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Great pics. Great job. Now, go get some sleep :)
J
Well done soldiers!! Well done Riflemen!! Well done RWVA!! You are all doing your country a great service. I am very proud of you all !!!! O0 O0 O0
Training Americans, one rifle at a time!
Patriot Gal
ALL INSTRUCTORS NOTE: Do NOT discuss any details regarding troops scores, number of men per platoon, tactical situation they will face or area they are deploying to other than the country.
OK, I am going to post this as separate day to day postings.
Sunday PM 4 Oct to Monday PM 5 Oct:
Instructors started arriving at the tail end of the Hinesville Appleseed. This range is only a few miles from the gates of Fort Stewart, and close to our BOTG's (Cannonman61) residence. After delivering the benediction at the AS we all piled into vehicles and convoyed to the Cannonman's house to wait on the last few Instructors to arrive. Dave was a most gracious host and showed the cannons he has built as well as interesting details about reenactments participated in and reloading recipes for modern firearms. Once all of our Instructors were present we convoyed to the base and received an orientation on the layout (chow hall, latrines, Battalion HQ etc). We had a pre-event briefing and then to bed.
Monday morning it was raining when we woke (0530). OK, no problem, we deal with this at Appleseeds and these are soldiers, they should be used to doing stuff in the rain. We hoofed it the 175 yards to the rendezvous point and were driven the 20+ minute trip to the range for the first time.
The range was normally used for machine gun training. For our purposes there were "popsicle sticks", 1x4 boards 6' long to hold targets, and waxed cardboard E-targets to tack on them. These were used as backers and the paper targets were posted on the E-targets. The ground was soft on top but about 3"-4" down was hard packed clay, so the sticks were never pounded in so deep as we would like. We were briefed on the range safety procedures by the range OIC Lt. Singletary, then started prepping target backers.
The troops showed up around 0800. Two platoons, total of over 90 men. They formed up in bleachers and while waiting for the OIC to deliver the orientation VAShooter told them the first strike. Lt. Singletary delivered his safety briefing and we were off to the races. Things went slow at first as the troops all had to grab a backer, take it downrange and pound it in the hard muck. They also were trying the optics for the first time so instruction had to be given on that piece of equipment at the line and zeroing was slow. Things picked up for a short while, and then the water started to rise....
I had picked what looked to be a good spot for the firing line at the beginning, forward of the normal firing line (which was bare sand) and in the grass. It also turned out to be a low spot. Not apparent at first as the top couple inches of ground was not yet saturated. Once it was the water started to pool up in several places along the firing line. At first this was not a concern to me--these are soldiers, they should be able to handle it--but as time went on they were grounding their rifles in puddles of water in which the rifles were over half submerged. I started becoming concerned about water in the bores and gas tubes and determined that the firing line needed to be moved. We sent the troops to chow and a couple instructors walked the range looking for a better drained spot. After chow we had the troops grab backers and place them at the new spot, which was good for the rest of the week.
After that things started to proceed smoothly again. The soldiers got into the rhythm of Appleseed, and improvement abounded. One thing that was particularly noticeable to me was the lack of complaints--I never heard ONE SINGLE COMPLAINT that day. They might have been (probably were) complaining to one another, but they didn't complain to us. Outstanding. We still had problems with those *&^%$$ popsicle sticks falling--they would be pounded in to hard dirt and be steady, then the rain would soak in and soften it until they just fell over at the slightest breeze. @#$$%
The COF was cut short due to all the moving around, and we ended up leaving the range somewhere around 1900+ hrs. The ride back was pretty silent, as we were all completely exhausted. We had an AAR in the barracks and then to chow. The chow hall normally closes around 1800 I think, but they stayed open every day that week to ensure the troops (and instructors) got fed--thanks for doing that guys! After chow a quick shower, more brainstorming about the next day and then bed.
More to come.
SoM
ALL INSTRUCTORS NOTE: Do NOT discuss any details regarding troops scores, number of men per platoon, tactical situation they will face or area they are deploying to other than the country.
Tuesday 6 Oct:
Had a delay in troops arriving this morning, put the time to good use pre-posting targets (takes a long time to do this on a 100+ yard long target line). Had morning briefing and then to work. The troops had a PT test before coming out and were already worked over before showing up--and then had 10 hours of baking sun, 80+ degree temps, body armor and K-pot and the firehose of information push. We had to take them off line by platoons in the afternoon to put plates in the IBA, and this required rearrangement of firing positions and NPOA changes. We did get most of the way through the COF, and the standards team showed up around 1700 to administer the Army Alt C Qual course--our instructors pulled off the line and watched--interesting.
At the AAR review of the troops, it was interesting that several of them thought that they showed no improvement to their shooting--but the Qual C showed a different result. The Battalion Master Gunner ran the review, and gave them numbers that showed SIGNIFICANT improvement, both in troops getting a first-time "Go" AND in the number of troops who shot Expert scores. I suspect that the PT test, long hours in armor and shooting at the Appleseed targets skewed their perceptions. We were pleased to be able to present our first rifleman patch today.
Back to barracks, another AAR, done standing with two 1-minute talk sessions per person, chow and bed.
SoM
The Instructor List:
Son of Martha
Flathead
Colycat
Old Glory
AhhShoot
4merUSMC
Bama
SamD
DuaneH
txpirate
Stimey
PHenry
SgtCap
VAShooter
HawkHaven
I think I got everybody... O0
Actually on the forum I am DwayneH.
Appleseed. It's not just a job, it's an adventure. In the movie 2010 "The Year We Make Contact", the ghost of an astronaut warns the crew of the ship that "something wonderful is about to happen". That something wonderful is Jupiter imploding and forming a white dwarf star. So to everyone reading these AARs I give you the warning that something wonderful is about to happen.
I feel honored that I was able to be part of this and hope that this is not the last. We will always be the first.
It was an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to train such fine Americans and meet such truly brilliant instructors. It seems like Providence that the first time Appleseed does this, is with a battalion that traces it's lineage back to 1775. I pray that all those boys come back safe. A free Appleseed awaits all of them and an orange hat for some, HUAH!
Wed Oct 7
Son of Martha had to attend to some personal business, so he put me as temp shoot boss. The whole time I was thinking "don't screw this one up!!". But by Wednesday things were starting to run a little smoother for everyone. The troops arriving earlier, The safety brief allowing us time to repair the target line. The ground starting to dry up and get warmer and with the winds picking up, we had plenty of repairs to do. The soldiers were starting to talk among themselves in the evenings and were starting to know what to expect on the line. Other than a few minor problems, things went rather well. The group of soldiers in front of me at the center of the line were getting better with each string of fire. Attitudes were great giving the conditions. One young soldier comes to mind named Odum. Each time he went down to check his target he came back with a bigger grin. It made the aches and pains of 3 days of standing for 12 hours plus a little better!
