Happy Birthday Minde!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Technical Sergeant Frank D. Peregory (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 8, 1944, at Grandcampe France. His citation reads:

On 8 June 1944, the 3d Battalion of the 116th Infantry was advancing on the strongly held German defenses at Grandcampe, France, when the leading elements were suddenly halted by decimating machinegun fire from a firmly entrenched enemy force on the high ground overlooking the town. After numerous attempts to neutralize the enemy position by supporting artillery and tank fire had proved ineffective, T/Sgt. Peregory, on his own initiative, advanced up the hill under withering fire, and worked his way to the crest where he discovered an entrenchment leading to the main enemy fortifications 200 yards away. Without hesitating, he leaped into the trench and moved toward the emplacement. Encountering a squad of enemy riflemen, he fearlessly attacked them with handgrenades and bayonet, killed 8 and forced 3 to surrender. Continuing along the trench, he single-handedly forced the surrender of 32 more riflemen, captured the machine gunners, and opened the way for the leading elements of the battalion to advance and secure its objective. The extraordinary gallantry and aggressiveness displayed by T/Sgt. Peregory are exemplary of the highest tradition of the armed forces.

Private First Class Manuel Perez, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 13, 1945, at Fort William McKinley, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

He was lead scout for Company A, which had destroyed 11 of 12 pillboxes in a strongly fortified sector defending the approach to enemy-held Fort William McKinley on Luzon, Philippine Islands. In the reduction of these pillboxes, he killed 5 Japanese in the open and blasted others in pillboxes with grenades. Realizing the urgent need for taking the last emplacement, which contained 2 twin-mount .50-caliber dual-purpose machineguns, he took a circuitous route to within 20 yards of the position, killing 4 of the enemy in his advance. He threw a grenade into the pillbox, and, as the crew started withdrawing through a tunnel just to the rear of the emplacement, shot and killed 4 before exhausting his clip. He had reloaded and killed 4 more when an escaping Japanese threw his rifle with fixed bayonet at him. In warding off this thrust, his own rifle was knocked to the ground. Seizing the Jap rifle, he continued firing, killing 2 more of the enemy. He rushed the remaining Japanese, killed 3 of them with the butt of the rifle and entered the pillbox, where he bayoneted the 1 surviving hostile soldier. Single-handedly, he killed 18 of the enemy in neutralizing the position that had held up the advance of his entire company. Through his courageous determination and heroic disregard of grave danger, Pfc. Perez made possible the successful advance of his unit toward a valuable objective and provided a lasting inspiration for his comrades.

Private First Class Michael J. Perkins (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 27, 1918, at Belieu Bois, France. His citation reads:

He, voluntarily and alone, crawled to a German "pill box" machinegun emplacement, from which grenades were being thrown at his platoon. Awaiting his opportunity, when the door was again opened and another grenade thrown, he threw a bomb inside, bursting the door open, and then, drawing his trench knife, rushed into the emplacement. In a hand-to-hand struggle he killed or wounded several of the occupants and captured about 25 prisoners, at the same time silencing 7 machineguns.


We just wanted to take a minute today to wish our good friend Minde a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! We hope she has a great day!!!!!!

We’d also like to wish Sonny a VERY HAPPY JUST ANOTHER DAY ON THE CALENDAR!!!!!!!! Sonny doesn’t believe in birthdays and at his age, who can blame him? Out of respect for my elder brother, I won’t have the kids and Maverick sing and make a big deal out of this day. If you want to know how old he is, look at the number on Levon Kirkland’s college uniform.


Various things that were said at lunch with Susan and Aunt Yvonne over Easter Weekend…

Sonny and Teresa Lynn were accidents. – I don’t remember exactly who said this… maybe Aunt Yvonne… probably me

My parents had me so (my cousin) Louis would have a playmate.

“She’s going over to tell them she isn’t paying for their lunch.” – I said this to Susan as Aunt Yvonne got up and went to see Cougar, Allison and Leah (who came into the restaurant right after we had ordered out food. …

Aunt Yvonne told us about how she would babysit Sonny when he was a baby (which was a loooong time ago). She would drive with Sonny next to her in a baby seat that hung on the front seat. I told Susan that she did that so Sonny could hold her PBR and so Aunt Yvonne could keep a back-up cigarette tucked behind Sonny’s ear. It was a simpler time back then so I feel like we shouldn’t judge. For the record, I think Aunt Yvonne denied my version of things… but I’m not sure… Susan and I were laughing too hard to really hear her.

