HAPPY BIRTHDAY JENN!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Sergeant Sydney G. Gumpertz (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1918, in the Bois-de-Forges, France. His citation reads:

When the advancing line was held up by machinegun fire, 1st Sgt. Gumpertz left the platoon of which he was in command and started with 2 other soldiers through a heavy barrage toward the machinegun nest. His 2 companions soon became casualties from bursting shells, but 1st Sgt. Gumpertz continued on alone in the face of direct fire from the machinegun, jumped into the nest and silenced the gun, capturing 9 of the crew.

Corporal Jacob Gunther (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during 1868 and 1869, in Arizona. His citation reads:

Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians.

Private First Class Henry Gurke (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 9, 1943, in the Solomon Islands. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism and courage above and beyond the call of duty while attached to the 3d Marine Raider Battalion during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands area on 9 November 1943. While his platoon was engaged in the defense of a vital road block near Empress Augusta Bay on Bougainville Island. Pfc. Gurke, in company with another Marine, was delivering a fierce stream of fire against the main vanguard of the Japanese. Concluding from the increasing ferocity of grenade barrages that the enemy was determined to annihilate their small, 2-man foxhole, he resorted to a bold and desperate measure for holding out despite the torrential hail of shells. When a Japanese grenade dropped squarely into the foxhole, Pfc. Gurke, mindful that his companion manned an automatic weapon of superior fire power and therefore could provide more effective resistance, thrust him roughly aside and flung his own body over the missile to smother the explosion. With unswerving devotion to duty and superb valor, Pfc. Gurke sacrificed himself in order that his comrade might live to carry on the fight. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.


We at I’m just sayin… would like to wish our good friend Jenn over at Courtyard a very happy birthday! If my math is correct, Jenn is one year older than she was this time last year (but one year younger than she’ll be this time next year). HAPPY BIRTHDAY JENN!!

Before we get to the pictures, we have a couple of videos for you. First, if you haven’t heard the song “Call Me Maybe”, click here.

It ain’t “Free Bird” (or even “Smells Like Teen Spirit”), but it’s kind of catchy. Anyway, the next video is of the Olympic Swim Team making a video to that song. The last video is the Cookie Monster singing “Share It Maybe”.

We have so many pictures from last week/weekend that we are going to break them up and post them over the next few weeks.


Picture Tuesday

Guess who took my phone from me...

Maverick kissing Daniel

Daniel kissing Maverick

Maverick checking Daniel for cavities

One cool little girl

Susie self picture

One more self picture

This is what I woke up to... Where you see the blue pillow is where I was sleeping.

I know Mary Ruth doesn't make this section as much as her brother and sister... but here she is during swim lessons.

Last Monday of July...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Fitz W. Guerin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 28-29, 1863, at Grand Gulf, Mississippi. His citation reads:

With two comrades voluntarily took position on board the steamer Cheeseman, in charge of all the guns and ammunition of the battery, and remained in charge of the same for a considerable time while the steamer was unmanageable and subjected to a heavy fire from the enemy.

Staff Sergeant Ambrosio Guillen (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 25, 1953, near Songuch-on, 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 platoon sergeant of Company F in action against enemy aggressor forces. Participating in the defense of an outpost forward of the main line of resistance, S/Sgt. Guillen maneuvered his platoon over unfamiliar terrain in the face of hostile fire and placed his men in fighting positions. With his unit pinned down when the outpost was attacked under cover of darkness by an estimated force of 2 enemy battalions supported by mortar and artillery fire, he deliberately exposed himself to the heavy barrage and attacks to direct his men in defending their positions and personally supervise the treatment and evacuation of the wounded. Inspired by his leadership, the platoon quickly rallied and engaged the enemy in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Although critically wounded during the course of the battle, S/Sgt. Guillen refused medical aid and continued to direct his men throughout the remainder of the engagement until the enemy was defeated and thrown into disorderly retreat. Succumbing to his wounds within a few hours, S/Sgt. Guillen, by his outstanding courage and indomitable fighting spirit, was directly responsible for the success of his platoon in repelling a numerically superior enemy force. His personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Private Thomas Guinn (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."


We had a great time at the beach yesterday with our dear friends Danny (yes, That Danny) and our favorite nurse Jen.

I love the fact that there are a lot of sports I love to watch during the Olympics that I don’t otherwise watch.

Our favorite TV show was on last night (Dateline – To Catch a Predator). It’s not fun seeing/hearing what these guys say online to (what they think) are underage kids… but we enjoy watching them get caught (we even saw one guy tased).


The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In

Greg 235
Mary Ruth 48
Susie 28

Daniel 26

Happy Sunday

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private George Grueb (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1864, at Chapins Farm, Virginia. His citation reads:

Gallantry in advancing to the ditch of the enemy's works.

Sergeant Kenneth E. Gruennert (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 24, 1942, near Buna, New Guinea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty. On 24 December 1942, near Buna, New Guinea, Sgt. Gruennert was second in command of a platoon with a mission to drive through the enemy lines to the beach 600 yards ahead. Within 150 yards of the objective, the platoon encountered 2 hostile pillboxes. Sgt. Gruennert advanced alone on the first and put it out of action with hand grenades and rifle fire, killing 3 of the enemy. Seriously wounded in the shoulder, he bandaged his wound under cover of the pillbox, refusing to withdraw to the aid station and leave his men. He then, with undiminished daring, and under extremely heavy fire, attacked the second pillbox. As he neared it he threw grenades which forced the enemy out where they were easy targets for his platoon. Before the leading elements of his platoon could reach him he was shot by enemy snipers. His inspiring valor cleared the way for his platoon which was the first to attain the beach in this successful effort to split the enemy position.