The Qual team showing up to qualify the soldiers with the help of the instructors helping with the line.If you have ever heard a 100 plus yard of shooters firing the 5.56 round and you will know why they had instructors help mimic the commands! And another day just about finished up. Hearing the results and seeing this group coming back all smiles was great. We all knew the impact we were making in their lives. As we walked around the billet area we were about like rock stars, soldiers stopping us and thanking us for the training. But we were the ones that should be and was thanking them for what they were doing. For us it was an honor to be there among such great Americans!!!
AAR finished up and some more tweaking of the COF and time to clean up for the next morning! Hearing them running PT at O dark thirty was the alarm clock most days.
And to the Instructors thank you for being there with me to experience this training and " IF YOU FIND YOURSELF STANDING ALONE, YOU ARE PROBABLY DOING SOMETHING WRONG!!!
Honor and Privilege
I didn't know what to expect, but when called, I knew that I had to go.
I had events to run immediately prior to and directly after, but that didn't matter.
I was concerned about my own ability to Appleseed for 9 consecutive days. I was concerned about how the troops would feel about a bunch of civilians teaching them marksmanship. I was concerned about how "thems of a higher pay grade" at Ft. Stewart would view our presence on base.
I also feared I would be unworthy as an instructor considering the level of talent by which I would be surrounded.
On Friday afternoon, during a brief ceremony in front of the two final platoons that we worked with, I watched a very "squared away" officer get choked up when he was offering his thanks to me and my fellow volunteer instructors for what we had done and all of the aforementioned concerns breathed their last gasp and vanished completely.
It was an honor and a privilege to meet and live with every one of you - soldiers and instructors alike. I am at once, humbled and proud. I will recall fondly my time at Ft. Stewart as long as I live and if afforded the opportunity, would not hesitate to repeat the entire experience.
To everyone involved, please accept my heartfelt thanks for enabling me this precious opportunity.
PH
Sgt. Rinehardt addresses the platoons and RWVA Instructors on Friday, October 9, 2009:
Sgt. Rinehardt:
I want to talk to you a little bit about Appleseed. Did they lace in some history lessons today?
Platoons:
Huah!!!
Sgt. Rinehardt:
Was that good stuff?
Platoons:
Huah!!
Sgt. Rinehardt:
We've gotten a lot of people, Civilian contractors, to come down here to help us with fielding and things like that. Appleseed, I called them contractors on the concept letter so I could get them out here, but that's not really what they are. These people are like you and I, they have jobs; what they are doing today, it ain't it. They took time off of their work, they took vacation time, time away from their families, to come here. So all the training we got all week, and I know it's hot, you've all been out here all day, these people have been out here ALL WEEK.
Platoons:
Huah!!!!! Applause!
Sgt. Rinehardt:
Sir, can we get you all up here for a second.
(RWVA Instructors move forward.)
Sgt. Rinehardt:
When the Colonel asked me about your organization, (and I know of you all through Sgt, Hawes) and he wanted to know who you were and what you were about, some of the staff looked you up on the internet. It was pretty impressive, what we read on the internet. I am going to tell you that your internet site does not BEGIN to describe you as individuals or you as a group. It doesn't BEGIN to do justice to the value you have added to our training plan. It doesn't begin to do justice for the difference you are going to make in the lives of our soldiers. This is the Colonel, I know you have all met him already, Colonel McInnis....
He has some things he would like to present to you.
Colonel McInnis:
Again, golly, sometimes it is easy to get disheartened about what is going on in society and America and you guys reinforce everything that is good about America. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. What a tremendous honor to have you all out here with us. What we have for you is a small token of our appreciation, you guys taking time out of your lives to come help us as we get ready to go forward to defend this country. I will have Major Turner read the citation for you.
This certificate means a lot to us. We don't just hand them out like candy to everybody.
Major Turner:
1st Battalion 178th Field Artillery
"The Swamp Fox Battalion"
To all who read these words, be it known that the undersigned hereby grant honorary membership with the 1st Battalion 178th Field Artillery.
You have striven to attain excellence in your endeavors and have set-aside personal gain to help the 1st Battalion 178th Field Artillery accomplish it's mission. In keeping with the Traditions of the Field Artillery, your professionalism, dedication and self-sacrifice have clearly demonstrated that you have the fortitude to be declared one of MARION"S MEN.
Given under my hand on this 9th day of October, 2009
Samuel T. McKenzie, CSM
Command Sergeant Major
Edward M. McInnis, LTC, FA
Commanding
Platoons:
Huah!!!!! Applause
You guys, being of Revolutionary War based historical background, what you bring to the table, I'm not sure if they told you, this Battalion is known as the Swamp Fox Battalion; obviously a tribute to Francis Marion who hails from the part of the State of South Carolina where we are from, so being one of Marion's Men is a thing of pride for us. Along with the certificate, we also have included one of our patches, which we are going to be wearing into Afganistan; so please wear those with pride. We have also included a brief history of the 218th Infantry Brigade shoulder sleeve patch that we wear, as well as our unit insignia. There is no history on there but it is the Swamp Fox on the unit crest, or DUI, distinctive unit insignia, we wear on our class A uniforms or dress uniforms, and on the bottom it says True and Tried. You guys are True and Tried for having come out here on Monday and got water logged and then we baked your asses the rest of the week.
Colonel McInnis:
So, again, I hope I am speaking on behalf of the Battalion, I thank you so much, again it has been a tremendous honor to have you guys with us, and golly, you all reinforce what is good about America.
Platoons:
HUAH!!!!!!
Presentation of the Awards to the RWVA Instructors
Sgt Rinehardt:
Now guys, these targets we used today, this whole week, we didn't pay for them. They used money out of "their pocket" to help pay for them. We'd like to make a donation to your organization. (Sgt. Rinehardt presented the Shoot Boss with a donation.)
RWVA Instructors: "Thank you!"
Colonel McInnis:
Thank you for being here, this is going to pay big dividends for us.
Platoons:
Huah!!!
ALL INSTRUCTORS NOTE: Do NOT discuss any details regarding troops scores, number of men per platoon, tactical situation they will face or area they are deploying to other than the country.
Thursday 8 Oct:
Troops and ammo on time, fewer backer problems (though never entirely eliminated), our "modified" Appleseed procedures in sync and a slight re-arrangement of the COF were all contributing to a better flow to the process and more efficient information transfer. We started with a more comprehensive morning briefing which covered the following:
> What Appleseed is, instructor qualifications.
> Why marksmanship matters in all tactical arenas, and why 40/40 (100% on the Army qual test) isn't good enough.
> Description of the unfamiliar nature of this training, partial explanation of the reasons behind it.
> Review of capabilities of the M4 weapons system, brief overview of optics (M68 CCO and ACOG) and what the intended operational parameters for each are.
> Zeroing procedure.
> Firing line procedures.
> Safety rules.
We then pulled the Platoon Sgts out for a private talk, and got commitments from them to use the NCO channels to support our training objectives. (Thanks Cap!)
Then to the line. Things went very well most of the day, then some of the officers showed up to qualify. They came during chow, and were not finished when the troops were so the instructors did a "tag-team" of three strikes presentations. We finished that and ended up going back to the line with some officers wanting to stay and shoot with us, so we coordinated with what they were doing for the next half hour or so.