I do feel like my version of things might explain why Sonny didn’t talk until he was in college. When he was a baby hanging out with Aunt Yvonne, she probably said, “Don’t you EVER say anything about this to anyone!” and Sonny, with his short attention span, just heard “Don’t you EVER say anything!”

Honestly, by the time I was done talking, I’m pretty sure Aunt Yvonne denied even knowing Sonny…

Susan asked Aunt Yvonne if I am really her favorite… Aunt Yvonne just looked away and pretended like she didn’t hear the question.

We talked about other things, but since I promised not to talk about any of this on the blog, I feel like I should keep at least some things secret.

Oh… before I go… we did figure out that I do a pretty good impersonation of my cousin Alan doing an impersonation of Aunt Yvonne laughing.

One last thing... I killed a rat in my backyard while cutting the grass yesterday.  There I was, cutting the grass minding my own business when I saw Maverick and Scooby running up and down the fence barking.  That wasn't too unusual, but they were looking up as they were running.  That's when I saw the little sonofabitch running back and forth on the top of the fence.  I went to grab the trench-shovel that I keep on the top of the shed for whenever I want to kill a snake or rat (or Scooby if I finally snap) and went to help.  It looked like the rat was going to make a break for the woods when Scooby jumped up and made him run back my way.  I knocked the rat off the fence and then stabbed it in the neck.  Scooby then picked up the rat until I yelled at him to drop it (he wasn't going to take credit for my kill).  Poor Mavi (he's getting old and can't see like a young pup anymore) was still running up and down the fence trying to find where the rat went.  I tried to call him over, but he was so focused that I couldn't get his attention.  So I scooped the rat up in the shovel and put it in front of his face.  The little jackass picked up the rat and tried to act like he killed it until I yelled at him to drop it.  I then tossed the rat into the woods to let all of its little friends know what happens when you come into my backyard. 

Remember that tomorrow starts out TV countdown!!!!

Matthew 28:18-20

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

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

Gallantly led the charge over a traverse and planted the colors of one of his regiments thereon, was severely wounded.

Sergeant Richard A. Penry (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 31, 1970, at Binh Tuy 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. Sgt. Penry, Company C, distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman during a night ambush mission. As the platoon was preparing the ambush position, it suddenly came under an intense enemy attack from mortar, rocket, and automatic weapons fire which seriously wounded the company commander and most of the platoon members, leaving small isolated groups of wounded men throughout the area. Sgt. Penry, seeing the extreme seriousness of the situation, worked his way through the deadly enemy fire to the company command post where he administered first aid to the wounded company commander and other personnel. He then moved the command post to a position which provided greater protection and visual communication and control of other platoon elements. Realizing the company radio was damaged and recognizing the urgent necessity to reestablish communications with the battalion headquarters, he ran outside the defensive perimeter through a fusillade of hostile fire to retrieve a radio. Finding it inoperable, Sgt. Penry returned through heavy fire to retrieve 2 more radios. Turning his attention to the defense of the area, he crawled to the edge of the perimeter, retrieved needed ammunition and weapons and resupplied the wounded men. During a determined assault by over 30 enemy soldiers, Sgt. Penry occupied the most vulnerable forward position placing heavy, accurate fire on the attacking enemy and exposing himself several times to throw hand grenades into the advancing enemy troops. He succeeded virtually single-handedly in stopping the attack. Learning that none of the radios were operable, Sgt. Penry again crawled outside the defensive perimeter, retrieved a fourth radio and established communications with higher headquarters. Sgt. Penry then continued to administer first aid to the wounded and repositioned them to better repel further enemy attacks. Despite continuous and deadly sniper fire, he again left the defensive perimeter, moved to within a few feet of enemy positions, located 5 isolated wounded soldiers, and led them to safety. When evacuation helicopters approached, Sgt. Penry voluntarily left the perimeter, set up a guiding beacon, established the priorities for evacuation and successively carried 18 wounded men to the extraction site. After all wounded personnel had been evacuated, Sgt. Penry joined another platoon and assisted in the pursuit of the enemy. Sgt. Penry's extraordinary heroism at the risk of his own life are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Captain Patrick H. Pentzer (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 9, 1865, at Blakely, Alabama. His citation reads:

Among the first to enter the enemy's entrenchments, he received the surrender of a Confederate general officer and his headquarters flag.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Matthew 28:18-20

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Picture time!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

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

Gallantry in action.

