Sounds like football…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private First Class Frederick C. Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 18, 1945, on the Siegfried Line at Saarlautern, Germany. His citation reads:

An aid man, he was wounded in the right shoulder soon after his comrades had jumped off in a dawn attack 18 March 1945, against the Siegfried Line at Saarlautern, Germany. He refused to withdraw for treatment and continued forward, administering first aid under heavy machinegun, mortar, and artillery fire. When the company ran into a thickly sown antipersonnel minefield and began to suffer more and more casualties, he continued to disregard his own wound and unhesitatingly braved the danger of exploding mines, moving about through heavy fire and helping the injured until he stepped on a mine which severed one of his feet. In spite of his grievous wounds, he struggled on with his work, refusing to be evacuated and crawling from man to man administering to them while in great pain and bleeding profusely. He was killed by the blast of another mine which he had dragged himself across in an effort to reach still another casualty. With indomitable courage, and unquenchable spirit of self-sacrifice and supreme devotion to duty which made it possible for him to continue performing his tasks while barely able to move, Pfc. Murphy saved many of his fellow soldiers at the cost of his own life.

Private James T. Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 25, 1865, at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

A piece of artillery having been silenced by the enemy, this soldier voluntarily ass1sted in working the piece, conducting himself throughout the engagement in a gallant and fearless manner.

Private Jeremiah Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 17, 1876, at Powder River, Montana. His citation reads:

Being the only member of his picket not disabled, he attempted to save a wounded comrade.


With the big game coming up tomorrow, I thought it would be neat to look back at some of the more memorable games of this series in my lifetime. Having said that, we will naturally start the list with a game that took place a little over a year before my lifetime started…

1977 – With 49 seconds left in the game, Clemson WR Jerry Butler made a backwards diving 20 yard TD catch of a pass thrown by QB Steve Fuller to give Clemson a 31-27 road win over the Revolutionary War Heroes.

1980 – #14 USC with soon-t0-be Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers (no relation to my friend Cory…. that we know of) entered Clemson as heavy favorites. [Interesting side note – George Rogers had already had his #38 retired by the time this game took place]. Clemson Head Coach Danny Ford, however, had a secret weapon waiting for the Revolutionary War Heroes that day. Was it a great running back? Or perhaps a new QB? Nope… it was orange pants. In a stunt that could only work in a college football game, the Tigers wore orange pants for the first time and went on the upset USC 27-6.

1981 – Clemson won 29-13 on its way to winning the National Championship.

1984 – USC went in to Death Valley with their Black Magic and found themselves down 21-3. Revolutionary War Hero QB Mike Hold would lead the comeback which included an 8 play, 86 yard TD drive to give USC a 22-21 victory and its first 10 win season in program history.

1987 – Until this season, this was the highest ranked match-up between the two schools. I watched this game down the street at the Freeman’s house. It was a night game and the first Clemson/USC game I remember. I doubt it’s the first one I saw, but it’s the first I remember. The ACC Champion Clemson Tigers entered the game ranked #8 while the Revolutionary War Heroes were #12. Live on ESPN, USC beat Clemson 20-7 in a game that I don’t remember even being that close. USC’s defense held Clemson to 166 total yards (the lowest total in Danny Ford’s time at Clemson).

1988 – This 29-10 Clemson win is memorable for 3 reasons… It was Rodney Williams’ last home game for the Tigers (he would leave the Tigers with the most wins for a QB in program history); It was the first of 4 straight wins in the series for the Tigers; And most importantly, in my opinion, it was the last Clemson/Carolina game in which USC was coached by Joe Morrison (he would die the following February). I have always said that USC and Clemson would have been Top 10 programs throughout the ‘90s had Morrison not died and Ford not been forced out at Clemson. With all due respect to Spurrier, I’d list Morrison as the best coach in USC history (though I wouldn’t call someone crazy for saying it’s Spurrier).

1992 – A cocky young Carolina QB by the name of Steve Taneyhill led USC to a 24-13 victory. Taneyhill became the most hated player in the state (or most loved player, depending on how you look at it) by “signing” his name on the Tiger Paw after a TD. This game ended a 4 game series winning streak for the Tigers.

1994 – Both teams came into this one needing a win to get a bowl invite. The Revolutionary War Heroes started the second half with a trick play on the kickoff for an 85 yard return. Carolina won 33-7 on their way to their first ever bowl win in the Carquest Bowl. This was my first live Clemson/Carolina game.

1997 – Clemson won 47-21. It was my first live Clemson/Carolina game in Columbia. I was in the press box… I remember being very impressed with the food and soft drinks in that press box.