As we approached the 1700 hrs mark, it was obvious that we would not complete the COF. Flathead was the Line Boss, and pretty insistent that he was gonna get his COF done even if we had to stay past dark. He finally relented when the troops' deteriorating concentration and need to fire the Alt-C course were mentioned.
The soldiers actually seemed to pick up a bit as the Alt-C was posted, and we even noticed that during the prone-supported stage, when they are allowed to use a sandbag, many of them elected to use only the hasty sling--very encouraging.
This time the troops had no doubts about the improvement in their shooting. I don't remember if we heard any numbers, but there were plenty of men talking about improvement, qualifying first time through for the first time ever, etc. Had a long-ish AAR in the bleachers (Lt. Singletary: "What did ya'll like about this training today?" Reply: "The whole damn thing!"), then 20+ minutes to barracks, standing AAR, chow, showers and rack.
SoM
This is fantastic; excellent work Appleseeders! O0 Love the M16s on the submerged firing line...
Having just read this after action report, every detail that is, my heart swells with joy and my eyes overflow with tears.
I am so proud to be a part of Appleseed and so proud of our instructors. You guys are the best yet finest of men I have
met. I can say this because I am familiar with the quality and caliber of instructors we have here in Illinois.
You guys are likewise awesome!
There is a marketing axiom that says..... it is better to be first in the mind than to be first in the market place, because
if you are first in a person's mind you will own the marketplace." How can these fine young men and officers ever forget
Appleseed, our country's history and our heritage? They will go forth and they will return and plant new apple seeds, I am certain.
My oh my, what a fine job you men have done. You will be first in the minds of both officers and the soldiers that follow them.
I have no doubt you will have ensured the safety of their lives and bolstered the success of their missions whatever they may be.
Lee Greenwoods song 'Proud to be an American' rings loud on my stereo speaks as I write this post.
How I wish we could have shared the moments of your experiences during your Appleseed weekend. Stuff like this raises the bar for me.
A 21 gun salute to you all. And thanks for the great read gentlemen. God bless each and every one.
Best regards,
Castlemountain
ALL INSTRUCTORS NOTE: Do NOT discuss any details regarding troops scores, number of men per platoon, tactical situation they will face or area they are deploying to other than the country.
Friday 9 Oct:
The instructor team started this day on a high, in spite of the blisters, sunburn and exhaustion. We had just come off our smoothest day yet and were back for another crack at getting through that deceptively simple yet damnably elusive final string of the COF.
Troops on time except one squad. The chaplain agreed to a short service while we waited, then morning briefing. Same as Thursday except I forgot the safety rules--no prob, the team noticed that and covered them on the line. This set of men were the best shooters yet, which presented an unanticipated problem: Getting across the idea that they need to improve. (Me: "You need to be better than what the Army asks. They want you to be able to hit a man-sized target at 300 meters. Your opponent isn't going to GIVE you man sized targets--you will have half a head and one arm to shoot at, so now you have a basketball-sized target..." They: "Tell it to the Army. Your argument fails to convince." [OK, they didn't really say that, but the message was clear.]) We did have good success with those who listened, and I was thinking about pulling some of the better shots out and using them as coaches for their fellows. We had to take and unscheduled break in early PM as the actual temp was around 92° and the humidity was high. After the break we were clued in that the standards team to administer the Alt-C would be in early. The Batt. Commander was giving the troops the weekend off and everyone was wanting to get going soon...
Did the Alt-C, had one unfortunate fellow whose M68 went TU during our last string, so he didn't get to qualify with optics. Police the range, then SFC Rinehardt and LTC McInnis did the presentation posted by Old Glory above. Ride back was an exhausted yet festive event--after so much stress, care and concern we could finally loosen the thumbscrews and reflect on a job done as well as it could have been at the time. I expect, if AS is called back to do something like this again, that the next mission will be even better. We have a better idea of the living/range conditions, the troop knowledge and proficiency levels, Army expectations and procedures and what our changes to procedure and instructor skill needs are.
And yet, when all is said and done, the men in the Army who were involved in making this happen are slated to deploy shortly. When that happens all of the institutional memory of who we are and what we do will be gone. In spite of the fact that the Appleseed Project was able to complete our mission to the satisfaction of the cadre who invited us, and that there are many soldiers going into harm's way now with significantly better marksmanship abilities than otherwise would be the case, Appleseed may never again be asked to do this. That would be a shame for both organizations--the Army for missing out on tactically effective and cost effective training, and Appleseed for not being able to help our boys going to fight and our instructors missing out on a unique "seasoning" opportunity.
In the meantime, we do what we can do. Work for the best, plan for the worst. I am honored to have been part of this. I salute the fellow instructors who so ably shouldered their part of the burden, and thank those who didn't come to Fort Stewart but worked behind the scenes to make this a success. I will see you on the Trail.
SoM
May God bless The Swamp Fox Battalion and all others going into harm's way to defend our Liberties.
My wife and I took our annual motorcycle trip to those parts in August. It was a privilege to pay my respects and posthumously award Francis Marion with a Rifleman patch at his final resting place.
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d170/MeanStreaker592/MarionGrave.jpg)
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d170/MeanStreaker592/FrancisMarionGravePatch.jpg)
Thanks for all your hard work, RWVA instructors. I'm honored to be associated with you.
I have read every word on this thread and I am filled with pride that I am even a tiny part of this organization. Do you realize what you have done?? These soldiers will never forget Appleseed, the instructors, or the history as they have never heard it before. The best part is that these soldiers have a better chance of coming home to their wives, their children, and their families than if Appleseed had not been invited. Absolutely OUTSTANDING!
WOW. I am speechless. What a priceless opportunity! While I have done a lot to try to spread the seeds in my little circle of influence, what these people have done is amazing. I have read these post's several times and I get a tingle down my spine each time. I am sure pleased to be a part (albeit a small one) of Appleseed. I look forward to seeing the growth sparked by this event alone!!!
I was going to make post number 500, really count...
But, I'm finding it rather difficult to see the screen.(It's not tears, it's adrenaline...)
I don't believe it to be a coincidence that here you are 230+ years later, working with Marion's men.
To be one of Marion's men, quite an honor, it is.
For those not familiar with the 'Swamp Fox' I'm sure you've seen the movie; "The Patriot"
The character Benjamin Martin, played by Gibson; is based on that of Francis Marion.
Quite an honor, indeed.
It's kind of hard to read what's on Meanstreaker's photo, so I dug it up:
QuoteGen. Marion's Epitaph
--------
Sacred to the Memory of BRIG. GEN. FRANCIS MARION,
Who departed this life, on the 27th of February, 1795,~ In the
Sixty-Third Year of his Age; Deeply regretted by all his fellow citizens.
HISTORY will record his worth, and rising generations embalm his
memory, as one of the most distinguished Patriots and Heroes of
the American Revolution; which elevated his native Country TO
HONOUR AND INDEPENDENCE, and secured to her the
blessings of LIBERTY AND PEACE.
