity; we must not allow tax hikes to plunge this economy into recession and chase jobs away. I'd like to hear what you have to say about the House Democrats' plan to raise your taxes, please click here to visit my blog and leave your comments on the situation.
It is time to get Washington working again: Working on common-sense solutions to the problems facing people's everyday lives, rather than adding to those problems by imposing a heavier tax burden. Now, more than ever, we need a fiscal policy that spurs job growth and investment to create good middle-class jobs and brighter economic days.

Regards,

Eric Cantor

United States Congressman

H/T Frankly Opinionated

Today, I met a Hero...

2008-03-25T16:12:00.003-05:00

I don't throw the word around lightly, but today I met a real live, honest to God Hero, and his charming wife, in of all places - the post office.

I was there making my weekly care package shipment to Iraq and happened to have my "book" with me that contains everything from stamps, Priority Mail labels, custom forms (both kinds) and everything else I might need just in case something has changed since my visit two days before. (IE: The 2007 Customs Forms are out now - no irony there!)

On this leather bound book I have a few patches on the cover: Ranger Tab, Airborne Tab, 101st Eagle, Pathfinder patch...you get the idea. He noticed it and knew exactly what it was for. He asked how long my 1SG had been in country. I'm almost ashamed of my answer as far as my missing him after what he and his wife said in reply.

He'd been a pilot in WWII, Korea AND Vietnam. He named so many helicopters that he's flown that there were some I'd never heard of. (And I've heard of most of them.) He has more hours flying than most pilots I know - well over 12,000. (And that's NOT counting his civilian hours - those were just his Military hours.)

He still flies and teaches (but I don't think the wife is to happy about that) AND, the man also jumps out of airplanes. He said it was a nice break when flying got too easy.

I know I thanked him for his service and I'm sure I stammered a couple of other things that related to gratitude, but like most Heroes, he didn't want to hear it. He actually blushed and said,

"How could I have done anything else?"

I wish I would have thought to ask his name, but in retrospect, I wouldn't post it. Men such as that don't want recognition or glory.

But it's not every day you meet a man like that - they are the last of a VERY special breed and I am grateful to have met one in person.

Thank God we have some left and that some new ones have stepped up.

Where ever you are, Sir - thank you for the honor and the privilege of meeting you.

Happy Easter!

2008-03-22T06:35:00.004-05:00

So many of us celebrate this day in so many ways, myself included, and so whether you attend a Sunrise Service, watch with joy as your children hunt for eggs hidden by that most famous of childhood bunnies.(And if you're like me, you may have to dip into their chocolate later)

Spend time with Family & Friends,

May you all have a Very Happy Easter.

And if you are the praying kind, or even the thinking kind, please take a moment to remember those who are far from home on this day and remember that were it not for those troops, we might someday live in a world without Easter, without Passover, only with regret that we did not fight as hard as they do to keep our freedoms.

Good Friday

2008-03-22T00:13:00.003-05:00

I suppose with the name "Fallen Angel" it would surprise some of you to know that I'm Catholic. And although my name here is more related to jumping out of planes, I think it also fits this day and this and season.
For who better to be redeemed than those who have fallen, or lost their way.
I myself have done both many times.
There's a quote we often use when referring to the loss of our soldiers:
"Greater love hath no man than this: that he lay down his life for his friends"
Let us all remember who first spoke those words and made the ultimate sacrifice on this Good Friday.

Ain't that the truth!

2008-03-11T00:47:00.004-05:00

THANKS FRANK!

Thanks again to Frankie Cee for making this one at my request.
Although I gotta tell ya'...loving someone who is AIRBORNE Infantry ain't no picnic either...

But I wouldn't trade it for anything!

CPR IS CHANGING - CCR LEARN IT!

2008-03-10T16:43:00.008-05:00

As a paramedic this subject is near and dear to my heart and I pray everyone will take the time to read the article I am about to share with you. Since the onset of AED's, (Automated External Defibrillators,) being placed in schools, malls and airports, this may well be the most live saving change since the onset of CPR itself.

Please note that this does not apply to EMS providers with the proper equipment. This is for you, the innocent bystander who suddenly watches a man grasp his chest and fall to the ground. This is for you, the fan at a high school basket ball game who sees a child literally die before your eyes. And what it means is that you don't HAVE to be that innocent bystander. YOU can do something right then and there that may save a life.

In a nut shell CPR may soon be know as CCR. The difference? The absence of mouth to mouth resuscitation. It is compressions only. This fact alone may make many who would stand by step up. Personally, I believe it will. I make no promises. CRP is successful roughly 2% of the time. But what if...just what if you had something to do with being a part of that 2%?

Folks, that 2% is why I do what I do.

And now before I direct you to the article - A SERIOUS DISCLAIMER.

TAKE THE CLASS!

Until you have been trained in Basic Life Saving for Non Health Care Providers your only job is to call 911 and then get the hell out of their way. But once you HAVE taken it, you will learn in one short day how to save the life of an Infant, a child, and an adult. And you will leave fully confident that you CAN do what you have learned. Because you can! I hope you never have to. I wish I never had to. But the fact of the matter is you will NEVER regret becoming a Life Saver instead of a Bystander. On this, you have my word.

New Life Saving Technique Triples Cardiac Arrest Survival Rates!

One GIANT HAT TIP Frankie Cee for reminding me of this.

Visit his site for some of the coolest graphics you'll ever see

For those of you with pets, be they birds, cats, rescue dogs, or just plain critters you adore, you may also want to check out this site.

How to save your Pet's Life

I have personally done this, thank God not with my own beloved "Lobo," and it was my very first "Save." As it turned out, that critter was a retired Police Dog who was now someone's adopted companion animal and personal protection dog. So if I can do that for a dog, what would YOU do for a child?

Atta' Girl!

2008-03-10T07:03:00.007-05:00

Woman Earns Silver Star in Afghan War

Spc. Monica Lin Brown from Lake Jackson Texas

I'm not going to get into the whole women in combat thing. Enough has been said already on that subject. I can only tell you as a paramedic, that at age 19, I was doing good to put a band aid on someone who cracked their head open at a Frat party. The fact that she's with the 82nd AIRBORNE doesn't exactly take points away from her in my book either. Neither does the fact that she's from Texas. We DO know how to grow 'em here!

h/t Blackfive & AP

Flight 77 - Best Animation I have seen to date

2008-03-07T01:43:00.002-06:00

And while graphic in some portions, it is based on pure forensic evidence and physics. Though it won't put an end to the conspiracy theorists, it definitely puts them in the "Alien Autopsy/Area 51" category once and for all.

H/T Conservative Propaganda

Well, I've done it again...

2008-03-04T22:03:00.003-06:00

Tried to vote again today, and now that there is a bombardment of TV ads to add to my original disgust, it only made things worse. So, once again, I left without voting.
To summarize a Clinton add about who I want answering the phone at three in in the morning, my answer is..."None of the above."
I wonder if I can write that in come November? Because the way things look right now, I'd rather have a CSM answer THAT phone.
Unless things change and change FAST. I shall be writing in Ronald Reagan.
Hey, if Mickey Mouse gets a lot of votes, I see nothing wrong with that!

THAT'S MY SOLDIER!

2008-02-27T13:26:00.003-06:00

11 BRAVOS - (Especially Mine) - THIS ONE'S FOR YOU!

H/T OPFOR

I've finally done it - I DIDN'T VOTE!

2008-02-21T16:40:00.002-06:00

Folks, I tried, I really did. I ALWAYS vote, even at this stage in the game.
But I looked at my options and when I saw myself looking at the "OTHER" side, I realized that at the moment, I had no choices that I can personally live with.
Not yet anyway.
Guys? (Yes, I said guys, I wouldn't vote for HER with a .45 to my head!) GET IT TOGETHER! YOU ARE RUNNING OUT OF TIME, MONEY AND MOST OF ALL, FOLKS WHO HAVE THE SLIGHTEST BIT OF FAITH IN YOU.
We're not playing Chinese Checkers here - we're electing the President of OUR COUNTRY, a Commander In Chief who has a a job to finish...a LEADER.
Would one of you PLEASE start acting like one?

