Matthew 26:52-54

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Specialist Fourth Class Gordon R. Roberts (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 11, 1969, at Thua Thien 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. Roberts distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman in Company B, during combat operations. Sgt. Roberts' platoon was maneuvering along a ridge to attack heavily fortified enemy bunker positions which had pinned down an adjoining friendly company. As the platoon approached the enemy positions, it was suddenly pinned down by heavy automatic weapons and grenade fire from camouflaged enemy fortifications atop the overlooking hill. Seeing his platoon immobilized and in danger of failing in its mission, Sgt. Roberts crawled rapidly toward the closest enemy bunker. With complete disregard for his safety, he leaped to his feet and charged the bunker, firing as he ran. Despite the intense enemy fire directed at him, Sgt. Roberts silenced the 2-man bunker. Without hesitation, Sgt. Roberts continued his l-man assault on a second bunker. As he neared the second bunker, a burst of enemy fire knocked his rifle from his hands. Sgt. Roberts picked up a rifle dropped by a comrade and continued his assault, silencing the bunker. He continued his charge against a third bunker and destroyed it with well-thrown hand grenades. Although Sgt. Roberts was now cut off from his platoon, he continued his assault against a fourth enemy emplacement. He fought through a heavy hail of fire to join elements of the adjoining company which had been pinned down by the enemy fire. Although continually exposed to hostile fire, he assisted in moving wounded personnel from exposed positions on the hilltop to an evacuation area before returning to his unit. By his gallant and selfless actions, Sgt. Roberts contributed directly to saving the lives of his comrades and served as an inspiration to his fellow soldiers in the defeat of the enemy force. Sgt. Roberts' extraordinary heroism in action at the risk of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

Corporal Harold W. Roberts (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 4, 1918, in the Montrebeau Woods France. His citation reads:

Cpl. Roberts, a tank driver, was moving his tank into a clump of bushes to afford protection to another tank which had become disabled. The tank slid into a shell hole, 10 feet deep, filled with water, and was immediately submerged. Knowing that only 1 of the 2 men in the tank could escape, Cpl. Roberts said to the gunner, "Well, only one of us can get out, and out you go," whereupon he pushed his companion through the back door of the tank and was himself drowned.

Seaman James Roberts (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 23, 1864, on board the U.S.S. Agawan. His citation reads:

Roberts served on board the U.S.S. Agawan, as one of a volunteer crew of a powder boat which was exploded near Fort Fisher, 23 December 1864. The powder boat, towed in by the Wilderness to prevent detection by the enemy, cast off and slowly steamed to within 300 yards of the beach. After fuses and fires had been lit and a second anchor with short scope let go to assure the boat's tailing inshore, the crew again boarded the Wilderness and proceeded a distance of 12 miles from shore. Less than 2 hours later the explosion took place and the following day fires were observed still burning at the fort.


Don’t forget to donate here to my 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s!!!! Remember, give early and often!!!!!


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Matthew 26:52-54

52 “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. 53 Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54 But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”

Labor Day Weekend is here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Marcus M. Robbins (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 23, 1875, at Sappa Creek, Kansas. His citation reads:

With 5 other men he waded in mud and water up the creek to a position directly behind an entrenched Cheyenne position, who were using natural bank pits to good advantage against the main column. This surprise attack from the enemy rear broke their resistance.

Second Lieutenant Charles D. Roberts (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 1, 1898, at El Caney, Cuba. His citation reads:

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

Machinist’s Mate First Class Charles Church Roberts (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 8, 1910, at on board the U.S.S. North Dakota. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. North Dakota; for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession during the fire on board that vessel, 8 September 1910.


Don’t forget to donate here to my 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s!!!! Remember, give early and often!!!!!

We’ve made it to my favorite weekend of the year! I’ve made it now secret that this is the greatest non-religious holiday in these United States of America. I can’t wait to see my Labor Day family later today. This is going to be a great weekend!!!!!!!!!!


