Disclaimer

If you do not know me (I mean, really know me) then there is something you need to understand before you read this blog: I value the truth above everything else... except a good laugh. A good laugh will almost always beat the truth as far as I’m concerned. Everything you read on this blog will be true, somewhat true, or something I made up in an effort to get a laugh. Sometimes I will go on a rant that I don’t really mean (or only kind of mean). Sometimes I will mean what I write only to completely change my mind a year, month, or day later. Such is life. By reading this blog you agree not to get offended by anything I write (or, at the very least, you agree not to tell me or anyone else that you are offended). It is worth noting that my employer does not endorse my blog (or even read it, to tell you the truth). The Wife also does not endorse my blog (though she will read it from time to time). I am not paid to write this... it’s just my way of giving back to the community. I have, and will, touch on a wide range of subjects and will give my opinion on these subjects. Again, most of what I say is for laughs but every now and then I will say what I really think and feel (see my views on Westboro Baptist Cult). How will you know when I’m serious and when I’m trying to get a laugh? You’ll know. And if you don’t know, well... maybe this isn’t the best thing for you to be reading. So, sit back, read and enjoy. Leave comments if you want and don’t be afraid to publicly follow me.



Saturday, April 30, 2016

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MINDE AND SONNY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Henry C. Warfel (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 5, 1865, at Paines Crossroads, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of Virginia State colors.

Corporal Henry F. Warner (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 20-21, 1944, near Dom Butgenbach, Belgium. His citation reads:

Serving as 57-mm. antitank gunner with the 2d Battalion, he was a major factor in stopping enemy tanks during heavy attacks against the battalion position near Dom Butgenbach, Belgium, on 20-21 December 1944. In the first attack, launched in the early morning of the 20th, enemy tanks succeeded in penetrating parts of the line. Cpl. Warner, disregarding the concentrated cannon and machinegun fire from 2 tanks bearing down on him, and ignoring the imminent danger of being overrun by the infantry moving under tank cover, destroyed the first tank and scored a direct and deadly hit upon the second. A third tank approached to within 5 yards of his position while he was attempting to clear a jammed breach lock. Jumping from his gun pit, he engaged in a pistol duel with the tank commander standing in the turret, killing him and forcing the tank to withdraw. Following a day and night during which our forces were subjected to constant shelling, mortar barrages, and numerous unsuccessful infantry attacks, the enemy struck in great force on the early morning of the 21st. Seeing a Mark IV tank looming out of the mist and heading toward his position, Cpl. Warner scored a direct hit. Disregarding his injuries, he endeavored to finish the loading and again fire at the tank whose motor was now aflame, when a second machinegun burst killed him. Cpl. Warner's gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty contributed materially to the successful defense against the enemy attacks.

Coxswain David Warren (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 23-25, 1864, on board the USS Monticello. His citation reads:

Served as coxswain on board the U.S.S. Monticello during the reconnaissance of the harbor and water defenses of Wilmington, N.C., 23 to 25 June 1864. Taking part in a reconnaissance of enemy defenses which lasted 2 days and nights, Warren courageously carried out his duties during this action which resulted in the capture of a mail carrier and mail, the cutting of a telegraph wire, and the capture of a large group of prisoners. Although in immediate danger from the enemy, Warren showed gallantry and coolness throughout this action which resulted in the gaining of much vital information of the rebel defenses.


I’d like to wish my good friend Minde a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope Travis and the girls make it a great day!!!!!!!

I also hope my brother Sonny has a very happy just another day on the calendar! As you may know, Sonny doesn’t believe in birthdays. At his age, who can blame him? Still, I hope he has a good day.

There's been a good bit of talk recently about what public restrooms we should all be using.  Here are my thoughts... I don't think we need a law telling people which bathroom to use.  I know some people are convinced that without these laws, men will be raping women and children in restrooms all across the land.  It would seem that a rapist is willing to overlook laws against rape, but won't... nay, CAN'T look past the law that tells them not to enter the ladies room.  I'm going to be honest with you (because I always am)... I try my best not to use public restrooms.  They aren't usually the cleanest of places.  And, truth be told (because it always is here), during those times that I do find myself in a public restroom with other people, I've never taken the time to see what kind of equipment they have in the "private region".  For all I know, I've been using the bathroom with transgendered people for the last 20 years and never knew it.  "But Greg!", you shout, "What about your wife and kids?!"  I'm going to let you in on a little secret... The Wife is a badass whose past hobbies include shooting guns, boxing and kickboxing.  I'm the sweet one between the two of us.  Plus, most women's restrooms I've usually been around in public have long lines, so I'm not sure it will be a big deal.  As for my kids... my biggest fear will continue to be that they will walk in a public restroom, touch everything they see, and then not wash their hands.  They seldom use the bathroom (at home or in public) without us having to be with them.  Mary Ruth is able to go by herself, but even she is usually with someone when she uses the restroom in public.  So, I think we should all take a deep breath (especially if you are about to walk into the men's room), and just relax.  

