WE MADE IT!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

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

Captured 2 battle flags from the enemy and returned with them to his own lines.

Captain Augustus Merrill (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 2, 1865, at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

With 6 men, captured 69 Confederate prisoners and recaptured several soldiers who had fallen into the enemy's hands.

Private George Merrill (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 15, 1865, at Fort Fisher, North Carolina. His citation reads:

Voluntarily advanced with the head of the column and cut down the palisading.


HAPPY LABOR DAY WEEKEND!!!!!

And to the person/people who left a gift in my mailbox this week, let me say thank you from the bottom of my heart.  Since no name was attached, I won't be able to pay you back for your kindness... so just know I'll be looking to pay it forward.  Thank you.


Flashback Friday

It's the first day of the 2013 Labor Day Weekend, so I thought I'd have some pictures of the 3 ladies who got it all started.  Mom, Labor Day Aunt Not-Janie and Labor Day Aunt Janie



I couldn't end without one more picture of the G1 men... Labor Day Uncle Paul, Dad and Labor Day Uncle DG

Sleeping Daniel...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private First Class Gino J. Merli (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 4-5, 1944, in the vicinity of Sars la Bruyere, Belgium. His citation reads:

He was serving as a machine gunner in the vicinity of Sars la Bruyere, Belgium, on the night of 45 September 1944, when his company was attacked by a superior German force Its position was overrun and he was surrounded when our troops were driven back by overwhelming numbers and firepower. Disregarding the fury of the enemy fire concentrated on him he maintained his position, covering the withdrawal of our riflemen and breaking the force of the enemy pressure. His assistant machine gunner was killed and the position captured; the other 8 members of the section were forced to surrender. Pfc. Merli slumped down beside the dead assistant gunner and feigned death. No sooner had the enemy group withdrawn then he was up and firing in all directions. Once more his position was taken and the captors found 2 apparently lifeless bodies. Throughout the night Pfc. Merli stayed at his weapon. By daybreak the enemy had suffered heavy losses, and as our troops launched an assault, asked for a truce. Our negotiating party, who accepted the German surrender, found Pfc. Merli still at his gun. On the battlefield lay 52 enemy dead, 19 of whom were directly in front of the gun. Pfc. Merli's gallantry and courage, and the losses and confusion that he caused the enemy, contributed materially to our victory.

Private Joseph F. Merrell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 18, 1945, near Lohe, Germany. His citation reads:

He made a gallant, 1-man attack against vastly superior enemy forces near Lohe, Germany. His unit, attempting a quick conquest of hostile hill positions that would open the route to Nuremberg before the enemy could organize his defense of that city, was pinned down by brutal fire from rifles, machine pistols, and 2 heavy machineguns. Entirely on his own initiative, Pvt. Merrell began a single-handed assault. He ran 100 yards through concentrated fire, barely escaping death at each stride, and at pointblank range engaged 4 German machine pistolmen with his rifle, killing all of them while their bullets ripped his uniform. As he started forward again, his rifle was smashed by a sniper's bullet, leaving him armed only with 3 grenades. But he did not hesitate. He zigzagged 200 yards through a hail of bullets to within 10 yards of the first machinegun, where he hurled 2 grenades and then rushed the position ready to fight with his bare hands if necessary. In the emplacement he seized a Luger pistol and killed what Germans had survived the grenade blast. Rearmed, he crawled toward the second machinegun located 30 yards away, killing 4 Germans in camouflaged foxholes on the way, but himself receiving a critical wound in the abdomen. And yet he went on, staggering, bleeding, disregarding bullets which tore through the folds of his clothing and glanced off his helmet. He threw his last grenade into the machinegun nest and stumbled on to wipe out the crew. He had completed this self-appointed task when a machine pistol burst killed him instantly. In his spectacular 1-man attack Pvt. Merrell killed 6 Germans in the first machinegun emplacement, 7 in the next, and an additional 10 infantrymen who were astride his path to the weapons which would have decimated his unit had he not assumed the burden of the assault and stormed the enemy positions with utter fearlessness, intrepidity of the highest order, and a willingness to sacrifice his own life so that his comrades could go on to victory.

