Terrific Kid and Singing Dog

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private William W. Cranston (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 2, 1863 at Chancellorsville, Virginia. His citation reads:

One of a party of 4 who voluntarily brought in a wounded Confederate officer from within the enemy's line in the face of a constant fire.

Colonel Demas T. Craw (US Army) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on November 8, 1942 near Port Lyautey, French Morocco. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty. On 8 November 1942, near Port Lyautey, French Morocco, Col. Craw volunteered to accompany the leading wave of assault boats to the shore and pass through the enemy lines to locate the French commander with a view to suspending hostilities. This request was first refused as being too dangerous but upon the officer's ins1stence that he was qualified to undertake and accomplish the mission he was allowed to go. Encountering heavy fire while in the landing boat and unable to dock in the river because of shell fire from shore batteries, Col. Craw, accompanied by 1 officer and 1 soldier, succeeded in landing on the beach at Mehdia Plage under constant low-level strafing from 3 enemy planes. Riding in a bantam truck toward French headquarters, progress of the party was hindered by fire from our own naval guns. Nearing Port Lyautey, Col. Craw was instantly killed by a sustained burst of machinegun fire at pointblank range from a concealed position near the road.

Fireman Alexander Crawford (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 25, 1864 on board the USS Wyalusing. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Wyalusing, Crawford volunteered 25 May 1864, in a night attempt to destroy the rebel ram Albemarle in the Roanoke River. Taking part in a plan to explode the rebel ram Albemarle, Crawford executed his part in the plan with perfection, but upon being discovered, was forced to abandon the plan and retire leaving no trace of the evidence. After spending two hazardous days and nights without food, he gained the safety of a friendly ship and was then transferred back to the Wyalusing. Though the plan failed his skill and courage in preventing detection were an example of unfailing devotion to duty.

One of the “things” we sometimes do in our house is call people (usually family members) on their birthday to sing to them. This is usually done so they can have Maverick sing to them… the rest of us are just back-up singers. Mom has gone so far as to request that we not call to sing to her on her birthday unless Maverick is with us. This year, I decided to video us singing to Mom (“Nana”) and post it on here. Also, Mary Ruth was selected by her teacher as the “Terrific Kid” for January for her class. They had a little awards ceremony at her school on Friday and below are some pics of it.


Picture Tuesday

Something is missing...

The Wife and Mary Ruth after MR got her award

Me and Mary Ruth

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ASHLEY!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Major Bruce P. Crandall (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 14, 1965 in the Ia Drang Valley, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: Major Bruce P. Crandall distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism as a Flight Commander in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). On 14 November 1965, his flight of sixteen helicopters was lifting troops for a search and destroy mission from Plei Me, Vietnam, to Landing Zone X-Ray in the Ia Drang Valley. On the fourth troop lift, the airlift began to take enemy fire, and by the time the aircraft had refueled and returned for the next troop lift, the enemy had Landing Zone X-Ray targeted. As Major Crandall and the first eight helicopters landed to discharge troops on his fifth troop lift, his unarmed helicopter came under such intense enemy fire that the ground commander ordered the second flight of eight aircraft to abort their mission. As Major Crandall flew back to Plei Me, his base of operations, he determined that the ground commander of the besieged infantry batallion desperately needed more ammunition. Major Crandall then decided to adjust his base of operations to Artillery Firebase Falcon in order to shorten the flight distance to deliver ammunition and evacuate wounded soldiers. While medical evacuation was not his mission, he immediately sought volunteers and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, led the two aircraft to Landing Zone X-Ray. Despite the fact that the landing zone was still under relentless enemy fire, Major Crandall landed and proceeded to supervise the loading of seriously wounded soldiers aboard his aircraft. Major Crandall's voluntary decision to land under the most extreme fire instilled in the other pilots the will and spirit to continue to land their own aircraft, and in the ground forces the realization that they would be resupplied and that friendly wounded would be promptly evacuated. This greatly enhanced morale and the will to fight at a critical time. After his first medical evacuation, Major Crandall continued to fly into and out of the landing zone throughout the day and into the evening. That day he completed a total of 22 flights, most under intense enemy fire, retiring from the battlefield only after all possible service had been rendered to the Infantry battalion. His actions provided critical resupply of ammunition and evacuation of the wounded. Major Crandall's daring acts of bravery and courage in the face of an overwhelming and determined enemy are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Private Charles Crandall (US Army) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions from August – October 1868 in Arizona. His citation reads:

Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians.

Chief Boatswain’s Mate Orson L. Crandall (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 13, 1939 following the sinking of the USS Squalus. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as a master diver throughout the rescue and salvage operations following the sinking of the U.S.S. Squalus on 23 May 1939. His leadership and devotion to duty in directing diving operations and in making important and difficult dives under the most hazardous conditions characterize conduct far above and beyond the ordinary call of duty.


We’d like to take a minute to wish the 2011 I’m just sayin… Fan of the Year Ashley a very Happy Birthday! She is our favorite singing bank teller in the whole wide world.

Mary Ruth lost a tooth last Thursday. She was very excited.

Susie is pretty much potty trained. The Wife is very excited.

The good news is Daniel is learning to talk. The bad news is he’s learning to talk like Maverick and Scooby. He’s started barking when they bark. I think it’s great. The Wife… not so much.




The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In

Greg 225 - 2 pounds down from last week… even after eating out a couple of times. Wii Fit and Wii Sports are helping me get some exercise during the day.

Mary Ruth 44

Susie 24

Daniel 20

Romans 1:16-17

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Samuel H. Craig (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 15, 1886 at Santa Cruz Mountains, Mexico. His citation reads:

Conspicuous gallantry during an attack on a hostile Apache Indian Camp; seriously wounded.

Technical Sergeant Morris E. Crain (US Army) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on March 13, 1945 at Haguenau, France. His citation reads:

He led his platoon against powerful German forces during the struggle to enlarge the bridgehead across the Moder River. With great daring and aggressiveness he spearheaded the platoon in killing 10 enemy soldiers, capturing 12 more and securing its objective near an important road junction. Although heavy concentrations of artillery, mortar, and self-propelled gunfire raked the area, he moved about among his men during the day, exhorting them to great efforts and encouraging them to stand firm. He carried ammunition and maintained contact with the company command post, exposing himself to deadly enemy fire. At nightfall the enemy barrage became more intense and tanks entered the fray to cover foot troops while they bombarded our positions with grenades and rockets. As buildings were blasted by the Germans, the Americans fell back from house to house. T/Sgt. Crain deployed another platoon which had been sent to his support and then rushed through murderous tank and small-arms fire to the foremost house, which was being defended by 5 of his men. With the enemy attacking from an adjoining room and a tank firing pointblank at the house, he ordered the men to withdraw while he remained in the face of almost certain death to hold the position. Although shells were crashing through the walls and bullets were hitting all around him, he held his ground and with accurate fire from his submachinegun killed 3 Germans. He was killed when the building was destroyed by the enemy. T/Sgt. Crain's outstanding valor and intrepid leadership enabled his platoon to organize a new defense, repel the attack and preserve the hard-won bridgehead.

Boatswain’s Mate Thomas Cramen (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 7, 1882 on board the USS Portsmouth. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Portsmouth, Washington Navy Yard, 7 February 1882. Jumping overboard from that vessel, Cramen rescued Charles Taliaferro, jack-of-the-dust, from drowning.


