Explosions shake the battlefield. Dead bodies lay scattered everywhere as blazing ammunition races above heads. A man wonders momentarily if he’s in the right place, but he knows the answer. He’s here for war. Leaning out of cover, he takes aim, but before a shot can be fired, an incredible pain ripples through his chest. Hit with a round of enemy fire, the weight of what just happened sinks in as fast as he loses consciousness. An American soldier has just made the ultimate sacrifice for his country. His cause was noble and his death was honorable. The last thing that soldier felt was a sense of pride, knowing he died fighting for the country he loved.

What makes a man gamble away his life for the sake of our country? The answer to that is pride. Respecting the purpose behind military, a soldier takes up his weapon not fearing his own death as a normal man would. He is proud of his country and its military, and realizes that he is fighting for a cause much greater than his own relatively insignificant life.

Americans are our own breed of people. Naturally, we are proud, if not arrogant, people. It’s the reason why we once led the world in the technological explosion of the 20th century. It’s the reason why we have the highest standard of living in the world. It is also the reason why we have the strongest and most competent military in the world. Pride in our country is pride in our military. An American soldier’s pride is matched by nothing.

            To sit in History class and listen about our nation’s founding fathers battle the world’s most powerful military force, the British army, without hesitation, instigates a sense of pride. This pride grows when taught about WWI, and WWII. The men who died; the men who gave their lives for our nation, shows us citizens that interests in our country are more important than our personal lives.

There has always been pride in serving our military. During the American Revolution, a small army of volunteer soldiers fought against the highly-trained British royal army. When the facts are added up, it is impossible to imagine how the Americans could have won the war. The main reason why the Americans won is because they had so much pride in their military. Each soldier fought past their last bullet, past their last ounce of strength. They fought to their last breath. The British did not have the pride shown by the Americans; therefore they did not fight as hard. They gave up and lost hope quickly. The most elite army in the word eventually surrendered to no more than an army of ill-trained farmers that had pride in their country.

In modern times, it is unquestionably honorable for a man to serve his country by joining the military. Sometimes living a life devoted to the military is as complicated as politics, economics, or family dynamics.  But sometimes, it is as simple as a love story.  There is a powerful purpose in what we do, no matter the reason that got us here in the first place. Yes, there is pride in devoting your life to something greater than yourself.

Now I will start off by saying that I was proud to have voted for President Barack Obama.  And in light of the state the economy and heathcare were in when he came into office I feel that he is making progress.  And of course we all know that it took years for things to get this bad so fixing it all over-night is just not going to happen. Yet, as hard as he is working does he deserve to use taxpayers money on a four million dollar vacation?

While many of us are struggling to make ends meet and barely able to keep our houses and food on our tables our President and his family will be in Hawaii.  And not only are they going on vacation but they are travelling seperately so it will cost double the amount to get them to their destination safely.  Oh and lets not forget that while on his private beach front home (the one thing he does pay for) we the taxpayers will be paying for his entourage to stay their and keep him safe.  Yes, the Coast Guard, Secret Service and Navy Seals all need a place to stay and we get to pay for it!  Is it just me or does this seem unfair?  Not to mention that the money used on his vacation could be used to help the economy or provide jobs!

No this diatribe of mine is, I guess, something that I simply had to write so that I could take a moment to thank the men and women (such as the soldiers I saw in that segment last night) for the sacrifices and nightmares that they have (and many still do) faced for us as Americans. I listened to the stories told last night and wept as the realization that a man, a Soldier, who had received the Silver Star Award for his bravery and his valor in the line of duty is now left to suffer nightmares and memories that no individual should ever be forced to deal with. He spoke of the guilt he felt, of how he blamed himself, for the loss of his Commanding Officer on the day that he was wounded and would later earn an award for still managing to carry his C.O. out of that place that is now forever branded into his memory.

That young man was 18 years of age when he fought that battle and his life was altered forever.

With Veteran’s Day coming up on Friday, I couldn’t help but wonder how many men and women I meet and deal with every day that might be going through some of the same things that young Soldier faces now that he is back home and trying to readjust to civilian life. How many more, I wonder, are suffering in silence because they don’t know where to go or who to turn to? Because they don’t have enough resources to seek out the kind of help that they might need in order to help them deal with the horrors that may have followed them home to the States when they left those deserts? How many times a year, a month, a day, do I come across a Veteran of ANY war and (even though I always be sure to shake their hands and thank them for their service) maybe not take long enough to appreciate what they’ve done and been through in their quest to protect this great country of ours? How many of those Soldiers have come home in these most recent years to a Country that is so torn apart by a bickering government and civilians who are feeling angered and betrayed by Washington that our soldiers are, perhaps, not given the welcome home that they deserve?

