All New Psych Tonight!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Second Lieutenant Matthias W. Day (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 18, 1879 at Las Animas Canyon, New Mexico. His citation reads:

Advanced alone into the enemy's lines and carried off a wounded soldier of his command under a hot fire and after he had been ordered to retreat.

First Sergeant William L. Day (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from 1872-1873. His citation reads:

Gallant conduct during campaigns and engagements with Apaches.

Sergeant William De Armond (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 9-11, 1874 at Upper Washita, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


Don’t forget there is an all new episode of Psych on USA tonight! I can’t wait!


The I’m just sayin… Quote of the Week

You ask, what is our policy? I can say: It is to wage war, by sea, land and air, with all our might and with all the strength that God can give us: to wage war against a monstrous tyranny, never surpassed in the dark, lamentable catalogue of human crime. That is our policy. You ask, What is our aim I can answer with one word Victory; victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory, however long and hard the road may be for without victory there is no survival. – Sir Winston Churchill

Oh What A Night...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private David F. Day (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863 at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."

Major George E. Day (US Air Force) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 26, 1967 in North Vietnam. His citation reads:

On 26 August 1967, Col. Day was forced to eject from his aircraft over North Vietnam when it was hit by ground fire. His right arm was broken in 3 places, and his left knee was badly sprained. He was immediately captured by hostile forces and taken to a prison camp where he was interrogated and severely tortured. After causing the guards to relax their vigilance, Col. Day escaped into the jungle and began the trek toward South Vietnam. Despite injuries inflicted by fragments of a bomb or rocket, he continued southward surviving only on a few berries and uncooked frogs. He successfully evaded enemy patrols and reached the Ben Hai River, where he encountered U.S. artillery barrages. With the aid of a bamboo log float, Col. Day swam across the river and entered the demilitarized zone. Due to delirium, he lost his sense of direction and wandered aimlessly for several days. After several unsuccessful attempts to signal U.S. aircraft, he was ambushed and recaptured by the Viet Cong, sustaining gunshot wounds to his left hand and thigh. He was returned to the prison from which he had escaped and later was moved to Hanoi after giving his captors false information to questions put before him. Physically, Col. Day was totally debilitated and unable to perform even the simplest task for himself. Despite his many injuries, he continued to offer maximum resistance. His personal bravery in the face of deadly enemy pressure was significant in saving the lives of fellow aviators who were still flying against the enemy. Col. Day's conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Air Force and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Armed Forces.

Corporal James L. Day (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from May 14-17, 1945 on Okinawa, Ryukya Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a squad leader serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, Sixth Marine Division, in sustained combat operations against Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukya Islands from 14 to 17 May 1945. On the first day, Corporal Day rallied his squad and the remnants of another unit and led them to a critical position forward of the front lines of Sugar Loaf Hill. Soon thereafter, they came under an intense mortar and artillery barrage that was quickly followed by a ferocious ground attack by some forty Japanese soldiers. Despite the loss of one-half of his men, Corporal Day remained at the forefront, shouting encouragement, hurling hand grenades, and directing deadly fire, thereby repelling the determined enemy. Reinforced by six men, he led his squad in repelling three fierce night attacks but suffered five additional Marines killed and one wounded, whom he assisted to safety. Upon hearing nearby calls for corpsman assistance, Corporal Day braved heavy enemy fire to escort four seriously wounded Marines, one at a time, to safety. Corporal Day then manned a light machine gun, assisted by a wounded Marine, and halted another night attack. In the ferocious action, his machine gun was destroyed, and he suffered multiple white phosphorous and fragmentation wounds. He reorganized his defensive position in time to halt a fifth enemy attack with devastating small arms fire. On three separated occasions, Japanese soldiers closed to within a few feet of his foxhole, but were killed by Corporal Day. During the second day, the enemy conducted numerous unsuccessful swarming attacks against his exposed position. When the attacks momentarily subsided, over 70 enemy dead were counted around his position. On the third day, a wounded and exhausted Corporal Day repulsed the enemy's final attack, killing a dozen enemy soldiers at close range. Having yielded no ground and with more than 100 enemy dead around his position, Corporal Day preserved the lives of his fellow Marines and made a significant contribution to the success of the Okinawa campaign. By his extraordinary heroism, repeated acts of valor, and quintessential battlefield leadership, Corporal Day inspired the efforts of his outnumbered Marines to defeat a much larger enemy force, reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.


So there’s really not a ton to tell about my great adventure from last Tuesday night. People have asked me, “Greg, what did you do while you were out there?” Mainly, I did a lot of nothing. And it was pretty good. I got lucky… the weather was pretty good. Clear night, temps in the low 50s/high 40s. My very good friend Michael came by to hang out with me for a little while (and bring me a HUGE box of books). Part of me figured Michael called the police after he left me to report stolen books... but the cops never came by so that was good. Speaking of people who didn't come by... no, I won't say anything about Danny (yes, that Danny) not coming out to see me. There was only really about an hour or hour and a half (between 3:00am and 4:00 – 4:30am) when there wasn’t much traffic going by the church. So I would watch cars go by. I also got to listen to the train go by (which was nice because it reminded me of spending the night with Granny at Aunt Sister’s house when I was little). While I am, for the most part, a non-violent person I did have my trusty knife with me in the event something bad started to go down… but nothing happened. I don’t remember when other people started to get out there. Since I had been there since 6:30pm Tuesday night, it’s safe to say I was the first one there by a long shot. Which was fine with me. My goal was to make sure Daniel and Susie got signed-up. So if I got there right before someone or hours and hours before someone, it didn’t matter… what mattered was being first. And I was first. So the night was a success. After signing them up (around 7:00am), I went home and took a shower and changed my clothes and went in to work. I got into work at 8:30am and lasted until 2:30pm at which point I stood up, clapped my hands one time and yelled, “That’s it! I’m out!” My co-workers all stood up and started clapping for me. Ok, that didn’t happen… but they did laugh (they knew where I’d been the night before). I went to sleep about 6:15 Wednesday night and didn’t wake up until 6:00 Thursday morning. Best night of sleep EVER. Below are some pictures from my adventure.


Picture Tuesday

Where I spent the night last Tuesday night...

A look at the sky from my seat...

A picture of me from early in the night.

A picture looking out from my seat.

Me and Michael... Note that Danny (yes, that Danny) is not in this picture).  fyi... I took this picture... Not bad, eh?

A picture of me after the temp entered the 40s...

A picture of the clock

Another picture of the clock...

A picture of my protection... my trusty Bootjack knife...

One more shot of the night sky...



Staying the course...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Thomas Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 6, 1865 at Sailors Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Trumpeter Michael Dawson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 23, 1875 at Sappa Creek, Kansas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Private Charles Day (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 6, 1865 at Hatchers Run, Virginia. His citation reads:

Seized the colors of another regiment of the brigade, the regiment having been thrown into confusion and the color bearer killed, and bore said colors throughout the remainder of the engagement.


Money can't buy happiness, but it sure makes misery easier to live with.