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
Romans 1:16-17 (NIV)

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

Go Eagles!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private First Class Clarence B. Craft (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 31, 1945 at Hen Hill, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands. His citation reads:

He was a rifleman when his platoon spearheaded an attack on Hen Hill, the tactical position on which the entire Naha-Shuri-Yonaburu line of Japanese defense on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, was hinged. For 12 days our forces had been stalled, and repeated, heavy assaults by 1 battalion and then another had been thrown back by the enemy with serious casualties. With 5 comrades, Pfc. Craft was dispatched in advance of Company G to feel out the enemy resistance. The group had proceeded only a short distance up the slope when rifle and machinegun fire, coupled with a terrific barrage of grenades, wounded 3 and pinned down the others. Against odds that appeared suicidal, Pfc. Craft launched a remarkable 1-man attack. He stood up in full view of the enemy and began shooting with deadly marksmanship wherever he saw a hostile movement. He steadily advanced up the hill, killing Japanese soldiers with rapid fire, driving others to cover in their strongly disposed trenches, unhesitatingly facing alone the strength that had previously beaten back attacks in battalion strength. He reached the crest of the hill, where he stood silhouetted against the sky while quickly throwing grenades at extremely short range into the enemy positions. His extraordinary assault lifted the pressure from his company for the moment, allowing members of his platoon to comply with his motions to advance and pass him more grenades. With a chain of his comrades supplying him while he stood atop the hill, he furiously hurled a total of 2 cases of grenades into a main trench and other positions on the reverse slope of Hen Hill, meanwhile directing the aim of his fellow soldiers who threw grenades from the slope below him. He left his position, where grenades from both sides were passing over his head and bursting on either slope, to attack the main enemy trench as confusion and panic seized the defenders. Straddling the excavation, he pumped rifle fire into the Japanese at pointblank range, killing many and causing the others to flee down the trench. Pursuing them, he came upon a heavy machinegun which was still creating havoc in the American ranks. With rifle fire and a grenade he wiped out this position. By this time the Japanese were in complete rout and American forces were swarming over the hill. Pfc. Craft continued down the central trench to the mouth of a cave where many of the enemy had taken cover. A satchel charge was brought to him, and he tossed it into the cave. It failed to explode. With great daring, the intrepid fighter retrieved the charge from the cave, relighted the fuse and threw it back, sealing up the Japs in a tomb. In the local action, against tremendously superior forces heavily armed with rifles, machineguns, mortars, and grenades, Pfc. Craft killed at least 25 of the enemy; but his contribution to the campaign on Okinawa was of much more far-reaching consequence for Hen Hill was the key to the entire defense line, which rapidly crumbled after his utterly fearless and heroic attack.

Corporal Gordon M. Craig (US Army) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on September 10, 1950 near Kasan, Korea. His citation reads:

Cpl. Craig, 16th Reconnaissance Company, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. During the attack on a strategic enemy-held hill his company's advance was subjected to intense hostile grenade mortar, and small-arms fire. Cpl. Craig and 4 comrades moved forward to eliminate an enemy machine gun nest that was hampering the company's advance. At that instance an enemy machine gunner hurled a hand grenade at the advancing men. Without hesitating or attempting to seek cover for himself, Cpl. Craig threw himself on the grenade and smothered its burst with his body. His intrepid and selfless act, in which he unhesitantly gave his life for his comrades, inspired them to attack with such ferocity that they annihilated the enemy machine gun crew, enabling the company to continue its attack. Cpl. Craig's noble self-sacrifice reflects the highest credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions of the military service.

Second Lieutenant Robert Craig (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 11, 1943 near Favoratta, Sicily. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty, on 11 July 1943 at Favoratta, Sicily. 2d Lt. Craig voluntarily undertook the perilous task of locating and destroying a hidden enemy machinegun which had halted the advance of his company. Attempts by 3 other officers to locate the weapon had resulted in failure, with each officer receiving wounds. 2d Lt. Craig located the gun and snaked his way to a point within 35 yards of the hostile position before being discovered. Charging headlong into the furious automatic fire, he reached the gun, stood over it, and killed the 3 crew members with his carbine. With this obstacle removed, his company continued its advance. Shortly thereafter while advancing down the forward slope of a ridge, 2d Lt. Craig and his platoon, in a position devoid of cover and concealment, encountered the fire of approximately 100 enemy soldiers. Electing to sacrifice himself so that his platoon might carry on the battle, he ordered his men to withdraw to the cover of the crest while he drew the enemy fire to himself. With no hope of survival, he charged toward the enemy until he was within 25 yards of them. Assuming a kneeling position, he killed 5 and wounded 3 enemy soldiers. While the hostile force concentrated fire on him, his platoon reached the cover of the crest. 2d Lt. Craig was killed by enemy fire, but his intrepid action so inspired his men that they drove the enemy from the area, inflicting heavy casualties on the hostile force.


Good luck to the Winthrop Eagles in their game today against High Point. They need this win to stay in the hunt for a high seed in the Big South Tournament.




The I’m just sayin… Kid Show of the Week

Transformers: This awesome cartoon was on air from 1984-1988 and included a movie (the cartoon movie, not the movies that have come out the past few years). The cartoon revolves around a war between giant robots (Autobots – the good guys and Decepticons – the bad guys). Their home world is Cybertron, but most of the series takes place with them on Earth. The leader of the Autobots is the legendary Optimus Prime. The Decepticons, meanwhile, are lead by the evil Mgatron. There are many different versions of this cartoon, but the only one worth watching is the original. There are also a few humans who are among the main characters in the series. Two are seen in the first episode: Sparkplug Witwicky and his son Spike Witwicky. The third human (who shows up in later episodes) is Chip Chase. You can find the original series on DVD in places like Best Buy or online at Amazon. Some of the main characters for the Autobots include: Bumblebee, Brawn, Ironhide, Jazz, Ratchet, Wheeljack, Hound and Prowl. Some of the main characters for the Decepticons include: Soundwave (and his cassettes Laserbeak, Buzzsaw, Ravage, Rumble and Frenzy), Starscream, Thundercracker, Reflector and Shockwave. The cartoon was based off of the toy that was sold by Hasbro. I would advise buying the DVDs of the original series as this is a great show to watch with boys and/or girls.

You Should Know...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal Robert M. Cox (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863 at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Bravely defended the colors planted on the outward parapet of Fort Hill.

Chief Gunner’s Mate Robert Edward Cox (US Navy) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on April 13, 1904 on the USS Pensacola. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism on U.S.S. Missouri 13 April, 1904. While at target practice off Pensacola, Fla., an accident occurred in the after turret of the Missouri whereby the lives of 5 officers and 28 men were lost. The ship was in imminent danger of destruction by explosion, and the prompt action of C.G. Cox and 2 gunners' mates caused the fire to be brought under control, and the loss of the Missouri, together with her crew, was averted.

Sergeant John N. Coyne (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 5, 1862 at Williamsburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of a flag after a severe hand-to-hand contest; was mentioned in orders for his gallantry.


Here is a website that will tell you a little more about the fundraiser The Wife is doing for Pattison’s Academy. Below is a video message from my good friend Darius (my words, not his). Take a minute to look at it. The Wife wants to raise $1,000… The goal of the whole event is to raise $100,000. Watch the video, pray about it… and give what you can.




The I’m just sayin… Know Your South Carolina Athlete

Chris Gaynor: The athlete we’re going to look at today is Winthrop basketball legend Chris Gaynor. Gaynor played point guard for Winthrop from ’04-’05 until ’07-’08. He is arguably the greatest pg to ever play for the Eagles. If not the greatest, he’s at least on the short list. At 5’10” and 160 pounds, Gaynor was the floor leader during the most successful four year stretch in Winthrop history. I believe he was named Winthrop’s starting pg during his senior year in high school. I believe he started every game he played in (he only missed a couple of games in the middle of his Junior season due to injury). During his time at Winthrop, the Eagles won 4 Big South Championships and a First Round game over Notre Dame in the 2007 NCAA Tournament. The Eagles had an overall record of 101-31 and a Big South record of 52-8 (which includes a 14-0 conference record his Junior season… the only time in Big South history that a school has gone undefeated in conference play) while Gaynor was at the school. His name can also be found in multiple Top 10 lists in the Winthrop Record Book. Here’s a look at the Career Leaders list for various categories:

Games Played: 2nd with 129 (Michael Jenkins, #1 on the list, played in 131)
Games Started: 1st with 129 (next closest is at 105)
Minutes Played: 1st with 3,890 (next closest is at 3,683)
Assists: 2nd with 567 (#1 on the list, Rick Riese, had 656)
Steals: 2nd with 259 (#1 on the list, Rick Riese, had 476)

At the time of his graduation, Gaynor held the Big South Records for both Assists and Steals (Rick Riese played before Winthrop was in the Big South). He is now second on the Assists list (and is 3rd on the Steals list).