It’s not the first time in history that this has happened, I know. But maybe, just maybe, if somebody reads this little tirade of mine…maybe if they then turn around and take a moment to thank a Soldier or a Veteran for their service….maybe THEN I’ll feel like I’ve helped to welcome home a few more of those soldiers have given, and suffered, and lost so very much because of a love for this country that can never be overshadowed.

              Joining the military is an exciting and rewarding life choice.  To some it brings honor and pride, others it brings security and adventure, or all of the above.  Although this option of life is a very respectable one, does not mean it is not a scary choice to make.  Making the transition from civilian life to military life and taking all the steps in between can be daunting.  It is my hope to leave you with some relief, guidance and knowledge regarding your decision.

1. Research, research, and um… research some more!

It is always best to go into major decisions knowing what options are available to you.  Thankfully the military is not shy in the information it allows for new recruits, although you may have to do a bit of digging to find certain specifics.

• www.usmilitary.about.com is a mainstay for learning what the military has to offer.  This website has all facets of military life posted including: Choosing a Service, Talking With a Recruiter, pay charts, job listings, etc.  I would recommend browsing around and seeing what you can find.

• After choosing a service, it is best to understand everything required to join, i.e. height/weight, vision, medical issues, etc. Each branch of the service has an outstanding website all of which have live chat with recruiters.  The sites can be found here: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and National Guard.

      2.  Contact a Recruiter

Meeting the recruiter for the first time can be intimidating, trust me.  The first time I walked into the Air Force Recruiter’s office there were four or five buff tall guys in uniform… I almost walked out!  Go in, knowing why you are there and know that they want you there.  Dress decently as first impressions go a long way, and remember to be courteous to them.  They are professionals doing a job and trying to help you out in life.  They will ask you a few screening questions such as, any serious medical conditions you may have, your height and weight, if you are married, if you have ever done any illegal substances (don’t worry if you have, this does not automatically ban you from enlistment).  After words they will take your height and weight and set you up with an appointment to take the asvab if you have not done so in the previous two years.

Stay posted for further steps as I am writing these articles as I go through the enlistment process myself, something of usefulness I am hoping others can learn from.  In the meantime, after you have found your service of choice, search for branch specific forum boards as unofficial information from people with experience tends to give better in depth accounts of life in the military.

Good Luck and until next time!

Collin J

Though it is generally agreed upon that the act of war is an immoral one, it’s indisputable that sometimes a nation is controlled by immoral forces willing to resort to armed conflict for any purpose. War is sometimes essential to the defense of a nation, and if not prepared for this possibility, any armed attack from another force could easily overtake the populace ignorant to military preparedness. When this nation becomes the United States, the entirety of the rest of the world becomes possible enemies, as if history proves anything, it’s that governments can’t be trusted. Also possessing the world’s largest gross domestic product, massive budgets simply follow the paradigm of the United States economy, and when criticized is rarely shown as a percentage of the federal budget, because 20% doesn’t sound nearly as impressive as that the United States’ taxpayer expenses spent on military is 48% of the world’s. However, this is easily explained as well, as American diplomatic policies guarantee acting as an international police force to defend the nations of the world.

“The best we can hope for concerning the people at large is that they be properly armed.” These resounding words were spoken by none other than Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s most famed leaders of the past. Written by Tenche Coxe in the Pennsylvania Gazette in 1788, “Their swords, and every other terrible implement of the soldier, are the birthright of an American… The unlimited power of the sword is not in the hands of either the federal or state governments, but, where I trust in God it will ever remain, in the hands of the people.” George Washington himself, the man known as the father of America, said, “The very atmosphere of firearms anywhere and everywhere restrains evil interference they deserve a place of honor with all that is good.” Clearly, all these influential men in American history saw the absolute necessity of arming Americans against all threats and dangers. Applied to national defense, the idea is easily formed in the imagination that these men would argue that the defense of American liberty depends on the advantage of having a superior technological arsenal to all potential enemies.