The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In

Greg 224

Mary Ruth 46

Susie 25

Daniel 22

Acts 20:24

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Rodney Maxwell Davis (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 6, 1967 in Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as the right guide of the 2d Platoon, Company B, in action against enemy forces. Elements of the 2d Platoon were pinned down by a numerically superior force of attacking North Vietnamese Army Regulars. Remnants of the platoon were located in a trench line where Sgt. Davis was directing the fire of his men in an attempt to repel the enemy attack. Disregarding the enemy hand grenades and high volume of small arms and mortar fire, Sgt. Davis moved from man to man shouting words of encouragement to each of them while firing and throwing grenades at the onrushing enemy. When an enemy grenade landed in the trench in the midst of his men, Sgt. Davis, realizing the gravity of the situation, and in a final valiant act of complete self-sacrifice, instantly threw himself upon the grenade, absorbing with his body the full and terrific force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, Sgt. Davis saved his comrades from injury and possible loss of life, enabled his platoon to hold its vital position, and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Private First Class Sammy L. Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 18, 1967 west of Cai Lay, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Battery C, 2d Battalion, 4th Artillery, 9th Infantry Division. Place and date: West of Cai Lay, Republic of Vietnam, 18 November 1967. Entered service at: Indianapolis, Ind. Born: 1 November 1946, Dayton, Ohio. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Davis (then PFc.) distinguished himself during the early morning hours while serving as a cannoneer with Battery C, at a remote fire support base. At approximately 0200 hours, the fire support base was under heavy enemy mortar attack. Simultaneously, an estimated reinforced Viet Cong battalion launched a fierce ground assault upon the fire support base. The attacking enemy drove to within 25 meters of the friendly positions. Only a river separated the Viet Cong from the fire support base. Detecting a nearby enemy position, Sgt. Davis seized a machinegun and provided covering fire for his guncrew, as they attempted to bring direct artillery fire on the enemy. Despite his efforts, an enemy recoilless rifle round scored a direct hit upon the artillery piece. The resultant blast hurled the guncrew from their weapon and blew Sgt. Davis into a foxhole. He struggled to his feet and returned to the howitzer, which was burning furiously. Ignoring repeated warning to seek cover, Sgt. Davis rammed a shell into the gun. Disregarding a withering hail of enemy fire directed against his position, he aimed and fired the howitzer which rolled backward, knocking Sgt. Davis violently to the ground. Undaunted, he returned to the weapon to fire again when an enemy mortar round exploded within 20 meters of his position, injured him painfully. Nevertheless, Sgt. Davis loaded the artillery piece, aimed and fired. Again he was knocked down by the recoil. In complete disregard for his safety, Sgt. Davis loaded and fired 3 more shells into the enemy. Disregarding his extensive injuries and his inability to swim, Sgt. Davis picked up an air mattress and struck out across the deep river to rescue 3 wounded comrades on the far side. Upon reaching the 3 wounded men, he stood upright and fired into the dense vegetation to prevent the Viet Cong from advancing. While the most seriously wounded soldier was helped across the river, Sgt. Davis protected the 2 remaining casualties until he could pull them across the river to the fire support base. Though suffering from painful wounds, he refused medical attention, joining another howitzer crew which fired at the large Viet Cong force until it broke contact and fled, Sgt. Davis extraordinary heroism, at the risk of his life, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.

Ordinary Seaman Samuel W. Davis (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864 on board the USS Brooklyn. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Brooklyn during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, on 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, Davis exercised extreme courage and vigilance while acting as a look-out for torpedoes and other obstructions 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.


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
Acts 20:24

24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

Cheers!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Martin K. Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863 at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."

Quartermaster Raymond E. Davis (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 21, 1905 on board the USS Bennington. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Bennington, for extraordinary heroism displayed at the time of the explosion of a boiler of that vessel at San Diego, Calif., 21 July 1905.

Lieutenant Colonel Raymond G. Davis (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 1-4, 1950 in the vicinity of Hagaru-ri, Korea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, in action against enemy aggressor forces. Although keenly aware that the operation involved breaking through a surrounding enemy and advancing 8 miles along primitive icy trails in the bitter cold with every passage disputed by a savage and determined foe, Lt. Col. Davis boldly led his battalion into the attack in a daring attempt to relieve a beleaguered rifle company and to seize, hold, and defend a vital mountain pass controlling the only route available for 2 marine regiments in danger of being cut off by numerically superior hostile forces during their re-deployment to the port of Hungnam. When the battalion immediately encountered strong opposition from entrenched enemy forces commanding high ground in the path of the advance, he promptly spearheaded his unit in a fierce attack up the steep, ice-covered slopes in the face of withering fire and, personally leading the assault groups in a hand-to-hand encounter, drove the hostile troops from their positions, rested his men, and reconnoitered the area under enemy fire to determine the best route for continuing the mission. Always in the thick of the fighting Lt. Col. Davis led his battalion over 3 successive ridges in the deep snow in continuous attacks against the enemy and, constantly inspiring and encouraging his men throughout the night, brought his unit to a point within 1,500 yards of the surrounded rifle company by daybreak. Although knocked to the ground when a shell fragment struck his helmet and 2 bullets pierced his clothing, he arose and fought his way forward at the head of his men until he reached the isolated marines. On the following morning, he bravely led his battalion in securing the vital mountain pass from a strongly entrenched and numerically superior hostile force, carrying all his wounded with him, including 22 litter cases and numerous ambulatory patients. Despite repeated savage and heavy assaults by the enemy, he stubbornly held the vital terrain until the 2 regiments of the division had deployed through the pass and, on the morning of 4 December, led his battalion into Hagaru-ri intact. By his superb leadership, outstanding courage, and brilliant tactical ability, Lt. Col. Davis was directly instrumental in saving the beleaguered rifle company from complete annihilation and enabled the 2 marine regiments to escape possible destruction. His valiant devotion to duty and unyielding fighting spirit in the face of almost insurmountable odds enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.


Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy.


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

(As always, thanks to Wikipedia for the info…)
Cheers is a very funny series that ran for 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993. It was produced by Charles/Burrows/Charles Productions, in association with Paramount Network Television for NBC. The show is set in the Cheers bar (named for the toast "Cheers") in Boston, Massachusetts, where a group of locals meet to drink, relax, chat and have fun. The show's theme song, written and performed by Gary Portnoy, and co-written with Judy Hart Angelo, lent its famous refrain, "Where Everybody Knows Your Name", as the show's tagline.

After premiering on September 30, 1982, it was nearly canceled during its first season when it ranked last in ratings for its premiere (77th out of 77 shows). Cheers, however, eventually became a highly rated television show in the United States, earning a top-ten rating during 8 of its 11 seasons, including one season at #1. The show even had its own successful spin-off, Frasier, based on Kelsey Grammer’s character Frasier Crane. That show ran for 11 seasons.

The character of Sam Malone was originally intended to be a retired football player and was slated to be played by Fred Dryer, but after casting Ted Danson it was decided that a former baseball player (Sam "Mayday" Malone) would be more believable, given Danson's slimmer physique. The character of Cliff Clavin was created for John Ratzenberger after he auditioned for the role of Norm Peterson, which eventually went to George Wendt. While chatting with producers afterward, he asked if they were going to include a "bar know-it-all", the part which he eventually played. Kirstie Alley joined the cast when Shelley Long left (representing the only departure of a primary character throughout the series), and Woody Harrelson joined when Nicholas Colasanto died. Danson, Perlman and Wendt were the only actors to appear in every episode of the series. By the way, I hope Shelley Long fired her agent for letting her leave the show.

Although Cheers operated largely around that main ensemble cast, guest stars did occasionally supplement them. Notable repeat guests included Jay Thomas as Eddie LeBec, Dan Hedaya as Nick Tortelli, Jean Kasem as Loretta Tortelli, Roger Rees as Robin Colcord, Tom Skerritt as Evan Drake, and Harry Anderson as Harry 'The Hat' Gittes. Other celebrities guest-starred in single episodes as themselves throughout the series. Some sports figures appeared on the show with a connection to Boston or Sam's former team, the Red Sox, such as Luis Tiant, Wade Boggs, and Kevin McHale (star player of the Boston Celtics). Some television stars also made guest appearances as themselves such as Alex Trebek, Arsenio Hall, Dick Cavett, Robert Urich, and Johnny Carson. Various political figures even made appearances on Cheers such as then-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral William J. Crowe, former Colorado Senator Gary Hart, then-Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill, Senator John Kerry, then-Governor Michael Dukakis, and then-Mayor of Boston Raymond Flynn, the last four of whom all represented Cheers' home state and city.