Specialist Fourth Class Peter M. Guenette (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 18, 1968, at Quan Tan Uyen Province, 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. Sp4c. Guenette distinguished himself while serving as a machine gunner with Company D, during combat operations. While Sp4c. Guenette's platoon was sweeping a suspected enemy base camp, it came under light harassing fire from a well equipped and firmly entrenched squad of North Vietnamese Army regulars which was serving as a delaying force at the entrance to their base camp. As the platoon moved within 10 meters of the fortified positions, the enemy fire became intense. Sp4c. Guenette and his assistant gunner immediately began to provide a base of suppressive fire, ceasing momentarily to allow the assistant gunner time to throw a grenade into a bunker. Seconds later, an enemy grenade was thrown to Sp4c. Guenette's right flank. Realizing that the grenade would kill or wound at least 4 men and destroy the machine gun, he shouted a warning and smothered the grenade with his body, absorbing its blast. Through his actions, he prevented loss of life or injury to at least 3 men and enabled his comrades to maintain their fire superiority. By his gallantry at the cost of his life in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, Sp4c. Guenette has reflected great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
Galatians 5:13

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

Someday I’ll be Saturday Night…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Ordinary Seaman Luke M. Griswold (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 30, 1862, on board the USS Rhode Island. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Rhode Island which was engaged in saving the lives of the officers and crew of the Monitor, 30 December 1862. Participating in the hazardous rescue of the officers and crew of the sinking Monitor, Griswold, after rescuing several of the men, became separated in a heavy gale with other members of the cutter that had set out from the Rhode Island, and spent many hours in the small boat at the mercy of the weather and high seas until finally picked up by a schooner 50 miles east of Cape Hatteras.

Private Samuel Gross (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 17, 1915, at Fort Riviere, Haiti. His citation reads:

In company with members of the 5th, 13th, 23d Companies and the marine and sailor detachment from the U.S.S. Connecticut, Gross participated in the attack on Fort Riviere, Haiti, 17 November 1915. Following a concentrated drive, several different detachments of marines gradually closed in on the old French bastion fort in an effort to cut off all avenues of retreat for the Caco bandits. Approaching a breach in the wall which was the only entrance to the fort, Gross was the second man to pass through the breach in the face of constant fire from the Cacos and, thereafter, for a 10-minute period, engaged the enemy in desperate hand-to-hand combat until the bastion was captured and Caco resistance neutralized.

Lieutenant Colonel William R. Grove (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 9, 1899, near Porac, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

In advance of his regiment, rushed to the assistance of his colonel, charging, pistol in hand, 7 insurgents, and compelling surrender of all not killed or wounded.


I went to a Riverdogs game last night with Jeremy. I think it was the first time I’ve been at a game where they put the tarp out on the field and delayed the game because they thought it was going to rain. So the game started one hour late. It didn’t rain. It actually ended up being a nice night weather wise. The Asheville manager got tossed in the first inning. To be fair, he was right… the ump made a bad call. Still, I’m of the opinion that baseball coaches/managers need to “pick their battles”… I’m not sure how wise it is to strongly argue a call in the first inning of the first game in a three game series. It can make for a long series. I’m just sayin…

Video from the game can be seen here: 
Asheville Tourists manager puts on a show at Riverdogs game! - WCIV-TV | ABC News 4 - Charleston News, Sports, Weather


This is a great article from Yahoo! about Skip Prosser’s son, Mark, and protégé Pat Kelsey who are now coaching at Winthrop.


The I’m just sayin… Kid Show of the Week
The Kid Show of the Week this week is the All-New Popeye Hour. The All-New Popeye Hour is an animated show produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions and King Features Syndicate. Starring the popular comic strip character Popeye, the series aired from 1978 to 1983 on CBS.

The show was an hour-long animated series produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, which tried its best to retain the style of the original comic strip, while complying with the prevailing content restrictions on violence. Featured characters (aside from Popeye, Bluto, Olive Oyl and Wimpy) were Swee'Pea, Poopdeck Pappy, Eugene the Jeep and Popeye's quadruplet nephews.

Because of restrictions on violence on TV cartoons for children at the time, in this version Popeye did not throw punches to get back at Bluto; he often lifted him, with his own hands or with machinery, and hurled him away. This means it’s safe to watch this with your kids while your wife is around. ;)

The All-New Popeye Hour ran on CBS until September 1981, when it was cut to a half-hour and retitled The Popeye and Olive Show. It was removed from the CBS lineup in September 1983, the cartoons were immediately sold to local stations in nationwide syndication.

You can find this show on DVD. As with all of the shows we have in this part of the blog, this is a great show to watch with your children.

Thanks to Wikipedia for the info here.

We made it to Friday!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Edward P. Grimes (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from September 29 to October 5, 1879, at Milk River, Colorado. His citation reads:

The command being almost out of ammunition and surrounded on 3 sides by the enemy, he voluntarily brought up a supply under heavy flre at almost point blank range.

Private Samuel Grimshaw (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 6, 1864, at Atlanta, Georgia. His citation reads:

Saved the lives of some of his comrades, and greatly imperiled his own by picking up and throwing away a lighted shell which had fallen in the midst of the company.

Colonel James G. Grindlay (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 1, 1865, at Five Forks, Virginia. His citation reads:

The first to enter the enemy's works, where he captured 2 flags.


I have no words of wisdom for you today. I wanted to have my short play of Scooby vs The Snake done by now, but it isn’t. Maybe I can work on it over the weekend.

I think if I had it to do all over again, I would have played high school football. I’m not sure how good I would have been (or even what position I would have played), but I think it would have been fun.


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

Our athlete you should know this week comes from Sumter, South Carolina. Tim Jones was a star shortstop at The Citadel. He was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1985. Like me, Tim was a right-hander who batted left-handed. Some highlights from his college career include being: - A third-team All-American selection in 1985 … an All-Atlantic Region pick in 1985 … voted All-Southern Conference in 1984 and 1985 … had a career batting average of .352, fourth highest in school history … batted .429 in 1985, second best in school history … held the school record for stolen bases in a season with 46 … drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the second round of the 1985 draft… he played for St. Louis from 1988 – 1993… his career stats include hitting .233 with 1 home run and 28 RBIs… his best year in the major leagues was 1989 when he batted .293 in 43 games for the Cardinals including .414 following the All-Star break.