In the twentieth century, the United States’ diplomatic policies shifted drastically, from isolationism around the time period of World War I to the Roosevelt Corollary essentially establishing America as an international police force. Since that time, the United States has taken it upon herself to interfere in multiple affairs in order to preserve democracy, namely Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and most recently Iraq. In all of these conflicts, despite negative media portrayal, the initial military perspective was relatively successful. Loss of life of American troops was drastically small in comparison to opposition, and this would have been simply unachievable if not for the military spending that supported the technology which was implemented in these affairs. In fact, these conflicts served as testing grounds for new technologies, that, when shown to work, served as powerful intimidation factors against other countries. The massive stockpile of nuclear weapons in possession of the United States is not meant to ever be used, but it serves as a valuable intimidation factor. When the power to destroy the entire planet multiple times over is in the hands of one country, that power is perhaps reluctantly but necessarily respected by others. And supposing terrorists obtain an intercontinental ballistic missile with a nuclear warhead, American taxpayers support the developing technology that would be utilized to strike the missile down in mid-flight. The fact that this technology exists discourages the stealing of nuclear weapons, because they’re made basically useless by counter-technology developed using American taxpayers’ money. Thus, defense spending is the most effective use of taxpayer’s money to ensure peace.

Alliances, which require the full support of every member nation and even greater effort provided from the leader, have always served as a key element in international politics. The United States is frequently seen as the figurehead for NATO, due to its superiority in virtually every area of national statistics worldwide. Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty signed on April 4, 1949, never invoked until the September 11 attacks of 2001, states that an armed attack against any one of the member parties of NATO shall be considered an attack against them all. Therefore, it is the responsibility of each party to take such as action as is deemed necessary to restore and maintain the security of the North Atlantic area. Of the member nations, the Untied States is the most powerful. Other member parties expect the aid of America in case of attack, and so the U.S. must possess military power capable of protecting the entire system of North Atlantic allies. This money can only be provided from American taxpayers, which may be protested along an ideology somewhat similar to isolationism. However, if the United States were to fail to come to the aid of an allied nation that fell under attack, the impact on trade would be devastating, as repercussions from NATO would be severe. Prices on consumer products would surge, and the economy would plummet to a much worse situation that it has already fallen to. But is it necessary for the United States to have 48% of the world’s military spending? If the defense of the entire North Atlantic region is the United States’ responsibility, then yes, such budget use is absolutely necessary, not only for the defense of the United States, but for all her allies.

The United States of America was built on the cornerstone of revolution, of bloody conflict, of a war that would not have been won as it was without funding from the French to assist the Continental Army, a collection of ragtag militias. Two hundred and thirty years later, the number of American soldiers on the battlefield has been cut exponentially and replaced with technology capable of performing equivalent tasks to soldiers. In each scenario, Americans fight to achieve a moral purpose in the face of immoral adversity, utilizing the most efficient technological marvels provided to them by the nation for which they fight. The major difference is that in the modern era, America has taken on the responsibility of serving as a lamp unto the path of other nations in need of guiding. Serving as an international police force and a member of NATO required to be able to defend all other member parties in case of attack, the United States of America must stand ready to defend against the rest of the world. While some might call this paranoia, others would call it maximum efficiency. Ideas and abstract policies tend to hold more weight in modern politics than solid facts, and so the idea of possessing enough weapons of mass destruction to destroy the planet multiple times is not to destroy the planet multiple times, but to convince anyone who dares stand in the way that it could be done if needed. Intimidation tactics are not particularly pleasant, but when compared with war, there is little question as to which a moral nation, such as the United States of America was founded as and at least claims to still be, is required to choose. If American taxpayers wish to retain individual liberty and the freedoms established for them by the Founding Fathers, in the current political and diplomatic realm, it is absolutely necessary for a certain amount of their funds transferred to the government of the people, by the people, for the people, to be utilized in developing the utmost level of military technology in order to create an arsenal capable of not only defending the interests of the isolated United States, but all those unable to defend them themselves, and all its allies and political interests throughout this world.

Memorial Day; just another day, a long weekend, an excuse to invite friends over for a barbeque, the 1st day of Summer, or a day that should be used to honor and remember those who have fallen while fighting to defend this Nation?

Memorial Day has been around for a long time.  For Americans, it has been a part of our traditions for at least the last 143 years.  Originally intended as a day of remembrance for those who died fighting in the Civil War, the holiday changed to honor all Americans who died in any war, after World War I.  After commemorating Memorial Day for over 100 years on 30 May, movement of the holiday took place in 1971, to the last Monday of the month, in order to accommodate a long weekend.  Complacency is a challenge Soldiers face while deployed. As time goes by, they get accustomed to things being a certain way and their significance seems to fade.  It seems as if over the years, Americans have gotten complacent with this holiday.  It is no longer about honoring the fallen, but about barbeques, camping trips, long weekends, parties, the start of Summer, and parades.