Over its 11-season run, the Cheers cast and crew earned many awards. The show garnered a record 111 Emmy Award nominations, with a total of 28 wins. In addition, Cheers earned 31 Golden Globe nominations, with a total of six wins. Danson, Long, Alley, Perlman, Wendt, Ratzenberger, Harrelson, Grammer, Neuwirth, and Colosanto all received Emmy nominations for their roles. Cheers won the Golden Globe for "Best TV-Series – Comedy/Musical" in 1991 and the Emmy for "Outstanding Comedy Series" in 1983, 1984, 1989, and 1991. The series was presented with the "Legend Award" at the 2006 TV Land Awards.

Cheers had several running gags, such as Norm arriving in the bar greeted by a loud "Norm!" Early episodes generally followed Sam's antics with his various women, following a variety of romantic comedy clichés to get out of whatever relationship troubles he was in during each episode. The show's main theme in its early seasons was the romance between the intellectual waitress Diane Chambers and bar owner Sam Malone, a former major league baseball pitcher for the Boston Red Sox and a recovering alcoholic. After Shelley Long (Diane) left the show, the focus shifted to Sam's new relationship with neurotic corporate ladder climber Rebecca. Both relationships featured sexual tension that spanned many episodes, which drew viewers to tune in during following weeks to see the results.

In another recurring theme, Norm Peterson continually searched for gainful employment as an accountant, but spent most of the series unemployed, thereby explaining his constant presence in Cheers at the same stool, though he was not above leaving work early when he was employed. Norm does not actually pay for his beer, using any excuse to get a free refill. On one episode Rebecca reveals his tab as being nearly $300. The face of his wife, Vera, was never fully seen onscreen, despite a few fleeting appearances and vocal cameos. She first appeared briefly in the fifth season episode "Thanksgiving Orphans" with her face covered in pumpkin-pie filling, portrayed by Bernadette Birkett, the wife of George Wendt.

You should know...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Gunner’s Mate Third Class John Davis (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1898 on board the USS Marblehead. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Marblehead, during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Davis set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.

Corporal Joseph Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 30, 1864 at Franklin, Tennessee. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Landsman Joseph H. Davis (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 22, 1886 on board the US Receiving Ship Dale. His citation reads:

On board the U.S. Receiving Ship Dale off the Wharf at Norfolk, Va., 22 January 1886. Jumping overboard from the ferryboat, Davis rescued from drowning John Norman, ordinary seaman.


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

Bobby Cremins: To hear him talk, you probably wouldn’t think that Bobby Cremins would ever be the SC athlete you should know… but he is. His years as a star for the Revolutionary War Hero’s basketball team earned him this prestigious spot on the blog (though, I must admit… it’s hard to find info on his playing days so I’ll be talking a good bit about his post-playing career). Cremins grew up in the Bronx, New York, where he was born to Irish immigrants. In 1966, he entered the University of South Carolina on a basketball scholarship, where he played under the legendary basketball coach Frank McGuire. While Cremins was there, the Revolutionary War Heroes won 61 games, with only 17 losses. Cremins was the starting point guard for three years for USC (I believe this was back when freshmen couldn’t play… so he was the starting PG for all the years he was eligible). He was also the captain of South Carolina's powerful 1969–70 team which went 25-3 (14-0 in the ACC… but lost to NC State in the championship game of the ACC Tournament). He graduated from South Carolina in 1970 and played professional basketball for one year in Ecuador.

Cremins started his coaching career at in 1971 as an assistant coach at Point Park College in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He next returned to South Carolina to become McGuire's assistant coach in 1972. At age 27, Cremins became one of the youngest NCAA Division I head coaches in history when he took charge of the Appalachian State University's basketball team. In his first year at Appalachian his team had a record of 13–14, but then they accumulated an 87–56 record over the next five seasons, with three Southern Conference championships. The Mountaineers posted a 23–6 record, and received an NCAA Tournament slot in 1979. He was hired as the new head basketball coach for Georgia Tech at the close of the 1981 season. Cremins took over a Georgia Tech team that had been winless in the conference and had compiled a four wins and 23 losses record in the basketball season before his arrival. His team progressed to the ACC Basketball Tournament championship in 1985, and they amassed a record of 27 wins with eight losses. In 1990, his team progressed all the way to the Final Four with an overall 28–7 record. Three times he has been named ACC Coach of the Year (’83, ’85 and ’96) and was named the Naismith College Coach of the Year in 1990. During his time at Georgia Tech, Cremins coached such players as Mark Price, John Salley, Dennis Scott, Brian Oliver, Kenny Anderson, Jon Barry, Travis Best and Stephon Marbury. On March 24, 1993, Cremins agreed to coach basketball at his alma mater, the University of South Carolina, before changing his mind and deciding three days later to continue at Georgia Tech (where he would later retire from coaching). While he was retired, Bobby toured the country doing motivational speaking, television commentary on ACC and NCAA basketball, and worked with charities, mainly for Coaches vs. Cancer and the Jimmy V Foundation. In 2006, Cremins returned to coaching at the College of Charleston, after the Cougars hired Winthrop coach Gregg Marshall (only to have Marshall “pull a Cremins” and change his mind and remain at Winthrop).

I read a book about ACC basketball one time and in it was a story about the coaches in the late ‘80s/early ‘90s. It talked about how competitive the coaches were and how a lot of them didn’t really like each other. But everybody loved Bobby… to the point that at a coaches meeting one time Cremins walked in and was going on and on about a recruit he’d just talked to. All the other coaches got real quiet until someone finally spoke up and said “Bobby, this is a dead period! You can’t talk to recruits right now!” Cremins looked around the room and said, “Really?!” None of the coaches turned him in to the NCAA… they liked him too much to do that to him.

Thankful Thursday!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Quarter Gunner John Davis (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 10, 1862 on board the USS Valley City. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Valley City during action against rebel fort batteries and ships off Elizabeth City, N.C., on 10 February 1862. When a shell from the shore penetrated the side and passed through the magazine, exploding outside the screen on the berth deck, several powder division protecting bulkheads were torn to pieces and the forward part of the berth deck set on fire. Showing great presence of mind, Davis courageously covered a barrel of powder with his own body and prevented an explosion, while at the same time passing powder to provide the division on the upper deck while under fierce enemy fire.

Private John Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions in April of 1865 at Culloden, Georgia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of Worrill Grays (C.S.A.).

Ordinary Seaman John Davis (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during February 1881 on board the USS Trenton. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Trenton, Toulon, France, February 1881. Jumping overboard, Davis rescued Augustus Ohlensen, coxswain, from drowning.


I received a forward the other day with about 50 great one-liners. I have no idea who said any of them. Usually, I’d put something like this on my sister-blog (I Thought You Might Like This)… but I decided to throw them on here from time to time.

When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the Fire Department usually uses water.


Thankful Thursday

So I did it! I camped outside the daycare all night and was able to get Susie and Daniel into the daycare that The Wife wants them to be in. I am thankful that we now have our childcare “situation” taken care of. Now I just hope this one doesn’t close down before they both graduate. I am also thankful that nothing real bad happened to me while I was waiting to sign up. I’m still pretty tired, so that’s all for today. But maybe one day I’ll have time to share my adventure with you.