This tribute of veneration and gratitude is erected in
commemoration of the noble and disinterested virtues of the
CITIZEN; and the gallant exploits of the SOLDIER; Who lived
without fear, and died without reproach.
http://americanrevwar.homestead.com/files/marion.htm
Be proud as proud of yourselves as you are of the soldiers with whom you've worked with.
Quite an honor. Quite an honor indeed.
From Colycat, Alex, you really made your 500th post count. Good job man O0 O0 O0 O0
(http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/1300/dsc04862i.jpg)
Hawkhavn
(http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/8982/dsc0368x.jpg)
Old Glory!
(http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/3715/dsc0247i.jpg)
VAshooter
(http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/710/dsc0267i.jpg)
SgtCap
(http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/745/dsc0252.jpg)
SamD
(http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/388/dsc0250w.jpg)
Flathead
(http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/6065/dsc01212p.jpg)
Son of Martha
(http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/4541/dsc04242t.jpg)
Colycat
(http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/5623/dsc0295l.jpg)
National Guard
Established 1636
100% American Soldier
(http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/8408/dsc0455t.jpg)
Sgt. Rinehardt calling the line on the C-qual
Quote from: AFTERMATH on October 14, 2009, 02:31:21 AM
It's kind of hard to read what's on Meanstreaker's photo, so I dug it up:
Sorry to continue slightly off the AAR, but since folks seem interested and I'm sure General Marion is very proud of his men, here is a clearer photo of the inscription:
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d170/MeanStreaker592/Charleston2009Day6/0821096.jpg)
Here is the other side of his monument:
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d170/MeanStreaker592/Charleston2009Day6/08210915.jpg)
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d170/MeanStreaker592/Charleston2009Day6/08210914.jpg)
It reads:
To Preserve to Posterity this burial place of an honored son
The General Assembly of South Carolina
Replaces the crumbling and broken tomb nearly a century old with this
Enduring memorial cut from her own granite hills.
Esto Perpetua.I'm not ashamed to admit I choked up when reading that on site while relating the words to the mission of Appleseed.
Dang I need to shave.
It was truely a pleasure working with you guys, and getting to be a part of this. Hopefully this will not be the last time we get to do something like this for the military. Even if we don't every one of you can sleep well knowing that you did something to help bring these guys home safly and to make sure some of their enemies do not.
I've been around soldiers long enough to know when they are being polite and when they sincerly appreciate something. These guys sincerely appreciated our efforts. Considering the long days, heat and exhaustion that is definately saying a lot.
Good work O0
Quote from: PHenry on October 12, 2009, 11:39:23 AM
Honor and Privilege
I didn't know what to expect, but when called, I knew that I had to go.
I had events to run immediately prior to and directly after, but that didn't matter.
I was concerned about my own ability to Appleseed for 9 consecutive days. I was concerned about how the troops would feel about a bunch of civilians teaching them marksmanship. I was concerned about how "thems of a higher pay grade" at Ft. Stewart would view our presence on base.
I also feared I would be unworthy as an instructor considering the level of talent by which I would be surrounded.
On Friday afternoon, during a brief ceremony in front of the two final platoons that we worked with, I watched a very "squared away" officer get choked up when he was offering his thanks to me and my fellow volunteer instructors for what we had done and all of the aforementioned concerns breathed their last gasp and vanished completely.
It was an honor and a privilege to meet and live with every one of you - soldiers and instructors alike. I am at once, humbled and proud. I will recall fondly my time at Ft. Stewart as long as I live and if afforded the opportunity, would not hesitate to repeat the entire experience.
To everyone involved, please accept my heartfelt thanks for enabling me this precious opportunity.
PH
These are pretty much my sentiments, also. Honored and privileged.
I want to thank Providence for even considering my participation! Thanks to all RWVA volunteers everywhere. I know that those who were not there in flesh were there in spirit. Thanks to the Swamp Fox Battalion for having us and being good students with very positive, teachable attitudes, and especially for serving your larger family, the American People.
I must admit that I often felt like I was amongst giants. Appleseed has some very talented and dedicated individuals and I am very lucky to know and work with many of them. Being around such souls has forced introspection, and motivated myself to develop my own Americanism to the maximum that I can muster. My time and efforts to the Project thus far has been well-rewarded and has left me yearning to give and do more. There is no longer any doubt here (if there ever was), that doing right is its own reward.
I returned home with a swelling sense of what America is and how important Appleseed is to America. I am honored and privileged to be considered a part of that Appleseed family. I consider every one of those present a loved part of my family.
Thank you, America. Thank you, our Founding Generation.
In liberty,
I am,
Bama
I had an great time working with these great riflemen as their OIC. Learned a lot from them. Hope to do it again sometime...
LTRangeMaster,
Is that you LT? Welcome aboard! Flattered that you sought us out and made a post. You are one squared away officer sir - besting men with twice your experience I feel certain.
If offered the chance to do it all agin - I would not falter, on that you can rely.
Next time I see you, I figure there will be a new insignia on the front of your ACUs. <:)
Take care and keep smiling sir,
PHenry (Trey)
Welcome aboard Lt.
Good to see ya here.
Sam
(http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4662/dsc0490g.jpg)
talking targets
(http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/7302/dsc0446r.jpg)
Water buffalo
(http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/5673/dsc0415w.jpg)
Seated or kneeling
(http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/7712/dsc0404j.jpg)
standing
(http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/8630/dsc0384ea.jpg)
Ahhshoot
(http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/4559/dsc0358k.jpg)
Colonel McInnis and DwayneH
(http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/7778/dsc0355s.jpg)
Samuel T. McKenzie, CSM
Command Sergeant Major
(http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/1797/dsc0354b.jpg)
Lt. Singletary our OIC
LTRangeMaster WELCOME TO THE FORUM!
(http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/6867/dsc0351k.jpg)
Colonel McInnis and Sgt. Rinehardt
(http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/1641/dsc0348hs.jpg)
SamD and his clownbat
(http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/1861/dsc0311ie.jpg)
LT and the Friday platoon
(http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/1998/dsc0289x.jpg)
One man fell out due to heat exhaustion. Off came all the gear, and an IV started quickly. He recovered fine.
(http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/5594/dsc0210uk.jpg)
Major Turner and Stimey
(http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/2909/dsc0208v.jpg)
Yikes, Its been almost 2 weeks since this shoot and I haven't chimed in yet. (the forum was down quite abit of the time though)
My thoughts:
This was really special, I mean really special. I thought my best AS was Arnold Air Force Base last year, and it was, until now.
At all Appleseeds, you develope relationships with students and instructors. Imagine spending 1 week living in close quarters with your fellow instructors? Although I knew most by forum name before I arrived, Son of Martha decided we would use our real names. !@#) It took the whole week for me to get Mike, Darrel, Derrick, ect. Sam was the only easy one. Oh yea, Laurie was easy also #) We became such a close, high speed, low drag unit, that it is still incredable to think about it. What Fun :~ :~ :~
Our mission though was to train men and a few women to survive, against 13th century barbarians. Changes the whole focus on what we normally do. They really needed what we had to offer and it was apparent every trip to the latrine or mess hall. After a few days,(4 platoons) we were really sought after for stories, yes, the stories of 4-19. They also wanted to know where to buy my jacket, which I wore all day, most days, to be as uncomfortable as they were with 75 lbs of amour on.