Gaynor is also a member of the 1,000 Points Club. He made the Big South All-Freshman team in ’05. He made the All-Tournament team his Sophomore season. He did not get any all conference awards his Junior season which is something that still disgusts me to this day. It just shows that the sonsofbitches who voted for those awards were too stupid to see past points scored. He made the Big South All-Conference Second Team and All-Tournament Team his Senior year. He should have made First Team, but by then I had learned that the voters were to stupid to trust. I’m not 100% sure what Gaynor is doing these days but he can usually be seen at a Winthrop basketball game. I am happy to call him a friend (even though he doesn’t know me).

Another good cause…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Lieutenant, Junior Grade George McCall Courts (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 21-22, 1914 during the engagements of Vera Cruz. His citation reads:

For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. Under fire, Lt.(j.g.) Courts was eminent and conspicuous in the performance of his duties. He had well qualified himself by thorough study during his years of duty in Mexico to deal with the conditions of this engagement, and his services were of great value. He twice volunteered and passed in an open boat through the zone of fire to convey important orders to the Chester, then under a severe fire.

Ship’s Cook Third Class Jesse Whitfield Covington (US Navy) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on April 17, 1918 on the USS Stewart. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism following internal explosion of the Florence H. The sea in the vicinity of wreckage was covered by a mass of boxes of smokeless powder, which were repeatedly exploding. Jesse W. Covington, of the U.S.S. Stewart, plunged overboard to rescue a survivor who was surrounded by powder boxes and too exhausted to help himself, fully realizing that similar powder boxes in the vicinity were continually exploding and that he was thereby risking his life in saving the life of this man.

Private First Class Richard Eller Cowan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 17, 1944 near Krinkelter Wald, Belgium. His citation reads:

He was a heavy machinegunner in a section attached to Company I in the vicinity of Krinkelter Wald, Belgium, 17 December 1944, when that company was attacked by a numerically superior force of German infantry and tanks. The first 6 waves of hostile infantrymen were repulsed with heavy casualties, but a seventh drive with tanks killed or wounded all but 3 of his section, leaving Pvt. Cowan to man his gun, supported by only 15 to 20 riflemen of Company I. He maintained his position, holding off the Germans until the rest of the shattered force had set up a new line along a firebreak. Then, unaided, he moved his machinegun and ammunition to the second position. At the approach of a Royal Tiger tank, he held his fire until about 80 enemy infantrymen supporting the tank appeared at a distance of about 150 yards. His first burst killed or wounded about half of these infantrymen. His position was rocked by an 88mm. shell when the tank opened fire, but he continued to man his gun, pouring deadly fire into the Germans when they again advanced. He was barely missed by another shell. Fire from three machineguns and innumerable small arms struck all about him; an enemy rocket shook him badly, but did not drive him from his gun. Infiltration by the enemy had by this time made the position untenable, and the order was given to withdraw. Pvt. Cowan was the last man to leave, voluntarily covering the withdrawal of his remaining comrades. His heroic actions were entirely responsible for allowing the remaining men to retire successfully from the scene of their last-ditch stand.


I decided a while ago that I would use my blog to the best of my ability to help raise money for the things I really care about. That is why I kept asking you on here to donate to my Memory Walk. That’s my thing… I think everyone needs a cause they care enough to give to. I have many… but I also think everyone needs at least one thing they care enough to ask other people to give to. Mine is the Memory Walk. For The Wife, that thing is Pattison’s Academy. If you want to know what it means to be passionate about something, ask The Wife about Pattison’s and then just sit back and watch. You can read more about Pattison’s Academy here. Why am I talking about this? Because The Wife is raising money for Pattison’s and she wants my help. I’m not going to hound you for money. I’ll save my threats and multiple emails for later in the year when I’m raising money for the Memory Walk. I did, however, tell her that I would put something here on I’m just sayin… to give all of you an opportunity to give. I’m not expecting Mitt Romney type giving… just donate what you can. I won’t lie to you… deep down I would like to raise more money than The Wife for this thing just so I can bring it up all the time. I’m just kidding, I wouldn’t do it all the time (just when I’m with her). This would be a perfect time for my friends and family to show us who they love more… me or her. So I think I have something set up on the side of my blog that you can click to go to my donation website. I know what you’re thinking… “But Greg, if I just give $50 then you’ll meet your goal”. True, but don’t worry… I can always make my goal higher. Our team is going to be riding a stationary bike (one at a time, not all at once… though that would make a funny picture) for a total of 4 hours. Right now we’ve got The Wife, one of her employees and me. Word on the street is that my favorite nurse Jen and the 2011 I’m just sayin… Fan of the Year Ashley will also be joining our team. I’ve told The Wife it would be a good idea to try and find a few more team members because I’m more of a walker… not a bike rider. So 1 hour won’t be easy for me. Of course I’ll do it if I have to, but I’d rather not have to. In the next few days and weeks I’ll try to post some videos of Pattison’s so you can see why I agreed to use the power of I’m just sayin… to help.


Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for my Mom. As you know, Mom turned 66 a few days ago and it got me to thinking how thankful I am for her. I remember when I was growing up she was an elementary school Music Teacher, Johns Island Presbyterian Church Music Director and she played for weddings and funerals. Now that I’m out of the house, she doesn’t do any of that anymore. It seems it wasn’t a work ethic that kept her working, it was a desire to get away from me. HA! I joke because I care. Really, I joke because it’s my blog and I can… but I still care. Oh, while she was working all of these jobs she also found time to wash and iron all of Dad’s clothes, cook breakfast and dinner (and lunch on the weekends and during the summer) and keep the house spotless. I know some of you think I’m now going to compare her to someone I’m related to by marriage, but I’m not. This is about Mom, not other people. I will say that Mom’s version of cleaning sometimes meant coming into my room and moving a book from one step to another (back then you had to go down 2 or 3 steps to get to my room… all of that has changed now but that’s Dad’s fault, not Mom’s). Some of my favorite memories are from when Granny would come stay at our house. Mom would work all day then come home and cook and clean and then practice for church or choir practice and then finally sit still for the first time in the day… only to hear Granny talk about how Po’ Yvonne (my Aunt) has to work and take care of children. I don’t know how it sounds to you, but I laugh just thinking about it. I also remember the nights Mom would help me study my spelling words for the week. She’d call out a word, I’d spell it… and then I’d look to see she had fallen asleep. Last but not least, I’ll never forget that as she sat at my baseball games she would always yell (as I went up to bat) “HIT THAT BALL!” Honestly, when I was playing baseball I could never really hear the fans… it was all white noise. But I could always hear Mom. I didn’t always listen (as my batting average would show if I’d show it to you). But I tried. I’m sure she’ll think that I’m making fun of her, but I’m not. She might not like that these are my memories but they are and I hope I never forget them. They make me smile (sometimes laugh) and THAT is great (to me, at least). And so, I am thankful for Mom and for all the memories (more than I’ve shared on here) she has given me.

Money

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Lieutenant Samuel S. Coursen (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 12, 1950 near Kaesong, Korea. His citation reads:

1st Lt. Coursen distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. While Company C was attacking Hill 174 under heavy enemy small-arms fire, his platoon received enemy fire from close range. The platoon returned the fire and continued to advance. During this phase 1 his men moved into a well-camouflaged emplacement, which was thought to be unoccupied, and was wounded by the enemy who were hidden within the emplacement. Seeing the soldier in difficulty he rushed to the man's aid and, without regard for his personal safety, engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat in an effort to protect his wounded comrade until he himself was killed. When his body was recovered after the battle 7 enemy dead were found in the emplacement. As the result of 1st Lt. Coursen's violent struggle several of the enemies' heads had been crushed with his rifle. His aggressive and intrepid actions saved the life of the wounded man, eliminated the main position of the enemy roadblock, and greatly inspired the men in his command. 1st Lt. Coursen's extraordinary heroism and intrepidity reflect the highest credit on himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service.