Fireman First Class Robert Penn (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 20, 1898, on board the U.S.S. Iowa. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Iowa off Santiago de Cuba, 20 July 1898. Performing his duty at the risk of serious scalding at the time of the blowing out of the manhole gasket on board the vessel, Penn hauled the fire while standing on a board thrown across a coal bucket 1 foot above the boiling water which was still blowing from the boiler.

Sergeant Josiah Pennsyl (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 11, 1874, at Upper Washita, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.


We had a great time this past Easter Weekend at The Lake. Thanks to Mom and Dad and Deeny and Jim for letting us come. I had a blast going out to lunch with my Aunt Yvonne (I’m her favorite nephew and… frankly… child in general) and my cousin Susan (she likes me ok… but she hates that I’m Aunt Yvonne’s favorite). Anyway, Aunt Yvonne didn’t want to go to lunch with just Susan, so she offered to pay for my meal if I drove them into town. She was just going to pay for mine, but I was able to talk her into paying for Susan, too (I felt it was only fair since we took Susan’s car). The longest part of the trip was me trying to back out of the driveway. If you’ve never been to the lake, you don’t know how hard of a task this was. Even if you have been, you don’t know how hard it was to do with Aunt Yvonne sitting in the front seat. I think it’s safe to say she had zero faith in my ability to do what I was trying to do. I say that it’s safe to say that because that’s pretty much what she did say as I was trying to focus. A lesser man would have been offended, but I was too busy laughing (and I don’t mean “Haha” laughing, I mean laughing so hard that my eyes were starting to water). Anyway, we lived and made it out of there alive. I would love to tell you all about what we talked about… but I have to wait until the statute of limitations expires (so check back next week).


Picture Thursday

We got there Thursday night which gave me a chance to burn stuff with Dad and Jim on Friday morning.

At lunch with Susan and Aunt Yvonne... both were texting me.  Susan: "OMG... I wish Mom would have just given us money and let us eat by ourselves."  Aunt Yvonne: "I sure do wish Susan had stayed at the house and let us come here by ourselves.  Do I really have to pay for her, too?" 

Aunt Yvonne tried to block Susan, but I said she could be in the picture too... so Aunt Yvonne decided to hold the hand of her favorite.

Ok, this part is true... We went to get ice cream and I ordered a single scoop in a cone.  The girl behind the counter gave me two scoops.  Aunt Yvonne looked at me as if to say, "That's not what you ordered".  I shook my head and gave her the "Don't worry, I know what's going on here" look.  When we got to the table, I explained to her that while I said one scoop, the girl behind the counter looked at me and thought, "Yeah right, fat boy, you haven't had just one scoop of ice cream since before I was born".  And everyone knows, give a big man one scoop when he ordered two, and there'll be hell to pay.  But give him two when he only ordered one and you'll never get in trouble. 

Susie showing off her Bootjack boots

She loves her boots... and having her picture taken

Daniel showing Sonny his favorite hold

The weather was bad, but the kids still got to play on the slide

Susie said she wasn't sleepy... I didn't believe her

Daniel loves that hold...



HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEAH!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Master Sergeant Mike C. Pena (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 4, 1950, at Waegwan, Korea. His citation reads:

Pena is being recognized for his actions on the evening of Sept. 4, 1950, near Waegwan, Korea, when his unit was fiercely attacked. During the course of the counter-attack, Pena realized that their ammunition was running out, and ordered his unit to retreat. Pena then manned a machine-gun to cover their withdrawal. He single-handedly held back the enemy until morning when his position was overrun, and he was killed.