As many of you know, I grew up in a good Christian Clemson home where I was taught to fear God, love Jesus, and hate UGA and USC. To this day, if someone ends a prayer with “And all God’s children said” I have to fight the urge to say “Go Tigers” (because that’s what Dad’s friend Winston would say at the end of the pre-game prayers in Death Valley… he had a deep, quite voice and I would always crack up when he’d say it). Over the years my hate of USC has faded, to be replaced by UNC and Coastal Carolina… but my hate of UGA has remained as firm as my fear of God and love of Jesus. Listen, I’ve had family and friend (as in, I think just 1 friend) go to UGA and they are good people… so I’m not trying to say that everyone who goes there is bad or that everyone who cheers for them is bad. That’s silly. I’m just saying that everyone who isn’t my friend (or family) who goes there or cheers for them is bad. Anyway, I tell you all of this to say that I find myself really liking Herschel Walker (the greatest UGA football player). It all started around the beginning of this month when the brother of a co-worker of mine had to go to the VA down here for an in-patient procedure. One night while this guy was in bed watching TV, in walks Herschel Walker to say hello and see how he was doing. It seems Herschel goes around visiting VA hospitals (maybe other hospitals, too… I’m not sure) from time to time. I would have never known if not for my co-worker’s brother being in there. There wasn’t anything in the news about it. And that is what made me stop and change my views. Now, I think that everyone who isn’t my friend (or my family… or Herschel Walker) who goes to UGA or cheers for them is bad.

I also listened to a pretty recent interview Herschel gave and it made me like him even more. I’ve got to stop listening/reading about him or he’s going to end up my favorite player (just kidding Levon).


Take a minute to listen to my favorite song during the college football season…

Caribbean Chill

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Anund C. Roark (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 16, 1968, at Kontum 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. Roark distinguished himself by extraordinary gallantry while serving with Company C. Sgt. Roark was the point squad leader of a small force which had the mission of rescuing 11 men in a hilltop observation post under heavy attack by a company-size force, approximately 1,000 meters from the battalion perimeter. As lead elements of the relief force reached the besieged observation post, intense automatic weapons fire from enemy occupied bunkers halted their movement. Without hesitation, Sgt. Roark maneuvered his squad, repeatedly exposing himself to withering enemy fire to hurl grenades and direct the fire of his squad to gain fire superiority and cover the withdrawal of the outpost and evacuation of its casualties. Frustrated in their effort to overrun the position, the enemy swept the hilltop with small arms and volleys of grenades. Seeing a grenade land in the midst of his men, Sgt. Roark, with complete disregard for his safety, hurled himself upon the grenade, absorbing its blast with his body. Sgt. Roark's magnificent leadership and dauntless courage saved the lives of many of his comrades and were the inspiration for the successful relief of the outpost. His actions which culminated in the supreme sacrifice of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.

First Lieutenant George S. Robb (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29-30, 1918, near Sechault, France. His citation reads:

While leading his platoon in the assault 1st Lt. Robb was severely wounded by machinegun fire, but rather than go to the rear for proper treatment he remained with his platoon until ordered to the dressing station by his commanding officer. Returning within 45 minutes, he remained on duty throughout the entire night, inspecting his lines and establishing outposts. Early the next morning he was again wounded, once again displaying his remarkable devotion to duty by remaining in command of his platoon. Later the same day a bursting shell added 2 more wounds, the same shell killing his commanding officer and 2 officers of his company. He then assumed command of the company and organized its position in the trenches. Displaying wonderful courage and tenacity at the critical times, he was the only officer of his battalion who advanced beyond the town, and by clearing machinegun and sniping posts contributed largely to the aid of his battalion in holding their objective. His example of bravery and fortitude and his eagerness to continue with his mission despite severe wounds set before the enlisted men of his command a most wonderful standard of morale and self-sacrifice.

Second Lieutenant Augustus I. Robbins (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 12, 1864, at Spotsylvania, Virginia. His citation reads:

While voluntarily serving as a staff officer successfully withdrew a regiment across and around a severely exposed position to the rest of the command; was severely wounded.