Lieutenant Colonel Henry C. Merriam (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 9, 1865, at Fort Blakely, Alabama. His citation reads:

Volunteered to attack the enemy's works in advance of orders and, upon permission being given, made a most gallant assault.


The Hootie and the Blowfish concert was as great as it’s been every other year. I just don’t think you get the range of songs at any other concert as you do at a Hootie concert. But I’ll talk more about that later (probably next week)… For now, let’s look at some pictures of Daniel sleeping…


Picture Tuesday

While all of the other pictures were taken in the morning (except for the one of him on the sofa), this one was taken at night as I walked by his room on my way to bed.

Uh-Oh... Where's Daniel?

Found him!!

Proverbs 21:21

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Leroy A. Mendonca (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 4, 1951, near Chich-on, Korea. His citation reads:

Sgt. LeRoy A. Mendonca, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. After his platoon, in an exhaustive fight, had captured Hill 586, the newly won positions were assaulted during the night by a numerically superior enemy force. When the 1st Platoon positions were outflanked and under great pressure and the platoon was ordered to withdraw to a secondary line of defense, Sgt. Mendonca voluntarily remained in an exposed position and covered the platoon's withdrawal. Although under murderous enemy fire, he fired his weapon and hurled grenades at the onrushing enemy until his supply of ammunition was exhausted. He fought on, clubbing with his rifle and using his bayonet until he was mortally wounded. After the action it was estimated that Sgt. Mendonca had accounted for 37 enemy casualties. His daring actions stalled the crushing assault, protecting the platoon's withdrawal to secondary positions, and enabling the entire unit to repel the enemy attack and retain possession of the vital hilltop position. Sgt. Mendonca's extraordinary gallantry and exemplary valor are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.

Sergeant John W. Menter (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 6, 1865, at Sailors Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Private James Meredith (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1898, on board the U.S.S. 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, Meredith displayed extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 21:21

Whoever pursues righteousness and love
     finds life, prosperity and honor.

Flashing Waaaaaay Back

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant George W. Mears (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 2, 1863, at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. His citation reads:

With five volunteers he gallantly charged on a number of the enemy's sharpshooters concealed in a log house, captured them, and brought them into the Union lines.

Blacksmith Henry W. B. Mechlin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 25, 1876, at Little Big Horn, Montana. His citation reads:

With 3 comrades during the entire engagement courageously held a position that secured water for the command.

Ordinary Seaman Charles Melville (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864, on board the flagship U.S.S. Hartford. His citation reads:

On board the flagship U.S.S. Hartford during action against rebel gunboats, the ram Tennessee, and Fort Morgan in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Wounded and taken below to the surgeon when a shell burst between the two forward 9_inch guns, killing and wounding 15 men, Melville promptly returned to his gun on the deck and, although scarcely able to stand, refused to go below and continued to man his post throughout the remainder of the action resulting in the capture of the rebel ram Tennessee.


Flashback Friday

Most of the pictures today (with the exception of a few) are PG and BP (Pre Greg and Before Paul).

My Labor Day Cousin Chandler... It looks to me like she is wishing my parents had one more child.  Her wish would be granted. 

Here we have On the Swing: Sonny, Chandler, Teresa Lynn, The Real Jane and Sally; Standing: My Labor Day Aunt Janie, Labor Day Aunt Not Janie and Mom

Sonny, Chandler, Teresa Lynn, Sally, Aunt Not Janie and The Real Jane

Nix (I think that's how you spell it... might be Nicks... or Knicks... or Hnicks with a silent 'H')... He's no longer with us, but he still has a special place in my heart.

From top to bottom... Aunt Not Janie, Uncle That Ain't Paul, Uncle DG, Aunt Janie, Mom, Dad, Nix (laying under Dad's knee), either Sally or The Real Jane (in the bottom left... I can't tell who it is), Teresa Lynn, Chandler and me

See if you can tell the difference between this picture and the one below (besides the way I covered Aunt Not Janie's face).