It was truly an honor to serve with all the AS instructors, and to meet SGT Rinehardt, Major Turner,
SGT Bledsoe,(have you checked your receiver on your M4 yet? I hope it doesn't say Rock River on it **) ) and last but not least LT Singletary. (Lt, I need my morning fix of the LT)
There are so many items of fate, that this was the first AS endeavor with the military. First, its the National Guard. (militia) Second, they are descendants of Marion's men, who were there on 4-19-75. Third, Their motto is "true and tried". Something we found out about when we deviated from the AS COF. There is more but I can't remember them all.
What a great experience, thanks to all the people in Appleseed, who helped to make this possible, and this includes everyone, because without the national program, it never would have happened.
Quoteeveryone, because without the national program, it never would have happened.
We had a great time and a great experience but the people that made it happen are
everyone else in Appleseed that made it possible by building and spreading a strong program.
Colycat, you said it all right there.
In honor of the 1st Battalion 178th Field Artillery, Marion's Men. God bless you all!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7mXOx12UCU
O0 O0
Awesome vid OG! O0
Way to go all you guys! :~
I am speechless...all I can say is well done people. Thank God there are folks like you out there.
Old Glory...excellent job on the video presentation.
Incidentally, I know Appleseed works. We have friends in Afghanistan now who are AS trained. Our contact instructed his men is AS and they did very well. One GI made a 400 yard (paced off) shot with his issue M14 (open sights) and dropped the Taliban terrorist cold.
For the record, they had no training on the M14's before they left, no cleaning kits for them or the M4's either so we rushed some out there.
Anyway people, from my entire family, thank you for what you did and are doing, keep up the outstanding job and God Bless you all.
Ken aka kilogulf59
This thread is way to important to leave the first page of the AAR's. Plus I just had a thought. Master Instructor, Jr Birdman, once commented, that he was so imbaressed with South Carolina, (no Appleseeds) that he was telling people he lived in France :-X After this shoot, who were All South Carolina Men and Women, maybe, just maybe, SC has had more AS attendees than California? **) **) **)
Two Appleseeds in SC this year. One last year. I am trying to squeeze three in at my club for next year and am talking to another club in Charleston.
178th Departure ceremonies scheduled for January 6, 2010 at multiple armories.
http://www.gtowntimes.com/local/Guard-set-to-deploy-Jan--62009-12-13T16-14-25
God Bless
OG,
I have been awaiting this news with both dread and anxious curiosity. Thanks for keeping us all up to date. I will say a prayer for their safe return and another for their marksmanship. May they make safe all of the farmers by dispatching the evil men who would forced them to grow poppies and come home soon.
PH
Amen, PHenry.
Tonight Scout played LT. Singletary's introduction on the Rifleman Radio Show, Blog Talk Radio, and talked with Son of Martha. Next week he plans to play some more, and talk with more instructors. Stay tuned to Blog Talk Radio / The Rifleman for more Fort Stewart audio. I'll post transcripts here for you all to follow along with. Tonight's transcript below.... (pictures you have probably already seen, but are related to the audio and transcript; and worth repeating)
(http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/5939/dsc0155.jpg)
LT. Singletary, Range OIC
(http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/5286/imgp9246.jpg)
Morning range orientation
(http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/254/imgp9248.jpg)
LT. Singletary addressing the platoons
Lt. Singletary, range OIC addresses the platoons in the morning.
Good morning, good morning, good morning!
Where's Scout platoon at?
Huah!
Scout platoon?
Huah!
Where's maneuver platoon at?
Huah!
Scout platoon?
Huah!
Maneuver platoon?
Huah!
Let's keep that motivation all day; it's goona be a long, long long day.
It's gonna be about 90 degrees, 92 degrees, so drink water. Sounds good?
Huah!
I will orient you to the range real quick. Right now you are sitting on my bleachers. Right behind me is the tower. Over here are the latreens. Do not put no trash or cigarette butts in that latrene. If you do, you gonna be digging it out yourself. Sound good.
Huah!
The ammo truck will be on the range.
The water buffalo is already on the range waiting. You all should be drinking plenty, a lot of water today. Sound good? Stay hydrated.
Over here, is my highly proficient, OUTSTANDING safeties/instructors. They gonna teach you a lot about marksmanship, so I need you to pay attention and learn something today. Sound good?
Huah!
We should have no weapons malfunction, right?
If you do have a weapon malfunction, this is what you're gonna do. Put your weapon on SAFE, put it down on the ground, and notify a safety. Sound good?
Huah?
Say it with me now.
Weapon on safe. WEAPON ON SAFE.
Put it on the ground. PUT IT ON THE GROUND
Notify a safety. NOTIFY A SAFETY.
THAT'S WHAT YOU GONNA DO!!!
HUAH!
Like I said, it's gonna be hot; DRINK WATER. During the course of the day I am going to be on the intercom saying to drink water. I want you to stay hydrated. We had an issue two days ago a guy fell out. We had to stick him with an IV. Do you want me to stick you with an IV?
Negative.
Stay hydrated.
Huah!
It ain't gonna rain, but in case it rains, this is what we are gonna do. Leave your weapon on the range, come here to the bleachers, drop down all your gear, any type of metal equipment that you have, put it down here, and then you go into your vehicles. Sounds good? If it ain't rainin, we ain't trainin, right?
Huah!
Now, some more things. Everyone have hearing protection?
Huah!
Check right now, do you have hearing protection?
Huah!
While you are doing that, do you have eye pros.
Huah!
Make sure you check that to. Make sure you have eye pros.
Everyone have Kevlar?
Huah!
You get on my range, you have Kevlar.
Huah!
There will be no eating on my range. Only place we will eat is here. Sound good.
Huah!
What did I say?
No eating on the range.
Sounds good!
Gotta shoot down them targets, right?
Huah!
You already know how to fire. You are all experts at marksmanship.
EXPERTS!
You all set the standard for yourself already. EXPERTS Sounds good.
Smoking area! Out here, this is your only smoking area. Okay? I've been nice to the group and designated a smoking area on the range. I got it designated by two hills, you're gonna see a white tape, connected to the targets. That's your smoking area. No where else on my range can you smoke, just in that box. Understood?
Huah!
You will be getting rodded on, your weapon is going to be cleared before you get on my range and off. When you get your weapon down on the ground today you will not get your weapon off the range until the end of the day. All right?
Huah!
When you come here for lunch, make sure you leave your weapons down.
When you go to check your targets, you will be doing that all day, I want you to take off your Kevlar to relax yourselves. Like I said, it's gonna be very very hot here. I don't want no one falling out, right? Sounds good?
Huah!
Nobody's gonna fall out, right?
Huah!