He was inducted into The Citadel Hall of Fame in 1996. Congrats to Tim Jones for being this week’s South Carolina Athlete You Should Know.

Thanks to The Citadel website for the info.

Thankful...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

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

While exposed to the fire of the enemy, carried from the field a wounded comrade.

Lieutenant James H. Gribben (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 6, 1865, at Sailors Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of 12th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).

Captain of the Forecastle John Griffiths (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 15, 1865, on board the USS Santiago de Cuba. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Santiago de Cuba during the assault on Fort Fisher on 15 January 1865. As one of a boatcrew detailed to one of the generals on shore, Griffiths bravely entered the fort in the assault and accompanied his party in carrying dispatches at the height of the battle. He was one of 6 men who entered the fort in the assault from the fleet.


I understand why people want gun control… It’s not that I don’t “get” it, because I do. I just don’t think it would help anything. As I’ve said before, murder is already against the law… so if someone is willing to break that law, I don’t think they will really care about breaking a gun law. I could be wrong and I’m willing to listen to any arguments out there… but for now I’m not sold on gun control.

I REALLY can’t wait for college football to get here.  

For all of you going to games this season, don’t forget my love of stadium cups. I’m not saying you have to get me one… I’m just saying if you have one and are thinking of throwing it away, I would like it.

Interesting new rules in college football… especially one about helmets coming off during the play. Google the rule if you want to know about it… I’m not here to report, just give opinions. Anyway, I agree with the rule in theory… I’m just not sure how good of a rule it will end up being. I think it might be too hard for the refs to call fairly. Then again, just having the rule in place might get players to do more to make sure their helmets don’t come off as easy.


Thankful Thursday

I can’t remember if I’ve talked about this before or not, but it doesn’t really matter because I’m thankful for it today. What, you ask, am I talking about? My grandparents. I know I talked about my family last week, but this week I’m talking specifically about my grandparents. I have come to realize over the years that not everyone knows their grandparents and of those who do, not everyone likes them. How sad it that? I knew 3 out of my 4 grandparents… not as good as 4 out of 4, but better than 2 out of 4 (or zero). My grandfather on my Mom’s side died before I was born, but I did get to know Mom’s mom (Granny) and both of Dad’s parents (Mama and Da). I sat in between MaMa and Da at Ashley River Baptist Church every Sunday growing up. More times than not, I’d fall asleep at some point during the sermon with my head on Da. The times when I was awake, I can remember Da doing something to make me jump and/or laugh… causing MaMa to swat at him… except that MaMa’s arms weren’t very long, so it was 50/50 on if she’d hit Da or me. Then there were the endless days and nights playing with marbles in their den while watching Murder She Wrote or Matlock with them. And how could I forget how Da would shake my hand after every baseball game I played (giving me a dollar in the process)… don’t worry, he did the same thing for Sonny. I also remember spending the night at Granny’s house with Louis. It seems everything to do back then with Granny was also with Louis… we were a package deal. She’d take us to some fast food restaurant and let us keep the change. That was back when food was cheap enough for us to have change to keep. I also remember Granny taking me to Vacation Bible School (at Knightsville Methodist and Bethany, I believe… I know for sure Knightsville… 99% sure Bethany). I remember she’d take us shopping and let us get a toy (with the only rule being it couldn’t be a toy gun… or a real gun, I assume, though I’m not sure that was ever specifically said). Those were some great times and while I’m sad all of them are no longer here, I’m thankful for the memories they left me with.

More Chick-fil-A thoughts...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Earl D. Gregory (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 8, 1918, at Bois-de-Consenvoye, north of Verdun, France. His citation reads:

With the remark "I will get them," Sgt. Gregory seized a rifle and a trench-mortar shell, which he used as a handgrenade, left his detachment of the trench-mortar platoon, and advancing ahead of the infantry, captured a machinegun and 3 of the enemy. Advancing still farther from the machinegun nest, he captured a 7.5-centimeter mountain howitzer and, entering a dugout in the immediate vicinity, single-handedly captured 19 of the enemy.

Second Lieutenant Theodore W. Greig (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 17, 1862, at Antietam, Maryland. His citation reads:

A Confederate regiment, the 4th Alabama Infantry (C.S.A.), having planted its battle flag slightly in advance of the regiment, this officer rushed forward and seized it, and, although shot through the neck, retained the flag and brought it within the Union lines.

First Lieutenant John C. Gresham (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 29, 1890, at Wounded Knee Creek, South Dakota. His citation reads:

Voluntarily led a party into a ravine to dislodge Sioux Indians concealed therein. He was wounded during this action.


It’s been 2 years ago today that MaMa died. I’d say I have the urge to call her at least once a day (on average).

I’m sure she would have yelled at me for killing a copperhead with a hatchet.

RIP Sherman Hemsley... I loved watching you play the role of George Jefferson in All in the Family and The Jeffersons.  You were also great as Deacon Ernest Frye in the show Amen.  So farewell, Sherman, I hope you end up in a nice delux apartment in the sky...

I have now seen that Miley Cyrus, Lindsay Lohan and the Kardashians are all boycotting Chick-fil-A… Honestly, it’s like God is screaming at me to go eat there.

I don’t want to go on and on about this Chick-fil-A thing, but it’s on my mind and this is my blog, so I can’t really help it. Do the people boycotting Chick-fil-A also boycott businesses that sell products made in China? Rumor is that country isn’t big on same-sex marriage either.