Happy Birthday Marie!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Technical Sergeant John Meagher (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 19, 1945, near Ozato, Okinawa. His citation reads:

He displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty. In the heat of the fight, he mounted an assault tank, and, with bullets splattering about him, designated targets to the gunner. Seeing an enemy soldier carrying an explosive charge dash for the tank treads, he shouted fire orders to the gunner, leaped from the tank, and bayoneted the charging soldier. Knocked unconscious and his rifle destroyed, he regained consciousness, secured a machinegun from the tank, and began a furious 1-man assault on the enemy. Firing from his hip, moving through vicious crossfire that ripped through his clothing, he charged the nearest pillbox, killing 6. Going on amid the hail of bullets and grenades, he dashed for a second enemy gun, running out of ammunition just as he reached the position. He grasped his empty gun by the barrel and in a violent onslaught killed the crew. By his fearless assaults T/Sgt. Meagher single-handedly broke the enemy resistance, enabling his platoon to take its objective and continue the advance.

First Sergeant Thomas Meagher (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1864, at Chapins Farm, Virginia. His citation reads:

Led a section of his men on the enemy's works, receiving a wound while scaling a parapet.

Corporal Nicholas Meaher (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 20, 1869, at Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


Today we'd like to wish Cougar's sister Marie a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! I'm not sure how old she is, but she looks waaaaaay younger than Cougar and Sonny.

Daniel sleeping...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private First Class William A. McWhorter (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 5, 1944, at Leyte, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

He displayed gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in operations against the enemy. Pfc. McWhorter, a machine gunner, was emplaced in a defensive position with 1 assistant when the enemy launched a heavy attack. Manning the gun and opening fire, he killed several members of an advancing demolition squad, when 1 of the enemy succeeded in throwing a fused demolition charge in the entrenchment. Without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own safety, Pfc. McWhorter picked up the improvised grenade and deliberately held it close to his body, bending over and turning away from his companion. The charge exploded, killing him instantly, but leaving his assistant unharmed. Pfc. McWhorter's outstanding heroism and supreme sacrifice in shielding a comrade reflect the highest traditions of the military service.

Landsman George W. McWilliams (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from December 24, 1864 to February 22, 1865, on board the U.S.S. Pontoosuc. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Pontoosuc during the capture of Fort Fisher and Wilmington, 24 December 1864, to 22 February 1865. Carrying out his duties faithfully throughout this period, McWilliams was so severely wounded in the assault upon Fort Fisher that he was sent to the hospital at Portsmouth, Va. McWilliams was recommended for his gallantry, skill and coolness in action while under the fire of the enemy.

Farrier George E. Meach (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 19, 1864, at Winchester, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.


We're days away from the Hootie concert!  I can't wait!  The Wife and I have been going to this concert for many years and have loved every year.  A few years back, we made a fun thing even... funner (or more fun for you English talkin' people), by getting with our friends over at Our Life and inviting some other friends to make this the must see concert of the year.

Speaking of Hootie and The Blowfish... Here's a picture of my cousin Alan interviewing my good friend (my words, not his) Darius for a home movie Alan is making (just kidding... Al works for a local news station).  Anyway, I hope Alan didn't make Darius talk too much because I want his voice to be healthy this Saturday. 

We're going to take a look today to see how Daniel does NOT sleep in his bed...


Picture Tuesday

Daniel sleeping on the sofa

Daniel sleeping on the floor by his door

Camping out in the den with his sisters (or, as he would say, his brother and sister)