Corporal Charles F. Pendleton (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 17, 1953, near Choo Gung-Dong, Korea. His citation reads:

Cpl. Pendleton, a machine gunner with Company D, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and indomitable courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. After consolidating and establishing a defensive perimeter on a key terrain feature, friendly elements were attacked by a large hostile force. Cpl. Pendleton delivered deadly accurate fire into the approaching troops, killing approximately 15 and disorganizing the remainder with grenades. Unable to protect the flanks because of the narrow confines of the trench, he removed the machine gun from the tripod and, exposed to enemy observation, positioned it on his knee to improve his firing vantage. Observing a hostile infantryman jumping into the position, intent on throwing a grenade at his comrades, he whirled about and killed the attacker, then inflicted such heavy casualties on the enemy force that they retreated to regroup. After reorganizing, a second wave of hostile soldiers moved forward in an attempt to overrun the position and, later, when a hostile grenade landed nearby, Cpl. Pendleton quickly retrieved and hurled it back at the foe. Although he was burned by the hot shells ejecting from his weapon, and he was wounded by a grenade, he refused evacuation and continued to fire on the assaulting force. As enemy action increased in tempo, his machine gun was destroyed by a grenade but, undaunted, he grabbed a carbine and continued his heroic defense until mortally wounded by a mortar burst. Cpl. Pendleton's unflinching courage, gallant self-sacrifice, and consummate devotion to duty reflect lasting glory upon himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.

Staff Sergeant Jack J. Pendleton (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 12, 1944, at Bardenberg, Germany. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty on 12 October 1944. When Company I was advancing on the town of Bardenberg, Germany, they reached a point approximately two-thirds of the distance through the town when they were pinned down by fire from a nest of enemy machineguns. This enemy strong point was protected by a lone machinegun strategically placed at an intersection and firing down a street which offered little or no cover or concealment for the advancing troops. The elimination of this protecting machinegun was imperative in order that the stronger position it protected could be neutralized. After repeated and unsuccessful attempts had been made to knock out this position, S/Sgt. Pendleton volunteered to lead his squad in an attempt to neutralize this strongpoint. S/Sgt. Pendleton started his squad slowly forward, crawling about 10 yards in front of his men in the advance toward the enemy gun. After advancing approximately 130 yards under the withering fire, S/Sgt. Pendleton was seriously wounded in the leg by a burst from the gun he was assaulting. Disregarding his grievous wound, he ordered his men to remain where they were, and with a supply of handgrenades he slowly and painfully worked his way forward alone. With no hope of surviving the veritable hail of machinegun fire which he deliberately drew onto himself, he succeeded in advancing to within 10 yards of the enemy position when he was instantly killed by a burst from the enemy gun. By deliberately diverting the attention of the enemy machine gunners upon himself, a second squad was able to advance, undetected, and with the help of S/Sgt. Pendleton's squad, neutralized the lone machinegun, while another platoon of his company advanced up the intersecting street and knocked out the machinegun nest which the first gun had been covering. S/Sgt. Pendleton's sacrifice enabled the entire company to continue the advance and complete their mission at a critical phase of the action.


Happy Birthday to my sweet niece Leah (Teresa Lynn’s oldest)!!!!!!! I’m sure I’ve said this before (& hope I say it again every year on her birthday), but I remember the day she was born. I was a sophomore at Winthrop living in Richardson. I came back to my room after taking a shower and saw a note from my roommate that my sister had her baby. So I called Teresa Lynn to find out all the important things (I was going to be a “good uncle” and write down things like size, weight, name… knowing that I would only really remember the name part). I asked the important questions and, as I suspected, I have since forgotten all of the answers… except one. When I asked for her name, I was given the always memorable answer of “We don’t know yet”. Now, I don’t know how long Teresa Lynn knew she was pregnant, but let’s be conservative and say she knew she was pregnant for at least 6 months. That’s six months she knew she’d need to have a name picked out. I don’t remember if she knew she was having a boy or girl, but I think it’s safe to say she knew it would be either a boy or a girl. So, knowing this information, we now can safely assume that Teresa Lynn had 6 months to pick a boy name and/or a girl name. 20 year old Greg with no children (which I was back then) thought that this was plenty of time to come up with a name. 35 year old Greg with 3 children can confirm that 20 year old Greg with no children was, as I suspected, completely right. I don’t remember how long it took Teresa Lynn and Brent to pick a name, but I think it was more than a day. Anyway, HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEAH!!!!!!!!! WE hope you have a GREAT day!!!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Jeremy & KC!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Technician Fifth Grade Forrest E. Peden (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 3, 1945, near Biesheim, France. His citation reads:

He was a forward artillery observer when the group of about 45 infantrymen with whom he was advancing was ambushed in the uncertain light of a waning moon. Enemy forces outnumbering the Americans by 4 to 1 poured withering artillery, mortar, machinegun, and small-arms fire into the stricken unit from the flanks, forcing our men to seek the cover of a ditch which they found already occupied by enemy foot troops. As the opposing infantrymen struggled in hand-to-hand combat, Technician Peden courageously went to the assistance of 2 wounded soldiers and rendered first aid under heavy fire. With radio communications inoperative, he realized that the unit would be wiped out unless help could be secured from the rear. On his own initiative, he ran 800 yards to the battalion command post through a hail of bullets which pierced his jacket and there secured 2 light tanks to go to the relief of his hard-pressed comrades. Knowing the terrible risk involved, he climbed upon the hull of the lead tank and guided it into battle. Through a murderous concentration of fire the tank lumbered onward, bullets and shell fragments ricocheting from its steel armor within inches of the completely exposed rider, until it reached the ditch. As it was about to go into action it was turned into a flaming pyre by a direct hit which killed Technician Peden. However, his intrepidity and gallant sacrifice was not in vain. Attracted by the light from the burning tank, reinforcements found the beleaguered Americans and drove off the enemy.

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

Capture of flag.

Landsman William Pelham (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864, on board the U.S.S. Hartford. His citation reads:

On board the flagship U.S.S. Hartford during successful actions against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. When the other members of his guncrew were killed or wounded under the enemy's terrific shellfire, Pelham calmly assisted the casualties below and voluntarily returned and took his place at an adjoining gun where another man had been struck down. He continued to fight his gun throughout the remainder of the battle which resulted in the capture of the Tennessee.


Just wanted to swing by the office today to wish my good friends Jeremy and KC a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! Both guys are getting closer to “milestone” birthdays (Jeremy 40, KC 50), but they still have a few more years until they reach them. Anyway, Happy Birthday fellas… I hope y’all have a great one!

HAPPY EASTER!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Cassius Peck (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 19, 1862, near Blackburn's Ford, Virginia. His citation reads:

Took command of such soldiers as he could get and attacked and captured a Confederate battery of 4 guns. Also, while on a reconnaissance, overtook and captured a Confederate soldier.

Second Class Boy Oscar E. Peck (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 24, 1862, on board the Varuna. His citation reads:

Peck served as second_class boy on board the Varuna during an attack on Forts Jackson and St. Philip, 24 April 1862. Acting as powder boy of the after rifle, Peck served gallantly while the Varuna was repeatedly attacked and rammed and finally sunk. This was an extremely close_range action and, although badly damaged, the Varuna delivered shells abaft the Morgan's armor.

First Lieutenant Theodore S. Peck (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 2, 1864, at Newport Barracks, North Carolina. His citation reads:

By long and persistent resistance and burning the bridges, kept a superior force of the enemy at bay and covered the retreat of the garrison.


Happy Easter! As you will remember, this is our favorite religious holiday at I’m just sayin…. We hope all of you have a great day!


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
John 20:1-9

1Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

3So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. 4Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. 6Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, 7as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. 8Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. 9(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)

I won!!!!! (suck it, family)

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Harl Pease, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 6-7, 1942, over New Guinea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy on 6-7 August 1942. When 1 engine of the bombardment airplane of which he was pilot failed during a bombing mission over New Guinea, Capt. Pease was forced to return to a base in Australia. Knowing that all available airplanes of his group were to participate the next day in an attack on an enemy-held airdrome near Rabaul, New Britain, although he was not scheduled to take part in this mission, Capt. Pease selected the most serviceable airplane at this base and prepared it for combat, knowing that it had been found and declared unserviceable for combat missions. With the members of his combat crew, who volunteered to accompany him, he rejoined his squadron at Port Moresby, New Guinea, at 1 a.m. on 7 August, after having flown almost continuously since early the preceding morning. With only 3 hours' rest, he took off with his squadron for the attack. Throughout the long flight to Rabaul, New Britain, he managed by skillful flying of his unserviceable airplane to maintain his position in the group. When the formation was intercepted by about 30 enemy fighter airplanes before reaching the target, Capt. Pease, on the wing which bore the brunt of the hostile attack, by gallant action and the accurate shooting by his crew, succeeded in destroying several Zeros before dropping his bombs on the hostile base as planned, this in spite of continuous enemy attacks. The fight with the enemy pursuit lasted 25 minutes until the group dived into cloud cover. After leaving the target, Capt. Pease's aircraft fell behind the balance of the group due to unknown difficulties as a result of the combat, and was unable to reach this cover before the enemy pursuit succeeded in igniting 1 of his bomb bay tanks. He was seen to drop the flaming tank. It is believed that Capt. Pease's airplane and crew were subsequently shot down in flames, as they did not return to their base. In voluntarily performing this mission Capt. Pease contributed materially to the success of the group, and displayed high devotion to duty, valor, and complete contempt for personal danger. His undaunted bravery has been a great inspiration to the officers and men of his unit.