Maybe I’m splitting hairs here, but isn’t there a difference between not supporting same-sex marriage and being “anti-gay”? I guess I view “anti-gay” as bashing gay people (verbally and physically), while I view being against same-sex marriage as doing at least part of the gay population a favor (Ha!). But really, I think there’s a step or two between one and the other. One of the “anti-gay” groups Chick-fil-A gives money to is the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)… while this group doesn’t support same-sex marriage, I don’t think its main focus is to rid the world of gay people. If you want to stop eating at Chick-fil-A, that’s fine with me… just don’t tell me it’s because they preach hate or because they are some evil organization, because that’s just not true. And please, stop acting like you are soooo shocked that anyone would hold the view Dan Cathy holds. Do you people ever pay attention to elections? 30 states ban same-sex marriage… so it’s not like he’s some fringe nut-job spewing hate… he’s pretty much mainstream in his thoughts.

That brings me to another thought I had… Do the people boycotting live in any of these 30 states? If so… do their taxes go to support an anti-gay organization? Does this mean they should boycott themselves? Really, this is why I usually find boycotting something to just be more trouble than it’s worth.

I loved this little tidbit from the Facebook page of the Jim Henson Company... "The Jim Henson Company has celebrated and embraced diversity and inclusiveness for over fifty years and we have notified Chick-fil-A that we do not wish to partner with them on any future endeavors".  To be fair to the Jim Henson Company, we here at I'm just sayin... also embrace diversity (as long as it's like us).  I guess diversity of thought wasn't in play when they were releasing that statement?  I don't know...
One last thought… Chick-fil-A (and probably the organizations it gives money to) is against divorce and sex outside of marriage, but you don’t see all of those people pitching a fit and calling Chick-fil-A names.  I'm just sayin…


The I’m just sayin… Quote of the Week

An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile - hoping it will eat him last. - Winston Churchill

Picture Time!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Second Lieutenant Allen J. Greer (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 2, 1901, near Majada, Laguna Province, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

Charged alone an insurgent outpost with his pistol, killing 1, wounding 2, and capturing 3 insurgents with their rifles and equipment.

Private Joseph O. Gregg (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 16, 1864, near the Richmond and Petersburg Ry., Virginia. His citation reads:

Voluntarily returned to the breastworks which his regiment had been forced to abandon to notify 3 missing companies that the regiment was falling back; found the enemy already in the works, refused a demand to surrender, returning to his command under a concentrated fire, several bullets passing through his hat and clothing.

Second Lieutenant Stephen R. Gregg (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 27, 1944, near Montelimar, France. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty on 27 August 1944, in the vicinity of Montelimar, France. As his platoon advanced upon the enemy positions; the leading scout was fired upon and 2d Lt. Gregg (then a Tech. Sgt.) immediately put his machineguns into action to cover the advance of the riflemen. The Germans, who were at close range, threw hand grenades at the riflemen, killing some and wounding 7. Each time a medical aid man attempted to reach the wounded, the Germans fired at him. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, 2d Lt. Gregg took 1 of the light .30-caliber machineguns, and firing from the hip, started boldly up the hill with the medical aid man following him. Although the enemy was throwing hand grenades at him, 2d Lt. Gregg remained and fired into the enemy positions while the medical aid man removed the 7 wounded men to safety. When 2d Lt. Gregg had expended all his ammunition, he was covered by 4 Germans who ordered him to surrender. Since the attention of most of the Germans had been diverted by watching this action, friendly riflemen were able to maneuver into firing positions. One, seeing 2d Lt. Gregg's situation, opened fire on his captors. The 4 Germans hit the ground and thereupon 2d Lt. Gregg recovered a machine pistol from one of the Germans and managed to escape to his other machinegun positions. He manned a gun, firing at his captors, killed 1 of them and wounded the other. This action so discouraged the Germans that the platoon was able to continue its advance up the hill to achieve its objective. The following morning, just prior to daybreak, the Germans launched a strong attack, supported by tanks, in an attempt to drive Company L from the hill. As these tanks moved along the valley and their foot troops advanced up the hill, 2d Lt. Gregg immediately ordered his mortars into action. During the day by careful observation, he was able to direct effective fire on the enemy, inflicting heavy casualties. By late afternoon he had directed 600 rounds when his communication to the mortars was knocked out. Without hesitation he started checking his wires, although the area was under heavy enemy small arms and artillery fire. When he was within 100 yards of his mortar position, 1 of his men informed him that the section had been captured and the Germans were using the mortars to fire on the company. 2d Lt. Gregg with this man and another nearby rifleman started for the gun position where he could see 5 Germans firing his mortars. He ordered the 2 men to cover him, crawled up, threw a hand grenade into the position, and then charged it. The hand grenade killed 1, injured 2, 2d Lt. Gregg took the other 2 prisoners, and put his mortars back into action.


The NCAA announced their punishment of Penn State yesterday. As I expected, I thought they went too far. For any of you out there who read that and want to gasp and ask me if I think it’s ok to fool around with kids, shut up. That’s just stupid. No one thinks that’s ok… but that’s not the issue. I know people are mad at Penn State, but the people who were in the wrong in this situation have already been punished (and are not there anymore). Fact is, with their decision yesterday the NCAA managed to severely punish everyone except the guy who was actually fooling around with kids. And for all of you holier-than-thou jackwaggons out there, me feeling bad for the Penn State football players does not mean I don’t feel bad for the kids that old pervert molested. I’m big enough and complex enough that I can feel bad for different people in a situation for different reasons.