His favorite place to sleep is on the floor by his door

Proverbs 21:15

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant John J. McVeigh (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 29, 1944, near Brest, France. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty near Brest, France, on 29 August 1944. Shortly after dusk an enemy counterattack of platoon strength was launched against 1 platoon of Company G, 23d Infantry. Since the Company G platoon was not dug in and had just begun to assume defensive positions along a hedge, part of the line sagged momentarily under heavy fire from small arms and 2 flak guns, leaving a section of heavy machineguns holding a wide frontage without rifle protection. The enemy drive moved so swiftly that German riflemen were soon almost on top of 1 machinegun position. Sgt. McVeigh, heedless of a tremendous amount of small arms and flak fire directed toward him, stood up in full view of the enemy and directed the fire of his squad on the attacking Germans until his position was almost overrun. He then drew his trench knife. and single-handed charged several of the enemy. In a savage hand-to-hand struggle, Sgt. McVeigh killed 1 German with the knife, his only weapon, and was advancing on 3 more of the enemy when he was shot down and killed with small arms fire at pointblank range. Sgt. McVeigh's heroic act allowed the 2 remaining men in his squad to concentrate their machinegun fire on the attacking enemy and then turn their weapons on the 3 Germans in the road, killing all 3. Fire from this machinegun and the other gun of the section was almost entirely responsible for stopping this enemy assault, and allowed the rifle platoon to which it was attached time to reorganize, assume positions on and hold the high ground gained during the day.

Specialist Fifth Class Edgar Lee McWethy, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 21, 1967, at Binh Dinh 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. Serving as a medical aidman with Company B, Sp5c. McWethy accompanied his platoon to the site of a downed helicopter. Shortly after the platoon established a defensive perimeter around the aircraft, a large enemy force attacked the position from 3 sides with a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire and grenades. The platoon leader and his radio operator were wounded almost immediately, and Sp5c. McWethy rushed across the fire-swept area to their assistance. Although he could not help the mortally wounded radio operator, Sp5c. McWethy's timely first aid enabled the platoon leader to retain command during this critical period. Hearing a call for aid, Sp5c. McWethy started across the open toward the injured men, but was wounded in the head and knocked to the ground. He regained his feet and continued on but was hit again, this time in the leg. Struggling onward despite his wounds, he gained the side of his comrades and treated their injuries. Observing another fallen rifleman Lying in an exposed position raked by enemy fire, Sp5c. McWethy moved toward him without hesitation. Although the enemy fire wounded him a third time, Sp5c. McWethy reached his fallen companion. Though weakened and in extreme pain, Sp5c. McWethy gave the wounded man artificial respiration but suffered a fourth and fatal wound. Through his indomitable courage, complete disregard for his safety, and demonstrated concern for his fellow soldiers, Sp5c. McWethy inspired the members of his platoon and contributed in great measure to their successful defense of the position and the ultimate rout of the enemy force. Sp5c. McWethy's profound sense of duty, bravery, and his willingness to accept extraordinary risks in order to help the men of his unit are characteristic of the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.

Commissary Sergeant Walter F. McWhorter (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 6th Tennessee Infantry (C.S.A.).


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 21:15

When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous
but terror to evildoers.

Signs, signs, everywhere signs…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Robert Miller McTureous, Jr. (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 7, 1945, on Okinawa in the Ryukyu Chain. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty, while serving with the 3d Battalion, 29th Marines, 6th Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa in the Ryukyu Chain, 7 June 1945. Alert and ready for any hostile counteraction following his company's seizure of an important hill objective, Pvt. McTureous was quick to observe the plight of company stretcher bearers who were suddenly assailed by slashing machinegun fire as they attempted to evacuate wounded at the rear of the newly won position. Determined to prevent further casualties, he quickly filled his jacket with hand grenades and charged the enemy-occupied caves from which the concentrated barrage was emanating. Coolly disregarding all personal danger as he waged his furious 1-man assault, he smashed grenades into the cave entrances, thereby diverting the heaviest fire from the stretcher bearers to his own person and, resolutely returning to his own lines under a blanketing hail of rifle and machinegun fire to replenish his supply of grenades, dauntlessly continued his systematic reduction of Japanese strength until he himself sustained serious wounds after silencing a large number of the hostile guns. Aware of his own critical condition and unwilling to further endanger the lives of his comrades, he stoically crawled a distance of 200 yards to a sheltered position within friendly lines before calling for aid. By his fearless initiative and bold tactics, Pvt. McTureous had succeeded in neutralizing the enemy fire, killing 6 Japanese troops and effectively disorganizing the remainder of the savagely defending garrison. His outstanding valor and heroic spirit of self-sacrifice during a critical stage of operations reflect the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service.