No Greater Love...

2008-02-13T00:35:00.004-06:00

They fought the good fight.

They finished the race.

Thanks for the jumps & those freezing SCUBA lessons.

You will NOT be forgotten and you will always be missed.

MISSING: REPUBLICAN LEADERSHIP. If found, please call 1-800-SAVE-USA

2008-02-13T00:14:00.003-06:00

Maybe we should put some pictures on milk cartons?
I personally can't pinpoint when things started going to Hell in the proverbial handbasket, but going they are.
I'm starting to think that JB's Sanctuary has the right idea on how to deal with this mess come November - it ain't perfect, but it's the best one I've seen so far.
Happy Voting!

I got two words for you...

2008-02-08T11:45:00.000-06:00

ROOT CANAL!

That pretty much sums up my adgenda for today.

Make that TWO root canals - LOL!

UFO? Nope UAV - Over my little abode.

2008-02-07T19:32:00.000-06:00

Seems the local PD has decided that drones would make great surveillance equipment to add to their arsenal. Problem? They forgot to notify anyone that they were testing the project. (Ya know like the FAA?) There was no NOTAM filed AND one of them came dangerously close to a life flight helicopter. One of the local news choppers spotted the drone in flight and started asking questions. Now I'm NOT a fan of reporters but I DO trust most pilots and when they say something is amiss, I tend to believe them.Well, sure enough, I spotted one flying over my house this morning. Apparently PD has now been educated on how to conduct "secret" flight tests. Despite the legality, it still makes me seriously reconsider sunbathing in the backyard this summer.

So it IS true...F-15 Flying & Landing On One Wing!

2008-01-30T02:50:00.000-06:00

I'd heard the rumors and the stories told after a pint or two (or 6,) but I never would have believed it had not seen it with my own eyes. NOTR at ROFASIX mentioned it in a previous post and that made me wonder if there was video of this amazing bit of flying. Sure enough, there is....behold, be awed and most of all, be inspired.

Plastic Surgery - It's not just for Boob Jobs Anymore!

2008-01-27T00:20:00.000-06:00

Plastic Surgery has gotten a lot of hype lately, mostly for the wrong reasons. I would like to remind everyone that in addition to building you a better playground, these docs deserve serious kudos for their reconstructive talents.
(I'm NOT putting down anyone whose had a little nip/tuck - I'm just saying that these surgeons can do SO much more!)
To prove it here is the progress I made over the last 8 or 9 days since my oven decided to cook *me* instead of the applesauce cake it was supposed to be working on. I don't like to post pics of myself, but this is a worthy cause if ever there was one.

Me less than 2 hour after the flash burns to my face.

2nd & 3rd degree burns to right hand 24 hours after the incident

Multiple mild debriedments to my face (which later caused the loss of my eye brows and lashes, plus 7" of burned hair cut off.)

Me! - 9 days later. My hand still needs some work. I AM wearing a special make up designed for burn patients but it's a very light coverage version, my eyebrows are courtesy of Max Factor and the eyelashes have to grow .25" before the extensions can be added... but all and all, I am nothing less than amazed with the results!

And what did you learn in school today, Angel?

2008-01-22T12:36:00.000-06:00

Well, thanks to NOTR at ROFASIX, I learned a little something about airframe construction and airframe failure.
I re-learned what a longeron is...used to have that buried in the memory banks someplace so it was nice to have it back again...and I learned what happens when they fail.
Most importantly, I got a great refresher course on something I already believe to be true: When the various members of our Military involved in aviation come to us, the tax payers, practically begging for better aircraft and the bigger budgets required to build and maintain them...they aren't crying wolf. They know all to well what the stakes are if they don't start upgrading their birds.
And it was all summed up in an excellent video presentation of a catastrophic F-15 incident that should have ended badly for the pilot...but didn't.

That's my kind of teacher! Go check him out and see for yourself.

Time for a new list!

2008-01-21T18:22:00.000-06:00

I've mentioned some of the lists I've made over the years in previous posts, and now it seems the time has come for a new one.

We shall call this one: THINGS I LONG TO SAY!

It's a little different from lists of the past. Instead of documenting the insanely stupid things people have said to me, I am now making a running collection of my dream responses.
(Most of them wishful thinking, but not all...not yet.)
This desire was prompted by the complete strangers who have approached me recently (since the oven incident) in grocery stores, parking lots, gas stations...even a day care center, and without so much as a "Hello," asked me some variation of the following question:
"What the F*** happened to your FACE?"
(Forgive the colorful language - unfortunately it was the most commonly used word by these *compassionate* folks.)
Here are some of my choices so far and although I've been too polite (or more likely too shocked) to use any of them, I may try a few if this goes on much longer.

1. It was supposed to be a FIVE second fuse!

2. Spontaneous human combustion IS real! They study it in Area 51! Go Google it and see!

3. Damn Flame Throwers - Those should be banned from Paint Ball!

4. The NSA didn't like what I said on the phone...so they detonated it. Really! Go Google it and see!

5. I was hoping to get on Extreme Makeover but I might have overdone it.

6. I never was a fan of The Colonel's Original Recipe - I'm more of an Extra Crispy kind of gal.

7. If you've got a few minutes, I'll be happy to show you step by step so you can do it too!

As I said, this is a working list so I welcome any little sarcastic gems you folks would like to add.
(And I know some of you have some GOOD ones!)

More proof that training will save your ass...

2008-01-16T11:44:00.000-06:00

Normally, I wouldn't post a picture of myself, especially one where I look sooo pretty...but there is a method to my madness. We've all heard about soldiers falling back on their training when things get ugly, and how it saved them more than once.

Well, Firefighters tend to think and work the same way and if you don't believe me, see the photo. You are looking at me shortly after an oven explosion. (Which happened last night I might add.)

I did suffer some 2nd and 3rd degree burns to my hands, BECAUSE of my training. Simple stuff really...protect your eyes. (Hence the hand burns) and contain the fire. (IE: Close the oven door - which also led to the hand injuries.) What you see on my face are mere flash-fire burns. I've been hurt in structure fires while wearing full gear a LOT worse than this so other than not being very thrilled with my oven right now, I'm feeling pretty damn fine.

So if you are one of the few and the ignorant who thinks training is a waste of time, or inapplicable in the "real world," know that the Senior Captain on the scene noted to his crew that had I NOT been a trained FF, my kitchen would be a total loss and I would be blind if not dead. Can't ask for a higher compliment or better proof than that!

13 Months And Counting - But This Ain't My Mom's War!

2008-01-15T13:55:00.000-06:00

Lord, how I live for this moment! But despite how much I want to watch my soldier come down that ramp, home & safe when his mission is finished, I also KNOW how spoiled I am when it comes to having a loved one at war.

I think about my biological mother who's final contact via the Army was an impersonal telegram informing her that her daughter no longer had a Father.

I think of my adopted Mother, who read casualty lists posted daily in her small town. Who was lucky to receive a letter every few months from Dad's Hell Hole in the "Crimson Imjin" - and how those letters were SO special to her. (I still have every one of them, wrapped in ribbons, just as she left them before she died.

And then I look at me...I have email contact with my soldier at *least* 5 times a day. (One of the benefits to being a 1SG.) We IM each other with audio capable web cams almost nightly unless he is out somewhere doing what he does. (That's one case where the don't ask/ don't tell policy works: I don't ask and he doesn't tell.)

So much as I miss him, I have NOTHING to bitch about compared to those fine women who came before me.

Ladies...You have my humble gratitude for demonstrating a strength most no longer posses.

If at first you don't succeed, cry, cry again...

2008-01-15T09:26:00.000-06:00

I can see it now..."Iran will cease it's attempts to develop nuclear weapons or...or I'll CRY!

Sounds like a Monty Python skit, doesn't it?

The Dog Ate My Homework!