Seaman Joachim Pease (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 19, 1864, on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge. His citation reads:

Served as seaman on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as loader on the No. 2 gun during this bitter engagement, Pease exhibited marked coolness and good conduct and was highly recommended by the divisional officer for gallantry under fire.

Private Archie A. Peck (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 6, 1918, in the Argonne Forest, France. His citation reads:

While engaged with 2 other soldiers on patrol duty, he and his comrades were subjected to the direct fire of an enemy machinegun, at which time both his companions were wounded. Returning to his company, he obtained another soldier to accompany him to assist in bringing in the wounded men. His assistant was killed in the exploit, but he continued on, twice returning safely bringing in both men, being under terrific machinegun fire during the entire Journey.


The Wife and I now each have an iPhone 5… so maybe this will help me when Mom and Dad call me asking for help using theirs.

When you ask a former ball player what it is he misses most now that his playing days are over, chances are very good he will say “the guys”. I don’t care what level the person played, I’d wager that 99% of guys would answer this way. Nobody ever misses practice (PRACTICE?!)… some might miss playing the game and hearing people cheer for them… but almost everyone misses hanging out with their teammates. Watching the video below reminded me of how much I miss hanging out with my old JI teammates. We never did anything like this… but God how I wish we had. Just to warn you, by the end of this video I had tears in my eyes.

Some people have asked me for the results of the I’m just sayin… Family Bracket Challenge. Well, here you go (each correct pick was worth 1 point).

5. Susie: 14
3 (tie). Mary Ruth: 25
3 (tie). Jennifer: 25
2. Daniel: 27

1. And the REPEAT CHAMPION of the I’m just sayin… Family Bracket Challenge with 38 total points is……… ME!!!!!!!!

I’m going to be honest… until I totaled up everything; I really thought Daniel or Mary Ruth might have beaten me. But looking back I crushed them, so I shouldn’t have been worried. I am impressed that Daniel came in second place.


Picture Thursday

Poor Susie... good thing she didn't bet any money

Mary Ruth tried real hard (and did pretty good in the first round)... maybe she'll have better luck next year.

Daniel did a lot better than I thought he would

#1!  #1!  #1!  #1!

I won't name any names, but what you're looking at here is a grown-ass man eating a chili dog with a fork.  To be fair, Jeremy... um.... the guy in the picture... did take the first couple of bites the right way but called an audible to avoid causing a huge mess.  Still...

Mary Ruth found a basket full of Easter Eggs at the Bethany Easter Egg Hunt (or whatever they called it).  I think Susie and Daniel found a lot too, but I wasn't with them (The Wife was)

This is what I left in my bed yesterday morning at 4:55 as I left to catch the bus for work... Susie's head is on Daniel's hip



HAPPY BIRTHDAY SALLY!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Lieutenant Thomas H.L. Payne (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 9, 1865, at Fort Blakely, Alabama. His citation reads:

While acting regimental quartermaster, learning of an expected assault, requested assignment to a company that had no commissioned officers present; was so assigned, and was one of the first to lead his men into the enemy's works.

Corporal Platt Pearsall (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."

Colonel Alfred L. Pearson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 29, 1865, at Lewis’ Farm, Virginia. His citation reads:

Seeing a brigade forced back by the enemy, he seized his regimental color, called on his men to follow him, and advanced upon the enemy under a severe fire. The whole brigade took up the advance, the lost ground was regained, and the enemy was repulsed.


Today we’d like to wish our dear friend and Labor Day Cousin Sally a VERRY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We hope she has a GREAT day!!!!!!


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
John 12:13

They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting,
    “Hosanna!”
    “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
   “Blessed is the king of Israel!”