Private Charles H. McVeagh (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.

Corporal John P. McVeane (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 4, 1863, at Fredericksburg Heights, Virginia. His citation reads:

Shot a Confederate color bearer and seized the flag; also approached, alone, a barn between the lines and demanded and received the surrender of a number of the enemy therein.


I’m against college football players (really, college athletes in general) getting “paid” to play (other than the scholarships they already get). I don’t, however, have a problem with them selling their autographs (as long as they still sign stuff for free for kids). As you know, I once had a yellow sheet of paper that had autographs from some of the greatest Clemson football players of all time on it. I say “had”, because I’m pretty sure Mom threw it away at some point… though I do hold out hope that one day I’ll find it. Even without the paper, I still have the memory of walking around on the sidelines of Death Valley during the 1989 Orange and White Spring Game asking my heroes for their autograph. I remember going up to Chris Morocco (QB) while he was kneeling down by the sideline to ask for his autograph. He looked down at Coach Ford (who was watching what was going on out on the field) and said, “Coach will kill me if he sees this”… he then put the paper on his knee and signed his name… because that’s what real Americans do when a little kid walks up and asks for an autograph. Levon Kirkland, Ed McDaniel, Wayne Simmons, Terry Allen… and many, many more all signed because you can’t turn down a kid with a paper and pen.

It seems now a lot of youngsters won’t have a chance to make memories like mine (and a lot of college guys won’t get to sign autographs… and trust me, most [if not all], of them love signing stuff). I’ve been hearing that a lot of schools are now not letting people get autographs at their “Fan Day”. I think that’s the wrong move. I hope things change soon, or the only ones getting hurt will be the kids.


Flashback Friday

Today we're going to be looking at some old pics of the G3s of my Labor Day Family. Some of the kids in these pictures are in high school now. Wow...

Leah hugging Kenneth...

More pics...

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Sergeant William McNamara (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1872, at Red River, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

First Sergeant David H. McNerney (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 22, 1967, at Polei Doc, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

1st Sgt. McNerney distinguished himself when his unit was attacked by a North Vietnamese battalion near polei Doc. Running through the hail of enemy fire to the area of heaviest contact, he was assisting in the development of a defensive perimeter when he encountered several enemy at close range. He killed the enemy but was painfully injured when blown from his feet by a grenade. In spite of this injury, he assaulted and destroyed an enemy machinegun position that had pinned down 5 of his comrades beyond the defensive line. Upon learning his commander and artillery forward observer had been killed, he assumed command of the company. He adjusted artillery fire to within 20 meters of the position in a daring measure to repulse ??enemy assaults. When the smoke grenades used to mark the position were gone, he moved into a nearby clearing to designate the location to friendly aircraft. In spite of enemy fire he remained exposed until he was certain the position was spotted and then climbed into a tree and tied the identification panel to its highest branches. Then he moved among his men readjusting their position, encouraging the defenders and checking the wounded. As the hostile assaults slackened, he began clearing a helicopter landing site to evacuate the wounded. When explosives were needed to remove large trees, he crawled outside the relative safety of his perimeter to collect demolition material from abandoned rucksacks. Moving through a fusillade of fire he returned with the explosives that were vital to the clearing of the landing zone. Disregarding the pain of his injury and refusing medical evacuation 1st Sgt. McNerney remained with his unit until the next day when the new commander arrived. First Sgt. McNerney's outstanding heroism and leadership were inspirational to his comrades. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.

Sergeant Robert McPhelan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from October 21, 1876 – January 8, 1877, at Cedar Creek, etc., Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


After a month off, it looks like Sonny is getting back to blogging. Head over to Sonny'Side to see how our MLB teams are doing...


Picture Tuesday

Here are some pics of me and the dogs (and later... Daniel and Maverick)

Happy Birthday Susan!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Sergeant James McNally (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.