No falling out, right?
Huah!
Sound good.
Man, does that bring back some great memories or what?! L.T. Singletary is one squared away soldier! Makes me feel safer just knowing he is on duty.
:--- :--- :--- :--- :--- :--- :---
After Instructing at that shoot, and coming back to work the following week, life was a lot better for me! Knowing what we taught those soldiers and where they are going in just a few weeks. As well as having an impact on this great nations war on terrorism! We need to get some more Guard units on board with this program!
I was watching the Military channel at 5:30 this morning and a program called "modern sniper" and was surprised to see the master gunner SFC Reinhardt was in a few of the clips about the 5:45 time frame!!! I didn't not catch watch was the title under him but have set that program to record again if it comes on.
Hey Flathead!
Master Gunner SFC Rinehardt; it was an honor to meet such a man, who holds high the standards of rifle marksmanship and proficiency and safety of the Swamp Fox Battalion.
Also, here is a comment Lt. Skinner posted in response to a rough draft video that SGTCap has posted here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Alv9yEf34Ys&NR=1
Very good instruction. I had some problems out there and couldn't figure out what it was. It ended up being a loose rear sight. Despite a poor showing that day, I was able to implement the techniques down the road and qualify expert. Prior to that I was always barely passing. Thanks Appleseed!
1LT Skinner
Aired on blogtalk radio tonight The Rifleman
Appleseed shoot boss, Son of Martha addresses platoons in the morning.
Good morning gentlemen!
Good morning, sir!
My name is Ron Vandiver, and I'm from North Georgia. I am the shoot boss for the Appleseed contingent that has come for this mission. The Appleseed Project is groups of volunteer instructors who travel around the country and do weekend missions to teach marksmanship and Revolutionary War History to our Citizens. The Army has invited us to come and help give ya'll refresher before you have to go overseas.
The qualifications of these instructors; most of them, not all, are prior service. The main qualification, the most significant to me is, they are all what I define as Riflemen. They are all able to take a rack grade, military type of rifle, zero the rifle, and effectively engage man-size targets out to 500 meters with iron sights. They can all do this. They have done it. You have to do it to get the hat.
Not only that, they are all volunteers. You men all volunteered, didn't ya?
Huah!
Ain't nobody here got drafted; you stepped up and you did something that you knew needed to be done. Likewise with us.
Not only are we volunteers, but whenever we came down here to do this mission, Appleseed headquarters, in its infinite wisdom, did not see fit to offer reimbursement for expenses. So not only are we volunteers to come teach you, we are paying to come here for the week to teach you. These men and woman have spent their own money on airline tickets and travel. They are taking time away from their business, time away from their vacation time, time away from their families, because they think this is something important that we can contribute to.
In my book, that means that you owe us. What you owe us is one day out of your one and only life. One day where you focus on what we try to tell you, and you make an honest effort on your part, to implement the things that we are going to ask you to do. The things that we are going to ask you to do are going to be unfamiliar. The training you are going to have today is unlike anything that the army has ever trained you with. You are going to be crowded together on the firing line. None of this nonsense about 10 or 20 meters between soldiers. You are going to be almost shoulder-to-shoulder on the firing line. Your buddy's brass is going to be bouncing of your K-pot, and if you're very unlucky, going down the neck of your body armor. You are going to have muzzle blast very close to you and dust blowing over you. This is intentional. When you get into combat it's gonna be this way, or worse. You need to have some experience with it before you get into combat. We call it the Rifleman's Bubble. Whenever you step up to the firing line, and you are about to fire a string of fire, you need to mentally put yourself in a little bubble that pushes away the rest of the world; where the only thing you are thinking about is the most important thing to you for the next two or three minutes; put the bullets where they need to go.
By the end of the day, you won't even notice it when the brass bounces off your helmet. When you go to a normal army firing line, you've got 10 meters between each other, it's gonna seem boring after this.
The other thing is, we are very detail oriented. We are not going to tell you to show up on the line, load 20 rounds, shoot it and get the hell off the line. What we are gonna do is have instructors coming down the line, giving you individual attention. That will be correcting your positions and your techniques, giving you advice. That will be going to the target line with you to look at your targets, analyze them, and give you advice. This is not merely an exercise where you get to go shoot guns. This is an exercise where you are taught a better way to do it; with a lot of attention to details.
Most of the things we are going to tell you will seem to be nit-picky. Things about breathing, trigger control, check points in particular firing positions. They will seem to be very minor issues. When you add them all together it makes a huge difference.
American soldiers have had a tradition of marksmanship. At the North Bridge on April 19, 1775, in three minutes of concentrated firepower, a bunch of civilians, civilian militia as a matter of fact, farmers and shop keepers, they broke three companies of British infantry in three minutes of concentrated firepower and sent them routing through the streets of Concord. It has not changed since then. In every war that we have fought, individual marksmanship, proficiency with the soldier's individual weapon has been a significant factor. Where you are going, it will be no different. Marksmanship always matters. You may be able to shoot 40 out of 40 on the Army Qualification Course. That's pretty good. However, it can be much better. Because hitting a man size target at 300 yards is one thing, but your enemy is not stupid. He is not going to intentionally expose a man sized target to shoot at at 300 meters. What you are going to have to shoot at is half his head and his right shoulder. So you are going to have to hit a basketball sized target at 300 meters.
Any you guys play football?
Huah!
In a past life? What are the two things you have to be able to do to win at football?
Defense?
More basic than that. BLOCK and TACKLE!
To win at football, you must be able to block and tackle. If you can't do that, you're hosed. If you can block and tackle, it doesn't guarantee you will win, but it just means you can start to make you playbook. What we teach are the fundamentals; like blocking and tackling. Once you get the fundamentals down, then you build your playbook on top of that. A CUB, a sniper, a practical rifle, or a normal army rifle. That's your playbook. But the fundamentals have to under gird it. The fundamentals are what we drill on.
The M4 weapon systems is a marvel of design and modern manufacturing. This weapon system is capable of effectively engaging man-sized targets to 500 meters and beyond. One of our instructors, who is also an army guy, taught a class recently for designated marksmen in which they were engaging targets with an M4 platform and M855 ball at 800 meters and getting hits. The rifle will do it if you can do it.
Has everyone zeroed their rifles?
Negative.
Have any of you gentlemen had experience on these optics prior to today?