Seaman Henry C. Courtney (US Navy) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on February 1882 on board the US Training Ship Portsmouth. His citation reads:

On board the U.S. Training Ship Portsmouth, Washington Navy Yard, 7 February 1882. Jumping overboard from that vessel, Courtney assisted in rescuing Charles Taliaferro, jack-of-the-dust, from drowning.

Major Henry Alexius Courtney, Jr. (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 14-15, 1945 on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Executive Officer of the 2d Battalion, 22d Marines, 6th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Islands, 14 and 15 May 1945. Ordered to hold for the night in static defense behind Sugar Loaf Hill after leading the forward elements of his command in a prolonged fire fight, Maj. Courtney weighed the effect of a hostile night counterattack against the tactical value of an immediate marine assault, resolved to initiate the assault, and promptly obtained permission to advance and seize the forward slope of the hill. Quickly explaining the situation to his small remaining force, he declared his personal intention of moving forward and then proceeded on his way, boldly blasting nearby cave positions and neutralizing enemy guns as he went. Inspired by his courage, every man followed without hesitation, and together the intrepid marines braved a terrific concentration of Japanese gunfire to skirt the hill on the right and reach the reverse slope. Temporarily halting, Maj. Courtney sent guides to the rear for more ammunition and possible replacements. Subsequently reinforced by 26 men and an LVT load of grenades, he determined to storm the crest of the hill and crush any planned counterattack before it could gain sufficient momentum to effect a breakthrough. Leading his men by example rather than by command, he pushed ahead with unrelenting aggressiveness, hurling grenades into cave openings on the slope with devastating effect. Upon reaching the crest and observing large numbers of Japanese forming for action less than 100 yards away, he instantly attacked, waged a furious battle and succeeded in killing many of the enemy and in forcing the remainder to take cover in the caves. Determined to hold, he ordered his men to dig in and, coolly disregarding the continuous hail of flying enemy shrapnel to rally his weary troops, tirelessly aided casualties and assigned his men to more advantageous positions. Although instantly killed by a hostile mortar burst while moving among his men, Maj. Courtney, by his astute military acumen, indomitable leadership and decisive action in the face of overwhelming odds, had contributed essentially to the success of the Okinawa campaign. His great personal valor throughout sustained and enhanced the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.


I find it funny that people try to use Mitt Romney’s wealth against him. In just about any other profession, it would be considered a plus. I’m not saying being rich would make him a good President… I’m just sayin I think it’s funny when people act like it’s a negative. It’s really funny when it’s other politicians saying that. Raise your hand if you think anyone running for President is poor. Maybe there was a time when someone poor or from the middle class could run for President… but I can’t think of anyone in my lifetime to do it. I’m talking about Republicans and Democrats. So I see yesterday that Romney has released his taxes. People have been all over him to do this. My advice to the other politicians doing this it to be careful… you know the old saying about throwing stones when you live in a glass house. I can’t be the only one who remembers the trouble our current President had filling his cabinet because person after person had to drop out because… well… they hadn’t been paying their taxes. Anyway, from the info I got from Yahoo, it seems over the past two years Romney has made about $42 million. He’s paid about $6.2 million in taxes. Many people will say he didn’t pay a lot of taxes because that’s not a large % of his income. I think $6.2 is a lot. That’s a lot more money than I’ll ever pay in taxes. Over the past two years he’s also donated about $7 million. Again, some will say that’s not a lot… but I don’t care how much you make, a million dollars is a million dollars and seven million dollars is a lot of money. I bet the people who received that money were happy. I’d be happy if he’d donate to my Memory Walk this year.

Since it seems having a lot of money is considered a bad thing for people running for office, I have decided two things. First, I’d like to tell Mom and Dad that Sonny and No-Name Teri both have dreams of running for office. I don’t. Therefore, to help them reach their dreams I will accept the burden of inheriting all of Mom and Dad’s wealth when they pass away. It’s the least I can do. Second, I have decided I will not leave any money to my children when I die. I would hate to think that my riches would somehow hurt them as they try to run for public office.

I really like the below quote. JFK is another person who some consider a saint… while others consider him the devil. Again, I think he was somewhere in between. I believe, for the most part, that the below quote is a good guideline for US foreign policy.


The I’m just sayin… Quote of the Week

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty”. – John F. Kennedy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Henry G. Costin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 8, 1918 near Bois-de-Consenvoye, France. His citation reads:

When the advance of his platoon had been held up by machinegun fire and a request was made for an automatic rifle team to charge the nest, Pvt. Costin was the first to volunteer. Advancing with his team, under terrific fire of enemy artillery, machineguns, and trench mortars, he continued after all his comrades had become casualties and he himself had been seriously wounded. He operated his rifle until he collapsed. His act resulted in the capture of about 100 prisoners and several machineguns. He succumbed from the effects of his wounds shortly after the accomplishment of his heroic deed.

Ordinary Seaman Peter Cotton (US Navy) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on December 23-27, 1862 on board the USS Baron De Kalb. His citation reads:

Cotton served on board the U.S.S. Baron De Kalb in the Yazoo River expedition, 23 to 27 December 1862. Proceeding under orders up the Yazoo River, the Baron De Kalb, with the object of capturing or destroying the enemy's transports, came upon the steamers John Walsh, R. J. Locklan, Golden Age and the Scotland, sunk on a bar where they were ordered to be burned. Continuing up the river, the Baron De Kalb was fired upon but, upon returning the fire, caused the enemy's retreat. Returning down the Yazoo, she destroyed and captured large quantities of enemy equipment and several prisoners. Serving bravely throughout this action, Cotton, as coxswain "distinguished himself in the various actions."

Lieutenant Colonel John Coughlin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 9, 1864 at Swifts Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

During a sudden night attack upon Burnham's Brigade, resulting in much confusion, this officer, without waiting for orders, led his regiment forward and interposed a line of battle between the advancing enemy and Hunt's Battery, repulsing the attack and saving the guns.


We’d like to start today by wishing my Mom a very Happy Birthday! As her youngest and, perhaps, most loved child I feel I can speak for my deadbeat brother and sister when I say that we love Mom very much and hope she has a great day. I believe Mom turns 66 today, but I could have those numbers backwards. I’m sure No-Name Teri and Sonny will both call Mom before me in some sorry attempt to try and “one-up” their little brother. While Mom will probably appreciate the effort, I am confident she will see through their hollow gestures… because she knows that the best birthday gift is a “Happy Birthday” on I’m just sayin… and having her favorite singer in the family (Maverick) sing Happy Birthday to her.

RIP Mr. Williams. On this date a year ago, Mr. Bill Williams passed away. He was a great guy who loved “his boys” (i.e. anyone who played or coached baseball for West Ashley Post 147). He was a WWII Vet who weighed maybe 100 pounds (1/3 glasses, 1/3 tobacco, 1/3 heart). The program has continued without him… but it has never been the same. My hope is that he knew how much he was loved. Teenage boys aren’t always good at showing appreciation… but my guess is that if you were to talk to any old Post 147 players, they would have at least one “Mr. Williams” story to tell… and they would all tell you he loved his boys. They would also probably tell you that they were shocked to find out he was only in his 80’s when he died. I thought he was in his 80’s when I played in the late 1990’s… Sonny thought he was in his 80’s when he played back in the mid to late 1980’s! I won’t say he was a perfect man, but I do think he was a great man. I think the world could use a few more men like Mr. Williams.

I know it’s Picture Day… but we’re going to also include videos from time to time. This will be one of those times. Just to warn you, the video quality is not what I would call good… but it’s the best I’ve got.  The video today is a two for one video.  I'm still getting the hang of YouTube and it seems I combined the two videos I uploaded into one video.  It wasn't what I was trying to do, but I'll take it.