1998 – Probably the worst match-up between the two schools. Clemson came in with 2 wins and USC had 1. Both schools had fired (or were about to fire) their head coaches. Clemson won 28-19 and the players carried head coach Tommy West off the field as the fans cheered. It’s a rare time when I felt like a fans really liked a guy… they just didn’t want him to be the head coach anymore.

2001 – Carolina won this one 20-15 on their way to back-to-back Outback Bowl victories.

2003 – 63-17

2004 – This one started with USC players taunting the Clemson players as they came down The Hill… then a USC player fumbled the opening kickoff. Clemson won the game 29-7, but the big story was the brawl that took place in the 4th quarter. Clemson won the game and the fight, but since this ended up being the last game Lou Holtz coached, Carolina may have been the ultimate winner. Both schools overreacted to the fight and forfeited their chances to play in the postseason.

2005 – Clemson QB got his 4th win (13-9) over the Revolutionary War Heroes, becoming the first QB in rivalry history to win 4.

2006 – Carolina won this one 31-28 as I sat in the upper deck with Sonny. This was the last Carolina/Clemson game I attended.

2008 – Clemson won 31-14 with Dabo trying to earn the head coaching job for the Tigers. This was the last time the Tigers beat the Revolutionary War Heroes.

2009 – Carolina won 34-17 to begin a series winning streak.

2012 – Clemson entered the game ranked #11, while USC came in at #12. The Tigers had a 14-10 lead, but USC was too good, leaving Death Valley with a 27-17 win. The win made Steve Spurrier the winningest head coach in USC history.

I can’t wait to see the game this year. I hope it’s a great one!


Flashback Friday

We're going to start looking back at some Christmas pictures from years past...

To the left is my cousin Scott... in the center is my Da.

MaMa and Aunt JoJo

Dad with his favoritest Christmas gift ever...

MaMa, Granny and Dad

Dad

Sonny and Mom... I probably made fun of Sonny and that's why Mom is laughing

Granny, Da and MaMa

Teresa Lynn and part of Sonny



HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLISON!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Dennis J. F. Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 3, 1862, at Corinth, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Although wounded three times, carried the colors throughout the conflict.

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

Gallantry in action.

Corporal Edward F. Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29, 1879, at Milk River, Colorado. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


Today we’d like to wish my niece Allison a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!! We hope she has a great day! She’s just 5 years away from being able to drive!

What’s going on this Saturday?

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Second Lieutenant Audie L. Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 26, 1945, near Holtzwihr France. His citation reads:

2d Lt. Murphy commanded Company B, which was attacked by 6 tanks and waves of infantry. 2d Lt. Murphy ordered his men to withdraw to prepared positions in a woods, while he remained forward at his command post and continued to give fire directions to the artillery by telephone. Behind him, to his right, 1 of our tank destroyers received a direct hit and began to burn. Its crew withdrew to the woods. 2d Lt. Murphy continued to direct artillery fire which killed large numbers of the advancing enemy infantry. With the enemy tanks abreast of his position, 2d Lt. Murphy climbed on the burning tank destroyer, which was in danger of blowing up at any moment, and employed its .50 caliber machinegun against the enemy. He was alone and exposed to German fire from 3 sides, but his deadly fire killed dozens of Germans and caused their infantry attack to waver. The enemy tanks, losing infantry support, began to fall back. For an hour the Germans tried every available weapon to eliminate 2d Lt. Murphy, but he continued to hold his position and wiped out a squad which was trying to creep up unnoticed on his right flank. Germans reached as close as 10 yards, only to be mowed down by his fire. He received a leg wound, but ignored it and continued the single-handed fight until his ammunition was exhausted. He then made his way to his company, refused medical attention, and organized the company in a counterattack which forced the Germans to withdraw. His directing of artillery fire wiped out many of the enemy; he killed or wounded about 50. 2d Lt. Murphy's indomitable courage and his refusal to give an inch of ground saved his company from possible encirclement and destruction, and enabled it to hold the woods which had been the enemy's objective.

First Lieutenant/Quartermaster Charles J. Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 21, 1861, at Bull Run, Virginia. His citation reads:

Took a rifle and voluntarily fought with his regiment in the ranks; when the regiment was forced back, voluntarily remained on the field caring for the wounded, and was there taken prisoner.

Sergeant Daniel J. Murphy (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 27, 1864, at Hatchers Run, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of 47th North Carolina Infantry (C.S.A.).