After 11 September 2001, Americans were ready to stand united, and honor and respect, those that put their lives on the line daily for our Country.  Since that day, every September 11, there has been a moment of silence to honor and remember those that had their lives taken on that day and that have given it since.  How long will it be before that day becomes just another day to have off from work, to go see a parade, or to hang out with friends around a grill and some burgers and dogs?

What did you do for Memorial Day?  Did you honor someone who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our Country and your freedoms?  If you did not, I challenge you to do so next year.  Go to a veteran’s cemetery and place some flowers at a gravestone or plant a flag.  Take a moment of silence in remembrance of those who gave their lives for your freedoms.  Do something to honor the fallen service members, men and women, since 9/11 and before, who have died helping make our Nation what it is today.  I would like to take this opportunity to honor the following Soldiers from Fort Riley, and thank them for their sacrifice, so that my family could live free:  SFC Clifford Beattie, SGT Lashawn Evans, PFC Ramon Mora, and SPC Jose Torre. Since ending “combat operations” in Iraq in September of 2010, these four Soldiers from Fort Riley, KS have lost their lives, but they will not be forgotten, nor will the sacrifice that they made.

 If you have forgotten to honor those that have fallen this past Memorial Day, you will have one other chance this year. November 11th, is Veteran’s Day. Remember to honor those that have served. They serve willingly to protect our Nation against ruthless and thoughtless enemies, on your behalf, so that you and your family members may have a chance at the American dream.

Throughout the years, my father, Dr. Alfred C. Folsom, CAPT, USCG (Ret.), has both inspired me, and encouraged me, in all that I do, not only in my studies.  However, he has made it clear that the education that I attain in high school will set the standard for the rest of my life.  By education, I am not only referring to the classes I attend and the knowledge of the specific subjects I learn, but also the study skills and social skills that will enable me to become successful in my future career.  I am more than certain that my father’s role in guiding me through the years in my education has been heavily influenced by his work ethic attained by his career in the United States Coast Guard.  Therefore, his military service to our country has been vital in prospering my education.

Ever since I was a little girl, I have had the fondest memories of visiting my dad at work and having such an interest in what he did to help change the lives of others for the better.  My father’s career in the United States Coast Guard was in workforce performance and technology, and it appeared to me that he always seemed thrilled to have been given the opportunity to help others through this job.  Since his military service revolved around training people, it would only make sense that he would exhibit the same qualities in order to train up his daughter, myself, to become well rounded and prepared to go out into the world and be successful wherever she is called to work.  I have found that by taking on his work ethic and study skills in my schooling has been of tremendous aid to my education thus far.  Not only has he taught me simple skills in life, such as how to study for a test, but he has also taken on the responsibility of raising me to be a young woman with integrity and commitment, to both people and obligations, which is something that you cannot always be taught in school.

Now, as a senior in a small town and an even smaller high school, it has been made extremely clear to me how even the smallest of goals influence every aspect of a person’s life.  That is why, as I attend the Baptist College of Florida in the coming fall of 2011, I will continuously set goals to better my education, and myself, while I study there. With that said, I am extremely grateful for my father’s stern, yet loving, involvement in my upbringing in that he taught me never to settle for anything and to always reach higher when it comes to my achievements until I meet my ultimate goals.  Furthermore, I have learned so much more from his actions as opposed to his words.  While the phrases and lessons he has spoken to me have given me inspiration to move forward in the most difficult of times, his actions of serving in the United States military have further indoctrinated me even when he is not physically standing at my side.  In conclusion, my father’s service to this fine country with both pride, and the utmost respect, has not only changed the lives of other citizens, but the influence of his service on me has been critical in my education.

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It’s important to recognize that each branch of the military is different in the ways they restrict women. For instance, in the marines women are not allowed to serve in combat, but in the navy they are allowed in all areas of the forces except for the submarines. Furthermore, all coast guard positions remain open to women. These restrictions aren’t only for their safety, but women who serve are more inclined to hold positions that require less force than those of men. 

There’s also the probable question of the equal physical strength between men and women. Women would generally have to train longer to build up muscle because men out-strengthen them in the upper-half of the body. Military personal would have to weigh the options of whether women are capable of carrying the heavy combat equipment to fight in battle. 

In essence, women aren’t strangers to military operations. They have been injured and killed within the line of duty. However, congress is concerned if women should go to the front lines if they will be considered equals. This is due to the fact some military personnel believe having the women on the front lines would cause the morale of the armed forces to suffer. These critics believe women should stay behind the enemy lines where they may be more protected from the line of fire. 