Speaking of college football, let me go on record as saying the 4 game playoff is nice but not enough. Nothing short of a playoff involving all conference champions will make me happy. But Greg, some of you will say, you don’t have to be a conference champ to win a national championship in basketball or baseball… why should you have to in football? That true, you don’t have to be a conference champ to win a national championship in those other sports… but every conference champ has a chance to win a national championship in all of those other sports (at least in basketball… I’m pretty sure the same is true for baseball). Sure, it sounds great to “just pick the 4 best teams” and let them play in the playoffs. Problem is, that’s all opinion. And when opinions are involved, things go bad. Well everyone knows that Team A is a far better team than Team B. Then when Team B beats that great Team A, everyone makes excuses (Well, Team B wanted it more because this was their “Super Bowl” and they could never make it through a season in Team A’s much better conference). You know what they say about excuses, right? They’re like assholes and you’re being an asshole for making that excuse (or something like that… I could be wrong, but I think I got that right).

I think they should do away with “celebration” penalties in college football. If a guy scores a TD, let him have fun. Heck, I’d even go far as to say let them taunt… maybe that will make the defense try harder to stop them next time. I just don’t like old men deciding how much celebrating is too much for a 18-22 year old. Having said that, if a team is down by 40 with 2:00 left in the game and their starting DE gets a “sack” because the 3rd string QB on the other team slips and falls… that DE should be kicked out of the game.

The pre-season All SEC Team has 20 players from the SEC West and 6 players from the SEC East. Does this mean SEC West speed is faster than SEC East speed?

Some people will tell you they blog to keep in touch with friends and family… others will say they do it to help people or to educate people. Make no mistake, I do it for the kids (and by “kids”, I of course mean me). You have to have what I call a “healthy ego” to put your thoughts on the internet (as if anyone in the world would give a crap about what you think). Judging from the blogs I follow… it looks like my ego is a little healthier than my friends and family. Haha.

Oh… I just saw this headline on the internet: Boston mayor vows to keep Chick-fil-A out of city. It’s like God’s sending me a message letting me know my support of Chick-fil-A is the right thing to do.


Picture Tuesday

Wait a second... something isn't right.

Don't tell me... I can figure it out.

Seriously?!  Can I just tell him?

Who wants to take a guess at what happens when you leave a 2 year old alone with stickers?

He's never going to figure this out...

OK, I give up... what's different?

This was what was left of the snake a couple of days later.

How did he get this wet without getting in the pool?



Sonny, Mom and Dad

He's alive... so why haven't we seen anymore posts about chicken?

Teresa Lynn holding a sleeping Susie

For those of you who think Daniel never cries...

Still crying...

Someone felt well enough to want to drive on the way home Saturday...

The Wife reading a book to Daniel and Susie... while they watch TV. 

Weigh-in Day...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

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

Capture of corps headquarters flag (C.S.A.).

Captain of the Forecastle John Greene (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 24, 1862, on board the USS Varuna. His citation reads:

Captain of a gun on board the U.S.S. Varuna during the attacks on Forts Jackson and St. Philip, and while under fire and ramming by the rebel ship Morgan, 24 April 1862. During this action at extremely close range while his ship was under furious fire and twice rammed by the rebel ship Morgan, Greene remained steadfast at his gun throughout the thickest of the fight and was instrumental in inflicting damage on the enemy until the Varuna, badly damaged and forced to beach, was finally sunk.

Major/Assistant Adjutant General Oliver D. Greene (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 17, 1862, at Antietam, Maryland. His citation reads:

Formed the columns under heavy fire and put them into position.


By the way, don’t forget to vote for the Charleston Baseball Hall of Fame. When you vote, remember to vote for Hatley, Glaze and Reams.

It’s getting close to that time of the year again… I’ll be asking you to give to my Memory Walk. I don’t have the info on me right now, but when I get it I’ll let you know. This year, I’m going to form my own team. Some of you may be asked to join my team… or you could be proactive and tell me you want to join my team. That would be great.

I’m working on a short-skit detailing the events of this past Thursday night. I hope to have it done sometime this week. Speaking of last Thursday night… some of you have been telling me I should have worn more safety equipment when I went to face the snake. Seems to me it was the snake that was lacking in the safety department.

We went up to Teresa Lynn’s house this past Saturday for a family gathering. It was a lot of fun and I know my kids had a great time. The girls were sick yesterday… Susie got better later in the day, but MR is still under the weather.

I have been asked for my stance on the Chick-fil-A boycott. Good… maybe it will mean shorter lines for me when I eat there. Seriously, like the Southern Baptist boycott of Disney and the NAACP boycott of South Carolina, I think this is all talk and won’t end up hurting. For the most part, I’m not a big fan of boycotts. Still, I don’t have a problem with people feeling strongly enough to boycott something. I’d rather they not get on their high-horse and tell me where I should or shouldn’t eat. Here’s a little something you may or may not know (or care about). I voted against the amendment banning gay-marriage in SC (if memory serves, I was one of about 45 votes against it). It might be a “technical” reason and I could be wrong on this issue… but I consider it a separation of church and state issue. I don’t think my church should have gay marriages in it, but I do think gay marriages (or civil unions, if that sounds better to some people) should be recognized by the state. Say what you will about marriage being a religious thing, but it’s the state that you have to buy a marriage license from. Anyway, I tell you all of this to show you that I’m not really on the same side of this issue as Chick-fil-A is, but I’m not going to boycott them… just like I’m not boycotting Disney because they have some “pro-gay” policies for their employees. I tend to boycott placeso/things I don’t like.


The I’m just sayin… Weekly Weigh-In

Greg 236

Mary Ruth 47
Susie 26

Daniel 26

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Francis C. Green (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during 1868 and 1869, in Arizon. His citation reads:

Bravery in action.

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

Scaled the enemy's works and in a hand-to-hand fight helped capture the flag of the 18th Alabama Infantry (C.S.A.).

Major John Green (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 17, 1873, at the Lava Beds, California. His citation reads:

In order to reassure his command, this officer, in the most fearless manner and exposed to very great danger, walked in front of the line; the command, thus encouraged, advanced over the lava upon the Indians who were concealed among the rocks.