2008-01-14T22:14:00.000-06:00

Lobo - Destroyer of all things, including small rodents, basket balls, any dog larger than himself and anything he can reach on the kitchen counter. Unfortunately, he also ate my web cam wires, (shown above) and most anything connected to my computer. Finally got it all replaced and since I missed so much, I wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year filled with all your hearts desire. On a separate note, while I have yet to completely decide on a Presidential Candidate, I would like to make the following announcement:This man is NOT from my state!!!

I don't care *where* he was born - this is NO Texan.

Has anyone told him he's running for the wrong party?

I do believe he would embarrass the leftist of liberals if he were to join them!

OK - Rant over, Dog forgiven and back to blogging soon.

Angel Out!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T12:35:00.001-06:00

May you all have a VERY Merry Christmas

~Love & Blessings~

Angel & Lobo

"My" Candle In The Window

2007-12-24T14:11:00.000-06:00

This week, I read a beautiful poem entitled "A Candle In The Window" by Chaplain Larry Connelly at Sgt. Hook's Blog: This We'll Defend.
I'm not going to re-post it here because I want you to take the time to visit the man thoughtful enough to post something so beautiful for those of us who wait for our Warriors to come home.
I will simply say that the poem refers to the time honored tradition of keeping a candle burning until your loved one returns to you from war.
In the spirit of the season, and that touching bit of poetry, I share with you "my" candle, which has been burning non-stop since the day my Soldier deployed.
Many of you may recognize that you are looking at Saint Michael, the patron saint of paratroopers. I could not think of a more fitting choice to remind me of my AIRBORNE RANGER, than the Archangel who cast the devil down from Heaven into the fires of Hell. Isn't that what ALL of our Warriors are doing? I know mine is...and like all Archangels, nobody does it better. May all of you who fight for us or have loved ones fighting far from home, be comforted this Christmas Season by the prayers of millions across the world for the safety of our soldiers and we who love them.

Goodbye Dan...Thanks for the music.

2007-12-19T20:07:00.000-06:00

I've never been the type of gal who, as part of a couple, announces one day, "Oh baby, this is our song!"

But while walking through the PX durning my last days in Ft. Polk with my 1SG, I heard an old familiar song so fitting, by an artist I have always loved...Dan Fogelberg. He recently left this world way too soon from the evils of prostate cancer and I know he'll be missed by many. The legacy of songs he left us however, will last forever.

So, if I *was* one of those girls, these lyrics would be "ours."

"And it's hard to go down easy,

And it's hard to keep from crying,

And it's hard to lose a lover,

In the early part of autumn..."

Watch the video Hard To Go Down Easy

Click the ticket for Dan's Official Web Site

The Mother of ALL Fred Videos

2007-12-19T18:47:00.000-06:00

A BIG Hat Tip to that fine gal who graces us with her blog, Bear Creek Ledger and videos like this one:

Home Sweet Home

2007-12-19T14:07:00.001-06:00

Got some photo's of my 1SG's room and his FOB today and thought I'd share some of them with y'all.

Granted, this ain't the Green Zone, but I wouldn't be dating a FOBBIT to begin with.

I DO have standards you know!

- Angel Out!

Standing Fast

2007-12-18T22:17:00.000-06:00

Let's see...since moving from Kuwait to Iraq 4th Brigade has had 3 casualties in less than 12 days. While this saddens me, as the loss of any soldier does, I am thankful to say that none of those lost to this war are my 1SG's kids.

(He would probably disagree with me on that saying that the entire Brigade are his kids, but that just speaks to the kind of man he is.)

I miss him a lot, but refuse to say that in our emails. Although, I HAVE said that Lobo, my dog misses him terribly - which is kind of funny since Lobo tried to bite him when they first met.

Anyway, that's what's going on with me these days. Hope all of you are well and the Christmas brings you all the Love, Joy and Laughter you deserve.

-Angel Out

National Firefighters Day

2007-12-15T11:54:00.000-06:00

Today is National Firefighters Day

Thanks to those who remembered myself and my brothers today...as we remember them.

Short and Sweet

2007-12-14T10:04:00.000-06:00

Got a slew of emails from my beloved in the past 24 hours....all good ones.

He's finally in Iraq now and getting settled onto his FOB...not that he'll be spending much time there but you get the idea. Hearing from him after weeks with no contact stirred up all those emotions that I try not to display publically. I'll just say that it's a damn good thing he can't tell if I let a tear or two fall just by reading my emails.

(Not saying it happened...just saying I'm glad he can't tell even if it did.)

One Very Happy Angel Out!

A (warped) Christmas Carol

2007-12-02T06:24:00.001-06:00

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree,

How deadly are your branches!

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas Tree,

You've caused some second glances.

Your M1-G's, Your M-16's

Attached grandes on 203's.

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree,

Those tangos stand no chances!

With 556 and 762's,

And IBA all strong and new,

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree,

Such pleasure do you bring me!

Yes folks, this is my real tree this year. (Actually, it's a rosemary bush because I like to steal a sprig now and then for my spaghetti sauce.) I'd love to claim this decorative theme as my original idea, but it was inspired by a photo from a few years ago taken on a FOB somewhere in Iraq. (Wish I could have gotten a hold of some mini C-wire for tinsel, but one has to improvise when necessary.) There's also some firefighting gear on "my" half of the tree but I couldn't make that work when re-engineering the song so I left it out. And just so y'all don't think I've forgotten the true "reason for the season," there are several angel, (the real kind, not ones like me,) cross and star ornaments as well. But since I'm making it my personal mission to handle my guy's deployment in a positive, supporting manner, I simply couldn't resist a little something different in my holiday decorations. I'll add more (better) photos as soon as I can get them downloaded but for now, I hope you can appreciate the general idea and maybe even understand how a little humor (even the twisted kind) can help when coping with a 15 month deployment.

Fa la la la la....Angel Out!

Just when you think you've heard it all...

2007-11-30T05:29:00.000-06:00

When my Mother passed away years ago, although I was barely 20, I remember making a mental list of all the stupid things people said in their attempts to make me feel better. (My theory is that these little gems were actually to make them feel better, but in either case, I decided that I would NEVER say anything like if the situation were reversed.)

Well folks, it's time for a new list. Since my beloved has left the country, it seems nearly everyone I know has been compelled to share their thoughts with me on his deployment. There are exceptions of course, but some of the things the majority have been compelled to share are nothing shy of pure stupidity.

My personal favorite is the man who told me that I should start preparing myself for my Soldier's impending death. It took every bit of self control not to bring the same to him. (Minus the prep time.)

Nice huh???

Now, I understand that shit happens...its happened to him a time or two already. But I trust his instincts and abilities like few I have ever known. With 24+ years in service, he's an AIRBORNE Ranger, Pathfinder, Master Parachutist, HALO/HAHO, Air Assault Instructor, plus a few dozen other schools/awards that I couldn't even begin to name. In other words, he can kick some serious ass..

I should know, I even watch MY mouth around him...and that's a first for this gal!

So for those of you with your worthless, uneducated "helpful" opinions - I leave you with this...

Lobo vs Rottweiler

2007-11-29T06:19:00.000-06:00

This is Lobo, my German Shepherd. Not only is he trained as a personal protection dog, apparently he also has skills in "distraction therapy."

While hanging Christmas lights last night, and maybe missing my 1SG just a little bit, a very friendly but BIG Rottweiler came over to see me. Lobo has played with him many times before and they've always gotten along fine. But apparently Lobo, who was in the house, didn't like the idea of me being outside alone with this large dog. So, before I knew it, Lobo popped the screen door, raced outside and grabbed the Rott by the throat. He completely ignored my "Release" command until the Rott ran away. Both dogs are ok, although the Rott is slightly worse off than Lobo. (IE: Lobo wasn't bleeding.) Nothing like a pet to take your mind off missing your significant other!

One for my baby...

2007-11-22T14:46:00.000-06:00

Ok folks, I KNOW it's an oldie...

THE 1SG RAP

What I'm Thankful For...