Monday, April 25, 2016

The new face of money…

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Staff Sergeant Lewis G. Watkins (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 7, 1952, in Korea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a guide of a rifle platoon of Company I, in action against enemy aggressor forces during the hours of darkness on the morning of 7 October 1952. With his platoon assigned the mission of retaking an outpost which had been overrun by the enemy earlier in the night, S/Sgt. Watkins skillfully led his unit in the assault up the designated hill. Although painfully wounded when a well-entrenched hostile force at the crest of the hill engaged the platoon with intense small-arms and grenade fire, he gallantly continued to lead his men. Obtaining an automatic rifle from 1 of the wounded men, he assisted in pinning down an enemy machine gun holding up the assault. When an enemy grenade landed among S/Sgt. Watkins and several other marines while they were moving forward through a trench on the hill crest, he immediately pushed his companions aside, placed himself in a position to shield them and picked up the deadly missile in an attempt to throw it outside the trench. Mortally wounded when the grenade exploded in his hand, S/Sgt. Watkins, by his great personal valor in the face of almost certain death, saved the lives of several of his comrades and contributed materially to the success of the mission. His extraordinary heroism, inspiring leadership, and resolute spirit of self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Master Sergeant Travis E. Watkins (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from August 31 – September 3, 1950, near Yongsan, Korea. His citation reads:

M/Sgt. Watkins distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. When an overwhelming enemy force broke through and isolated 30 men of his unit, he took command, established a perimeter defense and directed action which repelled continuous, fanatical enemy assaults. With his group completely surrounded and cut off, he moved from foxhole to foxhole exposing himself to enemy fire, giving instructions and offering encouragement to his men. Later when the need for ammunition and grenades became critical he shot 2 enemy soldiers 50 yards outside the perimeter and went out alone for their ammunition and weapons. As he picked up their weapons he was attacked by 3 others and wounded. Returning their fire he killed all 3 and gathering up the weapons of the 5 enemy dead returned to his amazed comrades. During a later assault, 6 enemy soldiers gained a defiladed spot and began to throw grenades into the perimeter making it untenable. Realizing the desperate situation and disregarding his wound he rose from his foxhole to engage them with rifle fire. Although immediately hit by a burst from an enemy machine gun he continued to fire until he had killed the grenade throwers. With this threat eliminated he collapsed and despite being paralyzed from the waist down, encouraged his men to hold on. He refused all food, saving it for his comrades, and when it became apparent that help would not arrive in time to hold the position ordered his men to escape to friendly lines. Refusing evacuation as his hopeless condition would burden his comrades, he remained in his position and cheerfully wished them luck. Through his aggressive leadership and intrepid actions, this small force destroyed nearly 500 of the enemy before abandoning their position. M/Sgt. Watkins' sustained personal bravery and noble self-sacrifice reflect the highest glory upon himself and is in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.

Private George Watson (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 8, 1943. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism in action on 8 March 1943. Private Watson was on board a ship which was attacked and hit by enemy bombers. When the ship was abandoned, Private Watson, instead of seeking to save himself, remained in the water assisting several soldiers who could not swim to reach the safety of the raft. This heroic action, which subsequently cost him his life, resulted in the saving of several of his comrades. Weakened by his exertions, he was dragged down by the suction of the sinking ship and was drowned. Private Watson's extraordinarily valorous actions, daring leadership, and self-sacrificing devotion to his fellow-man exemplify the finest traditions of military service.


By now you probably know… but there’s always a chance you really do get your news from me, so I’ll announce on here that Harriet Tubman is going to replace Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill. I had hoped they would create a totally new bill, like the $4 or $7 or $22… but I guess they (whoever they are) decided to drop Jackson for Tubman. Here is an article from USA Today on the change. It looks like there are going to be a number of changes to paper money in general in the coming years. And, after glancing at the article, it looks like Jackson will still be on the $20, just on the back.