I feel like there is something big going on this Saturday but I can’t quite put my finger on it… I’m going to have to look at my calendar and see if I can figure it out.


Picture Tuesday

Here are some more pictures from this past Labor Day Weekend

 

 

Proverbs 18:12

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Signalman First Class Douglas Albert Munro (US Coast Guard) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 27, 1942, at Point Cruz Guadalcanal. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry m action above and beyond the call of duty as Petty Officer in Charge of a group of 24 Higgins boats, engaged in the evacuation of a battalion of marines trapped by enemy Japanese forces at Point Cruz Guadalcanal, on 27 September 1942. After making preliminary plans for the evacuation of nearly 500 beleaguered marines, Munro, under constant strafing by enemy machineguns on the island, and at great risk of his life, daringly led 5 of his small craft toward the shore. As he closed the beach, he signaled the others to land, and then in order to draw the enemy's fire and protect the heavily loaded boats, he valiantly placed his craft with its 2 small guns as a shield between the beachhead and the Japanese. When the perilous task of evacuation was nearly completed, Munro was instantly killed by enemy fire, but his crew, 2 of whom were wounded, carried on until the last boat had loaded and cleared the beach. By his outstanding leadership, expert planning, and dauntless devotion to duty, he and his courageous comrades undoubtedly saved the lives of many who otherwise would have perished. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Sergeant Harvey M. Munsell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 1-3, 1863, at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. His citation reads:

Gallant and courageous conduct as color bearer. (This noncommissioned officer carried the colors of his regiment through 13 engagements.)

Private First Class Kiyoshi K. Muranaga (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 26, 1944, near Suvereto, Italy. His citation reads:

Private First Class Kiyoshi K. Muranaga distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 26 June 1944, near Suvereto, Italy. Private First Class Muranaga's company encountered a strong enemy force in commanding positions and with superior firepower. An enemy 88mm self-propelled gun opened direct fire on the company, causing the men to disperse and seek cover. Private First Class Muranaga's mortar squad was ordered to action, but the terrain made it impossible to set up their weapons. The squad leader, realizing the vulnerability of the mortar position, moved his men away from the gun to positions of relative safety. Because of the heavy casualties being inflicted on his company, Private First Class Muranaga, who served as a gunner, attempted to neutralize the 88mm weapon alone. Voluntarily remaining at his gun position, Private First Class Muranaga manned the mortar himself and opened fire on the enemy gun at a range of approximately 400 yards. With his third round, he was able to correct his fire so that the shell landed directly in front of the enemy gun. Meanwhile, the enemy crew, immediately aware of the source of mortar fire, turned their 88mm weapon directly on Private First Class Muranaga's position. Before Private First Class Muranaga could fire a fourth round, an 88mm shell scored a direct hit on his position, killing him instantly. Because of the accuracy of Private First Class Muranaga's previous fire, the enemy soldiers decided not to risk further exposure and immediately abandoned their position. Private First Class Muranaga's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 18:12

Before a downfall the heart is haughty,
      but humility comes before honor.

Flashback Friday

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Seaman Hugh P. Mullin (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 11, 1899, on board the U.S.S. Texas. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Texas during the coaling of that vessel at Hampton Roads, Va., 11 November 1899. Jumping overboard while wearing a pair of heavy rubber boots and at great risk to himself, Mullin rescued Alfred Kosminski, apprentice, second class, who fell overboard, by supporting him until he was safely hauled from the water.

Corporal Walter L. Mundell (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 First Class Sadao S. Munemori (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 5, 1945, near Seravezza, Italy. His citation reads:

He fought with great gallantry and intrepidity near Seravezza, Italy. When his unit was pinned down by grazing fire from the enemy's strong mountain defense and command of the squad devolved on him with the wounding of its regular leader, he made frontal, l-man attacks through direct fire and knocked out 2 machineguns with grenades Withdrawing under murderous fire and showers of grenades from other enemy emplacements, he had nearly reached a shell crater occupied by 2 of his men when an unexploded grenade bounced on his helmet and rolled toward his helpless comrades. He arose into the withering fire, dived for the missile and smothered its blast with his body. By his swift, supremely heroic action Pfc. Munemori saved 2 of his men at the cost of his own life and did much to clear the path for his company's victorious advance.