So... So... Sleepy

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Commander George Fleming Davis (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 6, 1945 on board the USS Walke. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Walke engaged in a detached mission in support of minesweeping operations to clear the waters for entry of our heavy surface and amphibious forces preparatory to the invasion of Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 6 January 1945. Operating without gun support of other surface ships when 4 Japanese suicide planes were detected flying low overland to attack simultaneously, Comdr. Davis boldly took his position in the exposed wings of the bridge and directed control to pick up the leading plane and open fire. Alert and fearless as the Walke's deadly fire sent the first target crashing into the water and caught the second as it passed close over the bridge to plunge into the sea of portside, he remained steadfast in the path of the third plane plunging swiftly to crash the after end of the bridge structure. Seriously wounded when the craft struck, drenched with gasoline and immediately enveloped in flames, he conned the Walke in the midst of the wreckage; he rallied his command to heroic efforts; he exhorted his officers and men to save the ship and, still on his feet, saw the barrage from his guns destroy the fourth suicide bomber. With the fires under control and the safety of the ship assured, he consented to be carried below. Succumbing several hours later, Comdr. Davis by his example of valor and his unhesitating self-sacrifice, steeled the fighting spirit of his command into unyielding purpose in completing a vital mission. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.

Major George Andrew Davis, Jr. (US Air Force) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 10, 1952 near Sinuiju-Yalu River area, Korea. His citation reads:

Maj. Davis distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While leading a flight of 4 F-86 Saberjets on a combat aerial patrol mission near the Manchurian border, Maj. Davis' element leader ran out of oxygen and was forced to retire from the flight with his wingman accompanying him. Maj. Davis and the remaining F-86's continued the mission and sighted a formation of approximately 12 enemy MIG-15 aircraft speeding southward toward an area where friendly fighter-bombers were conducting low level operations against the Communist lines of communications. With selfless disregard for the numerical superiority of the enemy, Maj. Davis positioned his 2 aircraft, then dove at the MIG formation. While speeding through the formation from the rear he singled out a MIG-15 and destroyed it with a concentrated burst of fire. Although he was now under continuous fire from the enemy fighters to his rear, Maj. Davis sustained his attack. He fired at another MIG-15 which, bursting into smoke and flames, went into a vertical dive. Rather than maintain his superior speed and evade the enemy fire being concentrated on him, he elected to reduce his speed and sought out still a third MIG-15. During this latest attack his aircraft sustained a direct hit, went out of control, then crashed into a mountain 30 miles south of the Yalu River. Maj. Davis' bold attack completely disrupted the enemy formation, permitting the friendly fighter-bombers to successfully complete their interdiction mission. Maj. Davis, by his indomitable fighting spirit, heroic aggressiveness, and superb courage in engaging the enemy against formidable odds exemplified valor at its highest.

Private Harry Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 28, 1864 at Atlanta, Georgia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of 30th Louisiana Infantry (C.S.A.).


The I’m just sayin… Quote of the Week

Caesar had his Brutus, Charles the First his Cromwell; and George the Third - [Treason!" cried the Speaker] - may profit by their example. If this be treason, make the most of it." - Patrick Henry

I can feel it coming in the air tonight…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Major Charles W. Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 12, 1943 on Guadalcanal Island. His citation reads:

For distinguishing himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy on Guadalcanal Island. On 12 January 1943, Maj. Davis (then Capt.), executive officer of an infantry battalion, volunteered to carry instructions to the leading companies of his battalion which had been caught in crossfire from Japanese machineguns. With complete disregard for his own safety, he made his way to the trapped units, delivered the instructions, supervised their execution, and remained overnight in this exposed position. On the following day, Maj. Davis again volunteered to lead an assault on the Japanese position which was holding up the advance. When his rifle jammed at its first shot, he drew his pistol and, waving his men on, led the assault over the top of the hill. Electrified by this action, another body of soldiers followed and seized the hill. The capture of this position broke Japanese resistance and the battalion was then able to proceed and secure the corps objective. The courage and leadership displayed by Maj. Davis inspired the entire battalion and unquestionably led to the success of its attack.

Sergeant Freeman Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 25, 1863 at Missionary Ridge, Tennessee. His citation reads:

This soldier, while his regiment was falling back, seeing the 2 color bearers shot down, under a severe fire and at imminent peril recovered both the flags and saved them from capture.

First Lieutenant George E. Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 9, 1864 at Monocacy, Maryland. His citation reads:

While in command of a small force, held the approaches to the 2 bridges against repeated assaults of superior numbers, thereby materially delaying Early's advance on Washington.


For any of you out there who like the subjects of religion and politics, I’m reading a good book right now called The President, the Pope and the Prime Minister: Three Who Changed The World by John O’Sullivan. It’s about Ronald Reagan, John Paul II and Margaret Thatcher… I won’t spoil it by telling you which one was the President and which one was the Pope and which one was the Prime Minister.

While you’re all nice and warm in your bed tonight with sweet dreams filling your head… I will be out in the cold waiting for a local day care to open up so I can register Susie and Daniel. Why would I wait all night? Because someone close to the situation told The Wife that there is only one spot open for Daniel’s age group. If you find you are having trouble falling asleep… text me and I’ll let you know where I am. You can come visit me and help me stay awake.  Maybe I'll tweet during the night to let everyone know how I'm doing.  I'm sure at some point I'll talk about my adventure more on here (if there's anything to tell).

Our picture day today is going to focus mainly on Susie... I didn't plan it that way, it just ended up being that way.


Picture Tuesday

Susie with her signature 2 fingers in her mouth and one in her nose...

It isn't odd for me to wake up in the mornings and see Susie and "Agent P" sleeping in my bed...

No-Name Teri and her girls came down for a visit on Saturday... Susie LOVES Ansley, as you can see in this picture.

Happy President’s Day!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Staff Sergeant Rudolph B. Davila (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 28, 1944 near Artena, Italy. His citation reads:

Staff Sergeant Rudolph B. Davila distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action, on 28 May 1944, near Artena, Italy. During the offensive which broke through the German mountain strongholds surrounding the Anzio beachhead, Staff Sergeant Davila risked death to provide heavy weapons support for a beleaguered rifle company. Caught on an exposed hillside by heavy, grazing fire from a well-entrenched German force, his machine gunners were reluctant to risk putting their guns into action. Crawling fifty yards to the nearest machine gun, Staff Sergeant Davila set it up alone and opened fire on the enemy. In order to observe the effect of his fire, Sergeant Davila fired from the kneeling position, ignoring the enemy fire that struck the tripod and passed between his legs. Ordering a gunner to take over, he crawled forward to a vantage point and directed the firefight with hand and arm signals until both hostile machine guns were silenced. Bringing his three remaining machine guns into action, he drove the enemy to a reserve position two hundred yards to the rear. When he received a painful wound in the leg, he dashed to a burned tank and, despite the crash of bullets on the hull, engaged a second enemy force from the tank's turret. Dismounting, he advanced 130 yards in short rushes, crawled 20 yards and charged into an enemy-held house to eliminate the defending force of five with a hand grenade and rifle fire. Climbing to the attic, he straddled a large shell hole in the wall and opened fire on the enemy. Although the walls of the house were crumbling, he continued to fire until he had destroyed two more machine guns. His intrepid actions brought desperately needed heavy weapons support to a hard-pressed rifle company and silenced four machine gunners, which forced the enemy to abandon their prepared positions. Staff Sergeant Davila's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.