Cory didn't win

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Byron E. Pay (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 15, 1863, at Nolensville, Tennessee. His citation reads:

Was one of a detachment of 16 men who heroically defended a wagon train against the attack of 125 cavalry, repulsed the attack and saved the train.

Corporal Irvin C. Payne (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 6, 1865, at Sailors Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of Virginia State colors.

Trumpeter Isaac Payne (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 25, 1875, at Pecos River, Texas. His citation reads:

With 3 other men, he participated in a charge against 25 hostiles while on a scouting patrol.


If you missed Sonny’s sermon from March 30, you need to check it out. I don’t want to speak for Sonny, but I’m pretty sure the “lesson” of his sermon was that God loves the youngest son. I guess others could get something else from the sermon… if they don’t really pay attention.

Unfortunately, my friend Cory didn’t win the Bridge Run. I’m sure wearing a cloak and sword slowed him down…

Some of you have been asking if Sonny and I are following an American League team this season. My answer to you is... yes, we are. However, this year we have decided to do a little more research than we did last year. Therefore, this year we will do some research and decide who we are going to cheer for by late September/early October.


Picture Thursday

Some more Daniel birthday pictures

Daniel playing ball with Trixie

Saw this picture on the interweb... If I owned a lake house, I might invest in a couple or ten of these 

Daniel would hold the ball and count to 24 (more or less) and then throw the ball.  I can't figure out why Trixie kept taking the ball back to him...

Mary Ruth won the Math Wizard contest for 2nd graders at her school!!!!  Suck it, Sonny!

Susie at her school's Hop-A-Thon.  The sticker on her shirt is for a little boy that The Wife sees.



John 3:18

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Specialist Fourth Class Robert Martin Patterson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 6, 1968, near La Chu, 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. Sgt. Patterson (then Sp4c.) distinguished himself while serving as a fire team leader of the 3d Platoon, Troop B, during an assault against a North Vietnamese Army battalion which was entrenched in a heavily fortified position. When the leading squad of the 3d Platoon was pinned down by heavy interlocking automatic weapon and rocket propelled grenade fire from 2 enemy bunkers, Sgt. Patterson and the 2 other members of his assault team moved forward under a hail of enemy fire to destroy the bunkers with grenade and machinegun fire. Observing that his comrades were being fired on from a third enemy bunker covered by enemy gunners in l-man spider holes, Sgt. Patterson, with complete disregard for his safety and ignoring the warning of his comrades that he was moving into a bunker complex, assaulted and destroyed the position. Although exposed to intensive small arm and grenade fire from the bunkers and their mutually supporting emplacements. Sgt. Patterson continued his assault upon the bunkers which were impeding the advance of his unit. Sgt. Patterson single-handedly destroyed by rifle and grenade fire 5 enemy bunkers, killed 8 enemy soldiers and captured 7 weapons. His dauntless courage and heroism inspired his platoon to resume the attack and to penetrate the enemy defensive position. Sgt. Patterson's action at the risk of his life has reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Lance Corporal Joe C. Paul (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 18, 1965, near Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. In violent battle, L/Cpl. Paul's platoon sustained 5 casualties as it was temporarily pinned down, by devastating mortar, recoilless rifle, automatic weapons, and rifle fire delivered by insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in well entrenched positions. The wounded marines were unable to move from their perilously exposed positions forward of the remainder of their platoon, and were suddenly subjected to a barrage of white phosphorous rifle grenades. L/Cpl. Paul, fully aware that his tactics would almost certainly result in serious injury or death to himself, chose to disregard his safety and boldly dashed across the fire-swept rice paddies, placed himself between his wounded comrades and the enemy, and delivered effective suppressive fire with his automatic weapon in order to divert the attack long enough to allow the casualties to be evacuated. Although critically wounded during the course of the battle, he resolutely remained in his exposed position and continued to fire his rifle until he collapsed and was evacuated. By his fortitude and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death, he saved the lives of several of his fellow marines. His heroic action served to inspire all who observed him and reflect the highest credit upon himself, the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the cause of freedom.

Private William H. Paul (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 17, 1862, at Antietam, Maryland. His citation reads:

Under a most withering and concentrated fire, voluntarily picked up the colors of his regiment, when the bearer and 2 of the color guard had been killed, and bore them aloft throughout the entire battle.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
John 3:18

Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

Runnin on Empty

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Joel Parsons (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."