Okay, a couple, but not all. Te Aimpoint M68 Spokes Combat Optical gun sight. First off, it has an on off switch here. As you rotate it, it will click; as you continue to rotate it, the dot will get brighter, brighter and brighter. You want to set the dot to the minimum brightness level for your ambient light conditions. Your gonna be out here in bright sunlight, you're gonna have to turn it up kind of high. When it starts getting dark, and especially at night, you're gonna have to crank it down real low. Remember that you are going to have to fiddle with this. There is no one place to set it and forget it. It has an elevation adjustment on the top. Unscrew the weather cover, when we go to sight in, you'll fire your first group, we're going to teach you a thing called Inches/Minutes/Clicks where you can make calculations as to how many clicks you need to put in here to zero your weapon. Unscrew the weather cover, you have what looks like a slot screw driver head inside. It is marked with UP and L. If it is on top, it means UP. It has an arrow pointing direction. If you turn it in that direction, you will move your shot group up. Use an expended cartridge case to adjust these. Once you have dialed your clicks in, take your cartridge case and just tape on it to make sure it settles in. Make sure the adjustment settles in. You have a windage adjustment on the side. Left and right adjustment on the side. It is marked UP and R with an arrow. Since it is on the side, it means R. If you turn it in the direction of the arrow it will move your shot group to the right. Same thing; cartridge case to adjust it, tap on it and make sure it takes. During the day as the sun moves overhead, you are going to have more or less light on your target. You may come back after chow and find that you need to readjust your dot setting. Don't forget to do that. If the dot is turned up too high, it blooms and it makes it will obscure your target. This gun sight is designed particularly for close combat and intermediate range combat. Out to about 300 meters. It is also extremely good for low light conditions and time critical engagements, when you do not have time to necessarily take a proper firing position like we are going to show you, but you have to get a flash sight picture; it's good for that.
Anybody have ACOGS? The Advanced Combat Optical Gun Sight. That gunsight is designed to take up on the range span that this one leaves off. Those are optimized for engagements beyond 300 meters. If you are using an ACOG, it's got a Chevron with a vertical post beneath it. Use the top of the vertical post as your 25-meter aiming point when you zero.
When we go out to zero, we have an army zero target posted and we also have a target that is just one-inch squares. We are going to start on the army zero target and if we need to we will overflow on the squares. We are going to end up doing probably five or six, three round groups to zero. Before zeroing, we are going to give you some instruction on position. Your line boss, if he needs to, he may give you a sandbag or something to use for zero to make sure we get it dialed in in a timely fashion. Has everyone zeroed on an army target?
No.
When you are zeroing on these, ignore the blocks. Pay no attention to the blocks. Use the Inches/Minutes/Clicks formula that we are going to teach you.
Our firing line procedures. We have a firing line marked with engineer's tape, and about 10 feet behind it we have a dashed line painted on the ground that is the staging line. The ammunition boxes are to be evenly distributed along the staging line at each platoon, of course, but evenly distributed. Whenever you are not in a preparation period or firing a string, stand behind the staging line. Take your magazines with you and step back there. You can load magazines. We will tell you what the next string of fire is going to be and how much you need to load. When your magazines are ready just stand easy then. Once everybody is ready, we will say. SHOOTERS, YOUR PREPARATION PERIOD BEGINS NOW. You step up to the firing line; you can handle your weapon at that point. You can get into position, adjust the sling, and make any sight adjustments you need to get ready to fire the string of fire. The initial preparation periods will be rather long; probably 2, 3 minutes because people are making sight adjustments. It will speed up considerably once zeroing is complete. We will get to where the preparation periods are approximately 60 seconds. At the end of which you will hear the command; SHOOTERS, YOUR PREPARATION PERIOD HAS ENDED. WITH XXXX ROUNDS, LOAD. At that point you may insert the magazine, chamber a round, keep your finger off the trigger, and be ready to fire. The line boss will ask IS THE LINE READY? You only answer this question if you are NOT ready. If you are not ready, waive your hand over your head, the nearest instructor will step up. He is going to determine if it is a safety issue. If it is NOT a safety issue, we will proceed while he helps you catch up. IS THE LINE READY ON THE RIGHT? IS THE LINE READY ON THE LEFT? ALL READY ON THE FIRING LINE. FIRE! Engage the designated number of rounds, or until the time limit expires. We'll call CEASE FIRE, CEASE FIRE, CEASE FIRE! UNLOAD AND CLEAR. You unload your rifle, take your magazine, step behind the staging line, and if you know what is coming up next, start loading up, or otherwise just wait for instruction.
A clear rifle. What we define as a clear; here's what we do. We're going to be issuing you chamber flags. It looks like this. It is a little orange plastic tab that has a rod on it. When you unload your rifle, MAGAZINE OUT, BOLD LOCKED TO THE REAR, SAFETY ON, CHAMBER FLAG INSERTED THROUGH THE INJECTION PORT INTO THE CHAMBER, GROUNDED ON ITS LEFT SIDE, POINTED DOWN RANGE, WITH NO ONE TOUCHING IT. That is what we define as a safe rifle. It has multiple overlapping layers of safety. Multiple overlapping layers of safety. When you get in your preparation period and can handle the rifle, one of the first things to do is go ahead and get the chamber flag out of the way, and you are going to sling up, get your position using what we teach you, and then start dry firing.
Questions? Comments?
It's one day gentlemen. It is going to be a long day, and a hot day. I am sorry there is nothing I can do about that. Do not look at this though as being a bad thing for your future welfare. Look at this as a training opportunity. Where you go, you are going to have uncomfortable conditions, it may be hot, you're gonna be wearing body armor almost all the time. You need to be able to fire effectively. Look at these as challenges to be overcome. Eleven hours from now, twelve hours from now, when you are sitting in these bleachers again and we are about to leave, it will all be over with then and it will be okay. Between now and then there are going to be times when it is going to suck. Embrace the suck and work through it.
Ft. Stewart Appleseed closing by Son of Martha
Gentlemen,
Eleven hours ago I stepped out in front of you and had to introduce an Appleseed program that you had never heard of, have a bunch of civilians teaching soldiers something about shooting. At that time I said you owed me something. You owed me one day out of your life, and your focus and attention and honest effort to do what was best. I have been paid back fully. And I think you for that.
Huah!
Did it work?
Huah!
You saw it on your qual scores. You saw it on your AQT's. By the way, after shooting this (holds up AQT), when they post that army qual test, it don't look nearly so imposing, does it?
No, not at all.
The Quick and Dirty AQT that we use for our qualification is extremely difficult to shoot to a Rifleman standard. It is intentionally made that way. It is made so that when most people are studying rifle shooting, they improve fairly fast, and then it slows down, and then they plateau. They stick at a certain level. A 210 score that we set is above that level, to force them to push through that plateau and go from being merely a very good shooter, to being an excellent shooter.
One day is not much time to do it in. It is awfully hard to do in one day. We got some gentlemen who came awfully close and I want you guys to know the men amongst you who scored so well on these AQT's.
First off, Morris; 173. Huah!
Foster: 173 Huah!
You guys take those back, take your shot group analysis sheet and do your homework.
Next up, Bowman: 178 Huah!
Sgt Powell: 182 Huah! Knocking on the door, absolutely! That's where that plateau starts.
Welch: 185 Huah!
Norcudy: 191 Huah!
Lachance: 192 Huah!
Spc Turner: 193 Huah!
Name?????? This one was a heart breaker 203 Huah!