Word is the NCAA is really going to stick it to Penn State. I think this would be a mistake. I know what went on there was very bad and very wrong… but I don’t think it’s the NCAA’s place to hand out the punishment. Also, I believe everyone who did wrong is now gone from there (including the AD, President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees from that time). The only people left to deal with the punishment are the players who didn’t do anything wrong. So… I think it would be wrong to do anything else to them (at least anything huge, like the Death Penalty).

If the NCAA does bring down a heavy punishment, I think all athletes at the school should be able to transfer NOW and not have to sit out.


The I’m just sayin… Bible Verse of the Week
1 Corinthians 13:4-7

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Kid Show of the Week...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal Clinton Greaves (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 24, 1877, at Florida Mountains, New Mexico. His citation reads:

While part of a small detachment to persuade a band of renegade Apache Indians to surrender, his group was surrounded. Cpl. Greaves in the center of the savage hand-to-hand fighting, managed to shoot and bash a gap through the swarming Apaches, permitting his companions to break free.

Captain M.R. William Grebe (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 31, 1864, at Jonesboro, Georgia. His citation reads:

While acting as aide and carrying orders across a most dangerous part of the battlefield, being hindered by a Confederate advance, seized a rifle, took a place in the ranks and was conspicuous in repulsing the enemy.

Major General Adolphus W. Greely (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions over his military career. His citation reads:

For his life of splendid public service, begun on 27 March 1844, having enlisted as a private in the U.S. Army on 26 July 1861, and by successive promotions was commissioned as major general 10 February 1906, and retired by operation of law on his 64th birthday.


Scooby is home and doing ok. He’s probably at about 55-60% right now… but he’s heading in the right direction.


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

The Kid Show of the Week this week is MacGyver. MacGyver is an action-adventure television series created by Lee David Zlotoff. Henry Winkler and John Rich were the executive producers. The show ran for seven seasons on ABC in the United States and various other networks abroad from 1985 to 1992. The series was filmed in Los Angeles during seasons 1, 2 and 7, and in Vancouver, British Columbia, during seasons 3–6. The show's final episode aired on April 25, 1992 on ABC (the network aired a previously unseen episode for the first time on May 21, 1992, but it was originally intended to air before the series finale).

The show follows secret agent MacGyver, played by Richard Dean Anderson. MacGyver prefers non-violent resolutions where possible, and refuses to handle a gun. He works as a troubleshooter for the fictional Phoenix Foundation in Los Angeles. Educated as a scientist with a background as a Bomb Team Technician/EOD in Vietnam ("Countdown"), and from a fictional United States government agency, the Department of External Services (DXS), he is a resourceful agent with an encyclopedic knowledge of science, able to solve complex problems with everyday materials he finds at hand, along with his ever-present duct tape and Swiss Army knife.

This is a great show to watch with your kids.

 

Thanks for the info, Wikipedia!

Here’s to you, Scooby-Doo

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Ross Franklin Gray (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 21, 1945, on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a Platoon Sergeant attached to Company A, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 21 February 1945. Shrewdly gauging the tactical situation when his platoon was held up by a sudden barrage of hostile grenades while advancing toward the high ground northeast of Airfield No. 1, Sgt. Gray promptly organized the withdrawal of his men from enemy grenade range, quickly moved forward alone to reconnoiter and discovered a heavily mined area extending along the front of a strong network of emplacements joined by covered trenches. Although assailed by furious gunfire, he cleared a path leading through the minefield to one of the fortifications, then returned to the platoon position and, informing his leader of the serious situation, volunteered to initiate an attack under cover of 3 fellow marines. Alone and unarmed but carrying a huge satchel charge, he crept up on the Japanese emplacement, boldly hurled the short-fused explosive and sealed the entrance. Instantly taken under machinegun fire from a second entrance to the same position, he unhesitatingly braved the increasingly vicious fusillades to crawl back for another charge, returned to his objective and blasted the second opening, thereby demolishing the position. Repeatedly covering the ground between the savagely defended enemy fortifications and his platoon area, he systematically approached, attacked and withdrew under blanketing fire to destroy a total of 6 Japanese positions, more than 25 troops and a quantity of vital ordnance gear and ammunition. Stouthearted and indomitable, Sgt. Gray had single-handedly overcome a strong enemy garrison and had completely disarmed a large minefield before finally rejoining his unit. By his great personal valor, daring tactics and tenacious perseverance in the face of extreme peril, he had contributed materially to the fulfillment of his company mission. His gallant conduct throughout enhanced and sustained the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Seaman Rade Grbitch (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 21, 1905, on board the USS Bennington. His citation reads:

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.

Unknown British and French Soldiers received their Medal of Honor recipients for their actions during World War I. His citation reads:

* * * By virtue of an act of Congress approved 4 March 1921, the Medal of Honor, emblem of highest ideals and virtues, is bestowed in the name of the Congress of the United States upon the unknown, unidentified British soldier and French soldier buried, respectively, in Westminster Abbey and Arc de Triomphe. Whereas: Great Britain and France, two of the Allies of the United States in the World War, have lately done honor to the unknown dead of their armies by placing with fitting ceremony the body of an unknown, unidentified soldier, respectively, in Westminster Abbey and in the Arc de Triomphe; and Whereas: animated by the same spirit of comradeship in which we of the American forces fought alongside these Allies, we desire to add whatever we can to the imperishable glory won by the deeds of our Allies and commemorated in part by this tribute to their unknown dead: Now, therefore, Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the President of the United States of America be, and he hereby is, authorized to bestow with appropriate ceremonies, military and civil, the Medal of Honor upon the unknown, unidentified British soldier buried in Westminster Abbey, London, England, and upon the unknown, unidentified French soldier buried in the Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France (A.G. 220.523) (War Department General Orders, No. 52, 1 Dec. 1922, Sec. II).