On this, the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, I will take a break from my back and forth with Sonny. On this day that is so special to so many people, I will not make fun of him for referring to himself in the 3rd person (I mean, who does that? Greg don’t do that). I also won’t say anything about the disgraceful way he twisted the words of the greatest President these United States have ever had into an unprovoked attack on me. I would never do such a thing, but I don’t want to get into that right now. Just know, my friends, that I shall defend the 2014 NBA Champion Brooklyn Nets, whatever the cost may be. I shall fight Sonny on the phone, I shall fight him on the blogs, I shall fight him at the lake and at Mom and Dad’s, I shall fight him via text message; I shall never surrender. But for now, I will take a break from fighting him as a way to show respect for a day that is so important to so many of my fellow Americans. In a way, it’s hard to believe this is the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy… a man who once said, Ask not what I’m just sayin… can do for you, ask what you can do for I’m just sayin….


All jokes aside, go here to feel better about yourself. It’s a link to a fundraiser for Dave and Alicia and their son. Now that both Dave and Alicia have cancer, they need all of the help they can get. So if you can, please go and give what you can to help. And if you can’t, then find a way to make sure you can.


Flashback Friday

With the weather being what it's been, I figure why not post some pics from my river float from a few years ago...

 

 

That's where the snakes were hiding

That's where the alligators were hiding

 

Me and my buddy... back when he would have told me right away when he became a dad



HAPPY BIRTHDAY J. MICHAEL GEOFFRY!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Boatswain’s Mate Patrick Mullen (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 17, 1865, on board the U.S.S. Wyandank. His citation reads:

Served as boatswain's mate on board the U.S.S. Wyandank during a boat expedition up Mattox Creek, 17 March 1865. Rendering gallant assistance to his commanding officer, Mullen, lying on his back, loaded the howitzer and then fired so carefully as to kill and wound many rebels, causing their retreat. SECOND AWARD G.O. No.: 62, 29 June 1865. Second award. Citation: Served as boatswain's mate on board the U.S.S. Don, 1 May 1865. Engaged in picking up the crew of picket launch No. 6, which had swamped. Mullen, seeing an officer who was at that time no longer able to keep up and was below the surface of the water, jumped overboard and brought the officer to the boat, thereby rescuing him from drowning, which brave action entitled him to wear a bar on the medal he had already received at Mattox Creek, 17 March 1865.

Mate Frederick Muller (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 30, 1898, on board the U.S.S. Wompatuck. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Wompatuck, Manzanillo, Cuba, 30 June 1898. Serving under the fire of the enemy, Muller displayed heroism and gallantry during this period.

Sergeant Joseph E. Muller (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 15-16, 1945, near Ishimmi, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands. His citation reads:

He displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty. When his platoon was stopped by deadly fire from a strongly defended ridge, he directed men to points where they could cover his attack. Then through the vicious machinegun and automatic fire, crawling forward alone, he suddenly jumped up, hurled his grenades, charged the enemy, and drove them into the open where his squad shot them down. Seeing enemy survivors about to man a machinegun, He fired his rifle at point-blank range, hurled himself upon them, and killed the remaining 4. Before dawn the next day, the enemy counterattacked fiercely to retake the position. Sgt. Muller crawled forward through the flying bullets and explosives, then leaping to his feet, hurling grenades and firing his rifle, he charged the Japs and routed them. As he moved into his foxhole shared with 2 other men, a lone enemy, who had been feigning death, threw a grenade. Quickly seeing the danger to his companions, Sgt. Muller threw himself over it and smothered the blast with his body. Heroically sacrificing his life to save his comrades, he upheld the highest traditions of the military service.


Just wanted to swing by the I’m just sayin… offices today to wish my good friend and banker J. Michael G. a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! We hope his boys and wife (my good buddy Adrian) make it a great day. And if they don’t, then I’m sure it’s because he doesn’t deserve it.

Oops… He did it again. I’m starting to see why my Daddy always used to say about Sonny, “That boy’s sure got a lot of stupid in him”. (That might not be a direct quote… there’s actually a good chance he never said that at all… but he HAS to have thought it at some point). As you know, Sonny took a shot at me for following the 2014 NBA Champion Brooklyn Nets this season with this post. I then won Round 1 by responding with this post. Sonny, like Apollo Creed, should have just stayed down. But he decided to get up and dust himself off and try to keep fighting. I have to admit, I admire his spirit. His latest post is funny enough to make me think he had help writing it… or maybe, just maybe, there’s a funny guy hidden inside the body of that functional mute.  Anyway… Let me recap my phone call to Sonny last night.


Sonny: “Why are you cheering for the Nets?”

Me: “You want answers?”

Sonny: “I think I’m entitled!”

Me: “You want answers?!”

Sonny: “I want the truth!”