First Lieutenant John H. Patterson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 5, 1864, at Wilderness, Virginia. His citation reads:

Under the heavy fire of the advancing enemy, picked up and carried several hundred yards to a place of safety a wounded officer of his regiment who was helpless and would otherwise have been burned in the forest.

Principal Musician John T. Patterson (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 14, 1863, at Winchester, Virginia. His citation reads:

With one companion, voluntarily went in front of the Union line, under a heavy fire from the enemy, and carried back a helpless wounded comrade, thus saving him from death or capture.


I was asked if I would be running in The Bridge Run this weekend. I laughed. Let’s be clear, my decision has nothing to do with being fat (though that doesn’t hurt)… I’ve always been against running (even when I was in shape). I grew up with running being a punishment… not something you just did for “fun”.

If you are running the bridge this weekend and see a guy in a Game of Thrones costume, it’s probably my friend Cory.

The Flowertown Festival is also this weekend. Have fun if you go to it. I swore off that event years ago when I was told that walking down the street while drinking a PBR was frowned upon in this town. Well, friends, that’s not the Summerville I grew up hearing about… so until the town relaxes its rules (or, even better, makes an exception for me), I will not be at its main event.


Picture Thursday

Mary Ruth and Daniel having fun at the park

Susie loves this dress and these boots

We went to get some ice cream after playing in the park

Scooby fell asleep with a toy basketball in his mouth...

Ice cream on a different day... we like ice cream



HAPPY BIRTHDAY OUR FAVORITE NURSE JEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Lieutenant William R. Parnell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 17, 1877, at White Bird Canyon, Idaho. His citation reads:

With a few men, in the face of a heavy fire from pursuing Indians and at imminent peril, returned and rescued a soldier whose horse had been killed and who had been left behind in the retreat.

Technician Fourth Grade Laverne Parrish (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 18-24, 1945, at Binalonan, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

He was medical aid man with Company C during the fighting in Binalonan, Luzon, Philippine Islands. On the 18th, he observed 2 wounded men under enemy fire and immediately went to their rescue. After moving 1 to cover, he crossed 25 yards of open ground to administer aid to the second. In the early hours of the 24th, his company, crossing an open field near San Manuel, encountered intense enemy fire and was ordered to withdraw to the cover of a ditch. While treating the casualties, Technician Parrish observed 2 wounded still in the field. Without hesitation he left the ditch, crawled forward under enemy fire, and in 2 successive trips brought both men to safety. He next administered aid to 12 casualties in the same field, crossing and re-crossing the open area raked by hostile fire. Making successive trips, he then brought 3 wounded in to cover. After treating nearly all of the 37 casualties suffered by his company, he was mortally wounded by mortar fire, and shortly after was killed. The indomitable spirit, intrepidity, and gallantry of Technician Parrish saved many lives at the cost of his own.

Private Jacob Parrott (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during April 1862, in Georgia. His citation reads:

Rank and organization: Private, Company K, 33d Ohio Infantry. Place and date: Georgia, April 1862. Entered service at: Hardin County, Ohio. Birth: 17 July 1843, Fairfield County, Ohio. Date of issue: 25 March 1863. Citation: One of the 19 of 22 men (including 2 civilians) who, by direction of Gen. Mitchell (or Buell) penetrated nearly 200 miles south into enemy territory and captured a railroad train at Big Shanty, Ga., in an attempt to destroy the bridges and tracks between Chattanooga and Atlanta.


Today we’d like to wish our Favorite Nurse Jen a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!! We hope Danny (yes, that Danny) and the girls make it a GREAT one!!!!

If you missed the series finale of Psych, then you missed a GREAT show. I was worried going into it that it would be a disappointment, but it wasn’t. I’m happy that the show was able to go out on a high note.

Speaking of great shows, did you see NCIS is going to have another spin-off? NCIS: New Orleans was introduced in part 1 of a two part episode last week on NCIS. It looked pretty good to me. Part 2 is tonight… I can’t wait to watch it.

I had a great time at a couple of Retirement Parties for my Aunt Yvonne. I learned on Friday night that me showing up at her house to go out to eat with her and my Uncle George and my cousins is apparently not at all out of the ordinary and in no way sends up red flags that a surprise party is going to be held at the restaurant. I also learned that I look like Shrek when I stand next to my cousin Susan.