Now you remember from the history presentation earlier; Lord Percy. I don't know if they told you or not, but just in case they didn't, Lord Percy wasn't just English nobility. He was the son of a British Peer. There are only 500 Piers in the British Empire at this time. Out of a country of 5 million souls, they were the top 500 at the top of the heap, and he was the son of one of them. Remember that letter he wrote home; that anyone who thinks this war is going to be easy is very much mistaken. They have men amongst them who know very well what they are about. Well, we have a man amongst us who knows very well what he is about. Very, very well. He didn't just shoot a 210. And for a first ever AQT, this is really outstanding.
Richard Ernest: 223!
Huah!
Come on down here Ernest. Appleseed; one of my personal things about being in Appleseed is that I firmly believe that the problems that America faces are not political, they are not social, they are not even really cultural. The problems America faces are due to a moral failing on the part of American people. At Appleseed, when you come and you shoot to a Rifleman level of shooting, think of the virtues you have to exhibit to do that:
Attention to detail.
Discipline
Humility
Honesty
Persistence.
These are all good virtues. They are virtues that modern Americans are not often called upon to exercise. So we like to recognize Rifleman scores with a patch. When you see a man wearing one of these, you know he earned it. We do not sell em. You have to earn it. So congratulations!
HUAH!
Pass it on!
I know you are ready to go back to chow; just one more thing on a personal level. There is a man who lived back during Victorian England names Rudyard Kipling. He was poet and he had a son who he loved very much. He called his son Jack for whatever reason because the boy's actual name was John. And he wrote a poem for his son. The poem is called "If". And it goes something like this....
Huah!
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you; If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or, being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;
If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with triumph and disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with wornout tools;
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on";
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man my son!
John Kipling enlisted in the British army. He died in 1914 in some obscure little town in Belgium, and Rudyard Kipling was never the same again.
Every one of you has somebody that loves you, and cares about you and depends on you. Parents, grandparents, siblings, children. You men take care of each other over there. You are going half way around the world to meet up with a bunch of 10th Century bloody-minded barbarians who are going to try to kill you dead. You only get to die once; do everything you can to make that at the end of your life. Take care of each other. Come back to us because we need people like you in this country.
That's all I have to say. You have a good evening.
HUAAAAAH!!!
Attempting to attach the Front Sight Article.... ::)
Outstanding! This is what we need more of - fair and balanced exposure. Kudos to Jeff and Chris - their father would be proud.
PH
SWEET!!!
Thanks Old Glory!
Thanks Mr. Knox!
Remembering and honoring the Swamp Fox Batallion on the Lord's Day. God bless them all.
Ya'll will remember Sgt. Bledsoe as our personal chauffeur.
(http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/3074/dsc0330.jpg)
Here he is at work in Afghanistan:
http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=images/images_gallery.php&action=viewimage&fid=295098
Powell at the Ft. Stewart Appleseed
(http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/7816/dsc0333r.jpg)
Sgt Powell provides security in Afghan village!!!
(http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/4589/290413.jpg)
http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=images/images_gallery.php&action=viewimage&fid=290413
Along with other images of the
Swamp Fox Batallion, 178 Field Artillery
http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=media/media_tags.php&tag=swamp-fox-battalion&table=images&page=1&perpage=25
There are four pages of pictures. Check them out! Many names and faces that you will recognize; McInnis, MacKenzie, and many more.
God bless them all.
May they stay safe and return to us!
For those of you who desire to follow the Actions of the Swamp Fox Batallion in Afghanistan, check out "A Chronicle of the 1-178 FA BN in Afghanistan" located at this page:
http://www.dvidshub.net/units/934
under recent publications.
OG!
Way to go girl! U R the best!
PH
looking for an update on the Swamp Fox Battalion.
Anyone know???
http://www.facebook.com/photoselect.php?oid=138932925124&aid=159231#!/group.php?gid=138932925124&v=wall (http://www.facebook.com/photoselect.php?oid=138932925124&aid=159231#!/group.php?gid=138932925124&v=wall)
There is an October, 2010 newsletter publication on this page.
http://www.dvidshub.net/units/1-178FAB
Unable to attach here; must be too large.
Quote from: Old Glory! on December 29, 2010, 01:41:50 AM
looking for an update on the Swamp Fox Battalion.
Anyone know???
http://www.facebook.com/photoselect.php?oid=138932925124&aid=159231#!/group.php?gid=138932925124&v=wall (http://www.facebook.com/photoselect.php?oid=138932925124&aid=159231#!/group.php?gid=138932925124&v=wall)
There is an October, 2010 newsletter publication on this page.
http://www.dvidshub.net/units/1-178FAB
Unable to attach here; must be too large.
Article Link: Some are back, but not all: (http://www2.scnow.com/news/2010/dec/15/johnsonville-council-updated-statue-announce-commi-ar-1221797/)
Quote178th troops arrive home
Mayor Dukes announced that most if not all members of the 178th Field Artillery Battalion deployed to Afghanistan in January had returned home...
Article Link: Donations still needed for returned soldiers (http://www.gtowntimes.com/Local/Donations-still-needed-for-returned-soldiers2010-12-06T02-20-15)
QuoteAlthough Saturday's parade was a joyous occasion, the state of the economy is causing difficulty during the holiday season for many of the troops who returned in November from a tour of duty in Afghanistan.
As reported last week, a movement is underway to help the soldiers whose jobs were eliminated while they were in Afghanistan.
(http://assets.mediaspanonline.com/prod/5524749/troops_w400.jpg)
Sadly many of the soldiers are returning to no jobs. Company closures mean even a safe return is not necessarily a return to a job. Be sure to read the article and help as you can. The irony is that they helped to clothe and protect children and families while they were gone. They were even kind enough to give an APO to send supplies to and somewhere in Afghanistan there are a pair of young girls with a nice set of tap shoes that my girls sent amongst a pile of stuff.
So they are back, but their need for help and support is not over.
I see you hit them on Facebook, I have them friended too and will watch for their response. In the meanwhile I will see what I can do to send something. Thanks OG for keeping our eyes on them.
Techres
OG! What happened to the slideshow you had on youtube??!?
SoM
Quote from: Son of Martha on April 30, 2011, 03:33:42 AM
OG! What happened to the slideshow you had on youtube??!?
SoM
It had to be removed because we do not have copy right permission for the J Cash song :-[
I was just "speaking" to OG on this - surely we have folks in AS that can write, sing and play an un-copyrighted tune for the slide show. Me, I cain't carry a tune in a bucket! :wb:
I went looking for the slide show about a month ago and when I saw it was pulled by author - figured it was a copyright issue. I liked to watch it when I needed a boost.
Quote from: PHenry on May 01, 2011, 01:19:45 PM
I was just "speaking" to OG on this - surely we have folks in AS that can write, sing and play an un-copyrighted tune for the slide show. Me, I cain't carry a tune in a bucket! :wb:
I went looking for the slide show about a month ago and when I saw it was pulled by author - figured it was a copyright issue. I liked to watch it when I needed a boost.
Ditto what PHenry wrote. Even if a background tune can't be added, I'd enjoy being able to look at the slide show without audio. The photos evoke fair memories; for the men and women we supported and the fine Patriots met, sweated with, learned from, and even loved, in just a few days time!