Me: “You can't handle the truth! Sonny, we live in a world that has NBA teams, and those teams have to be cheered by men with blogs. Who's gonna do it? You? You, Sonny? I have a greater responsibility than you can possibly fathom. You weep for the old days and you curse the current NBA players. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know, that the retirement of past greats, while tragic, probably saved the NBA. And my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves the NBA! You don't want the truth, because deep down in places you don't talk about at parties, you want me cheering the Nets. You need me cheering the Nets. We use words like "I’m", "just", "sayin…". We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very blog that I provide, and then questions the manner in which I pick a team to cheer for! I would rather you just said "thank you", and went on your way. Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a keyboard, and post about a team you pull for. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think you are entitled to!

Sonny: “…………………What?”


It’s funny, I thought Sonny was raised on the same slice of Heaven (James Island) as I was, but his argument that Michigan, Indiana and Chicago are in the mid-west and not the north is disappointing. To help Sonny out, I will point to Exhibit A: The title of the greatest TV mini-series about the War Between the States… North and South. What areas fought for the north? That’s right… Michigan, Indiana and Chicago. It wasn’t the Mid-West, North and South, now was it? I rest my case.

Sonny also corrected me… he didn’t have one college roommate from New Jersey, he had three. Well, Sonny, let me tell you that 3 wrongs don’t make a right and they sure don’t give you credibility. Of course, it does help explain how someone from his generation would consider the death of Apollo Creed as the darkest day in history (instead of the day the greatest President in the world [Ronald Reagan] was shot)… he lived with all of those liberals during his formative college years.

Hey, speaking of President Reagan… check out this video.

HAPPY 900TH POST!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant First Class Donald R. Moyer (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 20, 1951, near Seoul, Korea. His citation reads:

Sfc. Moyer assistant platoon leader, Company E, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations. Sfc. Moyer's platoon was committed to attack and secure commanding terrain stubbornly defended by a numerically superior hostile force emplaced in well-fortified positions. Advancing up the rocky hill, the leading elements came under intense automatic weapons, small-arms, and grenade fire, wounding the platoon leader and platoon sergeant. Sfc. Moyer, realizing the success of the mission was imperiled, rushed to the head of the faltering column, assumed command and urged the men forward. Inspired by Sfc. Moyer's unflinching courage, the troops responded magnificently, but as they reached the final approaches to the rugged crest of the hill, enemy fire increased in volume and intensity and the fanatical foe showered the platoon with grenades. Undaunted, the valiant group forged ahead, and as they neared the top of the hill, the enemy hurled a grenade into their midst. Sfc. Moyer, fully aware of the odds against him, unhesitatingly threw himself on the grenade, absorbing the full blast of the explosion with his body. Although mortally wounded in this fearless display of valor, Sfc. Moyer's intrepid act saved several of his comrades from death or serious injury, and his inspirational leadership and consummate devotion to duty contributed significantly to the subsequent seizure of the enemy stronghold and reflect lasting glory on himself and the noble traditions of the military service.

Captain Myles Moylan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 30, 1877, at Bear Paw Mountain, Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantly led his command in action against Nez Perce Indians until he was severely wounded.

Major St. Clair A. Mulholland (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 4-5, 1863, at Chancellorsville, Virginia. His citation reads:

In command of the picket line held the enemy in check all night to cover the retreat of the Army


One of the great things about having the best blog on the internet (900 posts and counting), is that every now and then other blogs will take a shot at me. Usually, I just ignore it because I don’t want to legitimize the other blogs by responding. Recently, however, my own brother decided he wanted to step up and take a swing at me regarding my decision to follow the 2014 NBA Champions (Brooklyn Nets) this season. I could have been the bigger man (figuratively and literally), but decided his attack deserved a response. Sonny mainly has two problems with my Brooklyn Nets… The first is that they are in the north and the second is that they are owned by a Russian. Both of these show just how old Sonny is.

First, Sonny makes you think that me following the Nets is bad because they are in the north, yet the 3 all-time greats he talks about watching when he was growing up are all from the north (Magic – Michigan; Bird – Indiana; Jordan – NORTH Carolina). Surely he can’t say that he didn’t pull for any of these greats back in the day. Plus, I already pulled for Boston a few years ago without any problems, and even I know (now) that Brooklyn is closer to the South than Boston. By the way, Sonny roomed with a guy in college from New Jersey… that’s WAAAAAAY worse than pulling for a sports team. And let’s not forget that my good friend (my words, not his) and South Carolina native Kevin Garnett is playing for the Nets this year.