Major Charles C. Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 27, 1863 at Shelbyville, Tennessee. His citation reads:

Led one of the most desperate and successful charges of the war.

Private Charles P. Davis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 16, 1899 near San Isidro, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

With 21 other scouts charged across a burning bridge, under heavy fire, and completely routed 600 of the enemy who were entrenched in a strongly fortified position.


Congrats to Appalachian State for their win over Winthrop. It’s been one of those years for Winthrop…

So if anyone wants to hangout Tuesday night/Wednesday morning, give me a call... but more on that later.


The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In


Greg 224 - Heading back in the right direction…

Mary Ruth 46

Susie 25

Daniel 22

Happy Sunday!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant John A. Davidsizer (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 5, 1865 at Paines Crossroads, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

First Lieutenant Andrew Davidson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 30, 1864 at the mine, Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

One of the first to enter the enemy's works, where, after his colonel, major, and one-third the company officers had fallen, he gallantly assisted in rallying and saving the remnant of the command.

Assistant Surgeon Andrew Davidson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 3, 1863 at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Voluntarily attempted to run the enemy's batteries.


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
Philippians 4:13 (New King James Version)

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Go Eagles! The Cosby Show… Happy 400th Post!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant John S. Darrough (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 10, 1864 at Eastport, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Saved the life of a captain.

Corporal Jack A. Davenport (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 21, 1951 in the vicinity of Songnae-Dong, Korea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a squad leader in Company G, in action against enemy aggressor forces, early in the morning. While expertly directing the defense of his position during a probing attack by hostile forces attempting to infiltrate the area, Cpl. Davenport, acting quickly when an enemy grenade fell into the foxhole which he was occupying with another marine, skillfully located the deadly projectile in the dark and, undeterred by the personal risk involved, heroically threw himself over the live missile, thereby saving his companion from serious injury or possible death. His cool and resourceful leadership were contributing factors in the successful repulse of the enemy attack and his superb courage and admirable spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Cpl. Davenport gallantly gave his life for his country.

Lieutenant, Junior Grade Albert Leroy David (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 4, 1944 on board the USS Pillsbury. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while attached to the U.S.S. Pillsbury during the capture of an enemy German submarine off French West Africa, 4 June 1944. Taking a vigorous part in the skillfully coordinated attack on the German U-505 which climaxed a prolonged search by the Task Group, Lt. (then Lt. j.g.) David boldly led a party from the Pillsbury in boarding the hostile submarine as it circled erratically at 5 or 6 knots on the surface. Fully aware that the U-boat might momentarily sink or be blown up by exploding demolition and scuttling charges, he braved the added danger of enemy gunfire to plunge through the conning tower hatch and, with his small party, exerted every effort to keep the ship afloat and to ass1st the succeeding and more fully equipped salvage parties in making the U-505 seaworthy for the long tow across the Atlantic to a U.S. port. By his valiant service during the first successful boarding and capture of an enemy man-o-war on the high seas by the U.S. Navy since 1815, Lt. David contributed materially to the effectiveness of our Battle of the Atlantic and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.


Did you see this story? It seems this guy has a license plate that says “No Tags”. This has ended up causing him a good bit of trouble… guess he didn’t think it all the way through.

The Eagles make the trip up to Boone, North Carolina today to play the Appalachian State Mountaineers in what is sure to be an epic BracketBuster match-up between two 11 win teams. For any of you non-college basketball fans… having 11 wins in mid-February is not what we in the business (and by the business I mean the industry) call a “good” thing. It just goes to show you everything is relative. If this were football in late November… 11 wins would be great. But basketball in February… not so much. Anyway, maybe the Eagles can get to win number 12 before the Mountaineers can.


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

(As always, thanks to Wikipedia for the info…)
The Kid Show of the Week this week is The Cosby Show. While I do know of one person in this world who did not like this show, I happen to think it is (at the very least) in the conversation as the greatest TV show ever. I don’t know if it’s at the top of the list (SPOILER ALERT: I’ll probably get to that in May of 2014), I can say it’s pretty high on the list. Some of you may already know this, but for those who don’t… The Cosby Show is a comedy series starring Bill Cosby, which aired for eight seasons on NBC from September 20, 1984 until April 30, 1992. The show revolves around the Huxtable family… an affluent African-American family living in Brooklyn, New York. According to TV Guide, the show "was TV's biggest hit in the 1980s, and almost single-handedly revived the sitcom genre and NBC's ratings fortunes". Originally, the show had been pitched to ABC, which rejected it (which, to me, was like saying, “Nah, we don’t want that Jordan guy playing for our NBA team”). Entertainment Weekly stated that The Cosby Show helped to make possible a larger variety of shows based on blacks, from In Living Color to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. The Cosby Show was based on comedy routines in Cosby's standup act, which were based on his family life (and, I must add, were very very funny). Other sitcoms, such as Home Improvement and Everybody Loves Raymond, would later follow that pattern. The show spawned the spin-off A Different World, which ran for six seasons from 1987 to 1993.  As of 2011, The Cosby Show is the third-longest running U.S. comedy with a predominantly black cast, surpassed only by The Jeffersons (very funny) and Family Matters (kind of funny).

The patriarch of the family was Heathcliff "Cliff" Huxtable, an obstetrician, son of a prominent jazz trombonist. The matriarch was his wife, attorney Clair Huxtable. The two characters were then followed by their five children, four daughters and one son; Sondra, Denise, Theodore (Theo for short), Vanessa and Rudy. Despite its comedic tone, the show sometimes involved serious subjects, such as son Theo's experiences dealing with dyslexia, inspired by Cosby's son Ennis, who was also dyslexic. Teenage pregnancy was also a topic when Denise's friend, played by Lela Rochon, became pregnant.

Although the cast and characters were predominantly African-American, the program was unusual in that issues of race were rarely mentioned when compared to other situation comedies of the time, such as The Jeffersons. However, The Cosby Show had African-American themes, such as the Civil Rights Movement, and it frequently promoted African-American and African culture represented by artists and musicians such as Jacob Lawrence, Miles Davis, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Lena Horne, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie and Miriam Makeba. The show's spin-off, A Different World dealt with issues of race more often. The cast consisted of Bill Cosby as Dr. Heathcliff "Cliff" Huxtable, Phylicia Rashād (credited as Phylicia Ayers-Allen before marriage in 1985) as Clair Huxtable, Malcolm-Jamal Warner as Theo Huxtable, Keshia Knight Pulliam as Rudy Huxtable, Tempestt Bledsoe as Vanessa Huxtable, Lisa Bonet as Denise Huxtable Kendall (seasons 1–3 and seasons 6–7; recurring in seasons 4 & 5), Sabrina Le Beauf as Sondra Huxtable-Tibideaux (seasons 2–8; recurring in season 1), Geoffrey Owens as Dr. Elvin Tibideaux (seasons 4–8; recurring in seasons 2 & 3), Raven-Symoné as Olivia Kendall (seasons 6–8), Joseph C. Phillips as LT Martin Kendall, USN (seasons 6 & 7, recurring in season 8) and Erika Alexander as Pamela "Pam" Tucker (seasons 7 & 8). Other notable cast members who are seen during the series include Earle Hyman as Russell Huxtable (Cliff’s dad) and Clarice Taylor as Anna Huxtable (Cliff’s mom), Deon Richmond as Kenny (aka “Bud”), Carl Anthony Payne II as Walter Bradley (aka “Cockroach”) and Adam Sandler as Smitty

RIP Gary Carter

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Michael J. Daly (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 18, 1945 at Nuremberg, Germany. His citation reads:

Early in the morning of 18 April 1945, he led his company through the shell-battered, sniper-infested wreckage of Nuremberg, Germany. When bl1stering machinegun fire caught his unit in an exposed position, he ordered his men to take cover, dashed forward alone, and, as bullets whined about him, shot the 3-man guncrew with his carbine. Continuing the advance at the head of his company, he located an enemy patrol armed with rocket launchers which threatened friendly armor. He again went forward alone, secured a vantage point and opened fire on the Germans. Immediately he became the target for concentrated machine pistol and rocket fire, which blasted the rubble about him. Calmly, he continued to shoot at the patrol until he had killed all 6 enemy infantrymen. Continuing boldly far in front of his company, he entered a park, where as his men advanced, a German machinegun opened up on them without warning. With his carbine, he killed the gunner; and then, from a completely exposed position, he directed machinegun fire on the remainder of the crew until all were dead. In a final duel, he wiped out a third machinegun emplacement with rifle fire at a range of 10 yards. By fearlessly engaging in 4 single-handed fire fights with a desperate, powerfully armed enemy, Lt. Daly, voluntarily taking all major risks himself and protecting his men at every opportunity, killed 15 Germans, silenced 3 enemy machineguns and wiped out an entire enemy patrol. His heroism during the lone bitter struggle with fanatical enemy forces was an inspiration to the valiant Americans who took Nuremberg.

Corporal Anthony Peter Damato (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 19-20, 1944 on Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with an assault company in action against enemy Japanese forces on Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, on the night of 1920 February 1944. Highly vulnerable to sudden attack by small, fanatical groups of Japanese still at large despite the efficient and determined efforts of our forces to clear the area, Cpl. Damato lay with 2 comrades in a large foxhole in his company's defense perimeter which had been dangerously thinned by the forced withdrawal of nearly half of the available men. When 1 of the enemy approached the foxhole undetected and threw in a hand grenade, Cpl. Damato desperately groped for it in the darkness. Realizing the imminent peril to all 3 and fully aware of the consequences of his act, he unhesitatingly flung himself on the grenade and, although instantly killed as his body absorbed the explosion, saved the lives of his 2 companions. Cpl. Damato's splendid initiative, fearless conduct and valiant sacrifice reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his comrades.

Sergeant James T. Daniels (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 7, 1890 in Arizona. His citation reads:

Untiring energy and cool gallantry under fire in an engagement with Apache Indians.


RIP Gary Carter. The man who played the game of baseball with such joy and enthusiasm that he was nicknamed “The Kid” has passed away at the age of 57. There was a time when 57 was old… now it seems far too young for a hall of famer to die. Carter played for the Montreal Expos, New York Mets, San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers. He was an 11 time All-Star and hit 324 career homers back before the ball (and the players) were juiced. He was also a guest on a TV show (“The Baseball Bunch”) that was hosted by Johnny Bench. The show taught kids how to play the game… and if they’d watch it, it could probably teach some Major League baseball players how to have fun. I think deep down (or maybe not so deep down) most fans want pro athletes to recognize and appreciate how lucky they are to have a chance to make a living playing a game millions grow up loving to play. Gary Carter was one of those guys who “got it”.

I know this isn’t “Picture Tuesday”, but I thought I’d share this picture of my grandfather with his mom and siblings…

Henry, George (my grandfather), Jimmy, Gene, MaMa (their mom), Belvin, Gertrude and Madelin

I'm not 100% sure, but I am 99.9% sure that the order of birth was...

Gertrude, Madeline, Henry, Cecil, George (Da), Jimmy, Julia, Belvin, Gene.  Cecil died as a baby, Julia was the first to die as an adult (in her 40's, I believe) followed by Belvin (in 1983), Uncle Henry (1988), Uncle Jimmy (in 1990, I think), George (Da... in 1995), Aunt Madelin (1996), Aunt Gertrude (1999) and now Uncle Gene (2012).  So Henry and Ethel Horres had at least one living child from 1900 - 2012... that's a pretty good run if you ask me. 

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

The athlete we are going to look at this week is former Winthrop basketball great Greg Lewis. He came to Winthrop as a junior college transfer. In his time at WU, he led the Eagles to two Big South championships. In the 2001-2002 he was named the Big South Player of the Year and (AND!) the MVP of the 2002 Big South Tournament. He was also the Tournament MVP in 2000 as well as a First Team All-Big South member in 2000 and 2002 (he redshirted in 2001 due to an injury). After receiving his degree, Lewis played professionally overseas and was signed by the NBDL’s Greenville Grrrowl. What you really need to know about Greg Lewis is that he was a freaking man. I had the pleasure of being at Winthrop during his career there. I didn’t know him… he may have been the nicest guy in the world… but he looked like he was cut from stone and that he could, at any moment, rip your heart out with his bare hand. He also had these gold contacts that he would wear around campus from time to time and if you weren’t ready for it (and really, even if you were) it would take your breath away and make your body go cold with fear. I tell you this not because it happened to me once… I tell you this because it happened to me many times. He was a 6’6” Forward who could score and rebound. In his 67 games at Winthrop, Greg averaged 14.8 points per game and 8.1 rebounds per game. I’m not a basketball expert by any means, but I can tell you Winthrop, Clemson and USC could all use a player like Greg Lewis on their team this season (and every season).

RIP Mrs. Henderson and Uncle Gene

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

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

Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians.

Technical Sergeant Peter J. Dalessondro (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 22, 1944 near Kalterherberg, Germany. His citation reads:

He was with the 1st Platoon holding an important road junction on high ground near Kalterherberg, Germany, on 22 December 1944. In the early morning hours, the enemy after laying down an intense artillery and mortar barrage, followed through with an all-out attack that threatened to overwhelm the position. T/Sgt. Dalessondro, seeing that his men were becoming disorganized, braved the intense fire to move among them with words of encouragement. Advancing to a fully exposed observation post, he adjusted mortar fire upon the attackers, meanwhile firing upon them with his rifle and encouraging his men in halting and repulsing the attack. Later in the day the enemy launched a second determined attack. Once again, T/Sgt. Dalessondro, in the face of imminent death, rushed to his forward position and immediately called for mortar fire. After exhausting his rifle ammunition, he crawled 30 yards over exposed ground to secure a light machinegun, returned to his position, and fired upon the enemy at almost pointblank range until the gun jammed. He managed to get the gun to fire 1 more burst, which used up his last round, but with these bullets he killed 4 German soldiers who were on the verge of murdering an aid man and 2 wounded soldiers in a nearby foxhole. When the enemy had almost surrounded him, he remained alone, steadfastly facing almost certain death or capture, hurling grenades and calling for mortar fire closer and closer to his outpost as he covered the withdrawal of his platoon to a second line of defense. As the German hordes swarmed about him, he was last heard calling for a barrage, saying, "OK, mortars, let me have it--right in this position!" The gallantry and intrepidity shown by T/Sgt. Dalessondro against an overwhelming enemy attack saved his company from complete rout.

Gunnery Sergeant Daniel Joseph Daly (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 14, 1900. His citation reads:

FIRST AWARD In the presence of the enemy during the battle of Peking, China, 14 August 1900, Daly distinguished himself by meritorious conduct. SECOND AWARD Serving with the 15th Company of Marines on 22 October 1915, G/Sgt. Daly was one of the company to leave Fort Liberte, Haiti, for a 6-day reconnaissance. After dark on the evening of 24 October, while crossing the river in a deep ravine, the detachment was suddenly fired upon from 3 sides by about 400 Cacos concealed in bushes about 100 yards from the fort. The marine detachment fought its way forward to a good position, which it maintained during the night, although subjected to a continuous fre from the Cacos. At daybreak the marines, in 3 squads, advanced in 3 different directions, surprising and scattering the Cacos in all directions. G/Sgt. Daly fought with exceptional gallantry against heavy odds throughout this action.