I’m just sayin… Picture Day

We're trying to teach Susie how to feed Daniel... It's time for her to start helping out around here.

Looks like we found a use for Scooby...

 

This is a little something I cooked up for Susie last Friday night when I had her and Daniel by myself.  This is a little number I like to call PB&J with Blueberries

I can only do so much when it comes to fixing food for the kids... After making that masterpiece for Susie, I told Daniel he had to find his own food.  Looks like the dogs didn't get to eat that night...

RIP Joe Paterno

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Richard H. Cosgriff (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 16, 1865 at Columbus Georgia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag in a personal encounter with its bearer.

Private Thomas Cosgrove (US Army) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on May 15, 1864 at Drurys Bluff, Virginia. His citation reads:

Individually demanded and received the surrender of 7 armed Confederates concealed in a cellar, disarming and marching them in as prisoners of war.

Ordinary Seaman John Costello (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 16, 1876 on board the USS Hartford. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Hartford, Philadelphia, Pa., 16 July 1876. Showing gallantry, Costello rescued from drowning a landsman of that vessel.


RIP Joe Paterno. Many people think he was a saint… many think he was pure evil… I think he was somewhere in between. My guess is that he was more good than bad. I could be wrong. I didn’t know him. But if I go with my gut on this, I think he was a good man who had his faults… no different than just about every other guy in that regard.

I have decided to help The Wife with an upcoming fundraiser for Pattison's Academy in early March. As you know, my fundraising passion is for the Alzheimer's Association in October... this is The Wife's passion. I will talk about this event (and Pattison's Academy) at a later date. I just wanted to let you know to be on the lookout for it.

I was able to drop another 2 pounds last week. Not as much as the 9 pounds I lost the week before last... but still going in the right direction. My goal is to lose about 2 pounds each week. If I somewhow lose more than that, I won't complain... but the goal is 2 pounds.


The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In

Greg 227

Mary Ruth 45

Susie 25

Daniel 20

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Meredith!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Lieutenant Stephen P. Corliss (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 2, 1865 at South Side Railroad, Virginia. His citation reads:

Raised the fallen colors and, rushing forward in advance of the troops, placed them on the enemy's works.

Lieutenant Commander William Merrill Corry, Jr. (US Navy) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on October 2, 1920 near Hartford, Connecticut. His citation reads:

For heroic service in attempting to rescue a brother officer from a flame-enveloped airplane. On 2 October 1920, an airplane in which Lt. Comdr. Corry was a passenger crashed and burst into flames. He was thrown 30 feet clear of the plane and, though injured, rushed back to the burning machine and endeavored to release the pilot. In so doing he sustained serious burns, from which he died 4 days later.

Assistant Surgeon Joseph K. Corson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 14, 1863 near Bristoe Station, Virginia. His citation reads:

With one companion returned in the face of the enemy's heavy artillery fire and removed to a place of safety a severely wounded soldier who had been left behind as the regiment fell back.


We at I’m just sayin… would like to wish my niece Meredith a very Happy Birthday! She is 9 years old today and we had a great time at her party yesterday. It was fun seeing Sonny and his family, No-Name Teri and her family, Mom and Dad and Susan and Alan and my brother-in-law Brent’s dad. The weather wasn’t great… a good bit of rain… but other than that it was good. I also got a good workout as we carried sheetrock from the garage to the 5th floor of their house. Ok, maybe it was just the second floor, but it felt like the 5th. I didn’t mind… but Sonny was crying the whole time. Oh this is so heavy… oh we have to go so far… I’m not sure why he was like that. I was the one doing all of the heavy lifting.

After the party we got home in time to ship the kids off to The Wife’s parents house. We then started to get ready for our night out. I was ready in about 10 minutes. The Wife took a little longer. Seems she had nothing to wear. I know this because she told me as she was standing in our closet which is 80% filled with her clothes. Then she had to know what our favorite nurse Jen was going to be wearing since we were going out with her and Danny (yes, that Danny). Because how much would it suck to have the only clothes she could find be the exact same thing as what Jen was wearing? After about 3 hours, we finally went over to Danny (yes, that Danny) and Jen’s. It’s good that we waited so long because that gave the rain a chance to catch up with us so that it was at its worse when we got to their house. The 4 of us then went downtown for a fundraiser for Pattison’s Academy. It was a great event and we had a lot of fun. Big thanks to The Wrights for hanging out with us.


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
Mark 8:36 (JKV)

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!! :)

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Landsman Thomas E. Corcoran (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on board the USS Cincinnati. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Cincinnati during the attack on the Vicksburg batteries and at the time of her sinking. Engaging the enemy in a fierce battle, the Cincinnati, amidst an incessant fire of shot and shell, continued to fire her guns to the last, though so penetrated by shellfire that her fate was sealed. Serving bravely during this action, Corcoran was conspicuously cool under the fire of the enemy, never ceasing to fight until this proud ship went down, "her colors nailed to the mast."

Landsman William Corey (US Navy) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on July 26, 1876 on board the USS Plymouth. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Plymouth, Navy Yard, New York, 26 July 1876. Showing heroic conduct, Corey endeavored to save the life of one of the crew of that ship who had fallen overboard from aloft.

Captain George W. Corliss (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during the Civil War. His citation reads:

Seized a fallen flag of the regiment, the color bearer having been killed, carried it forward in the face of a severe fire, and though himself shot down and permanently disabled, planted the staff in the earth and kept the flag flying.


I would like to take a second to thank all of you for wishing me a very HAPPY 33rd BIRTHDAY!!! Today, of course, is also Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson’s 188th Birthday. As if that’s not enough to celebrate… Today is ALSO the 33rd Anniversary of Super Bowl XIII. All I can say is thank God the Steelers won or I would probably be a Cowboys fan right now.

When I get a chance, I’m still going to look back and see how I did prediction wise in the Bowl Games.


You know… I think I forgot to post the results of The I’m just sayin… College Football Playoffs (Playoffs!?) Championship Game:
2 Oklahoma St. (Big 12 Champion) vs. 4 Stanford (At Large) – I picked Stanford to win this game and I was WRONG! Oklahoma State won, 42-39. Congrats to Oklahoma State for winning it all.


The I’m just sayin… Kid Show of the Week

VeggieTales: This is a great Christian based cartoon which stars Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber. I am a fan of Larry, but Bob is also pretty good. The cartoon was created by Phil Vischer and Mike Nawrocki. It has been on TV, DVD, CD and movies. Each episode typically conveys Christian moral themes and teaches Biblical values and lessons. I’m not sure about on the TV shows, but I’m pretty sure that at the end of each video episode kids are told to, “Remember, God made you special… And He loves you very much”. There are also some pretty funny songs that the characters sing either during the episode or during an intermission between episodes. This is a great cartoon to always have on hand because it’s funny, yet also teaches a good lesson to children. Another main character (if you believe Wikipedia) is Junior Asparagus. I guess this is true, though I think if you were to ask me or MR or The Wife, we’d just say Bob and Larry. Anyway, this is a cartoon that we highly recommend.

You had to see this coming…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Fireman First Class Demetri Corahorgi (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 25, 1905 on board the USS Iowa. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Iowa for extraordinary heroism at the time of the blowing out of the manhole plate of boiler D on board that vessel, 25 January 1905.

Private John Corcoran (US Army) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on April 2, 1865 at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Was one of a detachment of 20 picked artillerymen who voluntarily accompanied an infantry assaulting party, and who turned upon the enemy the guns captured in the assault.

Corporal Michael Corcoran (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 25, 1869 at Agua Fria River, Arizona. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


I’m just sayin… would like to endorse someone in the Republican primary, but we’re scared that whoever we endorse will drop out of the race before Saturday. So we’re going to keep our thoughts to ourselves.

So… tomorrow is kind of a big day. I’m just sayin…

When I walk down the hall from my office to the elevator, I can look out the window and through a little space between two buildings I can see a little bit of James Island. I make sure to stop and look at least once every day.