As for the fact that the team is owned by a Russian… You have to understand that Sonny grew up during a time when The Russians were running wild throughout the NWA. Guys like “The Russian Bear” Ivan Koloff, “The Russian Nightmare” Nikita Koloff, Krusher Kruschev and "The Russian Assassin” Vladimir Petrov were beating up his favorite wrestlers like Dusty Rhodes and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Express. So it’s not hard to see why Sonny would hold these ill feelings for the Russians. However, Sonny needs to realize the Cold War is over (Rocky won it for us during that God-awful scene in Rocky IV when he knocked out their boxing hero and then told a packed Russian crowd that if he could change and they could change then everyone could change… unless they liked the insurance they had, then they didn’t have to change. Or something like that… I haven’t watched that part of the movie since the first time I saw it, so I might be getting it mixed up with something else). Sonny must have also missed the memo that “The Russian Nightmare” Nikita Koloff became a good guy and started teaming with Dusty Rhodes (as The Super Powers). And to be honest, of the 4 Russians I named, 3 are really from Minnesota and 1 is from Canada… So I’m not even sure I believe the owner of the Nets is really from Russia. I just think they say he is to help them draw heat when they go on the road.


Picture Tuesday

I decided to post some more pics from my Labor Day Weekend... I can't wait for next year!

Proverbs 17:15

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Frist Class Kaoru Moto (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 7, 1944, near Castellina, Italy. His citation reads:

Private First Class Kaoru Moto distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 7 July 1944, near Castellina, Italy. While serving as first scout, Private First Class Moto observed a machine gun nest that was hindering his platoon's progress. On his own initiative, he made his way to a point ten paces from the hostile position, and killed the enemy machine gunner. Immediately, the enemy assistant gunner opened fire in the direction of Private First Class Moto. Crawling to the rear of the position, Private First Class Moto surprised the enemy soldier, who quickly surrendered. Taking his prisoner with him, Private First Class Moto took a position a few yards from a house to prevent the enemy from using the building as an observation post. While guarding the house and his prisoner, he observed an enemy machine gun team moving into position. He engaged them, and with deadly fire forced the enemy to withdraw. An enemy sniper located in another house fired at Private First Class Moto, severely wounding him. Applying first aid to his wound, he changed position to elude the sniper fire and to advance. Finally relieved of his position, he made his way to the rear for treatment. Crossing a road, he spotted an enemy machine gun nest. Opening fire, he wounded two of the three soldiers occupying the position. Not satisfied with this accomplishment, he then crawled forward to a better position and ordered the enemy soldier to surrender. Receiving no answer, Private First Class Moto fired at the position, and the soldiers surrendered. Private First Class Moto's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.

Sergeant John Mott (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 5, 1871, at Whetstone Mountains, Arizona. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Sergeant Charles E. Mower (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 3, 1944, near Capoocan, Leyte. Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

He was an assistant squad leader in an attack against strongly defended enemy positions on both sides of a stream running through a wooded gulch. As the squad advanced through concentrated fire, the leader was killed and Sgt. Mower assumed command. In order to bring direct fire upon the enemy, he had started to lead his men across the stream, which by this time was churned by machinegun and rifle fire, but he was severely wounded before reaching the opposite bank. After signaling his unit to halt, he realized his own exposed position was the most advantageous point from which to direct the attack, and stood fast. Half submerged, gravely wounded, but refusing to seek shelter or accept aid of any kind, he continued to shout and signal to his squad as he directed it in the destruction of 2 enemy machineguns and numerous riflemen. Discovering that the intrepid man in the stream was largely responsible for the successful action being taken against them, the remaining Japanese concentrated the full force of their firepower upon him, and he was killed while still urging his men on. Sgt. Mower's gallant initiative and heroic determination aided materially in the successful completion of his squad's mission. His magnificent leadership was an inspiration to those with whom he served.


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 17:15

Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent—
       the Lord detests them both.

Congrats Ross and Ginny!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Second Lieutenant Louis C. Mosher (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 11, 1913, at Gagsak Mountain, Jolo, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

Voluntarily entered a cleared space within about 20 yards of the Moro trenches under a furious fire from them and carried a wounded soldier of his company to safety at the risk of his own life.

