I am a patriotic American with an ever-deepening appreciation of my heritage (in part thanks to Appleseed!), but I also give credit where credit is due. I hope that this post is not deemed inappropriate.
Today marks the 90th birthday of Mikhail Kalashnikov, creator of the AK 47.
Remarkably, this Russian hero is still alive, serving as a chief designer at the Izhmash arms factory. He's been there since 1941, when he was wounded in the Nazi invasion. Earlier versions of the AKK47 came out as early as 1943 I believe, but "his design was not perfected until 1947 -- the Avtomat Kalashnikova 47." (--- Times Online).
As I say, credit where credit is due. The Russians call WWII "The Great Patriotic War". Their valor in resisting, repelling, and ultimately conquering the Nazis can inspire anyone, regardless of national heritage.
This proud American salutes Colonel Kalashnikov on his 90th birthday.
http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=14516842&PageNum=0
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6911364.ece