Sergeant Michael Joseph McNally (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 1, 1899, at Samoa, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

For distinguished conduct in the presence of the enemy at Samoa, Philippine Islands, 1 April 1899.

Private Michael McNamara (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 11, 1871, on board the U.S.S. Benicia. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Benicia during the capture of the Korean forts, 11 June 1871. Advancing to the parapet, McNamara wrenched the match-lock from the hands of an enemy and killed him.


HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my cousin Susan! While I’m here… Happy Birthday to all the other Susan’s out there, too.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY THE WIFE!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Albert W. McMillian (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 29, 1890, at Wounded Knee Creek, South Dakota. His citation reads:

While engaged with Indians concealed in a ravine, he assisted the men on the skirmish line, directed their fire, encouraged them by example, and used every effort to dislodge the enemy.

Captain George G. McMurtry (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 2-8, 1918, at Charlevaux, in the forest of Argonne, France. His citation reads:

Commanded a battalion which was cut off and surrounded by the enemy and although wounded in the knee by shrapnel on 4 October and suffering great pain, he continued throughout the entire period to encourage his officers and men with a resistless optimism that contributed largely toward preventing panic and disorder among the troops, who were without food, cut off from communication with our lines. On 4 October during a heavy barrage, he personally directed and supervised the moving of the wounded to shelter before himself seeking shelter. On 6 October he was again wounded in the shoulder by a German grenade, but continued personally to organize and direct the defense against the German attack on the position until the attack was defeated. He continued to direct and command his troops, refusing relief, and personally led his men out of the position after assistance arrived before permitting himself to be taken to the hospital on 8 October. During this period the successful defense of the position was due largely to his efforts.

Lieutenant Frederick Vallette McNair Jr. (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 22, 1914, in the engagement of Vera Cruz. His citation reads:

For distinguished conduct in battle engagement of Vera Cruz, 22 April 1914. Lt. McNair was eminent and conspicuous in command of his battalion. He exhibited courage and skill in leading his men through the action of the 22d and in the final occupation of the city.


I would like to wish The Wife a Very Happy Birthday! I hope that it is a great day for her (which, for her, means a day watching Pitch Perfect, all… day… long).


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 21:13

Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor
will also cry out and not be answered.

LDW Family Pics…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Specialist Fourth Class Thomas J. McMahon (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 19, 1969, at Quang Tin 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. McMahon distinguished himself while serving as medical aid man with Company A. When the lead elements of his company came under heavy fire from well-fortified enemy positions, 3 soldiers fell seriously wounded. Sp4c. McMahon, with complete disregard for his safety, left his covered position and ran through intense enemy fire to the side of 1 of the wounded, administered first aid and then carried him to safety. He returned through the hail of fire to the side of a second wounded man. Although painfully wounded by an exploding mortar round while returning the wounded man to a secure position, Sp4c. McMahon refused medical attention and heroically ran back through the heavy enemy fire toward his remaining wounded comrade. He fell mortally wounded before he could rescue the last man. Sp4c. McMahon's undaunted concern for the welfare of his comrades at the cost of his life are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Corporal Henry A. McMasters (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1872, at Red River, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Sergeant Franics M. McMillen (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 2, 1865, at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.


We’re about 21 days away from the 2013 edition of Labor Day Weekend! The anticipation is about to kill me (along with The Wife, my kids, Scooby, high blood pressure and a rather unhealthy love of eating… but mainly the anticipation). Before we get to the flashback pictures this week, I need to change the subject for a minute (or two... I'm not sure how fast you read).

As you know (or, perhaps, you didn’t know) last Saturday was my cousin Deeny’s 70th birthday. I didn’t post anything here because I was scared that I would say something to alert her to the surprise party that awaited her that night. So, I ended up just posting a video on her Facebook page… Due to time limitations, I will only be able to post a random selection of the “70 (mostly true) Things About Deeny”. For the full list, check back in 10 years.

1. Her mom (Aunt Beth) was an older sister to my granny (Granny).

10. Deeny went to high school in Miami.

13. She once broke a bed (with Jim, Mom and Dad)… I don’t want to know how it happened… and frankly, I’m scared she might tell me one day anyway.