I have been asked by a number of people to weigh in on this development. My thoughts are it sounds pretty cool and I can’t wait to see it. I don’t carry a lot of cash, so chances are I won’t see these changes a lot… but it still sounds cool. Other than the fact that I wanted completely new bills (like $4, $7, $22…) this isn’t so bad. Change isn’t always bad. I wouldn’t mind, at some point, seeing Ronal Reagan on the front of a bill with some of his one-liners on the back. Or how about Jackie Robinson on the front of a bill, with Hank Aaron on the back? That would be a keeper. Other people I’d like to see on money include: Rosa Parks, my Labor Day Aunt Janie, former First Lady Barbara Bush, Condoleezza Rice, Morgan Freeman, Phylicia Rashad and Charles Oakley.

So fear not, friends… life will go on. This change is not the end of the world.

Friday, April 22, 2016

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain William H. Ward (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 3, 1863, at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Voluntarily commanded the expedition which, under cover of darkness, attempted to run the enemy's batteries.

Corporal John Warden (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."

Lieutenant Colonel Keith L. Ware (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 26, 1944, near Sigolsheim, France. His citation reads:

Commanding the 1st Battalion attacking a strongly held enemy position on a hill near Sigolsheim, France, on 26 December 1944, found that 1 of his assault companies had been stopped and forced to dig in by a concentration of enemy artillery, mortar, and machinegun fire. The company had suffered casualties in attempting to take the hill. Realizing that his men must be inspired to new courage, Lt. Col. Ware went forward 150 yards beyond the most forward elements of his command, and for 2 hours reconnoitered the enemy positions, deliberately drawing fire upon himself which caused the enemy to disclose his dispositions. Returning to his company, he armed himself with an automatic rifle and boldly advanced upon the enemy, followed by 2 officers, 9 enlisted men, and a tank. Approaching an enemy machinegun, Lt. Col. Ware shot 2 German riflemen and fired tracers into the emplacement, indicating its position to his tank, which promptly knocked the gun out of action. Lt. Col. Ware turned his attention to a second machinegun, killing 2 of its supporting riflemen and forcing the others to surrender. The tank destroyed the gun. Having expended the ammunition for the automatic rifle, Lt. Col. Ware took up an Ml rifle, killed a German rifleman, and fired upon a third machinegun 50 yards away. His tank silenced the gun. Upon his approach to a fourth machinegun, its supporting riflemen surrendered and his tank disposed of the gun. During this action Lt. Col. Ware's small assault group was fully engaged in attacking enemy positions that were not receiving his direct and personal attention. Five of his party of 11 were casualties and Lt. Col. Ware was wounded but refused medical attention until this important hill position was cleared of the enemy and securely occupied by his command.


I hope my sweet niece Leah has a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sadly, I’m not sure her parents and sisters will make it a good one… but maybe I’ll be surprised. :)

I have sad news to report to you this morning... Rock in Roll Hall of Famer Prince has passed away at the age of 57.  Aside from having one of the best (if not THE best) names in the business, Prince had a large catalog of very good/great songs.  While I wasn't a huge fan, I did love a few of his songs (1999, Little Red Corvette, When Doves Cry).  Here's a clip from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame of Prince & a handful of other greats playing the George Harrison classic While My Guitar Gently Weeps.  Around the middle of the song, Prince has a guitar solo that made me stop what I was doing and say "Wow!" out loud to no one in particular.




I am also sorry to tell you that the very funny actress Doris Roberts passed away at the age of 90.  I don't know what you know her from, but if it isn't "Everybody Loves Raymond", then you are missing out.  She played her role on that show to perfection.

Thursday, April 21, 2016

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEREMY and KC!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant John Ward (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.

Private Nelson W. Ward (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 25, 1864, at Staunton River Bridge, Virginia. His citation reads:

Voluntarily took part in a charge; went alone in front of his regiment under a heavy fire to secure the body of his captain, who had been killed in the action.

Private Thomas J. Ward (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."


If you’ve been reading my blog long enough, you know that two of my very good friends have birthdays today. We will go in order of age, so…

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KC!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope LA and the kids will make it a great day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Jeremy!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I trust Rebecca and the boys will make it a great one!

As you know, May is right around the corner.  This year we are going to re-visit our songs countdown (which will, of course, be updated).  We can't wait!!!!!!

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Yay Mary Ruth

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal Francis E. Warren (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 27, 1863, at Port Hudson, Louisiana. His citation reads:

Volunteered in response to a call, and took part in the movement that was made upon the enemy's works under a heavy fire therefrom in advance of the general assault.