I told you a couple of weeks ago about a new book that I was going to read… Now I’m here to tell you it was as great as I thought it would be. There is a character in the book (“Greg”) who was named after me (true story). I don’t want to talk too much about the book, because I want you to buy it and read it. I will say that, like the first book in the series, it is a “quick” read. The chapters are short (which is something I love… I’m not sure I can fully explain just how much I love that) and there aren’t any “slow” parts to the book. It’s a great, full story without a bunch of fluff that can drag a book down. Here is the description from the amazon page:

The Battle of Brimstone Hill in 1782 discloses a once secret clandestine ocean escape route for the embattled fortress. British troops holding the fort make a danger-filled dash to remove their treasure from the hands of the invading French. More than 230 years later, this long forgotten underground hideaway is now inhabited by modern day pirates. The Caribbean Sea becomes the backdrop of an impending mass murder and theft, the size of which will stagger the world. Vacationing after their ordeal in the Amazon, Dane Skoglund and Hugo Winsor along with their cohorts stumble across the deadly plans and are drawn unwillingly into the fray. This sinister plot begins in the dusty Middle East and spreads to the beautiful islands of St. Maarten and St. Kitts. Their vacation becomes a nightmare, threatening the lives of Dane, Hugo and their party, forcing them into action to save their friends and thwart pirates trying to orchestrate the largest theft in history.

You can purchase Caribbean Chill at Amazon.com or Barnes&Noble.com. If you somehow forgot to read the first book of the series (Alpha Threat), you can purchase it Amazon.com or Barnes&Noble.com. I recommend you buy a couple… just in case you lose one.

I will tell you that this “Greg” character in the book is very much like me with a couple of exceptions. Read the book and then email me what you think those exceptions are. I’m sure a lot of these slight differences can be ironed out before this book becomes a movie. The important thing to remember here is that I made it into the book. Suck it, Sonny.

The other night when I was rocking Daniel before bed, he looked me in the eyes and said, “Daddy, you my bestest buddy”. So I spanked him and yelled, “I’m not here to be your buddy! I am here to make you a man and keep you from getting your butt kicked in school!” After he stopped crying, I told him I was just kidding and that he’s a sweet boy… and that he gets that from me, not his momma.

Speaking of Daniel, a few weeks ago I was in my chair and I called his name. Before I go on, you need to know that I have been working on having him say “Yes, sir” to me when I call him. So, I called his name and it went something like this.

Me: “Daniel!”

Daniel: “What!”

Me: “WHAT!? Daniel!”

Daniel: “What!!”

Me: “What country are you from?!”

Daniel: “What?”

Me: “’What’ ain't no country I ever heard of! They speak English in ‘What’?!”

Daniel: “What?”

Me: “English, motherf***er! Do you speak it?!”

Daniel: “Yes.”

Me: “Then you know what I'm saying”.

Daniel: “Yes”.

Me: “Daniel”

Daniel: “What?”

Me: “Say ‘what’ again! Say ‘what’ again! I dare you! I double-dare you, motherf***er! Say ‘what’ one more g**damn time!”

Daniel (sticking lower lip out)

Me: “I’ll let you try one more time…”

Me: “Daniel”

Daniel: “Yes, sir!”


After a couple weeks of this, we have now gotten to this:

Me: “Daniel!”

Daniel: “What!”

Me… sitting… looking at Daniel (or just sitting)

Daniel (with lower lip sticking out): “Let’s try again”.

Me: “Daniel”

Daniel: “Yes, sir!”


Don’t forget to donate here to my 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s!!!! Remember, give early and often!!!!!


Picture Thursday

Daniel after practice

Daniel with a new "friend" (along with a little cut-out "friend" that Susie gave him)

Something from out backyard

I woke up around 1:30 the other night.  I saw Scooby at the foot of the bed.  I took this picture and he didn't move.  I got up and went to him... he was sleeping.  So I pushed him off the stool.  Hahahahaha... just kidding.  I gave him a hug and let him get in bed with us.

Ready for practice

Waiting for Coach Cory (standing to the left of the girl in the pink shirt) to tell him what to do

Matthew 25:34-36

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal Hampton M. Roach (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from September 29 – October 5, 1879, at Milk River, Colorado. His citation reads:

Erected breastworks under fire; also kept the command supplied with water 3 consecutive nights while exposed to fire from ambushed Indians at close range.

Private First Class Charles Howard Roan (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 18, 1944, on Peleliu, Palau Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 18 September 1944. Shortly after his leader ordered a withdrawal upon discovering that the squad was partly cut off from their company as a result of the rapid advance along an exposed ridge during an aggressive attack on the strongly entrenched enemy, Pfc. Roan and his companions were suddenly engaged in a furious exchange of handgrenades by Japanese forces emplaced in a cave on higher ground and to the rear of the squad. Seeking protection with 4 other marines in a depression in the rocky, broken terrain, Pfc. Roan was wounded by an enemy grenade which fell close to their position and, immediately realizing the eminent peril to his comrades when another grenade landed in the midst of the group, unhesitatingly flung himself upon it, covering it with his body and absorbing the full impact of the explosion. By his prompt action and selfless conduct in the face of almost certain death, he saved the lives of 4 men. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his comrades.