2007-11-22T12:09:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to those who bless our lives with their friendship, love and sacrifice!

A Lesson In Leaving

2007-11-21T14:40:00.000-06:00

Pretty much anyone who knows me is acutely aware that one of my missions in life involves being a more-than-enthusiastic cheerleader for the GWOT. I've had family and friends deploy numerous times on various fronts and have always stood my ground (rather loudly) when it comes to my belief that their cause is a just one and that those who take up arms in it's name are the finest of men and women I will ever know. I have never let them see me worry, cry or act in any manner other than that of one who knows that her emotions are child's play compared to what they are dealing with on a daily basis. I have always said that those of us at home HAVE TO be strong for those going off to fight. We owe them that at the very least, right

Well, earlier this week, I had to put my money where my mouth is when I said goodbye to my significant other as he prepares to depart on a 15 month deployment in the land of sand.
15 months...
That's two Christmas mornings, two birthdays and two people who won't be together for either of them.
15 months of scanning DOD releases, waiting, wondering, and praying

Lots and lots of praying.
I've never been one to break a promise and as such, I wouldn't be involved with someone who would, so we struck a deal:

I promised not to cry. (at least not in front of him.)

He promised to come home to me.

I didn't.

He will.

Charlie Mike...

Please Excuse Angel's Absence...AGAIN!

2007-11-18T23:56:00.000-06:00

Seems like I keep posting items like this only to disappear again.

For that, I sincerely apologize.

Shortly after my recovery time, I headed for Ft. Polk to spend some time with my significant other who is going to be deploying within a week or so. He just returned from his last tour in July, but he's always been one to answer the call, so when volunteers were asked for, he was the first in line. After 24 years of AIRBORNE INFANTRY, I can't really say I was too surprised. This is what he does and he does it very well.

I suspect I'll finally return to regular blogging since I'll have 15 months of time on my hands once he departs COTUS.

Thanks to all of you who have hung in there with me despite my sporadic appearances.

Be Safe,
Angel

Well...Look What The Cat Dragged In

2007-05-26T05:17:00.000-05:00

Yes, that's me giving blood.

No, it didn't take three months despite my lack of blogging or emailing a single word in that time.

I'm not a fan of excuses, but I owe some folks an explanation all the same.

First, I apologize to those of you, my friends who deserve better, who started calling and worrying...especially "Cisco," who somehow arranged a welfare check by the fire dept. all the way from South America which resulted in nothing more than a terse, "she's fine" for his trouble. (No way he could have known it, but my own department took the call and out of loyalty to me, they weren't giving out much information.)

So, where the hell have I been?

Where the hell do I start?

Ever heard that wives tale about bad things coming in threes? Well, consider me a believer. I had two neck surgeries and an abdominal surgery between March and May. The laminectomies (cervical disk removals) started out fine, but in between the first and the second, my Dad began to have some serious health problems. To put it bluntly, in the space of a week, he had no idea who I was and was rather violent about this strange female trying to convince him that he had a daughter for the past 36 (OK...almost 37) years. During one of those encounters, a second disk ruptured in my neck and I woke up in the neurosurgical ICU hours later. As time passed, Dad had some lucid moments, but no recollection of his memory loss at all. Because of this, getting him medical care became a battle of wills. His own physician dropped the ball and without any Neuro evaluations, physical or mental, declared it "expected" after a certain age. Eventually I was able to change his doctors and while all physiological causes have been ruled out, he has been diagnosed with acute, non-specific dementia. This is not the same as Alzheimer's, although the treatments are identical and though he is improving, we still have a ways to go before he has all the correct medications and therapies to ensure that he's as alert and aware as possible. While still on bed rest from the second surgery, I became aware of an abdominal mass and an exploratory laparoscpy revealed that it was pre-cancerous and any of you gals reading this know how they like to deal with that. (Guys...ask a girl, I'm not up to naming all the parts I'm missing at the moment.)

For the record, I've already had my pity party, shameful as that is to admit, and now I have every intention of returning to my life, taking care of my Father and eventually, hopefully, I might even get to fight a fire again someday.

I can't tell you how much I have missed reading so many of the blogs that were daily staples in my life for so long. I'm still catching up and I see a LOT has changed in the military world while I was away from my computer. But one thing that hasn't is my deep appreciation for our service members and those who support them.

They can't cut that out of me in any surgery.

So, for what it's worth...

I'm back.

Adapt & Overcome

2007-02-22T16:19:00.000-06:00

It's business as usual for US troops as they continue training to overcome various obstacles they may encounter on the path to victory.

Here, Air Crew personel practice the equipment modification procedure for dealing with a "Sudden Catastropic Funding Loss," also know as "The Democrat Drill."

On Walter Reed - The Best of "Major Z"

2007-02-22T15:34:00.000-06:00

Major Chuck Ziegenfuss has once again surpassed the bar, one which he himself previously set mighty high, in his post on Walter Reed Army Medical Center. It is quite aptly titled "The Blame Game."
Having had intimate, firsthand experience with Walter Reed, he describes both it's excellent, cutting edge medical treatment as well as it's utter failure in providing a continuum of care once patients have progressed from the "critical" stage to that of convalescence and rehabilitation.
(Which, by the way, ARE critical phases in ensuring a positive outcome for the patient.)
Not content to just describe the problems at WRAM and hope that someone will come along to solve them; just as he did when creating Project Valor IT, he goes on to take responsibility for implementing the solutions as well.

The Blame Game may well be one of Chucks best written posts to date, and that is saying something.

My adopted Marines in Stars & Stripes

2007-02-20T04:49:00.000-06:00

It was pure luck of the draw when I adopted 3 K9 handlers who not only turned out to be from 2/3 Marines, home of my adopted platoon - they're even in the same company. Pictured 1st is one of those three, Sgt. Ray Lemmon and "Cross," as they executed a cordon and search operation in the town of Haditha, located in the infamous Anbar Province. "Cross" is a "bomb dog" trained to detect an impressive number of different explosive compounds. (He's also a big charmer!) You can read the full article about this operation in Stars & Stripes. Since it went so well, it's unlikely you'll read about it in the Times or see it on CNN. Below are some personal photos of the remaining two teams I've adopted, along with one more of "Cross." The faces and names of the handlers have been altered but the dogs are cleared to be shamelessly shown off.

First is "Cisco," also an explosives detection K9, being cradled in the lap of his handler LW.

(Is that a happy puppy if ever you saw one?)

"Gordon," is the gorgeous German Shepherd, posed with his handler LCI. Unlike his fellow K9s, Gordon is a police dog trained to track, guard and attack on command.

I feel in love with him at first sight. (The dog...not the handler!)

Finally, we're back to "Cross" who is barely visible at the feet of Sgt. Lemmon.
As of 13 FEB 2O07, 22 members of 2/3 have been killed during this deployment and that number has already increased by at least four. On their previous tour in Afghanistan, 2/3 suffered one casualty for the entire duration of their deployment.
My adopted platoon is due home near the end of March, while these three K9 teams will be in Iraq until early 2008.
May God keep them safe.

Click to see 2/3 Marines in Action during their 2005 Afghanistan tour.

Click to see Marine Corps K9 teams training in the Anbar Province

Wounded 2/3 Marine Comes Home In Style

2007-02-20T04:13:00.000-06:00

The Honolulu Advisor tells the story of wounded 2/3 Marine, Lance Cpl. Steven Eastburn who received the travel upgrade of a lifetime courtesy of General Peter Pace and his C-40B executive jet.

Welcome home Cpl. Eastburn!

And then there are Sailors...

2007-02-19T17:55:00.000-06:00

Posted a "Best of The Best" video montage yesterday showing some of the more creative and hilarious moments of Soldiers with time on their hands. Wanting to give equal time to the Navy so that my squid cousins won't get all sensitive on me from feeling neglected, I went looking for a similar video for them. I found one - Lord did I find one.
Maybe it's from all that salt air or how they speak a language often requiring a translator for the rest of the Military, but Sailors are, well...different. So is this video. Don't get me wrong, it's hysterical and these boys definitely had some time on their hands.
But it is uniquely a maritime creation. I don't think that's a bad thing...
Just a Navy thing.
Enjoy the men of CS-6/USS Enterprise who keep the wolves at bay in dangerous waters.