Private First Class Edward J. Moskala (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 9, 1945, at Kakazu Ridge, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands. His citation reads:

He was the leading element when grenade explosions and concentrated machinegun and mortar fire halted the unit's attack on Kakazu Ridge, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands. With utter disregard for his personal safety, he charged 40 yards through withering, grazing fire and wiped out 2 machinegun nests with well-aimed grenades and deadly accurate fire from his automatic rifle. When strong counterattacks and fierce enemy resistance from other positions forced his company to withdraw, he voluntarily remained behind with 8 others to cover the maneuver. Fighting from a critically dangerous position for 3 hours, he killed more than 25 Japanese before following his surviving companions through screening smoke down the face of the ridge to a gorge where it was discovered that one of the group had been left behind, wounded. Unhesitatingly, Pvt. Moskala climbed the bullet-swept slope to assist in the rescue, and, returning to lower ground, volunteered to protect other wounded while the bulk of the troops quickly took up more favorable positions. He had saved another casualty and killed 4 enemy infiltrators when he was struck and mortally wounded himself while aiding still another disabled soldier. With gallant initiative, unfaltering courage, and heroic determination to destroy the enemy, Pvt. Moskala gave his life in his complete devotion to his company's mission and his comrades' well-being. His intrepid conduct provided a lasting inspiration for those with whom he served.

Private John W. Mostoller (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 18, 1864, at Lynchburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Voluntarily led a charge on a Confederate battery (the officers of the company being disabled) and compelled its hasty removal.


We at I’m just sayin… would like to take a minute to congratulate my good friends Rossiter and Ginny on the birth of their first child (a masculine child), James Edward. They are calling him Gregiter and they have asked me (telepathically via Ross) to be his Blogfather. I, of course, said yes (fyi… this is just between us… don’t tell Ginny).

Let me tell you a classic story about Ross. A few weeks ago I’m at work going over something with my boss. My phone rings and I see that it’s Ross. Now, I know Ginny’s pregnant but I don’t remember exactly when the baby is due, so I tell my boss “Sorry, I really need to take this call”. I step out of his office and answer the phone. Long story short, Ross was calling me regarding a Fantasy Football trade. Fast forward to this week… I had to find out on Facebook that Gregiter had been born and then had to shame Ross (via his brother-in-law and my good friend/banker Michael) into sending me a text to let me know of the birth.

Below is a picture of my little guy with his son…



Flashback Friday

The pictures in this section today are from last December.  This is a reminder to pray for Alicia (who took the pics).  She had her surgery this week.  So pray they got all the cancer and that she has a fast recovery.

 





Picture Tuesday

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Charles E. Morse (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 5, 1864, at Wilderness, Virginia. His citation reads:

Voluntarily rushed back into the enemy's lines, took the colors from the color sergeant, who was mortally wounded, and, although himself wounded, carried them through the fight.

Seaman William Morse (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 19, 1880, on board the USS Shenandoah. His citation reads:

For jumping overboard from the U.S.S. Shenandoah at Rio de Janeiro Brazil, 19 September 1880, and rescuing from drowning James Grady, first class fireman.

Boatswain’s Mate Charles W. Morton (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 23 – 27, 1863, on board the USS Benton. His citation reads:

Serving as boatswain's mate on board the U.S.S. Benton during the Yazoo River Expedition, 23 to 27 December 1863. Taking part in the hour-and-a-half engagement with the enemy at Drumgould's Bluff, 27 December, Morton served courageously throughout the battle against the hostile forces, who had the dead range of the vessel and were punishing her with heavy fire, until the Benton was ordered to withdraw.


Picture Tuesday

I've got some crazy monkey's in my house...

This is still where he sleeps (if he's not in my bed)...



Proverbs 17:27

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Francis Morrison (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 17, 1864, at Bermuda Hundred, Virginia His citation reads:

Voluntarily exposed himself to a heavy fire to bring off a wounded comrade.

Coxswain John G. Morrison (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 15, 1862, on board the U.S.S. Carondelet. His citation reads:

Serving as coxswain on board the U.S.S. Carondelet, Morrison was commended for meritorious conduct in general and especially for his heroic conduct and his inspiring example to the crew in the engagement with the rebel ram Arkansas, Yazoo River, 15 July 1862. When the Carondelet was badly cut up, several of her crew killed, many wounded and others almost suffocated from the effects of escaped steam, Morrison was the leader when boarders were called on deck, and the first to return to the guns and give the ram a broadside as she passed. His presence of mind in time of battle or trial is reported as always conspicuous and encouraging.

Private Benjamin Morse (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 12, 1864, at Spotsylvania, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of colors of 4th Georgia Battery (C.S.A.)


The I’m just sayin… Proverb of the Week
Proverbs 17:27

The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,
       and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.