Sergeant James S. Roantree (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864, on board the U.S.S. Oneida. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Oneida during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Despite damage to his ship and the loss of several men on board as enemy fire raked her decks and penetrated her boilers, Sgt. Roantree performed his duties with skill and courage throughout the furious battle which resulted in the surrender of the rebel ram Tennessee and in the damaging and destruction of batteries at Fort Morgan.


The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Matthew 25:34-36

34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARIE!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Lieutenant Colonel William Y. W. Ripley (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 1, 1862, at Malvern Hill, Virginia. His citation reads:

At a critical moment brought up two regiments, which he led against the enemy himself, being severely wounded.

Private Demensio Rivera (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22-23, 1951, at Changyongni, Korea. His citation reads:

Then-Pvt. Demensio Rivera is being recognized for his actions at Changyongni, Korea, May 22-23, 1951. When the outpost area occupied by his platoon was assaulted during the night, Rivera, an automatic rifleman, held his forward position tenaciously, although exposed to very heavy fire. When his rifle became inoperative, Rivera employed his pistol and grenades, and eventually fought the enemy hand-to-hand and forced them back.

Sergeant Ruben Rivers (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 15-19, 1944, near Guebling, France. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism in action during the 15-19 November 1944, toward Guebling, France. Though severely wounded in the leg, Sergeant Rivers refused medical treatment and evacuation, took command of another tank, and advanced with his company in Guebling the next day. Repeatedly refusing evacuation, Sergeant Rivers continued to direct his tank's fire at enemy positions through the morning of 19 November 1944. At dawn, Company A's tanks began to advance towards Bougaktroff, but were stopped by enemy fire. Sergeant Rivers, joined by another tank, opened fire on the enemy tanks, covering company A as they withdrew. While doing so, Sergeant River's tank was hit, killing him and wounding the crew. Staff Sergeant Rivers' fighting spirit and daring leadership were an inspiration to his unit and exemplify the highest traditions of military service.


I just wanted to swing by the I’m just sayin… offices this morning to wish Cougar’s sister, Marie, a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!! We hope she has a GREAT day! You, too, can wish Marie a happy birthday by donating here to my 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s!!!! What better gift could there be?!?!?!

Now it is official

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Landsman John Phillip Rilley (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1898, on board the USS Nashville. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Nashville during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Rilley displayed extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.

Coxswain Edward Ringold (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 22, 1862, on board the USS Wabash. His citation reads:

Served as coxswain on board the U.S.S. Wabash in the engagement at Pocataligo, 22 October 1862. Soliciting permission to accompany the howitzer corps, and performing his duty with such gallantry and presence of mind as to attract the attention of all around him, Ringold, knowing there was a scarcity of ammunition, went through the whole line of fire with his shirt slung over his shoulder filled with fixed ammunition which he had brought from 2 miles to the rear of the lines.

Second Lieutenant Paul F. Riordan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 3-8, 1944, near Cassino, Italy. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty. In the attack on the approaches to the city of Cassino on 3 February 1944, 2d Lt. Riordan led 1 of the assault platoons. Attacking Hill 175, his command was pinned down by enemy machinegun fire from the hill and from a pillbox about 45 yards to the right of the hill. In the face of intense fire, 2d Lt. Riordan moved out in full view of the enemy gunners to reach a position from where he could throw a handgrenade into the pillbox. Then, getting to his knees, he hurled the grenade approximately 45 yards, scoring a direct hit. The grenade killed 1 and wounded the other 2 Germans in the nest and silenced the gun. Another soldier then cleaned out the enemy pillboxes on the hill itself, and the company took its objective. Continuing the assault into Cassino itself on 8 February 1944, 2d Lt. Riordan and his platoon were given the mission of taking the city jail house, one of the enemy's several strongpoints. Again 2d Lt. Riordan took the lead and managed to get through the ring of enemy fire covering the approaches and reached the building. His platoon, however, could not get through the intense fire and was cut off. 2d Lt. Riordan, aware that his men were unable to follow, determined to carry on single-handed, but the numerically superior enemy force was too much for him to overcome, and he was killed by enemy small-arms fire after disposing of at least 2 of the defenders. 2d Lt. Riordan's bravery and extraordinary heroism in the face of almost certain death were an inspiration to his men and exemplify the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.