We’re going to skip over what I was going to talk about today (Chick-fil-A) and go straight to the big news from yesterday. Scooby was bitten by a snake last night. It went like this…

I went to take the trash out to the street (today is trash day). There was some old wood lying around on the side of my backyard over by the gate. It’s there because it’s kind of an out of sight, out of mind type thing. Anyway, as I’m taking the trash out (in the pouring rain), Scooby and Maverick are busy searching the wood pile. I thought I saw something slither around in the wood, but in the rain it looked like a skink/skank. I told Scooby to leave it alone (he’s not the streetwise hunter Maverick is). I then took the trash can out to the street and came back to round the dogs up and get them inside. They both followed me to the door and didn’t act like anything was wrong.

We ate dinner and it didn’t seem like anything was wrong. Mary Ruth tried to feed the dogs, but Scooby didn’t want anything… but they don’t always want to eat right when we give them their food. Anyway, we ate and then went about our business. Susie was a handful so The Wife was dealing with her. I was sitting in my chair doing a little reading. The Wife then came out and told Scooby to drop the toy that was in his mouth (it seems he always has one of the kid’s toys in his mouth). The only problem was, this time there wasn’t a toy in his mouth… his mouth/nose area was so swollen it just looked like he did. So I told The Wife to take him to the animal hospital while me and Maverick went in the backyard to seek justice. By justice, I mean we were on a search and destroy mission. You know the rules… They send one of ours to the hospital, we send one of theirs to the morgue. It’s the James Island way.

So… The Wife was on the way with Scooby to the animal hospital, Maverick and I were heading out into the backyard to find what bit Scooby and then kill it while Mary Ruth took care of the little ones. Hats off to Mary Ruth for doing a great job as a babysitter.

To shorten this story a little… we went in the backyard and found the snake. I then killed the snake (a copperhead) with a hatchet (given to me as a wedding present by my brother-in-law Brent [Teresa Lynn’s husband]) while Maverick covered me. He was a great wingman for this mission. For the record, I didn’t know it was a copperhead when I was killing it. Had I known that, I might have thought twice about using the hatchet. Then again, I was pretty pissed that the snake bit Scooby… so I’d probably done it the same way. I mean, Maverick is a warrior… I know there’s always a chance something could happen to him. But Scooby is just one big golden ball of love. He’s a lover, not a fighter. Chances are he just wanted to be friends with the snake. So I was a little extra pissed about the whole thing. Anyway, after the kill we looked for more snakes but couldn’t find any. I hope they all learned a lesson.

Scooby is still in the hospital. The Wife is going to pick him up this morning around 9:00. When we left him last night, they said he was responding well to the medicine they were giving him. This is good since we had to pre-pay ($2,000 for any of you scoring at home). I tell you the price not to have you throw a benefit for us or anything like that, but to show you how much respect Scooby earned from me last night. Listen, I give him a hard time on here and there have been times early in his life when we really didn’t get along. But he has grown on me some and I really do love the big guy. And not once last night did he whine or anything like that. Had his face not swollen up, we’d never had known a snake bit him. He took it like a champ. And at 3 years old, we hope he still has a lot of life left in him. So say a prayer that Scooby is able to bounce back from this snake bite. I’m not sure what The Wife and kids would do without him.

Here are some pics from this whole thing (something this big can’t wait until Tuesday)…

Scooby at the hospital.  You can see the bite on the right side of his mouth kind of need the end of his nose.  You can't really tell, but his head and neck were real swollen in this pic.

Looks like this fella messed with the wrong family.



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

The SC Athlete that we were going to look at today is Brett Gardner. Unfortunately, all the stuff with Scooby kept me from doing the research needed for this segment. Oh well… what can you do? We’ll try to bring it back next week.

Family...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Thomas J. Graves (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 1, 1898, at El Caney, Cuba. His citation reads:

Gallantly assisted in the rescue of the wounded from in front of the lines and under heavy fire from the enemy.

Private John Gray (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 9, 1862, at Port Republic, Virginia. His citation reads:

Mounted an artillery horse of the enemy and captured a brass 6-pound piece in the face of the enemy's fire and brought it to the rear.

Sergeant Robert A. Gray (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 16, 1864, at Drurys Bluff, Virginia. His citation reads:

While retreating with his regiment, which had been repulsed, he voluntarily returned, in face of the enemy's fire, to a former position and rescued a wounded officer of his company who was unable to walk.


Good news… It looks like the family is getting over the ear infections. I’m pretty sure Daniel and Susie are over theirs… and The Wife is getting there.

We can’t wait to visit Teresa Lynn’s Columbia estate this Saturday for a little fun in the sun. The girls have been asking all week “Is today the day we go to Aunt Teri’s house?”

We… and by “we” I mean me, Jeremy and Danny (yes, That Danny) had a fun time playing Team Trivia at the Flyin’ Hawaiian this past Monday (hosted by my cousin Alan). We came in 2nd place… we had the lead heading into the last question but didn’t get it right. It wasn’t a huge deal because we were already eating/drinking for free (due to our $50 gift card from the last time we played and won). I’m thinking we should get a couple more people (like the 2011 I’m just sayin… Fan of the Year Ashley) together and dominate Team Trivia like we did a few years ago at whatever place it was we used to play at.

With Sonny’Side up and running, I think me and Sonny are like the Ripkens of the blogging world. I won’t say which one of us is Cal (the Hall of Famer of the duo), but I will say I sure as hell ain’t Billy.


Thankful Thursday

I think when you grow up you just assume everyone else has a life like you. You figure every other family is like yours. At least, that’s how I was. More and more, though, I’m finding out other people don’t have a family like mine. Heck, there have been times over the past few years when I think it might be rare for someone to really like their family. Sonny and Teresa Lynn’s fighting notwithstanding, I think I can say that our family not only loves each other but also… dare I say… enjoys being around one another. Not only that, but we also get along with all of our aunts, uncles and cousins (as far as I can tell).  I know that you would like to give me all of the credit for this, but in all honesty I feel I can only take the majority of the credit.