Ok Danny Boy, do you and Fredo feel better now?
Miss you - Be Safe

Gathering Of Eagles

2007-02-18T18:46:00.000-06:00

If you are unaware of the need to protect The Vietnam Wall and our other Sacred War Memorials from the likes of Cindy Sheenan, Jane Fonda, and the usual who's who of Treason, Sedition and Cowardice, know this:
They are holding their annual anti-war rally
AT THE VIETNAM WALL!
They have a history of vandalism and desecration of anything they consider to be a symbol of America, including memorials, flags, buildings and even people who represent this country that they hate so much. These are the creatures who have literally spit on our soldiers, protested outside their hospitals to mock their injuries, called them baby killing murderers and think that as such enlightened beings, their actions are justifiable because they pale in comparison to the evil of taking part in something so vile as war.

We can stop them...we must.

We can come from every corner of America and make a stand long overdue. I can think of no better way to honor out Military, than to defend their most hallowed ground, as they have always done for us.
This decision to defend The Wall, and the events leading up to it has been appropriately designated as:
The Gathering of Eagles

Clicking the logo above will take you the Gathering of Eagles website, where you can read the same mission statement posted here. Please go now! This even will occur on March 17, 2006 and even if you can not attend, there are many, many more ways you can help.

GATHERING OF EAGLES
Our Mission Statement

1. Gathering of Eagles is non-partisan. While each member has his or her own political beliefs, our common love and respect for America and her heroes is what brings us together.
2. We are a non-violent, non-confrontational group. We look to defend, not attack. Our focus is guarding our memorials and their grounds.
3. We believe that the war memorials are sacred ground; as such, we will not allow them to be desecrated, used as props for political statements, or treated with anything less than the solemn and heartfelt respect they–and the heroes they honor–deserve.
4. We are wholly and forever committed to our brothers and sisters in uniform. As veterans, we understand their incredible and noble sacrifices, made of their own accord for a nation they love more than life itself. As family members, we stand by them, and as Americans, we thank God for them.
5. We believe in and would give our lives for the precious freedoms found in our Constitution. We believe that our freedom of speech is one of the greatest things our country espouses, and we absolutely hold that any American citizen has the right to express his or her approval or disapproval with any policy, law, or action of our nation and her government in a peaceful manner as afforded by the laws of our land.
6. However, we are adamantly opposed to the use of violence, vandalism, physical or verbal assaults on our veterans, and the destruction or desecration of our memorials. By defending and honoring these sacred places, we defend and honor those whose blood gave all of us the right to speak as freely as our minds think.
7. We vehemently oppose the notion that it is possible to “support the troops but not the war.” We are opposed to those groups who would claim support for the troops yet engage in behavior that is demeaning and abusive to the men and women who wear our nation’s uniform.
8. We believe in freedom at all costs, including our own lives. We served to protect the freedoms Americans enjoy, and we agree with Thomas Jefferson’s assertion that “From time to time, the tree of liberty must be watered with the blood of patriots and tyrants.”
9. We will accept nothing less than total, unqualified victory in the current conflict. Surrender is not an option, nor is defeat.10. We stand to challenge any group that seeks the destruction of our nation, its founding precepts of liberty and freedom, or those who have given of themselves to secure those things for another generation.

We will be silent no more.

You won't believe your eyes!

2007-02-18T10:51:00.000-06:00

ALZHEIMERS' EYE TEST
(NO CHEATING!)

Count every "F" in the following text:

FINISHED FILES ARE THE RE
SULT OF YEARS OF SCIENTI
FIC STUDY COMBINED WITH
THE EXPERIENCE OF YEARS...

(SEE BELOW)

HOW MANY ?

WRONG,

THERE ARE 6 -- no joke.

READ IT AGAIN !
Really, go Back and Try to find all 6 F's before you scroll down.

The reasoning behind this???

The brain cannot process "OF".

Incredible or what?

Go back and look again!!
Anyone who counts all 6 "F's" on the first go is a genius.

Three is normal, four is quite rare.

Invite your friends to try this.

It will drive them INSANE!

(Which is always fun, right?)

Thanks RobbDog!

You Gotta Love Em!

2007-02-18T01:34:00.002-06:00

Soldiers with time on their hands...

In A Class By Herself

2007-02-17T21:57:00.000-06:00

After recently contributing a few terrorists to the world, it's nice to remember the good guys who've come from the Lone Star State.
Of course President Bush comes to mind, but right now I am especially fond of this Lady... Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison.
I had the privilege of running a 5k with Senator Hutchison 2 years ago, and she is a class act. (Not to mention a hell of a runner-I had to work to keep pace with her.) When I look at some of our other female leaders like Hillary and Nancy I think they would do well to emulate her common sense at the very least and at best her ability to make a decision and stick with it.
(Too much to hope for anything more, I'm afraid.)
She is one of the few remaining Senate members whose stance on Iraq and our troops has never wavered. Our Nation and the state of Texas are blessed to have a leader who actually knows how to lead.

"I'll just hit the brakes, and he'll fly right by..."

2007-02-16T13:54:00.000-06:00

Said Mavrick to Goose waaaaaaaaay back in 1980-something.

Not my favorite line from Top Gun, but not a bad plan at all...even works on hijackers in 2007.

Check out Ace of Spades for the Sweet story of how the pilot used this techineque to stop the Mauritanian hijacker and how everyone on the flight got to play too.

Ace of Spades & Jules Crittenden

Just An Okie from...Islamabad.

2007-02-16T11:35:00.000-06:00

I'd drive to Tulsa, Oklahoma to buy this Man a beer today if his religious beliefs allowed it.

Then again, Jamal Miftah has proven to me that there is such a thing as a moderate Muslim and that he's one of them, so maybe I'll get to buy him that beer someday.

I hope so...I truly do.

His chose a very pubic approach to let the Emperor know that he's naked...and added that hiding behind Mosques and innocent people to shield this fact just makes him a morally corrupt coward who is, of course, still naked.

Unfortunately, this is not sitting well with his more zealous Muslim breathren. In fact, they declared him anti-islamic and kicked him out of the local Mosque for life. And that's just the non-threatening stuff.

Welcome to America Jamal! You are welcome in my Church and my Watering Hole anytime.

Michelle Malkin

Long Live The King!

2007-02-16T08:40:00.000-06:00

"If the Infantry is the Queen of Battle then who's the King?"

(Incoming!)

I was 5 or 6 the first time I posed this question to my Dad and thus continued my education in the Military Sciences including some live fire artillery exercises that I begged for months to watch.
As a kid, it was the most incredible thing I'd ever seen felt or heard and it's still pretty high up on that list.
Mom did NOT approve at all and I'm sure she was starting to wonder if someone gave her the wrong baby when they adopted me. She had specifically waited for a baby girl to take home and I wanted nothing to do with that plan.
Dad, meanwhile, had more than a wannabe son. He had a little girl who hero-worshiped him as only a daughter can who also liked to watch (or assist) things blowing up.
Father and son soap box races? That's nice.
We made father and daughter daisy chains...out of trainer claymores.

Which is probably why I nearly fell out of my chair when NOTAR at ROFASIX made this suggestion for that extra edge in residntial security. Good thing I also have a dog as he also suggested, because once the idea was there - I couldn't stop mentally re-arranging my mine field.

Sick and twisted? Perhaps...

With that in mind, here's the King himself doing some of his best work for the camera and the idiots holding it...Enjoy!

US Artiliary Up Close & Personal!