I’m sure you have been hearing the rumors that my Labor Day Aunt Janie is going to retire as the CEO of the United Way of Central Carolinas (in Charlotte, NC area... ). I am here now to make it official (since I know many of my loyal readers don’t believe it unless they read it here). If you have some time on your hands… you know, these are good enough to make time for… so take some time today or tomorrow to check out the following links to various news outlets in the Charlotte area regarding this announced retirement. Read about what she was able to do in her five years leading them. Read about where they were and where they are now… and how they got there because of Janie’s leadership. Read about how, as the kids like to say, haters gonna hate. I know at least one article I read listed some insults that have been thrown her way (like the “dissembling little doyenne”… which I looked up and I still don’t understand. Not to get off subject here, but I feel like you don’t want to overthink your insults. If your insult has to be looked up, then doesn’t it lose a little sting? I’m just sayin…). Anyway, if you read and watch all of these links (fyi… some videos might not work right away, try hitting refresh on those pages and see if that helps) and think “This is amazing!” In truth, it probably is amazing… but when I read it, I thought “Yep… That’s Janie”. It’s amazing… it’s great… it’s the kind of leadership that college students should do case studies on… and, in all honesty, it was not the least bit surprising to me. Friends, I know good leaders when I see them and this is one who I have seen my whole life.

The reason Janie gave for wanting to retire was she wants to spend more time with my Labor Day Uncle DG… Since I know DG, I’m not going to fall for this reason like all of the other reporters. My guess is this is being done so that she can focus on her 2016 Presidential run. She will have my vote (and yours).

http://www.uwcentralcarolinas.org/images/COJaneRetiring081514.pdf

http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/blog/morning-edition/2014/08/jane-mcintyre-to-retire-as-united-way-chief.html?page=all

http://www.wbtv.com/story/26288277/united-ways-executive-director-announces-plan-to-retire



http://www.wsoctv.com/news/news/local/mcintyre-who-helped-turn-around-struggling-united-/ng3Zj/

http://charlotte.twcnews.com/content/710838/united-way-s-jane-mcintyre-to-retire-following-2014-campaign/



http://www.wcnc.com/videos/money/business/2014/08/15/13836486/



http://www.independenttribune.com/news/united-way-s-jane-mcintyre-to-retire-after-campaign/article_34198192-26ec-11e4-a1a8-001a4bcf6878.html

http://davidsonnews.net/blog/2014/08/15/united-ways-jane-mcintyre-to-retire-after-2014-campaign/

http://wfae.org/post/headline-roundup-united-way-exec-resigns-nc-legislature-still-session-more

http://www.uwcentralcarolinas.org/images/COoped081814.pdf

http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2014/08/15/why-a-crooked-path-can-bethe-best-way-to-chart-a.html

http://www.uwcentralcarolinas.org/news/news-a-press-releases/3-feature1/575-janes-last-campaign


Speaking of non-profits… It’s time for the 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have a couple of ideas to help me raise money this year. I haven’t really settled on one, yet… but here are some I’m thinking of…

If I raise $1,000… I will throw my buddy Cory into a pool of cold water this winter.

If I raise $2,000… I won’t throw Cory into a pool of cold water this winter. I figure this is a good way to get Cory to kick in $1,000 (if I am able to raise the first $1,000).

Another idea is to challenge people on Facebook to pour ice water on other people (and then donate). It’s kind of like the challenge going on now… but not as cold for the person being challenged. I’m picturing a bright young man who works for a lumber company in a small southern town making a video of him pouring ice water on his unsuspecting wife as she watches their twin girls and then posting this video to Facebook right before he donates $1,000,000 (fyi… for that much, I’ll throw The Wife into a pool of cold water this winter… twice). Granted, this is just a general thought… I don’t have anyone specific in mind. Anyway, I have my goal set at $500, but I’d love to raise $1,000 or $5,000… so feel free to give early and often. Go here to donate. Big thanks to my cousins Deeny and Jim for their donation! I appreciate it!