Fact is, I probably have better friends because of my family. I was no Psychology Major, but I did take PSYCH 101 and I’m pretty sure the fact that I have such a great family keeps me from feeling like I NEED friends to fill some kind of void. Then again, that could just all be a bunch of crap (but really, isn’t that what psychology is?). My point is, I’ve never been one of these people who HAS to be friends with everyone. I think a lot of that is because I already have friends within my family. I’m sure a lot of it also has to do with what The Wife calls my Social Anxiety (which I think is crap… I don’t have Social Anxiety, I just don’t like hanging out with a lot of people… especially people I don’t know).

I tell you all of this to say that I am thankful for the family God gave me.

Quote...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal William Graul (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1864, at Fort Harrison, Virginia. His citation reads:

First to plant the colors of his State on the fortifications.

Seaman Ora Graves (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 23, 1917, on board the USS Pittsburgh. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism on 23 July 1917, while the U.S.S. Pittsburgh was proceeding to Buenos Aires, Argentina. A 3-inch saluting charge exploded, causing the death of C. T. Lyles, seaman. Upon the explosion, Graves was blown to the deck, but soon recovered and discovered burning waste on the deck. He put out the burning waste while the casemate was filled with clouds of smoke, knowing that there was more powder there which might explode.

Second Lieutenant Terrence Collinson Graves (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 16, 1968, at Quang Tri 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 as a platoon commander with the 3d Force Reconnaissance Company. While on a long-range reconnaissance mission, 2d Lt. Graves' 8-man patrol observed 7 enemy soldiers approaching their position. Reacting instantly, he deployed his men and directed their fire on the approaching enemy. After the fire had ceased, he and 2 patrol members commenced a search of the area, and suddenly came under a heavy volume of hostile small arms and automatic weapons fire from a numerically superior enemy force. When 1 of his men was hit by the enemy fire, 2d Lt. Graves moved through the fire-swept area to his radio and, while directing suppressive fire from his men, requested air support and adjusted a heavy volume of artillery and helicopter gunship fire upon the enemy. After attending the wounded, 2d Lt. Graves, accompanied by another marine, moved from his relatively safe position to confirm the results of the earlier engagement. Observing that several of the enemy were still alive, he launched a determined assault, eliminating the remaining enemy troops. He then began moving the patrol to a landing zone for extraction, when the unit again came under intense fire which wounded 2 more marines and 2d Lt. Graves. Refusing medical attention, he once more adjusted air strikes and artillery fire upon the enemy while directing the fire of his men. He led his men to a new landing site into which he skillfully guided the incoming aircraft and boarded his men while remaining exposed to the hostile fire. Realizing that 1 of the wounded had not em barked, he directed the aircraft to depart and, along with another marine, moved to the side of the casualty. Confronted with a shortage of ammunition, 2d Lt. Graves utilized supporting arms and directed fire until a second helicopter arrived. At this point, the volume of enemy fire intensified, hitting the helicopter and causing it to crash shortly after liftoff. All aboard were killed. 2d Lt. Graves' outstanding courage, superb leadership and indomitable fighting spirit throughout the day were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.


The I’m just sayin… Quotes of the Week

The only thing we have to fear is fear itself. – FDR

It took me seventeen years to get three thousand hits in baseball. I did it in one afternoon on the golf course. - Hank Aaron

Picture Time...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant George Grant (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions in February 1867, from Fort Phil Kearny to Fort C. F. Smith, Dakota Territory. His citation reads:

Bravery, energy, and perseverance, involving much suffering and privation through attacks by hostile Indians, deep snows, etc., while voluntarily carrying dispatches.

Captain Joseph Xavier Grant (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 13, 1966, at 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. Company A was participating in a search and destroy operation when the leading platoon made contact with the enemy and a fierce fire-fight ensued. Capt. Grant was ordered to disengage the 2 remaining platoons and to maneuver them to envelop and destroy the enemy. After beginning their movement, the platoons encountered intense enemy automatic weapons and mortar fire from the front and flank. Capt. Grant was ordered to deploy the platoons in a defensive position. As this action was underway, the enemy attacked, using "human wave'' assaults, in an attempt to literally overwhelm Capt. Grant's force. In a magnificent display of courage and leadership, Capt. Grant moved under intense fire along the hastily formed defensive line repositioning soldiers to fill gaps created by the mounting casualties and inspiring and directing the efforts of his men to successfully repel the determined enemy onslaught. Seeing a platoon leader wounded, Capt. Grant hastened to his aid, in the face of the mass of fire of the entire enemy force, and moved him to a more secure position. During this action, Capt. Grant was wounded in the shoulder. Refusing medical treatment, he returned to the forward part of the perimeter, where he continued to lead and to inspire his men by his own indomitable example. While attempting to evacuate a wounded soldier, he was pinned down by fire from an enemy machine gun. With a supply of hand grenades, he crawled forward under a withering hail of fire and knocked out the machine gun, killing the crew, after which he moved the wounded man to safety. Learning that several other wounded men were pinned down by enemy fire forward of his position, Capt. Grant disregarded his painful wound and led 5 men across the fire-swept open ground to effect a rescue. Following return of the wounded men to the perimeter, a concentration of mortar fire landed in their midst and Capt. Grant was killed instantly. His heroic actions saved the lives of a number of his comrades and enabled the task force to repulse the vicious assaults and defeat the enemy. Capt. Grant's actions reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Army.

Colonel Lewis A. Grant (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 3, 1864, at Salem Heights, Virginia. His citation reads:

Personal gallantry and intrepidity displayed in the management of his brigade and in leading it in the assault in which he was wounded.


Don’t forget to click here to vote for the Charleston Baseball Hall of Fame. When you vote, remember to vote for Hatley, Glaze and Reams.


Picture Tuesday