Stupid Women Piss Me Off

2007-02-15T15:50:00.000-06:00

Hate to break it to you, Miss Frequent Flyer, but you don't get a new jet for such stupid proclamations as this: "President Bush lacks authority to invade."
The Commander In Chief doesn't NEED authority to invade your space let alone Iran.
That's how that whole CIC thing works.
Yes, he has to get to congress within a certain period of time after ordering military action.
That is NOT the same as needing your permission or anyone else's.
And since announcing to your next door neighbor that you can't defend yourself is nothing shy of galactically stupid, I have to ask just what the Hell was going through your estrogen-depleted brain when you held a press conference to announce the same thing to the world?
Sweet Jesus...I knew you were a self-absorbed female, but even I hadn't realized that you really ARE a stupid b**** until today.
Thanks for setting our gender back 25 years WHILE acting as a living, breathing National Security Risk - most impressive!
Ever hear that joke about women as life-support systems?
I wouldn't even trust you with that one.

Remembering a Friend...

2007-02-14T14:57:00.000-06:00

Valentine's Day has never quite been the same for me and a lot of the people in my little world since the morning of February 14, 2000. In that pre-September 11th era of innocence, I had never been touched personally by a line of duty death. It hadn't happened in my department...ever, and it hadn't happened to anyone in the bigger municipal department bordering mine since 1977. But that morning, what became known as "The McDonalds Fire," changed everything when Firefighter Kim Smith and Captain Lewis Mayo were killed in a fire that was deliberately set at a local McDonald's resteraunt to cover up a burglery.

I first met Kim on a mutual aid call where she and I were the only two women in a sea of men. She was small, like me, but strong enough to be part of a ladder company and she had four years more experience than I did. She had competed in the National Firefighter Combat Challenge, loved to run and had two dogs she adored.

I had found someone to emulate.

Seven years later, that's something I still try to do.

Miss you, Gal.

How I Came To Be & More

2007-02-09T10:05:00.001-06:00

As promised, here's the modified version of a comment I left at Froggy Ruminations that explains not only how I became who I am; it gives my take on why supporting our troops is so important. I posted it here, in it's original version just about a year ago when I first began this blog, along with a post about my Dad right after it, but some things are worth repeating, especially my feelings on this subject and those for my Dad, the very first Hero I ever knew.

1. December, 1970:
The Man I proudly call "Dad" wanted a son when he and my mother set out to adopt a child. He learned that a baby girl awaiting adoption lost her biological father while fighting with the 101st AIRBORNE in Vietnam three months after she was born. He tells me to this day that the idea of "His" son fell easily to the idea of ANY soldier's daughter growing up not knowing a soldier's love. "Dad" was in Korea, in a different division and from different place in history - but because soldiers love each other, I've been able to love two of them as only a daughter can for 35 years.
2. September 11th, 2001:
I was rolling 1 3/4" hose line after a "normal" bread & butter structure fire when I heard about the attacks. That is my job. When 343 of my brothers died doing their jobs that day, the men and women of the US military did far more than demand a reckoning. They set out to ensure a future where our professions cross over only on our terms and no one else’s. They have delivered on both counts.
3. Fast forward to August 24th, 2005:
I have “adopted” many individual service members and entire platoons over the last two years and to a man their gratitude for the smallest thought is overwhelming. But on this day I sat in tears reading the most touching thank you note I have ever received in my lifetime. What merited a personal letter of that caliber?

A few pounds of Starbucks Coffee and a card.

I sent those simple things to a group of men who volunteer for training & tours in Hell just to earn the right to demonstrate their intense love of this country. Unlike the folks who sparked this rare rant of mine, their protests signs are written in their *own* blood and no one else’s. They shed it willingly because that is how men of this breed express outrage against terrorism – they act. And in their darkest hour of grief, their commanding officer did not seek public platforms to complain. He shared private moments of hope and pride and gratitude by taking the time to personally thank people like me for a decent cup of coffee, a piece of printed cardboard, and a few words of prayers and appreciation that were woefully shy of honoring him and his fallen brothers as fully as they deserve.
You may have read about this particular group of men at Froggy’s Blog. Froggy held our hands while we prayed for them, rejoiced with us as the “ONE” came home, and granted us the privilege, worthy of it or not, to say goodbye to them at their memorial services.

So, you see, for me, this is so very simple and all the debate in the world can’t change it – I love my defenders. I support their mission, their Commander In Chief and in my eyes, there simply is no other way to support THEM.

I have no doubt that my opinion is biased on supporting our troops. But I can take away any of the factors that make it so and one final unifying factor remains...I am an American. I know many, many people who do not have the ties to these men and women that I do. To them, it makes no difference. I know many whose ties are much closer and more personal. They do not need them. They all love our troops. They honor and support them just as fiercely as I do. They are Americans...and that is all they need.

And that is how this Angel came to be, how she came to love the military and how she is blessed to be surrounded by heroes in her life.

When Your Parents Need You

2007-02-09T06:56:00.000-06:00

This photo is of my Dad in Korea in 1953.

While I've manged to leave a few comments here and there, I really haven't had time to post since his surgery. He IS doing very well, especially considering that he's 77 years old, but he still needs a lot of medical care and since that's part of what I what I do for a living, I am his primary care giver. I don't mind it one bit - in fact, I consider it an honor.

Still, it takes up a lot of my time; hence my lack of posting recently.

On a comment I once left, I explained that Dad adopted me after my biological Father was killed in Vietnam. When I have my emotions under control, I'll post about how that came to be.

Till' then, I ask all of you for your prayers so that I can find the strength to carry on, and that he, my Hero, will make a full recovery.

Many Thanks,

Angel

Automatic External Defibrillators

2007-01-31T04:32:00.000-06:00

As promised, here is my AED post.
I encourage everyone to visit THIS site from the American Red Cross to learn everything about this life saving device. In a nut shell, it is easy for anyone to use, and it saves lives - BUT it has to be present in order for that to occur. Clicking on the graphic bellow offers helpful insight on how to obtain one for your organization.

Contrary to what many believe, an AED is not something only needed in a health care setting. They are now in public aircraft, schools, office buildings..pretty much anywhere there are people. The reason? Because anyone, regardless of age, apparent health or gender can, without warning, experience sudden cardiac arrest.

ANYONE!

Time between onset and intervention is critical in these instances and as fast as medics are capable of arriving, they won't be faster than a trained bystander with access to an AED. The training is simple and in many cases free of charge. I suppose this is my personal opinion, but a few hours of training is a Hell of a lot better than a lifetime spent with the memory of watching someone die as you stood by helpless to at least try to assist them.

I also recommend that everyone learn basic first aid and life support through the American Heart Association which includes CPR for adults, children and infants. Again, many of these courses are free to the public and more importantly, they can mean the difference between life and death. I especially encourage ALL parents to learn these procedures as I have personally had to console grieving Mothers and Fathers who realize the need for them too late. While it's true that CPR saves are by no means a given, the mere effort allows them to know that they did everything possible to save their child.

If you have questions on any of this, feel to send me an email.

(The address is in the side bar.)

I will be happy to help you in any way I can and if I don't know the answer, I will get you in touch with someone who does.

Ventricular Tachycardia

2007-01-30T23:01:00.000-06:00

Been away for a bit because of the heart rhythm you see above.

No, it wasn't mine, it was worse...it was my Dad's.

There are few things more unsettling than treating one of your own, and I'm still a little shaky over this one.

But...the medics who took over were outstanding as was the Cardiology staff in the hospital, so... I'm VERY happy to say that Dad is fine now and a proud new recipient of an internal defibrillator.

I should be back to blogging soon and my next post will probably be on the need for AED's,(Automatic External Defibrillators,) in every school, plane, school bus and a thousand other places I can't think of at the moment. They really DO save lives!

By Leaps & Hounds

2007-01-19T20:06:00.000-06:00

BLACKANTHEM.COM has a great article on Military Dogs Working to Serve & Protect and the handlers who train them for everything from explosives detection, SAR and drug interdiction along with my personal favorite, "apprehension and retention."
("Grek" demonstrates this beautifully with Petty Officer 2nd Class Johnny B. Mitchell in the photo on the left.)

Military Working Dogs have come a long way since the days when they were used as scouts and then left behind when the troops came home. This was standard procedure for the military through the better part of the Vietnam War. It took a huge outcry from handlers that finally led to policy changes and slowly, the value of the the K9 started to be fully recognized.