Thankful Thursday

I am thankful that God put Uncle Gene and Mrs. Henderson in my life. It would be pretty bad of me to acknowledge the passing of singer (albeit a very good singer) and not the passing of my Great-Uncle Gene and one of my first friends, Mrs. Henderson. These are two people who put the “Great” in the Greatest Generation. Uncle Gene (Eugene S. Horres, Sr.) was the youngest of nine children. He attended George Washington University and served in the Navy (Navy, not Army… suck it, Sonny). You can read his obituary here. You will notice that like all of the youngest children in our family, Uncle Gene did some great things. Let’s be honest, most of you won’t click on that link so I’ll post parts of the obit here:

Mr. Horres was born July14, 1917 in Holly Hill, SC, the son of Henry Horres and Ethel Rumph Horres was the last of nine children. He attended George Washington University and served with the United States Navy as an esteemed member of Special Devices Division, an elite research and development program during World War II. He was described by his colleagues as "one of the columns holding up the temple," noted for his ideas and inventions which were classified at that time. During the war, he was sent to South America to assist in training Allied Sailors on how to fire artillery and utilize other ordnance on warships. Upon Discharge from the Navy, he continued his inventive ways with The Douglas Leigh Company, an advertising powerhouse in New York City. Douglas Leigh and his company were responsible for designing the lighting of the iconic Empire State building. While in New York City, he designed many famous signs that appeared on Times Square and Broadway, including billboards for Supersuds with huge bubbles pouring out of the top and Dormin over the counter sleeping aids with the slogan "Get your ZZZs with Dormin." He also designed lights on airships (Pegasus on the Mobil and Goodyear Blimps during a stint for the company in California). Following eight years in New York, he returned to Charleston, married Ramona Blocker and started a successful real estate development company. He joined the National Ass'n of Realtors in 1960, and built the first commercial spec homes on Kiawah and in Eastwood on James Island. His hobbies including flying private aircraft, exotic automobiles, motorcycling, golf, inventing useful and helpful machines such as the contact lens inserter and cartridge audio tape system which he patented (the forerunner to the 8-Track Tape System), computers, music (he starred in several Off- Broadway musical productions, and scored a Hollywood screen test while out in California). He had a "long and wonderful life," he said, and a man of faith, he believed God was watching over him. He was a member of John Wesley United Methodist Church since 1955 where he taught Sunday School and enjoyed singing in the Chancel Choir. He stayed active in church until his health prohibited him from attending. He had a generous and giving spirit no matter what his personal financial situation, one example being he gave a stranger $300.00 to get his wife out of the hospital. Of all his many accomplishments in life, he was most proud on his family and was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

I remember when I was little, Uncle Gene tried to get me to ride on his motorcycle with him. I would have… but MaMa didn’t want me to, so I didn’t. More recently, Mom and Dad took Mary Ruth over to visit Uncle Gene and Aunt Ramona sometime right before Christmas.  While there, Uncle Gene showed Mary Ruth a trick where he removed his thumb and then put it back together.  She talked about that trick the whole way home from James Island and kept talking about it for weeks after.  Uncle Gene was a great man and he will be missed.

Mrs. Henderson (Martha Myers Logan Henderson) was one of my next door neighbors when I was a young lad growing up on James Island (which is Latin for “God’s Land”). If you were to read her obituary you would see that she was 101 when she died a little over a week ago. I found this rather odd when I read it because I could have sworn that she was at least 90 back in the late 1980s.

Mrs. Henderson was born on July 9, 1910 in Tokushima, Japan… she was the daughter of Presbyterian missionaries Charles A. and Patty M. Logan. She graduated from Agnes Scott College in 1932. She had a long and happy marriage to Presbyterian minister, Rev. Dr. John D. Henderson (deceased), who had pastorates in Spartanburg, SC and Miami, FL. She lived on James Island for 20 years before moving to Presbyterian Home in Summerville, SC and more recently to Day Spring Assisted Living in Hollywood, SC.

 Growing up I would walk over to her house everyday… or every other day… or every so often. Ok, my memory isn’t all that great… but I do remember going over to her house and just talking to her. We would also play games and she would tell me Bible stories and I would “help” her with yard work. I say “help”… I’m pretty sure I was helping her but like I said, it was a long time ago and I was pretty young so she may have just humored me and told me I was helping. You might just think this sounds sweet… but think about it. How many (non-crazy) people just let a kid from next door come hangout? Not many, I don’t think. I think it takes a special person and Mrs. Henderson was a special person… and she, too, will be missed.

The week is half over…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Specialist Fourth Class Larry G. Dahl (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 23, 2971 near An Khe, Binh Dinh Province, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

Sp4c. Dahl distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a machine gunner on a gun truck near An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. The gun truck in which Sp4c. Dahl was riding was sent with 2 other gun trucks to assist in the defense of a convoy that had been ambushed by an enemy force. The gun trucks entered the battle zone and engaged the attacking enemy troops with a heavy volume of machine gun fire, causing a large number of casualties. After a brief period of intense fighting the attack subsided. As the gun trucks were preparing to return to their normal escort duties, an enemy hand grenade was thrown into the truck in which Sp4c. Dahl was riding. Instantly realizing the great danger, Sp4c. Dahl called a warning to his companions and threw himself directly onto the grenade. Through his indomitable courage, complete disregard for his safety, and profound concern for his fellow soldiers, Sp4c. Dahl saved the lives of the other members of the truck crew while sacrificing his own. Sp4c. Dahl's conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism, and intrepidity at the cost of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit and the U.S. Army.

Second Lieutenant Edward C. Dahlgren (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 11, 1945 at Oberhoffen, France. His citation reads:

He led the 3d Platoon to the rescue of a similar unit which had been surrounded in an enemy counterattack at Oberhoffen, France. As he advanced along a street, he observed several Germans crossing a field about 100 yards away. Running into a barn, he took up a position in a window and swept the hostile troops with submachine gun fire, killing 6, wounding others, and completely disorganizing the group. His platoon then moved forward through intermittent sniper fire and made contact with the besieged Americans. When the 2 platoons had been reorganized, Sgt. Dahlgren continued to advance along the street until he drew fire from an enemy-held house. In the face of machine pistol and rifle fire, he ran toward the building, hurled a grenade through the door, and blasted his way inside with his gun. This aggressive attack so rattled the Germans that all 8 men who held the strongpoint immediately surrendered. As Sgt. Dahlgren started toward the next house, hostile machinegun fire drove him to cover. He secured rifle grenades, stepped to an exposed position, and calmly launched his missiles from a difficult angle until he had destroyed the machinegun and killed its 2 operators. He moved to the rear of the house and suddenly came under the fire of a machinegun emplaced in a barn. Throwing a grenade into the structure, he rushed the position, firing his weapon as he ran; within, he overwhelmed 5 Germans. After reorganizing his unit he advanced to clear hostile riflemen from the building where he had destroyed the machinegun. He entered the house by a window and trapped the Germans in the cellar, where he tossed grenades into their midst, wounding several and forcing 10 more to surrender. While reconnoitering another street with a comrade, he heard German voices in a house. An attack with rifle grenades drove the hostile troops to the cellar. Sgt. Dahlgren entered the building, kicked open the cellar door, and, firing several bursts down the stairway, called for the trapped enemy to surrender. Sixteen soldiers filed out with their hands in the air. The bold leadership and magnificent courage displayed by Sgt. Dahlgren in his heroic attacks were in a large measure responsible for repulsing an enemy counterattack and saving an American platoon from great danger.