Let the games begin!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal John Morris (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 25, 1881, on board the U.S. Flagship Lancaster. His citation reads:

For leaping overboard from the U.S. Flagship Lancaster, at Villefranche, France, 25 December 1881, and rescuing from drowning Robert Blizzard, ordinary seaman, a prisoner, who had jumped overboard.

Sergeant William Morris (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 40th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).

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

Gallantry in engagement with Indians.


I just wanted to touch on a couple of things today…

First… College Basketball is back and I know at least two people (me and Jeremy) who are happy about this! I’m excited to see the Winthrop Eagles reclaim their rightful spot at the top of the Big South Conference.

I know this will come as news to a lot of you, but the NBA season is underway. You might remember that I have pulled for the past 4 NBA Champions (Boston Celtics – 2008, Dallas Mavericks – 2011, Miami Heat – 2012 and 2013… The 2009 and 2010 seasons are dead to me because I didn’t follow a team those years and if I did it was in name only, I didn’t really care). Anyway, this year I will be cheering on the Brooklyn Nets as they win it all. There are a number of reasons I have decided to follow Brooklyn, but the biggest is that Jeremy said he thought I’d like them and I assume he put more thought into it than I did. Plus when he told me why he thought I’d like them, I had to agree with him. So, Brooklyn, time to get sized for those championship rings! This is your our season!

Mary Ruth brought home a form from school for us to sign giving her permission to get the flu shot at school (if she’d known what it was for, she probably wouldn’t have shown it to us). The Wife is mad (and rightly so, I might add), because on the form it says that if you don’t have insurance then the shot is free. However, if you do have insurance and for some reason the shot isn’t covered, then you may be charged a fee. Guess who doesn’t have insurance now… (Haha… just kidding ladies and gentlemen at the NSA reading this. No need to rat us out to The President).

Speaking of The President and health care… You know I don’t usually get involved with political stuff because I have enough stuff to complain about. However, I’m starting to look forward to the next person to take the office (whoever that might be). Listen, I didn’t vote for President Obama, but I do feel I have supported his administration a good bit over the years (and by “supported”, I mean I don’t complain about him all the time or call him the devil… but I didn’t vote for him, so I guess I’m using “supported” in the absolute loosest way possible). I’m starting to get tired of him now, though. I don’t mind someone thinking they are smarter than me (most people probably are)… What I do mind is someone thinking they are smarter than me AND thinking I’m stupid (I’m not). So, it seems President Obama has recently said, “What we said was you could keep it if it hasn’t changed since the law was passed,” But…. If you look at the video here you will see that… well… that’s not exactly what was said. Still, I’m not so mad at him for telling the lie over and over (I almost expect politicians to lie)… I’m more mad at how many of my fellow Americans actually believed all of these great changes could take place without anyone really having to foot the bill. But I’m getting off track a little. If you look at the link posted above, you will find this little nugget: “If we had allowed these old plans [to continue]… then we would have broken an even more important promise — making sure that Americans gain access to health care that doesn’t leave them one illness away from financial ruin,” he announced. So, it seems all of this was to make sure “Americans gain access to health care that…”. Well, I’m all for making sure Americans gain access to great health care, but what has happened is that Americans are now forced to have better health care (at a higher cost, most likely). Here’s the thing… There are better cars and houses out there that would probably be better for me and my family, but we don’t have them because we can’t afford them. I would not want to be forced to buy them.

I get up at 4:21 every (weekday) morning to catch the bus downtown to work so that I can make what I make. The Wife drives all over the Charleston metro area doing a dang good job helping people (and making what she makes). Most of our money is already spoken for (home, gas… even with me riding the bus, clothes for these freakin’ kids who keep growing EVERYDAY, food, childcare and so on and so forth). I would love to have the “best” health plan. However, having said plan would mean getting rid of the house and possibly two of the children. That’s why I (and probably most Americans) would like the option to have “cheaper” health care. Having said that, I get to keep my health care so we got lucky… but a lot of people out there didn’t get lucky. And the reasons aren’t adding up for me.


Flashback Friday

I tried to look uglier than Sonny in this picture... I failed.

Da... overflowing with gifts

Stockings hanging for... Dad, Mom, Sonny, Cougar, Brent, Teresa Lynn, Me, Dach and Pepper

Aunt Yvonne, Granny and Mom

Front to back... Jason, me, Granny, Mom, MaMa, Da, Uncle Keith and Aunt JoJo

Da and Sonny

Scott... looking for money that MaMa and Da hid from us (the tradition was they would hide $20 for each of us and we would have to find it)

Me