Six of same soldiers who refused to be silenced when forced to abandon their K9s in Vietnam came together again in 1993, to form the Vietnam Dog Handler Association. They were the driving force behind the creation of the first National War Dog Memorial, located in California. An identical monument was dedicated soon after on the grounds of Ft. Benning's Infantry Museum. The inscription on these 19 ft bronze statues of a GI and his scout dog is the simple, heartfelt truth for the men who wrote it:

"They protected us on the field of battle. They watch over our eternal rest. We are grateful."

Ft. Benning Memorial

The Marine Corps. paid tribute to a Doberman named "Kurt," who saved the lives of 250 Marines during the battle for Guam from 21 July to 10 August 1944. They did so by creating a bronze, life-sized statue of him keeping watch from atop a granite monument; placed at the U.S. Marine Corps War Dog Cemetery on the island of Guam. Inscribed in the stone beneath him are the names of the 25 Dobermans buried there who gave their lives liberating the island in WWII.

"Kurt" immortalized in bronze, keeping the watch.

Check the article for more great photos and stories of these 4-legged warriors at work. And yes, I might be a wee bit biased when it comes to K9's. Especially when they look as good as mine!

Lobo Azules - Age 3

Oh, and while I'm on the subject, there are many Military Working Dog Handlers on the list at AnySoldier. I know this because I adopted three of them last week. Wouldn't you like to do the same?

Per Mare Per Terram

2007-01-19T06:52:00.000-06:00

I'm well aware that the herculean efforts made by the men of 45 Commando Royal Marines to rescue one of their own earlier this week have been given heavy, continuous coverage in every media format imaginable. I am not here to add anything new or repeat what's already been said by those far more qualified than I to analyze the event.
What I am qualified to talk about is the powerful trio of loyalty, honor and love found within a brotherhood such as The Royal Marines that exists to confront the most dangerous situations imaginable.
I have seen it in my own family members who serve in the military, especially if I'm allowed to "hang out with the boys" who make up their units. I have experienced 1st hand within my fire companies. We may not see the frequency of close calls or LODD's compared to today's deployed service members, but we have shared enough of them to know that every one of us would bleed, burn and even die to rescue one of our own without a moments hesitation.
The Royal Marines demonstrated it in epic proportions attempting to rescue their "brother," Lance Corporal Mathew Ford, and I felt the need to honor those men along with the countless other's we rarely hear about who's loyalty and love for their fellows proves stronger than any fear or foe.

Such is the power of bonds forged in and under fire.

Good Stuff in Grim's Hall

2007-01-18T19:39:00.001-06:00

Grim's Hall has posted about the recent ongoings in the Philippines and it's ALL good.

In addition to a few more terrorists being removed from the threat equation, Francis Marion has checked in and promises an update on his site as soon as he gets what I'm sure is some much needed sleep.

News of a dead terrorist ALWAYS sends me into a moment of vindictive celebration that would horrify some folks if they knew. I've learned to hide it pretty well over the last 5 years but my eyes are a dead give away if I'm thinking exceptionally evil things. (Which I usually am in that scenario.)

I don't apologize for it...not when I can touch a steel girder from the south tower on any given work day, and sometimes do if no one's around to watrch me cry.

Still, I was glad to note that hearing Francis was safe and well felt better than hearing about 100 dead terrorists - nice to know my heart's still in here somewhere.

RTFM!

2007-01-18T17:27:00.000-06:00

Badgers Forward: Iraq 101
Get thee to Badgers Forward with all due haste to ponder the above post, gentle readers. Follow the link to the complete article which the author herself refers to as "Iraq For Dummies."
It's not only an excellent response to all the BS you've ever heard about the war, it's pretty damn hillarious too.

Even us not-so-gentle readers agree.

We're ALL going to Jail!

2007-01-17T07:35:00.000-06:00

ROFASIX - CAV Guy! has a nearly unbelievable post about legislation being passed that could put a LOT of bloggers in orange jumpsuits and making license plates!

See Y'all behind the wire!

Real Men DO Eat Quiche!

2007-01-16T22:45:00.000-06:00

Badgers Forward: 24 Part II debunks that quiche myth for good! (And gave me the title for this post!) Make sure you check out Badgers Forward 24 Part I first though, as it puts the 2nd half in context. I like the play-by-play style of this blog from a boots on the ground perspective. Even more, I love that the author is not only an Officer, but the kind that all soldiers deserve to lead them.

Firefighter Saves Woman From NY Subway Train's Path

2007-01-16T00:43:00.000-06:00

Firefighter Saves Woman

Donald Trump awarded 50-year-old Wesley Autrey, another recent hero of New York's subway system, $10,000.00 for saving a seizure patient who had fallen onto the tracks.

(And I DO consider that man a hero!)

But I bet this FDNY FF/EMT, Daniel Fitzpatrick, would settle for having the American Flag allowed back on his station locker.

See latest interviews with FDNY Union Rep.

Judge not those who run from fear.

Thank God for those who run toward it.

Castro In Grave Condition!

2007-01-15T22:58:00.000-06:00

That is the unaltered headline on the AP feed as of 8 minutes ago.
Well, my great, great, great, great Grandmother is in "grave condition" too, but the AP's use of terminology hasn't changed and the bastard is still alive.
I wonder what they'll write when the bastard is actually dead?

"Castro's Dream of Utopia Realized At Last!"

*Forgive me Gran - Your sense of humor lives on in me and I know you'd understand.*

WTF Google?

2007-01-15T21:30:00.000-06:00

I wish I could recall where I first read that Google refused to "decorate" their logo for Veteran's Day on the grounds that they like their logo to look "playful"and they could find no way to do this with the subject in question.
Come on guys, you're GOOGLE for goodness sakes! You can do better than that!

Where am I going with this? I'm simply noting that while Veteran's Day isn't worthy of Google's recognition or creativity, (and they have the latter in abundance,) it seems that many others are worth going all out for. Anyone care to guess what made the cut on today's logo? (hint -MLK)I'm NOT knocking the man, his amazing accomplishments, the day designated in his honor or the fact that Google chose to acknowledge it - that's a good call.
What I AM furious about is the fact that Veteran's day doesn't merit the same!
Google, it's time to get your S*** and your design team together!

NOTE: I checked ALL past Google logos since 1999 and I'll give them credit for The 4th of July. I realize that these logos are tailored for various countries but if Earth Day, Burning Man/Winter Solstice, National Women's Day and my personal favorite: World Water Day merits a special logo, than Veteran's Day damn well does too!

Playing With Fire: Update

2007-01-15T19:38:00.000-06:00

Perhaps it was the weather, but I've NEVER seen newbies so willing (begging) to enter the Backdraft chamber. Usually the fact that the little 'ole female instructor is in there provokes the the male ego and that's enough to get them in there. But today's weather was more incentive than I could ever hope for.

Motivation is a beautiful thing!

Playing With Fire

2007-01-14T00:43:00.000-06:00

What are you doing at work all week?

(Flashover/Backdraft Training Chamber)

I can't believe they LET me do this, never mind pay me for it!
Wanna see the backdrafts now?
(Notice where we are when the doors blast open? I still love that part!)

Remember ALL the troops...

2007-01-12T05:06:00.000-06:00

As speculation flies about possibly engaging Iran and Syria as part of OIF, there is still little mention of additional fronts (other than Afghanistan, of course) on which the War On Terror is being fought.

Before this morning's apparent "terrorist attack" on the US Embassy in Athens, there was a series terrorist bombings in the Philippines that killed 6 and wounded 27. No US casualties have been reported, but it's worth noting that US special forces and their support teams have been there for some time, training the Philippine Armed forces, including well known SF Mil-blogger "Francis Marion" from Where I Stand.

We reportedly have team of US troops on the ground in Somalia now as well, something unheard of since the well documented clash between Task Force Ranger and Somalian Warlords in 1993.