First Lieutenant John E. Warren, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 14, 1969, in the 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. 1st Lt. Warren, distinguished himself at the cost of his life while serving as a platoon leader with Company C. While moving through a rubber plantation to reinforce another friendly unit, Company C came under intense fire from a well-fortified enemy force. Disregarding his safety, 1st Lt. Warren with several of his men began maneuvering through the hail of enemy fire toward the hostile positions. When he had come to within 6 feet of one of the enemy bunkers and was preparing to toss a hand grenade into it, an enemy grenade was suddenly thrown into the middle of his small group. Thinking only of his men, 1st Lt. Warren fell in the direction of the grenade, thus shielding those around him from the blast. His action, performed at the cost of his life, saved 3 men from serious or mortal injury. First Lt. Warren's ultimate action of sacrifice to save the lives of his men was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflection upon himself and the U.S. Army.

First Lieutenant Lewis Warrington (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 8, 1874, at Muchague Valley, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in a combat with 5 Indians.


I would like to give a shout-out to my Mary Ruth for her academic performance last week. She was on the 4th grade quiz bowl team for her school and they went up against schools from around the district last Wednesday. While they did not win, I did receive reports that Mary Ruth did a great job and answered (correctly) many questions. I also received reports that most of the students (on all of the teams) seemed to know more than the people running the contest. Maybe (maybe) the people asking the questions are not to blame. Maybe they were told just to show up and read the questions. But somebody in the district is to blame. From what I was told, it sounded like there wasn’t a lot of planning done for this event. Maybe I am being unfair, but for the second year in a row there were issues that I feel could have been prevented. Still, it’s a good learning experience that life isn’t fair and sometimes the people in charge don’t know what they’re doing.

Mary Ruth followed up her quiz bowl performance with a 2nd place showing in Math Wizards competition at her school last Thursday. I am very proud of her and I’m pretty sure she is now better at math than I am…

Mary Ruth reading to Susie and Daniel

Susie lost another tooth Friday night.  She thinks she now looks like a first grader...

The Wife was out of town Friday night, so this was how we slept

Susie showing me what the Tooth Fairy brought her

Susie and Ethan... This might be the last time she is bigger than him

Ethan and Mary Ruth


The Twins taking a break from fighting

Mary Ruth - Math Wizards 2nd Place

Monday, April 18, 2016

Congrats to my Warriors!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Quarter Gunner James Ward (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864, on board the U.S.S. Lackawanna. His citation reads:

Serving as gunner on board the U.S.S. Lackawanna during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Although wounded and ordered below, Ward refused to go, but rendered aid at one of the guns when the crew was disabled. He subsequently remained in the chains, heaving the lead, until nearly caught in the collision with the ram Tennessee. He continued to serve bravely throughout the action which resulted in the capture of the prize ram Tennessee and in the damaging and destruction of Fort Morgan.

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

Continued to flght after being severely wounded.

Seaman First Class James Richard Ward (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor. His citation reads:

For conspicuous devotion to duty, extraordinary courage and complete disregard of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, during the attack on the Fleet in Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces on 7 December 1941. When it was seen that the U.S.S. Oklahoma was going to capsize and the order was given to abandon ship, Ward remained in a turret holding a flashlight so the remainder of the turret crew could see to escape, thereby sacrificing his own life.


I just wanted to take some time today to say congrats to my Golden State Warriors for their record setting 73 wins this season. As you know, I’ve been a huge fan of the Warriors for at least one month now. Actually, I have been pulling for them since the night I saw them on tv in early January while I was staying with Mom and Dad. After watching them that night, I knew I wouldn’t be able to pull against Stephen Curry… It’s just too much fun watching him play. Now I just hope they can get by the Rockets without any problems.

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private George H. Wanton (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 30, 1898, at Tayabacoa, Cuba. His citation reads:

Voluntarily went ashore in the face of the enemy and aided in the rescue of his wounded comrades; this after several previous attempts at rescue had been frustrated.

Private Calvin John Ward (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 8, 1918, near Estrees, France. His citation reads:

During an advance, Pvt. Ward's company was held up by a machinegun, which was enfilading the line. Accompanied by a noncommissioned officer, he advanced against this post and succeeded in reducing the nest by killing 3 and capturing 7 of the enemy and their guns.

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

Gallantry in action with Indians.


I would like to wish my Labor Day Cousin Sally a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope it’s her best one yet!!!!!!!!!!!