Corporal John Olof Dahlgren (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from June 20 to July 16, 1900 in Peking, China. His citation reads:

In the presence of the enemy during the battle of Peking, China, 20 June to 16 July 1900, Dahlgren distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.


Below is a great quote that would be nice to hear every now and then these days…


The I’m just sayin… Quote of the Week

And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country. - JFK

Happy Valentine’s Day!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Specialist Fourth Class Nicholas J. Cutinha (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 2, 1968 near Gia Dinh, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While serving as a machine gunner with Company C, Sp4c. Cutinha accompanied his unit on a combat mission near Gia Dinh. Suddenly his company came under small arms, automatic weapons, mortar and rocket propelled grenade fire, from a battalion size enemy unit. During the initial hostile attack, communication with the battalion was lost and the company commander and numerous members of the company became casualties. When Sp4c. Cutinha observed that his company was pinned down and disorganized, he moved to the front with complete disregard for his safety, firing his machine gun at the charging enemy. As he moved forward he drew fire on his own position and was seriously wounded in the leg. As the hostile fire intensified and half of the company was killed or wounded, Sp4c. Cutinha assumed command of all the survivors in his area and initiated a withdrawal while providing covering fire for the evacuation of the wounded. He killed several enemy soldiers but sustained another leg wound when his machine gun was destroyed by incoming rounds. Undaunted, he crawled through a hail of enemy fire to an operable machine gun in order to continue the defense of his injured comrades who were being administered medical treatment. Sp4c. Cutinha maintained this position, refused assistance, and provided defensive fire for his comrades until he fell mortally wounded. He was solely responsible for killing 15 enemy soldiers while saving the lives of at least 9 members of his own unit. Sp4c. Cutinha's gallantry and extraordinary heroism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Landsman George W. Cutter (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 27, 1872 on the USS Powhatan. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Powhatan, Norfolk, Va., 27 May 1872. Jumping overboard on this date, Cutter aided in saving one of the crew of that vessel from drowning.

Captain James M. Cutts (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during 1864 at Wilderness; Spotsylvania; Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Gallantry in actions.


Happy Valentine’s Day to all of our female readers from all of your husbands. It was their idea to wish you a happy Valentine’s Day on this blog for the whole world to see how much they love you. And you thought they forgot…

Below are some pictures of Mary Ruth playing with Daniel...


Picture Tuesday

This is a little game called "Keep Daniel From Going Down The Hall"



The good guys won…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Brigadier General Newton Martin Curtis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 15, 1865 at Fort Fisher, North Carolina. His citation reads:

The first man to pass through the stockade, he personally led each assault on the traverses and was 4 times wounded.

Second Lieutenant Thomas W. Custer (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 10, 1863 at Namozine Church, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag on 10 May 1863. SECOND AWARD Place and date: At Sailor Creek , Va, April 1865. Date of issue: 26 May 1865. Citation: 2d Lt. Custer leaped his horse over the enemy's works and captured 2 stands of colors, having his horse shot from under him and receiving a severe wound.

Major Byron M. Cutcheon (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 10, 1863 at Horseshoe Bend, Kentucky. His citation reads:

Distinguished gallantry in leading his regiment in a charge on a house occupied by the enemy.


The Winthrop game was great. This hasn’t been the best of seasons… but in this one game the team seemed to play the way I thought they could play all season. They ended up winning by about 10 points over the evil empire known as Coastal Carolina, but the game wasn’t really that close. The Eagles scored 5 points in the last 5 seconds of the first half to end the half with an 11 point lead and didn’t look back from there. At one point I think the lead got up to about 22 points. I would have been fine with running up the score, but the Eagles took their foot off the gas. I’m not usually a “run the score up” kind of guy, but I was willing to make an exception for Coastal. Let’s hope that this is the start of a nice end of the season winning streak.


The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In

Greg 226 - I found two of the pounds I’ve been losing… maybe I’ll get rid of them this week.

Mary Ruth 46

Susie 25

Daniel 21

Many of you have been wanting me to add The Wife’s weight on here. I asked her if I could do this… her answer was “No”. It wasn’t just “No”, but that’s the only part of the answer I will share since I’m trying to keep this a PG rated blog.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY REBECCA!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private First Class Francis S. Currey (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 21, 1944 Malmedy, Belgium. His citation reads:

He was an automatic rifleman with the 3d Platoon defending a strong point near Malmedy, Belgium, on 21 December 1944, when the enemy launched a powerful attack. Overrunning tank destroyers and antitank guns located near the strong point, German tanks advanced to the 3d Platoon's position, and, after prolonged fighting, forced the withdrawal of this group to a nearby factory. Sgt. Currey found a bazooka in the building and crossed the street to secure rockets meanwhile enduring intense fire from enemy tanks and hostile infantrymen who had taken up a position at a house a short distance away. In the face of small-arms, machinegun, and artillery fire, he, with a companion, knocked out a tank with 1 shot. Moving to another position, he observed 3 Germans in the doorway of an enemy-held house. He killed or wounded all 3 with his automatic rifle. He emerged from cover and advanced alone to within 50 yards of the house, intent on wrecking it with rockets. Covered by friendly fire, he stood erect, and fired a shot which knocked down half of 1 wall. While in this forward position, he observed 5 Americans who had been pinned down for hours by fire from the house and 3 tanks. Realizing that they could not escape until the enemy tank and infantry guns had been silenced, Sgt. Currey crossed the street to a vehicle, where he procured an armful of antitank grenades. These he launched while under heavy enemy fire, driving the tankmen from the vehicles into the house. He then climbed onto a half-track in full view of the Germans and fired a machinegun at the house. Once again changing his position, he manned another machinegun whose crew had been killed; under his covering fire the 5 soldiers were able to retire to safety. Deprived of tanks and with heavy infantry casualties, the enemy was forced to withdraw. Through his extensive knowledge of weapons and by his heroic and repeated braving of murderous enemy fire, Sgt. Currey was greatly responsible for inflicting heavy losses in men and material on the enemy, for rescuing 5 comrades, 2 of whom were wounded, and for stemming an attack which threatened to flank his battalion's position.

Sergeant Major John C. Curtis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1862 at Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His citation reads:

Voluntarily sought the line of battle and alone and unaided captured 2 prisoners, driving them before him to regimental headquarters at the point of the bayonet.

Second Lieutenant Josiah M. Curtis (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 2, 1865 at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Seized the colors of his regiment after 2 color bearers had fallen, bore them gallantly, and was among the first to gain a foothold, with his flag, inside the enemy's works.


We at I’m just sayin… would like to wish our very good friend Rebecca a very Happy Birthday! It is a little known fact that Rebecca and I go way back… we had multiple business classes together at Winthrop which means I had to carry her through multiple group projects. We also spent a romantic week together in Richmond in late October 2002. By “romantic”, I mean it was during the time the D.C. sniper was on the loose… so I was bobbing and weaving every time I gassed up the car (oh… and we were there on work related business… though she did want to stop at a place on I-95 on the way back that had a sign that said “Topless! Topless! Turn Here! I said “no” because I wanted to rush home to The Wife). Anyway, she’s a great friend to me and The Wife and a great Godmother to Mary Ruth, Susie and Daniel. Happy Birthday Rebecca!


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
John 14:1-3 (KJV)

1Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.