Picture Thursday

Daniel... he'll pretty much sleep anywhere

Susie showing Maverick some love (her words, not his)

After his haircut (at least The Wife says it was cut... I can't tell)

A happy little pirate

This is where I have to give Scooby credit.  He didn't move while Daniel was playing with those cars.

HELP ME!!!! SHE'S COMING!!!!

The kids with friends at the beach (I was at work)

Crap... It's too late for me.  Save yourself...

Heading to the beach

Daniel can't wait to play soccer this year

Matthew 3:16-17

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:



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



Capture of flag of 16th Alabama Artillery (C.S.A.).



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



Captured the flag of the 6th Alabama Cavalry (C.S.A.).



Private Thomas Riley (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 4, 1865, at Fort Blakely, Alabama. His citation reads:



Captured the flag of the 6th Alabama Cavalry.






The I’m just sayin… Gospel Verse of the Week
Matthew 3:16-17



16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

RIP Robin Williams

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private James Richmond (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 3, 1863, at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

First Lieutenant Edward V. Rickenbacker (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 25, 1918, near Billy, France. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy near Billy, France, 25 September 1918. While on a voluntary patrol over the lines, 1st Lt. Rickenbacker attacked 7 enemy planes (5 type Fokker, protecting two type Halberstadt). Disregarding the odds against him, he dived on them and shot down one of the Fokkers out of control. He then attacked one of the Halberstadts and sent it down also.

Lieutenant Milton Ernest Ricketts (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 8, 1942, on board the USS Yorktown. His citation reads:

For extraordinary and distinguished gallantry above and beyond the call of duty as Officer-in-Charge of the Engineering Repair Party of the U.S.S. Yorktown in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. During the severe bombarding of the Yorktown by enemy Japanese forces, an aerial bomb passed through and exploded directly beneath the compartment in which Lt. Ricketts' battle station was located, killing, wounding or stunning all of his men and mortally wounding him. Despite his ebbing strength, Lt. Ricketts promptly opened the valve of a near-by fireplug, partially led out the fire hose and directed a heavy stream of water into the fire before dropping dead beside the hose. His courageous action, which undoubtedly prevented the rapid spread of fire to serious proportions, and his unflinching devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.


How sad that someone so funny… someone who could make anyone laugh just by simply walking into the room couldn’t laugh his way out of depression. If ever there was evidence that depression is a real disease… and it’s a sonofabitch, this is it. I have been fortunate in my life that God has given me the ability to almost always make myself laugh. At times, this is a curse, since it almost always happens at inappropriate times. Still, there have been times (luckily brief times) when I have been unable to laugh. I wanted to laugh… I wanted to be happy… I just couldn’t. Truth is, I’ve probably had passing thoughts of suicide (back in college… and maybe one Saturday morning at the Lake House last December). Lucky for me, not only did God make me able to laugh at myself… He also made me (very) lazy. So my thoughts were never more than that. And I’ve learned over time that “this too shall pass” is a good thing to remember when things are bad. I’ve also learned that things are never as good as they seem when you’re winning and never as bad as they seem when you’re losing. Of course, I’m sure what I’ve dealt with is bouts of “sadness”, not depression. From what I understand, depression keeps you from thinking straight. It keeps you from remembering how much your friends and family love you. You convince yourself that they won’t miss you and that they will all be better off without you. If you ever feel this way, give me a call. You know I’m incapable of lying… so if I tell you that you’re right, you’ll know it. And if I tell you that you’re wrong, you can believe it. On the off chance you won’t or can’t call me… then I’d like you to remember something from one of the Rocky movies (Rocky V, I believe… which is kind of funny, since that would make it the only good thing to come from Rocky V). There’s a scene when Rocky is having a flashback to when Mickey has just given him his golden glove necklace…

See that? This is the favorite thing that I have on this Earth. And Rocky Marciano give me that. You know what it was? His cufflink. Huh? And now I'm givin' it to you and it, it's gotta be like a, like an angel on your shoulder see? If you ever get hurt and you feel that you're goin' down this little angel is gonna whisper in your ear. It's gonna say, 'Get up you son of a bitch 'cause Mickey loves you'. Okay?