Monday, April 11, 2016

RIP Merle Haggard

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Gunnery Sergeant William Gary Walsh (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 27, 1945, at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. His citation reads:

For extraordinary gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as leader of an assault platoon, attached to Company G, 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 27 February 1945. With the advance of his company toward Hill 362 disrupted by vicious machinegun fire from a forward position which guarded the approaches to this key enemy stronghold, G/Sgt. Walsh fearlessly charged at the head of his platoon against the Japanese entrenched on the ridge above him, utterly oblivious to the unrelenting fury of hostile automatic weapons fire and handgrenades employed with fanatic desperation to smash his daring assault. Thrown back by the enemy's savage resistance, he once again led his men in a seemingly impossible attack up the steep, rocky slope, boldly defiant of the annihilating streams of bullets which saturated the area. Despite his own casualty losses and the overwhelming advantage held by the Japanese in superior numbers and dominant position, he gained the ridge's top only to be subjected to an intense barrage of handgrenades thrown by the remaining Japanese staging a suicidal last stand on the reverse slope. When 1 of the grenades fell in the midst of his surviving men, huddled together in a small trench, G/Sgt. Walsh, in a final valiant act of complete self-sacrifice, instantly threw himself upon the deadly bomb, absorbing with his own body the full and terrific force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved his comrades from injury and possible loss of life and enabled his company to seize and hold this vital enemy position. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Private George W. Walton (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 29, 1864, at Fort Hell, Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Went outside the trenches, under heavy fire at short range, and rescued a comrade who had been wounded and thrown out of the trench by an exploding shell.

Private Martin Wambsgan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 19, 1864, at Cedar Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

While the enemy were in close proximity, this soldier sprang forward and bore off in safety the regimental colors, the color bearer having fallen on the field of battle.


I know I’m a few days late reporting this, but Country Music great Merle Haggard passed away a few days ago. Haggard had a number of great songs, but my all-time favorite will always be Mama Tried. I hope he can now rest in peace.

My Cubbies have gotten off to a good start so far… but already have lost a starting position player to a season ending knee injury. We will keep our fingers crossed that this will not hurt their season.

Good news on the weight-loss front… I’m down 30 pounds so far this year. I’m now at 219. Getting below 220 feels pretty nice. My next goal is to get under 210. Thanks for all of your prayers… keep them coming.

I just recently read two books by Pat Conroy (The Prince of Tides and The Lords of Discipline) for the first time… it seems I am a little late to this great writer. So, like anyone late to something like this, I will simply tell you if you haven’t read any of his books then you are missing out. Figures it would be after his passing (which, sadly, I’m not sure I covered here… so it’s possible some of you are just now finding out that he died this past March 4th while I was moving… his passing was unrelated to my move) that I would discover what a great author he was. Even when he used big words (and there were times he used big words), it was done in such a way that I didn’t feel like I needed to have a dictionary beside me. I look forward to adding the rest of his books to my reading list…

Friday, April 1, 2016

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal John Walsh (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 19, 1864, at Cedar Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Recaptured the flag of the 15th New Jersey Infantry.

First Lieutenant Kenneth Ambrose Walsh (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 15 and 30, 1943, in the Solomon Islands area. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty as a pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron 124 in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands area. Determined to thwart the enemy's attempt to bomb Allied ground forces and shipping at Vella Lavella on 15 August 1943, 1st Lt. Walsh repeatedly dived his plane into an enemy formation outnumbering his own division 6 to 1 and, although his plane was hit numerous times, shot down 2 Japanese dive bombers and 1 fighter. After developing engine trouble on 30 August during a vital escort mission, 1st Lt. Walsh landed his mechanically disabled plane at Munda, quickly replaced it with another, and proceeded to rejoin his flight over Kahili. Separated from his escort group when he encountered approximately 50 Japanese Zeros, he unhesitatingly attacked, striking with relentless fury in his lone battle against a powerful force. He destroyed 4 hostile fighters before cannon shellfire forced him to make a dead-stick landing off Vella Lavella where he was later picked up. His valiant leadership and his daring skill as a flier served as a source of confidence and inspiration to his fellow pilots and reflect the highest credit upon the U.S. Naval Service.

Chief Machinist Michael Walsh (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 21, 1903, on board the U.S.S. Leyden. His citation reads:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Leyden; for heroism at the time of the wreck of that vessel, 21 January 1903.


Today I would like to wish our Favorite Nurse Jen a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!! We hope our friend Danny (yes, that Danny) and her sweet little girls make it a great birthday!

For those of you out there looking for more to read, check out my Labor Day Cousin Will’s blog: http://wordsfromwill.weebly.com/. Will is a smart guy and I think his blog is worth your time.