I’ve had some good emails with Jenn, KC and Danny (yes, that Danny) the past couple of days. It kind of reminded me of my pre-blog days. Of course, they all made fun of me and I was nothing but nice to them. Such is my life…

Word hitting the web yesterday was that Rick Santorum received more votes in Iowa than Mitt Romney… which is a little awkward since the GOP had previously awarded the contest to Romney. So… to make up for this they are calling it a split decision.

In other news, Clemson is now calling the Orange Bowl a split decision.

I think Scooby is having second thoughts about living with us. It was all fun and games when he got here… but now Susie and Daniel are a little too… how should I say it… friendly with him. I’m going to try to get a video of it.

While we won’t endorse anyone in the primary, I’m just sayin… is ready to endorse Kevin Hart as our new favorite comedian. He replaces Ron White (who is still a very close second). Kevin’s show is probably rated R… maybe PG-13… but if you can look past the language, it’s very funny. He makes me laugh very hard. The wife doesn’t even crack a smile, which I can only assume means she loves it since that’s how she is when I’m making people laugh.


The I’m just sayin… Know Your South Carolina Athlete

I decided that it wouldn’t be fair to you for me to have this segment on my blog without talking about perhaps the greatest brother duo to ever play baseball at James Island High School in completely different eras and not play in college. Of course, it is well known throughout my parents house that I am talking about me and Sonny. I thought about picking just one of us to talk about, but I couldn’t decide who. I was going to ask my Dad to pick, but I knew what he’d say. He’d go on and on about how great of a player Sonny was and how he could do no wrong and blah, blah, blah… The thing you have to realize about Dad is that he wouldn't recognize great baseball talent if it lived with him for 18 years, went to a top university for 5 years, moved to Summerville, got married, had three children (2 girls, 1 boy), started a great blog and turned 33 this Saturday. I’m just sayin… Anyway, Sonny played in what could be called the “Media Era”. You see boys and girls, back in the mid to late 1980s, the local news media still covered local sports (a lot). I played many years later in the mid 1990s. The bad news for me is that I was a clean player playing during the steroid era. While chicks were digging the long-ball, I was busy playing real baseball; bunting for a base hit, advancing the runner, hustling, getting dirty… old school stuff that the little sissy boy homerun hitters wanted no part of. I went to pretty much all of Sonny’s high school games… he went to… umm… I’m not 100% sure he came to any of my high school games. I know he was at my historic Fall Ball game in Atlanta where I saved Drew Meyer’s life (or something like that… it was a long time ago and I don’t remember the exact details). But back to our careers… I think I’ve talked about this some on here before but I’ll talk about it again (for you, of course). Sonny probably ended his career with more individual accolades… I ended up with more team accomplishments (which worked out well since, you know, it’s a team sport). Between the two of us we won 5 Region Championships, went 2-3 in Lower State Championship Games and won 2 State Championships. He was team MVP his Junior and Senior seasons, I was team MVP my Senior season. Both of us were All-Region players as Juniors and Seniors. Sonny hit .425 his Senior season (I, against much harder pitching, hit .419). His Senior season he received the State Scholar Athlete Award, the Team Leadership Award and made the South All-State Team. My Senior season I was named to the Post and Courier All Lowcountry Team, made the Lowcountry All-Starts and graduated (that was the closest I got to any ‘scholar’ award). We combined for over 80 career steals and were both very solid defensive players. Want to throw up a little? Go hang out with Sonny and a bunch of guys who were Sophomores and Freshmen when he was a Senior. I did this one time and it was like a freakin’ Sonny love-fest. “Oh, he could catch anything… Sonny never missed a ball… Sonny was so great”. Honestly, I wanted to start slapping those guys in the face and point out that they ended up playing in college and the minor leagues so stop drooling over Sonny. So, everyone loved Sonny… but I will say I did get a little love in the High School Sports Report: (After our 2nd State Championship) – “The remaining infielder drew perhaps the greatest praise of them all. Junior second baseman Greg Horres committed only one error the entire season. ‘Horres is the professor of the infield,’ (Coach Tom) Hatley said. ‘He was always in the right place at the right time. He’s a typical blue collar worker. He just goes to work and gets the job done.’ At the plate Horres was second on the team hitting .311 with 18 runs and a dozen stolen bases.” Before the start of my Senior season (in that same paper) Coach Hatley called me the “heart and soul of James Island baseball”. Suck it, Sonny.

Sonny also played 4 years of American Legion baseball for West Ashley. I played 1 year of Legion ball for West Ashley. I would have played 2 years, but the head coach and I had a disagreement my Junior year so I decided to not play Legion ball and instead play Big League baseball (Big League is the older age group of the Little League organization). By “disagreement”, I mean I felt like I should be on the team and he thought I should be cut. I know you want to hate the coach for cutting me, but don’t. I ended up playing for him my Senior season and then coaching for him for many seasons after college. We’re friends now, so your shouldn’t hate him.

So, there you have it… I hope you’re happy.

Happy Birthday Terry!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Aquilla Coonrod (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from October 1876 to January 1877 at Cedar Creek, etc., Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Coxswain John Cooper (US Navy) received his first Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864 on board the USS Brooklyn and his second Medal of Honor for his actions on April 26, 1865 in Mobile, Alabama. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Brooklyn during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee, in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Despite severe damage to his ship and the loss of several men on board as enemy fire raked her decks from stem to stern, Cooper fought his gun with skill and courage throughout the furious battle which resulted in the surrender of the prize rebel ram Tennessee and in the damaging and destruction of batteries at Fort Morgan. SECOND AWARD Served as quartermaster on Acting Rear Admiral Thatcher's staff. During the terrific fire at Mobile, on 26 April 1865, at the risk of being blown to pieces by exploding shells, Cooper advanced through the burning locality, rescued a wounded man from certain death, and bore him on his back to a place of safety. G.O. No.: 62, 29 June 1865.

Second Lieutenant Charles D. Copp (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 13, 1862 at Fredericksburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Seized the regimental colors, the color bearer having been shot down, and, waving them, rallied the regiment under a heavy fire.


We at I’m just sayin… would like to wish my sister-in-law Terry a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Let’s see… if Sonny is going to turn 42 later this year, that must mean Terry is 42 NOW… months before Sonny.

Happy Birthday, too, to General Robert E. Lee (voted greatest General of all-time by the staff of I’m just sayin…). It was on this day in 1807 that General Lee was born. He would have been 205 years old today…

We would like to welcome Courtyard to 2012. I’m happy to know that I can still shame my friends into doing things. What can I say… God gave me a gift and it would be wrong for me to not use it. At least, that’s how I look at it. If you haven’t done so yet, make sure you visit Courtyard and Our Life… they each started the New Year off with quality posts.


Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for Maverick. Is he the best dog ever? Of course not… that title belongs to Dach. Was it love at first sight for us? Not at all… though it was for me and Lucy. Fact is, I didn’t like Maverick very much when we first got him. I remember he would climb up on my chest while I was in bed and he could put his nose right up to my nose… and then cough. So we didn’t really get started off on the right foot. But that was ok, because we didn’t get him to be my dog. Lucy was my dog and The Wife didn’t like that. That’s part of the reason we got Maverick. The big part, however, was that we wanted a baby and we weren’t getting pregnant. So, what does one do when they can’t get pregnant? One gets a pet… at least that’s what we did. I know… it’s probably funny to hear a father of 3 say he and his wife got a dog because they couldn’t get pregnant, but it’s true. So we got Maverick so The Wife could have a “baby”. The last reason is that we thought Lucy would like to have a friend to play with. That’s funny because they didn’t really get along and I’m pretty sure Lucy hated Maverick until Scooby came along and gave her someone new to hate. I’m just basing that on what Lucy told me. Anyway, the turning point in my relationship with Maverick came when he started killing rats in our backyard. I can’t remember his total right now, but I’m pretty sure it’s somewhere between 7 and 9. These weren’t tiny little mice… these were rats that were big. How big? Big enough that I wasn’t real excited about going after them. Since his first kill, he has become my “Al Neri”. Not sure who that is? You should be ashamed. Anyway, I am thankful for Maverick because he’s now my dog (he left The Wife for me a while ago)… and he’s not at all like Scooby.