21. She worked for Delta as a pilot (actually… she might not have been a pilot… I just assume anyone who works for Delta is a pilot).

27. She is a great cook.

34. A copperhead once bit her… and died.

43. She’s not too big…

44. She’s not too little… (I got #’s 43 and 44 from Jim).

47. Her youngest daughter (Mary Beth) is about 3 1/2 months younger than me. (In slightly related news, I’m about 3 1/2 months younger than my cousin Louis… I guess there weren’t any good movies in 1978 when all the babies were being made…).

49. This probably goes without saying (I’m pretty sure she wouldn’t say it), but I’m her favorite relative.

52. She has never seen the Grand Canyon.

58. She has been to the San Diego Zoo.

66. She hates the smell of curry (I'm pretty sure that’s right).

68. After seeing Sonny and Teresa Lynn for the first time, Deeny told my parents, “You can do better”.

70. Deeny once ran a butterbean “camp” from an undisclosed location (her house) somewhere in Georgia (outside of Atlanta) that… how should I say this… didn’t have any use for Child Labor Laws. I’m still waiting for 20/20 to call me for an interview.


Flashback Friday

Labor Day Aunt Janie and Uncle DG

(I'm not sure the date on the picture can be trusted)... Four lucky guys...

(Again, I'm not so sure about the date)... Four women who made some questionable choices in the past to end up with the four guys in the above picture



Labor Day Aunt Not Janie and Uncle Paul



HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEG!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain of the Top James McLeod (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 24-25, 1862, on board the U.S.S. Pensacola. His citation reads:

Captain of foretop, and a volunteer from the Colorado, McLeod served on board the U.S.S. Pensacola during the attack upon Forts Jackson and St. Philip and the taking of New Orleans, 24 and 25 April 1862. Acting as gun captain of the rifled howitzer aft which was much exposed, he served this piece with great ability and activity, although no officer superintended it.

Sergeant Michael McLoughlin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 21, 1876 – January 8, 1877, at Cedar Creek, etc., Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Captain/aide-de-camp Martin T. McMahon (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 30, 1862, at White Oak Swamp, Virginia. His citation reads:

Under fire of the enemy, successfully destroyed a valuable train that had been abandoned and prevented it from falling into the hands of the enemy.


Happy Birthday Meg!!!!!!


What can I say about Meg...

Pic time!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Nathaniel A. McKown (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1864, at Chapins Farm, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Private First Class Alford L. McLaughlin (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 4-5, 1952, in 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 machine gunner of Company L, in action against enemy aggressor forces on the night of 4-5 September 1952. Volunteering for his second continuous tour of duty on a strategic combat outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, Pfc. McLaughlin, although operating under a barrage of enemy artillery and mortar fire, set up plans for the defense of his position which proved decisive in the successful defense of the outpost. When hostile forces attacked in battalion strength during the night, he maintained a constant flow of devastating fire upon the enemy, alternately employing 2 machineguns, a carbine, and handgrenades. Although painfully wounded, he bravely fired the machineguns from the hip until his hands became blistered by the extreme heat from the weapons and, placing the guns on the ground to allow them to cool, continued to defend the position with his carbine and grenades. Standing up in full view, he shouted words of encouragement to his comrades above the din of battle and, throughout a series of fanatical enemy attacks, sprayed the surrounding area with deadly fire, accounting for an estimated 150 enemy dead and 50 wounded. By his indomitable courage, superb leadership, and valiant fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming odds, Pfc. McLaughlin served to inspire his fellow marines in their gallant stand against the enemy and was directly instrumental in preventing the vital outpost from falling into the hands of a determined and numerically superior hostile force. His outstanding heroism and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Musician John McLennon (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 9, 1877, at Big Hole, Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


Picture Tuesday

I can honestly say Scooby likes me more than I like him...

We haven't seen Daniel on here for the past two weeks, so here are some pics of him and Scooby

Susie, of course, had to get into a couple of these