These are just two of the areas on the list, and they by no means complete it. Our guys and gals in uniform have a stake in every outcome worldwide because they are deployed damn near everywhere.

Remember the cartoon inviting you to "follow the bouncing ball?" Use the same principle, except this time, just follow the spread of radical Islam. It's a pretty good indicator of the where the hot spots are...and odds are we've got folks near the flames.
Don't forget to keep them in your prayers as well.

The Boys Are Back!

2007-01-11T23:39:00.000-06:00

US troops 'enter Somalia' after raid
Why does this give me the warm fuzzies?
Everyone remember all the units from the last go-round?
Good, now consider the odds that a "small search team" like this ISN'T from one of them.
Those are betting odds now aren't they?
Anyone care to double down that two of them are there?

Keeping The Dream Alive

2007-01-11T17:23:00.000-06:00

Ace of Spades' post on Three Explosions in Iran attains levels of sarcastic poetry that I have only dreamed of reaching in some Yeats/Twain alternative universe.

Of course, assuming said episodes of surper-high velocity combustion did NOT result from nuclear queries, then the mere fact that stuff is blowing up in Iran is kind of poetic all by itself.

Greater Love Hath No Man Than This...

2007-01-11T14:39:00.000-06:00

That He Lay Down His Life For His Friends

Dan and Deb Dunham pause during a Medal of Honor ceremony for their son, U.S. Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham, at the White House, Jan. 11, 2007.

Dunham gave his own life in April 2004 by throwing his body over a grenade so that the men under his command might live.

Defense Dept. photo by Cherie A. Thurlby

Yeah...that'll happen!

2007-01-11T02:19:00.000-06:00

FDNY FIREFIGHTERS ORDERED TO REMOVE ALL FLAGS , MASS CARDS, PICTURES OF COLLEAGUES & FAMILY MEMBERS KILLED ON SEPTEMBER 11TH, AND ANY "OTHER" PERSONAL DECORATIONS IN STATIONS ANS LOCKERS.

Ok kids, you know what I am and you know what I do, (and if you don't, my outrage over this is a BIG hint,) so I hope you'll excuse me when I call BULLSHIT on this one as loudly as I possibly can.

Now, supposedly FDNY's Engine Co. 230 was busted for having a "sexually explicit" slogan posted somewhere in their station and that led to this anti-decoraion crap. Well then, as THE female on Ladder 23, in a department far, far away...(what, you think FDNY had a sexually explicit slogan involving naked GUYS? The F*** outta here!)...I'm here to tell you that we, the women of the firefighting world, have seen it all, heard it all and quite possibly done it all ourselves by now! If we were the "easily offended" type, do you really think firemen would be our first choice in colleagues? (Yet they ARE, which SHOULD tell you something right there!) Where the hell do you get off using US as an excuse to pay legal for their CYA games? No one who ever wanted to be here pulls the "But I'm a girl" crap - Ever!

And good luck getting those flags down...maybe you can ask the Port Authority Police for help?

And just for the record, suppose a Firefighter has a tatto with flags and...stuff? Gonna make her, I mean them, take THAT off too?

'Cuz we can give the paramedics a head start, if you like.

(Just TWO of My "sexist" locker decorations.)

Shots Fired!

2007-01-11T01:40:00.000-06:00

Can't give ALL the credit to the President's speech since some of the following precedes it, but since it aired, the lead has really been flying and it's ALL large caliber, soft-pointed, expanding projectiles banned by the Hague Peace Conference!
(In other words, it's the GOOD STUFF!)
Start with THIS post by Froggy, THEN read EVERYTHING on Blackfive from there on up.

I especially encourage you to check out "A Battalion of Sock Puppets" and tell me no one's been in the ETOH today - And aren't you glad they were!

(I know i just sent you in a circle - cry me a river!)
Bill Whittle has a teaser up at Eject! Eject! Eject! which is usually the promise of essays to come and those are always through the X-ring.
Walk The Line with Michael Yon and CSM Mellinger in Iraq as they enter Ramadi. Here, the lead may be approved by Hague and blessed by Geneva, but it feels like someone just dialed you in, personally.
Grim’s Hall has the best analysis, in my humble opinion, on the recent attack on our southern border. And he fills it out even more with this.
(Yes, I said attack, and compared to terrel owens, i AM humble!)
Thursday's Day by Day by Chris Muir is destined to become as classic as the 1911, but without that pesky recoil.

Fox is reporting that this guy is dead, via gunship, which made me smile, that Pat Robertson may not be the idiot I think he is , (but I doubt it,) and that Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani wants all illegal weapons removed in Iraq, which made me wonder 1st if there's a CCW permit available for those who qualify and 2nd, who might that be?

(Of course any of the guys and gals from the right side of the desert are eternally Grandfathered in.)

NATO claims 150 insurgent kills in Afghanistan - more smiles on my end. (I got family in them there parts - nice work, Squid!)

Major Z and Jack Army tell the sordid tale of a soldier who got screwed, and for all interested parties, the perpetrator is identifiable for your telephone and e-mailing pleasure. I'll add to that with...this.

The Fast Squirrel gives my personal favorite post-game wrap up on Strafing Somalia.

Adding more as they hit the Thompson target...
Angel

And this little Froggy said NO...

2007-01-11T01:36:00.000-06:00

Froggy 's Not Feelin It?

I love the guy, but hope to hell that just this once, he's wrong.

That Fallen' Angel

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Pass it On...

Greatest Movie Line Ever?

More IKE Picks

Contrary to Elections past...

Penn & Teller Tell It Like it is!

Well, Hello Dolly!

Milestones...

Wish I'd Writen These...

Still Here, Still Healing & Still Learning

God, Friends & Titanium

I'm here...just a little under the weather.

Where in the world have I been?

Warriors...in their own words. Courtesy of ROFASIX

A gift from my guy...

I need a Dam break!

Someone to watch over me...

Where do I start?

Please God...

I'd vote for him!

Happy Birthday Mom...I Miss You

Little Things Mean a Lot.

Hillary Wasn't Lying! - Bosnia Footage Discovered!

When You Wish Upon A Star...

Birthdays

I think I like this guy...and I like politicians less than I do reporters.

Today, I met a Hero...

Happy Easter!

Good Friday

Ain't that the truth!

CPR IS CHANGING - CCR LEARN IT!

Atta' Girl!

Flight 77 - Best Animation I have seen to date

Well, I've done it again...

THAT'S MY SOLDIER!

I've finally done it - I DIDN'T VOTE!

No Greater Love...

MISSING: REPUBLICAN LEADERSHIP. If found, please call 1-800-SAVE-USA

I got two words for you...

UFO? Nope UAV - Over my little abode.

So it IS true...F-15 Flying & Landing On One Wing!

Plastic Surgery - It's not just for Boob Jobs Anymore!

And what did you learn in school today, Angel?

Time for a new list!

More proof that training *will* save your ass...

13 Months And Counting - But This Ain't My Mom's War!

If at first you don't succeed, cry, cry again...

The Dog Ate My Homework!

Merry Christmas!

"My" Candle In The Window

Goodbye Dan...Thanks for the music.

The Mother of ALL Fred Videos

Home Sweet Home

Standing Fast

National Firefighters Day

Short and Sweet

A (warped) Christmas Carol

Just when you think you've heard it all...

Lobo vs Rottweiler

One for my baby...

What I'm Thankful For...

A Lesson In Leaving

Please Excuse Angel's Absence...AGAIN!

Well...Look What The Cat Dragged In

Adapt & Overcome

On Walter Reed - The Best of "Major Z"

My adopted Marines in Stars & Stripes

Wounded 2/3 Marine Comes Home In Style

And then there are Sailors...

Gathering Of Eagles

You won't believe your eyes!

You Gotta Love Em!

In A Class By Herself

"I'll just hit the brakes, and he'll fly right by..."

Just An Okie from...Islamabad.

Long Live The King!

Stupid Women Piss Me Off

Remembering a Friend...

How I Came To Be & More

More proof that training will save your ass...