Finally, if congress does choose to lift this ban, most women in the armed forced should embrace it. This means the playing field will now be equal among men and women. Women will have the advantage to succeed in career moves which were not open to them before. In addition, they won’t be forced to be held back due to gender discrimination or because a position may be too violent to hold. Americans have to decide for themselves how will reflect not only on America, but also on our freedom. Are we ready for this change?

Coast guard boats are perfect embodiments of model ships. The architecture of the coast guard boats differ from those of other boat models, and make excellent collector’s edition ships. From sailboats to true battle cruisers, model coast guard boats have influences from many different types of naval architecture. For this reason, there are several high quality coast guard ships available; so many in fact, that you could even potentially save money by making purchases in bulk. Potential model ship buyers can find many different model ship retailers that offer wholesale prices for coast guard boats while still maintaining the quality of the ship design.

Model quality is the most important aspect of the manufacturing process. Many ship model retailers are now using new methods in 3-D modeling technology to produce perfectly scaled models based on the actual ships. These 3D sculpted building blocks are then composed carefully by skilled craftsmen and shipped safely and securely to your doorstep. Model ship merchants that have identical design policies are reliable sellers with knowledge on creating quality model ships.

Comprehensive coast guard boats such as the USCGC Patrol Boat are smart purchases for collectors searching for heavily detailed warships. Because of its accurate design and “wow” factor, this specific ship is a great coast guard boat for children in particular. The details of the USCGC Patrol Boat are unmistakable, such as a cannon and spotlights in the bow of the ship among other authentic details. 

The USCG Buoy Tender is coast guard boat that is available for sale at most respectable model ship suppliers. With its modern-day design, the USCG Buoy Tender differs tremendously from the USCG Eagle, though it is still just as authentic in design. The intricate details of the Buoy Tender, such as cranes and ropes on the deck, add an unmatched realism to these coast guard boats. This collector’s edition boat model has the real U.S. Coast Guard symbol emblazoned on the front of the ship for yet another added layer of authenticity. Far from a battle ship, the Buoy Tender achieves a non-intimidating appearance due to its lack of artillery.

The USCG Eagle makes a magnificent addition to any collection due to its remarkable details and skillful design. The sails are meticulously handcrafted by leading artists and miniaturists to reproduce the feeling of the salty ocean wind racing through the sails of the coast guard boat. The USCG Eagle is fourteen inches of genuine coast guard memorabilia ready for your nautical decor room on arrival. The sail ship design is one of the outstanding themes of this coast guard boat.

Coast guard boats come in several diverse forms. The finest coast guard replicas come from the top model ship retailers and manufacturers. The choice for finding coast guard boats like the ones above is limited by the amount of decent model ship dealers, so make your choice in supplier count.

After reviewing the analysis of the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell survey results the military has compiled, there is one piece of data that sticks out in my mind that the media has not picked up on: homosexuals will not be a protected class if don’t ask don’t tell is repealed.

This is an important piece of information that has been not been reported on. There are those people that may feel homosexuals could be discriminated against if they are not a protected class. They may not get duty assignments due to their sexuality, they may not get housing assignments because of their sexual preferences, or they may not get promoted.

The motivation of not making homosexuals a protected class is because the military does not want to give special privileges to someone based on their sexual preferences. Gays and lesbian service members will be in the same barracks as other service members, they will receive the same treatment as others, and they will have the same advancement potential as other. This is why Admiral Mike Mullen stated that this is a leadership issue, not a diversity issue.

If homosexuality was considered an EO issue and a protective class, then the issue of reverse discrimination would arise. You would have service members receiving special barracks or housing on a ship because of their sexual orientation. You could have service member requesting special treatment or benefits because of their sexuality. One of the main goals of the military has always been unity, not diversity. We are one strong military force with a common goal. While the military comprises of the mix of society and every service member enters with their own religion, race, nationality and sexual orientation, they become one military. Without this unity missions may not be accomplished, mishaps occur, people die.

Leaders will be responsible for enforcing existing policy for fraternization or sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is sexual harassment regardless if is same sex harassment or not. The same is true with fraternization. Service members cannot have relationship with members within their chain of command currently. The same will still apply when homosexuals are serving.

Another interesting piece of data from the analysis is that most service members stated they would not want to participate in command functions if homosexuals were attending.   While the survey participants did not say why, one can speculate that since many members did not have a problem serving professionally with gay service members, they did not feel they should have to attend social events with them. Keep professional life separate from personal life.

The repeal of don’t ask don’t tell will have some growing pains and challenges. Leaders will have to be very aware of their people and will have to enforce policy like they currently do. We have the best people serving in the best military. We treat each other with respect, if we don’t, we find a new job.