So if you ever feel down and feel like life has beaten you down, I want you to listen to that little angel as it whispers in your ear: “GET UP YOU SONOFABITCH, ‘cause Greggie loves you”.


Picture Thursday

At the park with Daddy... before a thunderstorm rolled in.

A birthday picture with Mommy

The girls playing "Tea"... Yeah, Daniel is there too... but he kept getting in trouble because he wasn't "playing right".  I'm not sure I've ever been prouder of him.

Susie with the mermaid balloon she got at The Wife's birthday dinner at Gilligan's

Daniel with his teenage mutant ninja turtle balloon

Mary Ruth with her chameleon balloon

They LOVED Mommy's birthday dinner...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

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

Having been captured and taken to the rear, made his escape rejoined the Union lines, and furnished information of great importance as to the enemy's position and the approaches thereto.

Corporal William E. Richey (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 19, 1863, at Chickamauga, Georgia. His citation reads:

While on the extreme front, between the lines of the combatants single_handed he captured a Confederate major who was armed and mounted.

Private Samuel Richman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during 1868 and 1869, in Arizona. His citation reads:

Bravery in actions with Indians.


I just wanted to swing by the I’m just sayin… offices today to wish my cousin, Susan, a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think she is 33 today, but I’m not 100% sure. Since I’m not sure, I’ll just post 6 random Susan related pics in honor of her birthday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mom and Susan

Susan and Aunt Yvonne... each texting me about how much they love me more than they love each other...

Aunt Yvonne didn't even realize Susan was in this picture...

Susan dressed as Darth Vader (maybe I'm making this up... maybe I'm not... can you prove she's not dressed as Darth Vader?)

Susan dressed as a wookie (again... can you prove she's not dressed as a wookie?)

Susan with my Uncle George (she calls him "Dad", but he calls himself "Greg's Uncle George"... true story... maybe)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE WIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Major Edmund Rice (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 3, 1863, at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. His citation reads:

Conspicuous bravery on the third day of the battle on the countercharge against Pickett's division where he fell severely wounded within the enemy's lines.

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

Saved the life of an officer.

Quartermaster Louis Richards (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 24-25, 1862, on board the USS Pensacola. His citation reads:

Richards served as quartermaster on board the U.S.S. Pensacola in the attack upon Forts Jackson and St. Philip, and at the taking of New Orleans, 24 and 25 April 1862. Through all the din and roar of battle, he steered the ship through the narrow opening of the barricade, and his attention to orders contributed to the successful passage of the ship without once fouling the shore or the obstacles of the barricade.


Today I’d like to wish The Wife a VERY HAPPY 34th BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!! She is a great wife and a wonderful mother… more than that, she is a great person. I work for the money and high speed internet access, but The Wife has a passion for her work. She was able to build the family services part of Pattison’s Academy from scratch into the only part of that organization that brought in more than it spent and now she is building Path Finders Team Services from the bottom up. Of course, she is not doing this by herself… but a large part of being successful is getting together with the right people. Some of her customers know how great she is… though I’m sure some take for granted all of the extra work she does for them. While I’m thinking about it… If you’re on Facebook, go “like” the Path Finders Team Services page (and share it). Also, let people know about their website (which I linked above). She was able to sweet talk one of the top website creator people into making the site for her. In honor of The Wife, I’m going to share 34 random pics of her (which she will probably hate, so… HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!)…

The Wife with the love of her life (Scooby)

Mary Ruth and The Wife

Us at a family vacation on Edisto

Another one from the same vacation (which is why we have on the exact same clothes)

The Wife, me, MR and The Twins at the Walk to End Alzheimer's a few years ago 

The Wife holding Susie holding Daniel

Daniel resting on The Wife while she plays on Facebook

Another pic from that Edisto vacation

This might be from that vacation too

They made a picture for me...

Disney on Ice a few years ago

Us on our 10th Anniversary (I think... I'm pretty sure it was our 10th)

The Wife and Susan

Pre-Hootie a couple of years ago

During Hootie a couple of years ago

The Wife, me, and my Labor Day Uncle Paul

Mom with her in-laws

I think this was our first "real" picture together (That's me to the right... I know it's hard to tell because of all of that hair)

Us with Teresa Lynn and our Labor Day cousins

Us the night before her wedding