Halfway to the Weekend

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Technical Sergeant Charles H. Coolidge (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 24-27, 1944 East of Belmont sur Buttant. His citation reads:

Leading a section of heavy machineguns supported by 1 platoon of Company K, he took a position near Hill 623, east of Belmont sur Buttant, France, on 24 October 1944, with the mission of covering the right flank of the 3d Battalion and supporting its action. T/Sgt. Coolidge went forward with a sergeant of Company K to reconnoiter positions for coordinating the fires of the light and heavy machineguns. They ran into an enemy force in the woods estimated to be an infantry company. T/Sgt. Coolidge, attempting to bluff the Germans by a show of assurance and boldness called upon them to surrender, whereupon the enemy opened fire. With his carbine, T/Sgt. Coolidge wounded 2 of them. There being no officer present with the force, T/Sgt. Coolidge at once assumed command. Many of the men were replacements recently arrived; this was their first experience under fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge, unmindful of the enemy fire delivered at close range, walked along the position, calming and encouraging his men and directing their fire. The attack was thrown back. Through 25 and 26 October the enemy launched repeated attacks against the position of this combat group but each was repulsed due to T/Sgt. Coolidge's able leadership. On 27 October, German infantry, supported by 2 tanks, made a determined attack on the position. The area was swept by enemy small arms, machinegun, and tank fire. T/Sgt. Coolidge armed himself with a bazooka and advanced to within 25 yards of the tanks. His bazooka failed to function and he threw it aside. Securing all the hand grenades he could carry, he crawled forward and inflicted heavy casualties on the advancing enemy. Finally it became apparent that the enemy, in greatly superior force, supported by tanks, would overrun the position. T/Sgt. Coolidge, displaying great coolness and courage, directed and conducted an orderly withdrawal, being himself the last to leave the position. As a result of T/Sgt. Coolidge's heroic and superior leadership, the mission of this combat group was accomplished throughout 4 days of continuous fighting against numerically superior enemy troops in rain and cold and amid dense woods.

Private James Cooney (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 13, 1900 near Tientsin, China. His citation reads:

In the presence of the enemy during the battle near Tientsin, China, 13 July 1900, Cooney distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.

Chief Machinist Thomas C. Cooney (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1898 on board the US Torpedo Boat Winslow. His citation reads:

On board the U.S. Torpedo Boat Winslow during the action at Cardenas, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Following the piercing of the boiler by an enemy shell, Cooney, by his gallantry and promptness in extinguishing the resulting flames, saved the boiler tubes from burning out.

We would like to welcome Our Life to 2012. Now if only we could bring Courtyard into the new year...
The I’m just sayin… Quote of the Week

Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm. - Winston Churchill

Picture Time...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant John H. Cook (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 9, 1864 at Pleasant Hill, Louisiana. His citation reads:

During an attack by the enemy, voluntarily left the brigade quartermaster, with whom he had been detailed as a clerk, rejoined his command, and, acting as first lieutenant, led the line farther toward the charging enemy.

Captain Walter H. Cooke (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 21, 1861 at Bull Run, Virginia. His citation reads:

Voluntarily served as an aide on the staff of Col. David Hunter and participated in the battle, his term of service having expired on the previous day.

Staff Sergeant Raymond H. Cooley (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 24, 1945 near Lumboy, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

He was a platoon guide in an assault on a camouflaged entrenchment defended by machineguns, rifles, and mortars. When his men were pinned down by 2 enemy machineguns, he voluntarily advanced under heavy fire to within 20 yards of 1 of the guns and attacked it with a hand grenade. The enemy, however, threw the grenade back at him before it could explode. Arming a second grenade, he held it for several seconds of the safe period and then hurled it into the enemy position, where it exploded instantaneously, destroying the gun and crew. He then moved toward the remaining gun, throwing grenades into enemy foxholes as he advanced. Inspired by his actions, 1 squad of his platoon joined him. After he had armed another grenade and was preparing to throw it into the second machinegun position, 6 enemy soldiers rushed at him. Knowing he could not dispose of the armed grenade without injuring his comrades, because of the intermingling in close combat of the men of his platoon and the enemy in the melee which ensued, he deliberately covered the grenade with his body and was severely wounded as it exploded. By his heroic actions, S/Sgt. Cooley not only silenced a machinegun and so inspired his fellow soldiers that they pressed the attack and destroyed the remaining enemy emplacements, but also, in complete disregard of his own safety, accepted certain injury and possible loss of life to avoid wounding his comrades.


I saw a clip of Snoop on The Price is Right. Snoop. Snoop Dogg. Snoop Doggy Dogg. The rapper. Smoke weed, shoot people… that Snoop. On The Price is Right. Maybe this really is the year the world will end.


Picture Tuesday

Susie put one of my hats on and came back to my room for a picture with her baby.  Note Daniel in the background trying to see what's going on.

Susie threw a little something on while we waited for Mommy to come home from work one day.

Ok... I know I say some not nice things about Donkey... er... Scooby on here, but he is good with the kids.  Not as good as Lucy was, but still good.

Scooby might be better with Daniel than Susie is...

Susie ready for church.

Mary Ruth taking care of Daniel for me while I was holding a sleeping Susie.

Let the weight loss begin…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private James Connors (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 22, 1864 at Fishers Hill, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Colonel Donald Gilbert Cook (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from December 31, 1964 – December 8, 1967 in Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while interned as a Prisoner of War by the Viet Cong in the Republic of Vietnam during the period 31 December 1964 to 8 December 1967. Despite the fact that by so doing he would bring about harsher treatment for himself, Colonel (then Captain) Cook established himself as the senior prisoner, even though in actuality he was not. Repeatedly assuming more than his share of their health, Colonel Cook willingly and unselfishly put the interests of his comrades before that of his own well-being and, eventually, his life. Giving more needy men his medicine and drug allowance while constantly nursing them, he risked infection from contagious diseases while in a rapidly deteriorating state of health. This unselfish and exemplary conduct, coupled with his refusal to stray even the slightest from the Code of Conduct, earned him the deepest respect from not only his fellow prisoners, but his captors as well. Rather than negotiate for his own release or better treatment, he steadfastly frustrated attempts by the Viet Cong to break his indomitable spirit. and passed this same resolve on to the men whose well-being he so closely associated himself. Knowing his refusals would prevent his release prior to the end of the war, and also knowing his chances for prolonged survival would be small in the event of continued refusal, he chose nevertheless to adhere to a Code of Conduct far above that which could be expected. His personal valor and exceptional spirit of loyalty in the face of almost certain death reflected the highest credit upon Colonel Cook, the Marine Corps, and the United States Naval Service.

Bugler John Cook (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 17, 1862 at Antietam, Maryland. His citation reads:

Volunteered at the age of 15 years to act as a cannoneer, and as such volunteer served a gun under a terrific fire of the enemy.


When did the “legit” news media start quoting social media in stories?

So we decided to take the dog food and treats to the Summerville SPCA yesterday as a family (instead of me just taking Mary Ruth today). They didn’t have a lot of dogs in that pound, which I guess is a good thing. But they had enough for us to pet and talk to. We ended up taking 4 bags of food, one box of treats, and one stocking of rawhides. Not bad if I say so myself. Mary Ruth and Susie had a blast and that’s what really matters. I think Daniel had a good time too, but I’m not sure. The Wife was holding him… I was focused on Susie and Mary Ruth. The good news is we were able to go and leave without adopting another dog.

I joined WeightWatchers.com last week. As you know, the last time I lost a lot of weight, it was due in large part to WeightWatchers.com. I’ve joined it off and on since then, but never really used it like I should. Now that I have an iPhone, though, I decided I’d give it another shot (since I’d have the WeightWatchers App on my phone). So far, so good. The main thing it does is make losing weight something of a game for me… which makes it a little easier for me to stick to it. I know I’m only one week into it, but as you’ll see in our weigh-in, it was a good week.


The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In

Greg 229 - Down 9 pounds from last week… Amazing what cutting out fast food and soft drinks does for me.

Mary Ruth 44

Susie 26

Daniel 21

HAPPY BIRTHDAY UNCLE GEORGE!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Staff Sergeant Peter S. Connor (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 25, 1966 in Quang Nag Province, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against enemy Viet Cong forces at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Leading his platoon on a search and destroy operation in an area made particularly hazardous by extensive cave and tunnel complexes, S/Sgt. Connor maneuvered his unit aggressively forward under intermittent enemy small-arms fire. Exhibiting particular alertness and keen observation, he spotted an enemy spider hole emplacement approximately 15 meters to his front. He pulled the pin from a fragmentation grenade intending to charge the hole boldly and drop the missile into its depths. Upon pulling the pin he realized that the firing mechanism was faulty, and that even as he held the safety device firmly in place, the fuse charge was already activated. With only precious seconds to decide, he further realized that he could not cover the distance to the small opening of the spider hole in sufficient time, and that to hurl the deadly bomb in any direction would result in death or injury to some of his comrades tactically deployed near him. Manifesting extraordinary gallantry and with utter disregard for his personal safety, he chose to hold the grenade against his body in order to absorb the terrific explosion and spare his comrades. His act of extreme valor and selflessness in the face of virtually certain death, although leaving him mortally wounded, spared many of his fellow marines from death or injury. His gallant action in giving his life in the cause of freedom reflects the highest credit upon the Marine Corps and the Armed Forces of the United States.

Ordinary Seaman Thomas Connor (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 15, 1865 on board the USS Minnesota. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Minnesota, in action during the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865. Landing on the beach with the assaulting party from his ship, Connor charged up to the palisades and, when more than two-thirds of the men became seized with panic and retreated on the run, risked his life to remain with a wounded officer. With the enemy concentrating his fire on the group, he waited until after dark before assisting in carrying the wounded man from the field.

Boatswain’s Mate William C. Connor (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 25, 1864 on board the USS Howquah. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Howquah on the occasion of the destruction of the blockade runner Lynx, off Wilmington, 25 September 1864. Performing his duty faithfully under the most trying circumstances, Connor stood firmly at his post in the midst of a crossfire from the rebel shore batteries and our own vessels.


We at I’m just sayin… would like to wish my Uncle George a very Happy Birthday! Uncle George, you should know, was the only person to offer to let me live in his house after I graduated from college. This act of kindness will be remembered. We would also like to wish my cousin John a happy birthday!

We would also like to take a moment to remember my grandfather (Da) who died on this day in 1995. The calendar says it’s been 17 years, but it doesn’t really feel that long ago. He was probably the funniest person I’ve ever known. I bet he’d love playing with Mary Ruth, Susie and Daniel. And, of course, he would have loved The Wife. We’d also like to take a moment to remember our first-born dog, Lucy, who passed away on this day last year. I wish she could have lived long enough for Daniel to play with her. She was the best dog with babies.


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
Proverbs 17:17

A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Happy Weekend

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Ordinary Seaman Michael Connolly (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 7, 1876 on board the USS Plymouth. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Plymouth, Halifax Harbor, Nova Scotia, 7 August 1876. Acting gallantly, Connolly succeeding in rescuing a citizen from drowning on this date.

Sergeant James P. Connor (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 15, 1944 at Cape Cavalaire, southern France. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. On 15 August 1944, Sgt. Connor, through sheer grit and determination, led his platoon in clearing an enemy vastly superior in numbers and firepower from strongly entrenched positions on Cape Cavalaire, removing a grave enemy threat to his division during the amphibious landing in southern France, and thereby insured safe and uninterrupted landings for the huge volume of men and materiel which followed. His battle patrol landed on "Red Beach" with the mission of destroying the strongly fortified enemy positions on Cape Cavalaire with utmost speed. From the peninsula the enemy had commanding observation and seriously menaced the vast landing operations taking place. Though knocked down and seriously wounded in the neck by a hanging mine which killed his platoon lieutenant, Sgt. Connor refused medical aid and with his driving spirit practically carried the platoon across several thousand yards of mine-saturated beach through intense fire from mortars, 20-mm. flak guns, machineguns, and snipers. En route to the Cape he personally shot and killed 2 snipers. The platoon sergeant was killed and Sgt. Connor became platoon leader. Receiving a second wound, which lacerated his shoulder and back, he again refused evacuation, expressing determination to carry on until physically unable to continue. He reassured and prodded the hesitating men of his decimated platoon forward through almost impregnable mortar concentrations. Again emphasizing the prevalent urgency of their mission, he impelled his men toward a group of buildings honeycombed with enemy snipers and machineguns. Here he received his third grave wound, this time in the leg, felling him in his tracks. Still resolved to carry on, he relinquished command only after his attempts proved that it was physically impossible to stand. Nevertheless, from his prone position, he gave the orders and directed his men in assaulting the enemy. Infused with Sgt. Connor's dogged determination, the platoon, though reduced to less than one-third of its original 36 men, outflanked and rushed the enemy with such furiousness that they killed 7, captured 40, seized 3 machineguns and considerable other materiel, and took all their assigned objectives, successfully completing their mission. By his repeated examples of tenaciousness and indomitable spirit Sgt Connor transmitted his heroism to his men until they became a fighting team which could not be stopped.

Corporal John Connor (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 12, 1870 at Wichita River, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


It’s the start of another 3 day weekend! What a great time of the year. Mary Ruth and I are planning on going to the SPCA on Monday to take the dog food, treats, and toys to the doggies. She’s pretty excited (and, I must admit, so am I). So… here’s hoping we don’t come home with another dog.


The I’m just sayin… Kid Show of the Week

Today’s Special: Other than Michael J. Fox, Today’s Special might be the best thing to have come out of Canada. This is a great show that I grew up watching on Nickelodeon. The show ran from 1982 – 1987 and was set in a department store. The main characters were Jeff, Jodie, Sam Crenshaw, and Muffy Mouse. Jeff is a mannequin who comes alive when someone says “hocus pocus alimagocus” while he’s wearing his magic hat. He becomes a mannequin again if his hat falls off. He can’t leave the store because if he does he’ll permantently become a mannequin. Jodie is a store employee who is usually the leader of the group. She mainly works at night after the store is closed (setting up displays and all that). Sam is a puppet who is the security guard. He is the oldest of the group as he was born in 1919. He is a retired member of the merchant marine and is also a widower who has a pet cat (Penelope). Muffy Mouse is also a puppet who lives in the store and speaks in rhymes. She’s afraid of Penelope and doesn’t even like the mention of cats. She likes to ride her scooter and eat snacks. The last time I looked, I couldn’t find this show on DVD. If I could find it, I’d buy it. I don’t know how well it’d hold up after all of these years, but it was one of my favorite shows growing up. Note: I got most of the info for this from Wikipedia… look it up if you want to know more about the show. Here is a clip of the show intro that I found on YouTube:




The I’m just sayin… College Football Playoffs (Playoffs!?) Championship Game:

2 Oklahoma St. (Big 12 Champion) vs. 4 Stanford (At Large) – The BIG GAME is tonight with the Big 12 Champion, #2 Oklahoma State, hosting at large, #4 Stanford. The Cardinal and Andrew Luck look to end the season on a high note as they square off against the Cowboys and their head coach Mike Gundy (he’s a man… he’s [over] 40!). The “experts” didn’t think this game would ever happen (after all, neither school has “SEC speed”)… I guess you never know what will happen when you actually play the games and don’t just pick who gets to play for a title. Oklahoma State has a great team, but I’m going with Luck on this one. I’m picking Stanford to win this game.